Center for Holy Lands Studies Launches Free Resource Center

Whether someone has been to the Holy Lands multiple times or not at all, there’s always something new to learn when it comes to the Bible — things that only scholarly study, extensive exposure to the Holy Lands, archeological awareness, and interacting with the people and culture of those living in those lands can bring.

“We at the Center for Holy Lands Studies (CHLS) desire to bring everyone to the lands of the Bible,” says Jeremy Stein, director of CHLS. “However, we understand that it’s not always an option for people. That’s why we’re excited to announce the creation of the CHLS Resource Center.”

The CHLS Resource Center is an ever-expanding collection of online materials that focuses on bringing a greater understanding of the Bible through exploring Scripture in the light of the time period’s culture, history, landscape, and spirituality.

Stein says that the CHLS Resources site currently includes four courses, about 30 videos, and nearly 50 articles created and written by highly regarded and vastly experienced Holy Land scholars, with new materials being added regularly.

“The materials are useable and reproducible inside the local church and small group settings,” Stein says. “They also range from materials that are more introductory to biblical narratives and studies to resources designed more for those who are highly engaged and biblically literate.”

Areas of study that the CHLS Resource Center offers topical studies on include biblical culture, and history, in the lands of Israel, Greece, Turkey, Egypt, and others.

Stein says that the goal is to add one new series a month and offer seasonal resources, such as Christmas, Easter, Pentecost, and other significant dates recognized throughout the year.

“We also have a series related to archeology that we’re currently working on,” Stein says. “These videos will include an introduction to archeology, an overview of biblical archeology, and a series on artifacts unearthed and the influence of these items on biblical understanding.”

Stein notes that even those who have traveled to the Holy Lands numerous times will benefit from the resources offered on the CHLS Resources site.

“These resources serve as excellent supplementary material for those who have been on Holy Land trips and ask, ‘What more is there to learn?’” Stein says. “They are also ideal for individuals or small groups who are desiring to take their Bible study to the next level and gain a more in-depth understanding of God's Word.”

To learn more about the Center for Holy Lands studies and its new CHLS Resource Center, see thechls.org.