Jerusalem University College, where I studied biblical geography, history, and archaeology, first as an undergrad and later for a graduate degree, is hosting an online seminar this weekend. “Transitions in the Land” will feature eight speakers discussing a variety of topics. The schedule has now been released; all times are US Eastern.
Saturday, 8:09 AM: Session #1: Recent Excavations at Tel Gezer and Qeiyafa: Fortified Cities on the Western Border of the United Monarchy, Dr. Steven Ortiz (Lipscomb University)
Saturday, 9:15 AM: Session #2: Joshua as a Test Case for Genocide: An Archaeological and Canonical Perspective, Dr. Richard Hess (Denver Seminary)
Saturday, 10:20 AM: Session #3: Changes in Jerusalem During the First Temple Period, Dr. Gabriel Barkay (Temple Mount Sifting Project, Jerusalem University College)
Saturday, 11:26 AM: Session #4: Transitions in the Land: Perspectives from the Early Church, Dr. Petra Heldt (Ecumenical Theological Research Fraternity, Jerusalem University College)
Sunday, 1:09 PM: Session #5: “What you have said is true”: Women, Agency, Ownership in the First Century, Dr. Lynn Cohick (Northern Seminary)
Sunday, 2:15 PM: Session #6: Abel Beth Maacah: The Historical Geography and Archaeology of a Biblical City, Dr. Robert Mullins (Azusa Pacific University)
Sunday, 3:20 PM: Session #7: The History of the Title “Prophet” in Light of the New Isaiah Seal Impression, Dr. William Schniedewind (University of California, Los Angeles)
Sunday, 4:26 PM: Session #8: From Saul to David: The Lord’s Anointed in Exile, Dr. Todd Bolen (The Master’s University)
Brief descriptions of each session are posted on JUC’s website, but I’ll copy mine here:
Israel’s transition from Saul to David is described at greater length than any similar period of time in Israel’s history, with 20 chapters in 1–2 Samuel narrating David’s flight, Saul’s pursuit, and the nation’s fickleness. The account is fascinating in its detailed geographical record of David’s journeys in the wilderness, Shephelah, and Philistia. At the same time, this narrative also provides intriguing insights into David’s patience in exile, his pattern as the Lord’s anointed, and his prophetic psalms of faith.
I’ll be showing lots of photos and explaining why the author of 1-2 Samuel included this long section of transition between Saul and David. I’d love to have you join us.
Everything is free, and you can jump in or out as your schedule permits. Sign up here.
