Dr. Amy-Jill Levine: Bridging Divides Through Understanding - April 5th at First Presbyterian
As the world explores the dimensions of peace in turbulent times, First Presbyterian Church is pleased to host Dr. Amy-Jill Levine, a renowned Jewish New Testament scholar, to speak on Saturday, April 5, from 7-9 p.m. The event will be in the church sanctuary, with a reception to follow in Fellowship Hall. Click here to register for free tickets.
Dr. Levine is the Rabbi Stanley M. Kessler Distinguished Professor of New Testament and Jewish Studies at Hartford International University for Religion and Peace in Hartford, Conn. She is University Professor Emerita of New Testament and Jewish Studies at Vanderbilt University Divinity School. A dynamic speaker, Dr. Levine has combined historical insight, humor, and a commitment to interfaith dialogue throughout her career to help Christians and Jews better understand their shared texts and traditions.
Some of her best-known books include The Misunderstood Jew: The Church and the Scandal of the Jewish Jesus, Short Stories by Jesus: The Enigmatic Parables of a Controversial Rabbi, and The Bible With and Without Jesus: How Jews and Christians Read the Same Stories Differently (co-authored with Marc Zvi Brettler).
Her April 5 lecture, titled “Jesus and Judaism: The Connection Matters,” will explore how understanding Jesus within his Jewish context brings new meaning to His piety, politics, and parables. Dr. Levine will guide attendees in considering how different interpretations of Scripture can foster greater understanding, respect, and peace across faith traditions.
“At a time when our world is in desperate need of reconciliation and mutual understanding, we are excited to welcome Dr. Levine to help us explore how a deeper knowledge of Scripture can create new pathways toward peace,” said the Rev. Mark Curtis, Senior Pastor of First Presbyterian Church. “Her scholarship invites us to see the deep connections between Judaism and Christianity and to cultivate a spirit of respect, partnership, and dialogue.”
The lecture is free and open to the public. A reception with light refreshments will follow the presentation. Tickets are free but attendees must register in advance at firstpres.rsvp. The event will be held at First Presbyterian Church, located at 620 State Street, Knoxville. Free parking is available onsite or at the State Street Garage.
For more information, please contact First Presbyterian Church at (865) 546-2531, communications@fpcknox.org or visit www.fpcknox.org.