“This class has deepened my understanding of the Wisdom Literature found in the Bible, particularly the books of Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Job. The principles of practical wisdom, divine justice, and the nature of human suffering have equipped me with insights that will help me guide others in their spiritual growth. I have learned to appreciate the balance between human reasoning and divine revelation, which is crucial in counseling, preaching, and providing guidance in pastoral care. Understanding how to apply biblical wisdom in contemporary situations will greatly enhance my ability to serve and minister effectively. I particularly appreciated the comprehensive approach to understanding the unique contributions of each wisdom book. The course fostered critical thinking about timeless questions such as the meaning of life, the pursuit of justice, and the human response to suffering. I also valued the interactive discussions that allowed us to explore personal reflections in light of biblical teachings, and how these insights can be applied in real-life ministry settings.”

“The course's deep dive into Ecclesiastes profoundly impacted my understanding of life's fundamental questions and how to address them pastorally. Learning to recognize the difference between earthly wisdom ("under the sun") and divine wisdom has equipped me to better counsel those struggling with life's seeming futility. The course's treatment of Song of Songs' interpretive approaches has given me fresh insights for marriage counseling, helping couples see their relationship through both practical and spiritual lenses. I particularly appreciated how the course wove together historical, literary, and theological perspectives while maintaining practical applicability. The emphasis on careful interpretive principles prevented oversimplification of these complex texts. The section on Lamentations was especially powerful, providing tools for ministering to those in deep grief while maintaining hope in God's faithfulness.”

“I have learned a great deal about the depth and richness of biblical wisdom literature. This class has provided me with a deeper understanding of the Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs, and Lamentations. I now feel more equipped to interpret these texts and apply their teachings to my ministry. The insights into the historical and cultural context of these books have also been invaluable.”