WHAT MAKES US UNIQUE?

Western vs. Eastern Thinking

Wonderful images and word pictures are laid out in the pages of the Scriptures. But they are contextualized by a culture, time and place that were much different from ours. The inspired writers of the Scriptures were eastern (Hebrew) in their thought and culture and they wrote to other Easterners.

Most western Christians are Greek thinkers. They see and contemplate the world much differently than Easterners. Therefore, many of the rich images of Scripture puzzle western minds or escape them entirely. But if they can learn to think like a Hebrew, the pages of Scripture become unlocked and overflow with meaning.

Rabbinic Teaching Style

Using real life stories and metaphors based upon the Biblical text, the style of teaching is rabbinic. That is to say: the pilgrims follow their Rabbi, not only to learn what he is teaching, but who the Rabbi is and how he lives his life. Rabbinic teaching means the “Talmudim” (disciples) not only want to learn what their Rabbi knows but, more importantly, it is their ambition to become like him.

Physically Engaging

The physical rigor of Fifth Gospel Encounters is complemented by relevant Bible teaching, second to none. Although a modern, air conditioned bus is used to travel throughout the country, this is not simply a bus tour.

Pilgrims spend hours on desert paths and mountain trails, searching out springs and caves while following the routes of the migrating Israelites, the Kings and the Messiah. Bible teaching, relevant to the location, includes practical applications for today’s living. A reasonable level of physical fitness is definitely recommended. We have medical support during the tour as well as an experienced, professionally licensed Israeli tour guide who is there to ensure our safety and well being.