University of Lynchburg will host Dr. Peter Enns, a noted biblical scholar, theologian, and writer, for the annual Jenny Cutler Shumate Lecture on Christian Ministry on Saturday, March 25, at 7:30 p.m., in the Chapel.
Dr. Enns will discuss “The Sin of Certainty: Why God Desires Our trust more Than Our Correct Beliefs.” Based on his book by the same title, the lecture will explore how believers often mistake “certainty” and “correct belief” for faith when what God really desires is trust and intimacy.
“Peter Enns has made it his life’s work to understand the Bible in a way that is faithful to people’s lived experience,” said Anne Gibbons, University of Lynchburg’s associate chaplain and director of the Bonner Leader Program. She believes people who attend the lecture will find Enns’ approach both challenging and refreshing. “He understands that even the most devout believers also struggle with doubt, questions, and spiritual struggles. Rather than run away from those experiences, Peter seems to welcome them and even find them essential for the authentic Christian journey.”
In addition to the Shumate Lecture, Enns will appear in two other events in Lynchburg that weekend. At 11 a.m. Saturday, March 25, he will hold a brunch with local clergy at Acorn Hill Lodge to discuss how pastors can best educate their congregations. He will lead adult classes at Peakland Baptist Church about his book The Sin of Certainty from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m. on March 26. He will preach on a topic of his choice at Peakland Baptist at 11 a.m.
Enns is a biblical studies professor at Eastern University. He has taught undergraduate, seminary, and doctoral courses at numerous other schools. He has written widely on hermeneutics, the relationship between science and religion, Christianity and evolution, and Old Testament interpretation. He contributes to many journals and encyclopedias and has contributed, written and edited nearly 20 books.