Torch, Spring 2002

18 TORCH / Spring 2002 Staley Lecture Series Welcomes Bruce Ware D r. Bruce Ware, professor of Christian theology and senior associate dean at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, delivered three messages on “The God of Open Theism vs. The God of the Bible” for the Staley Distinguished Christian Scholar Lecture Program, February 12-14. Ware is well-known for his work on the Council on Biblical Manhood and Womanhood, of which he has been president since 1999. His articles on human personhood, submission within the Trinity, and open theism have helped shed light on controversial issues facing the church. His books— God’s Lesser Glory: The Diminished God of Open Theism ; Still Sovereign: Contemporary Perspectives on Election, Foreknowledge, and Grace ; and The Grace of God, The Bondage of the Will —have also assisted many in their personal theological pursuit. Ware received his B.A. from Whitworth College, the M.Div. and Th.M. from Western Conservative Baptist Seminary, an M.A. from the University of Washington, and his Ph.D. from Fuller Theological Seminary. To order audiocassettes of part or all of the Staley Lecture Series, call CDR Radio at 1-800-333-0601. The Staley Distinguished Christian Scholar Lecture Program is funded by the Thomas F. Staley Foundation of Larchmont, N.Y. This private, nonprofit organization seeks to support men and women who truly believe, cordially love, and actively propagate the Gospel of Jesus Christ in its historical and scriptural fullness. Cedarville University publicly thanks the Thomas F. Staley Foundation for making this annual lectureship program possible. Sold Out on Matters of the Heart I n an exciting sold-out conference event, more than 3,000 people gathered at Cedarville University February 1-2 for the Song of Solomon Conference. Tommy Nelson, senior pastor of Denton Bible Church in Texas, used the Song of Solomon to teach both singles and marrieds how they can love passionately, be loved in return, and see their love grow through the years. “For many people, the Song of Solomon is the mystery book of the Bible,” explained Nelson. “Based on what God knows about us, He has provided an instruction manual in the Song of Solomon with eight very enlightening, explicit, and highly practical chapters on the topics of love, sex, and intimacy.” With plenty of humor injected into his candid and practical advice, Nelson explained how to discern godly character traits in a potential mate, grow closer to a spouse while resolving conflicts, fan the fires of sexual intimacy, and enjoy deeper love, joy, and, commitment through the years. In addition to sharing God’s perspectives on matters of the heart and mind, Nelson gave his testimony and presented the gospel. Cedarville University’s hope is that this conference helped win lives to Christ, set firm foundations for future marriages, and also strengthened current marriages. Nelson spoke in Cedarville University chapel on February 1. To order an audiocassette of his message, call CDR Radio at 1-800-333-0601. Plans continue to move forward toward construction of a new Fitness-Recreation-Health Center adjacent to the existing Athletic Center. The $12.7 million project includes a 60,000 square-foot fieldhouse, aerobic and anaerobic workout areas, and an up-to- date student health clinic.