Episode Details

In this session of our newcomers class at St. Michael and All Angels in Albuquerque, we explore how Christians — especially in the Episcopal tradition — understand the Bible as a library of texts written across many centuries.

Together we look at the structure of the Hebrew Bible (the TaNaK), the origins of the New Testament, how the canon came to be, and why different Christian communities treat biblical books differently.

We also talk about interpretation: literalism, inspiration, and how Episcopalians read scripture in community. Rather than treating the Bible as a rulebook, we look for the larger direction it points us toward — freedom, life, and the possibility of becoming fully alive in God.

This class is part of our “Newcomers Class” a series for newcomers and the curious. If you're wondering how Episcopalians approach scripture — historically, theologically, and spiritually — this video is a great place to start.

Join us Sunday for discussion, questions, and some hands-on engagement with the text.

🙏 Thanks for watching, and God bless.

00:00 – Welcome & Overview  

00:19 – What Is the Bible? A Library of Books  

01:41 – Hebrew Bible and New Testament  

05:00 – The Torah and the Foundations of Scripture  

12:04 – The Gospels and Early Christian Writings  

17:19 – Understanding Revelation  

21:56 – Inspiration, Literalism, and Interpretation  

28:40 – How Episcopalians Read Scripture  

31:25 – The Bible as Direction, Not Directions  

32:31 – Closing Blessing