Light-work

Where's the Application?

One of the advantages of attending the "National" version of Camp Logos is the opportunity to beam aboard the mother ship, HQ for Logos Bible Software in Bellingham, WA (pictured at left). We were able to tour the rapidly expanding facilities and chat with staff.

I found a conversation with Michael Heisner, Academic Editor, most interesting. I'll tell you about what struck me, but first a little background. Logos has created the premier Bible study software. The resultant program is amazingly robust and capable of marshaling a plethora of biblical resources before the user. How does it do it? I cannot imagine the amount of time and effort that has been invested in this endeavor.

So here's my question for Mr. Heisner: "How does Logos software assist the Bible student to translate what the Bible teaches (the interpretation) into specific implications for living (the application)?" He replied, "He's pretty much on his own."

Isn't there an irony here? Don't take this as a criticism of Logos, because I am grateful for what they have created. But I find it an interesting commentary on the state of our engagement with the Bible that so much attention is given to interpretation and so little to application. I realize this is not a new theme at L-W - here's a link to a previous post on the subject. Click here to call up a copy of "The Growth Chain" that illustrates the connection between interpretation and application. When we see how God's Word changes us - interpretation is a  vital link in that process. But so is application and it warrants more than the subjective methodology of being "pretty much on your own." Where is the rigorous thinking, objective methodology, and maybe even robust software to help us move from interpretation to personal transformation?

A Letter From Camp

Rochelle and I attended "Camp Logos" last week. This is the "authorized" training seminar for users of Logos Bible Software. In two days, Morris ("Mo") Proctor did a great job of unlocking the deep magic of this sophisticated Bible study tool.

I have been using Logos for years, but I was amazed at how much I didn't know. EVERYONE who wants to study the Bible will benefit by using a Logos package: Prices range from $260 for the Bible Study Library to $1380 for the Scholars Library Gold Edition. Yes, I know this represents a lot of money - but when you understand that you are purchasing a set of books at prices significantly below their print counterparts, and that these books are profoundly more accessible in Logos, it makes the cost easier to swallow.

I am also convinced that ANYONE who uses Logos software should come to camp! Here is the current schedule from the MPSeminars website. A beginner will not be overwhelmed (but will be challenged). An advanced user will be collecting gems in every session. This trip to camp gave me something way better than s'mores, camp songs, and an Indian bead bracelet. I can't wait to put what I have learned to use in my lesson preparation and personal study. Viva Camp Logos!

Lazy Crazy Days - Not!

Summer is upon us. I will be concentrating some effort on a major writing project while scaling back on the number of posts at Light-work during June, July, and August. Yes, I know there is some unfinished business  to be addressed. For example, there are several installments we have yet to make on The Next Big Thing. In the short term, look for an occasional post every week or two. Come September, I intend to gin the word-mill up to our usual pace.