It was said of the sons of Issachar, who were among the mighty men of Israel, that they understood the times in which they lived, and they knew what Israel should do (1 Chronicles 12:32). Such would certainly seem to be a requirement for mighty men and women of God in any age.

The lessons in this study are designed to provide an overview of key aspects of our modern age. By gaining a better understanding of the times, we can accomplish some important objectives. First, we will be able to guard against foreign ideas corrupting our own faith in Christ, and, at the same time, improve love for our neighbors by being able to enter into their circumstances, challenges, fears, frustrations, and hopes. This will help to make our own faith in Christ richer, fuller, and more sincere. Francis Schaeffer once wrote that the reason many Christians lack more reality to their faith is that “while we say we believe one thing, we allow the spirit of the naturalism of the age to creep into our thinking, unrecognized.” The better we can recognize the spirit of the age, the more we can guard against its corrupting and corrosive powers, and the better we will be able to understand and love our neighbors. Second, we hope to provide practical guidance in learning to address specific aspects of the spirit of the age in our lives and ministries.

Course Outline:

• The Lie
• Nothing New
• Pragmatism
• How the Money Changes Hands
• Kudzu Government
• To Thwart the Lie

This course runs for 12 weeks - meeting every other week on the second and fourth Thursday of every month - at a cost of $75. Students participate in teleconference tutorials to discuss homework assignments with one another and instructors. A study guide is provided. Please note this course starts on the fourth Thursday.

Students who successfully complete the course will receive a CD containing a leader guide and presentations to teach the material to others.