Living the Scriptural Story

This seminar, directed by Carmen Joy Imes, will explore the resources of biblical theology for the life of the church. Together we will read and discuss Dr. Imes’s recent book trilogy: Bearing God’s Name: Why Sinai Still Matters (IVP Academic, 2019), Being God’s Image: Why Creation Still Matters (IVP Academic, 2023), and Becoming God’s Family: Why the Church Still Matters (IVP Academic, 2025). As we attend to the narrative structure of the biblical text, we will discover its enduring message for believers today. We’ll begin with a heuristic approach to biblical interpretation that attends to the Bible’s historical, cultural, literary, and theological contexts. Then we’ll explore key biblical themes: being God’s image, bearing God’s name, and becoming God’s family. On our final day together, we’ll tackle tough texts in the Bible to see how this approach to interpretation can help us unlock their relevance for the life of faith today.

This seminar will be offered at no cost to selected participants. Space is limited. All meals and lodging will be provided. Course readings will be sent to participants in advance of the seminar week. Participants are responsible for the cost of travel to and from the seminar.

Who Should Apply? 

Pastors, professors, Christian educators, worship leaders, ministry directors, and other interested laypeople are welcome to apply.

Apply Now 

Applications for this seminar are due March 15, 2026. Participants will be notified of their selection by April 17, 2026.

Applicants must fill out an application form and provide:

1. A 300-word essay about why you are interested in participating in the seminar

2. Your résumé/CV

3. Contact information for one reference

Schedule Overview

Sunday, August 2

Afternoon/evening – Arrive in Grand Rapids

6:00 p.m. – Informal dinner for participants who have arrived

Monday, August 3–Thursday, August 6

8:30 a.m. – Breakfast

9:00 a.m. – Classroom time

12:00 p.m. – Lunch

1:00 p.m. – Rest, reflection, conversation, creation

4:00 p.m. – Group discussion and sharing

5:30 p.m. – Dinner

Friday, August 7

8:30 a.m. – Breakfast

9:00 a.m. – Classroom time

12:00 p.m. – Lunch

1:00 p.m. – Conclusion