Essential Christianity

An Open Dialogue

While the Christian religion is everywhere, the opportunity for non-believers to pose questions and discuss their thoughts, ideas, and concerns about Christianity is rare. But questioning - and even doubting - are important parts of an active faith. Through Essential Christianity: An Open Dialogue, instructor Dan Byrne offers non-Christians the forum to hear and discuss what thoughtful Christians believe are the essential elements of their faith in an open, non-judgmental and non-defensive environment.
Each meeting will consist of a combination of social time, introduction and review of a basic Christian proposition, the posing of questions surrounding the topic, small-group discussion and a wrap-up with recommended reading. Participants can expect to take away an understanding of the heart and foundation of the biblical Christian proposition. "This is NOT a forum to win arguments or to correct others' 'bad' theology, nor is it a comparative religions class," says Dan Byrne. "We hope to create a relaxed, no-pressure atmosphere that facilitates participants' expression of their own personal thoughts and feelings without fear of being devalued or dismissed.

Who Should Take this Class

Thoughtful, genuine people earnestly seeking the truth about God and his meaning in their lives. People who are interested in/open to learning about Christianity, but who do not consider themselves Christian. Those who generally agree with what they perceive to be Christianity, but who aren't sure about the basics - especially this "born again" thing. New Christians who may have questions or confusion about the essentials of the faith.

About the Teacher

Dan Byrne is pursuing a Masters in Theology from Fuller Seminary. Dan was a seeker for nearly 20 years, and says that as a result, "I have a strong interest in and desire to communicate Christianity in an intelligent, approachable and understandable way. The fact that I spent a long time searching before becoming a Christian in mid-life might make my viewpoints more relatable and approachable or provide more accessibility to those who are currently wrestling with the Christian proposition."

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