"Geography and the Bible" Online Seminar

Jerusalem University College presents its 6th annual online seminar, “Geography and the Bible” on January 10, 2026. This one-day event is free and available to the public. A recording will be provided to all event registrants.

How does geography shape the story of Scripture? Join us for Geography and the Bible, a dynamic online seminar that explores how the landscapes of the ancient Near East illuminate God’s redemptive plan.

Through four engaging sessions, leading biblical scholars will guide you from Pharaoh’s palaces in Egypt to the wilderness and Jordan River, through the hills of Israel, and along the missionary routes of Paul in Turkey and Greece. Each presentation weaves together history, culture, and terrain to reveal how God used geography to advance His kingdom purposes.

Whether you’re a student, pastor, or lifelong learner, this seminar will open your eyes to the biblical world in a fresh way — and invite you to take the next step through upcoming online courses and field studies in 2026.

Register now to secure your spot in this immersive online experience.

Register to Receive the Recording

Event Date

Saturday, January 10, 2026
10:00 AM - 1:30 PM Eastern Standard Time

Event Schedule

Road Systems from Egypt through Sinai

This presentation explores several well-known roads mentioned in the Bible, including the Way to the Land of the Philistines and the Way of Shur. Additional routes referenced in the book of Exodus will also be introduced, with attention to their geographical and historical significance. Together, these pathways reveal the role of geography in shaping the Israelites’ journeys through the Sinai.
 

	Presenter: Dr. James Hoffmeier More about this presenter

Trekking From the Desert to the Land of Milk & Honey

Israel’s journey from Egypt to the Promised Land was a labyrinth of obstacles, trials and triumphs. For forty years, the Israelites endured desert sands and venomous snakes, frigid nights and the scorching sun, blocked roads and unforeseen detours, and a major leadership transition. Faced with setbacks, defiant kings, hostile enemies, and their own wavering faith, the Israelites kept their eyes on the prize--the land of milk & honey. Through every challenge and divine intervention, their path became a spiritual training ground for men and women, young and old, and Israelites and foreigners in their midst. What lessons of faith can we learn from their odyssey? Come and trek with Israel from the wilderness to the Promised Land.

	Presenter: Dr. Hélène Dallaire More about this presenter

What Does it Mean that Jerusalem was 'Built as a City which is Compact Together?' A Geographical and Archaeological Reading of Psalm 122:3

One of the most famous yet obscure biblical phrases associated with Jerusalem comes from Psalm 122, which describes the city as being “built compact together” or “bound firmly together.” Commentators have offered three main interpretations of this expression, each shedding light on a different aspect of the city’s character. In this presentation, we will explore Psalm 122 and review these traditional suggestions before concluding with a lesser-known interpretation that connects the phrase to Jerusalem’s urban plan during the time of the Judahite kings. We will argue that Psalm 122 is best understood against the backdrop of the city’s physical development in this period. This presentation will also introduce participants to the basic geography of Jerusalem.

	Presenter: Chandler Collins More about this presenter

The Early Church’s Encounter with the Roman Imperial Cult

This presentation will explore how the earliest followers of Jesus lived and worshiped within the powerful shadow of Rome’s empire, where loyalty to Caesar was not only political but also religious. The lecture will highlight the challenges faced by the first Christians as they confronted the imperial cult—a system that encouraged public displays of honor and sacrifice to the emperor. To bring this history to life, we will draw upon archaeological remains still visible in modern-day Turkey and Greece, from theaters and temples to inscriptions and altars. The lecture will illustrate the environment in which the early church proclaimed that “Jesus is Lord,” a declaration that stood in bold contrast to “Caesar is Lord.” You are invited to join us for this journey into the faith and courage of the early believers.

	Presenter: Dr. Carl Rasmussen More about this presenter

$300 Travel Voucher

Register and attend live to receive a $300 travel course voucher toward an eligible Summer 2026 travel course! Start planning an unforgettable summer experiencing the Land of the Bible firsthand.

View the eligible courses and terms and conditions below. Full details on how to redeem your travel voucher will be sent to registered attendees following the event. Each individual who wishes to receive a travel voucher must register and attend the event live.

• The Land of the Bible
• Pastor and Parishioner
• Jesus and His Times

Terms & Conditions

Eligibility: This $300 discount is available to registrants of the January 2026 online seminar "Geography and the Bible".

1. Application & Registration: To receive the discount, eligible individuals must complete the JUC Travel Course application and a Travel Course registration form. Participants must meet all standard Short-Term Travel Course application entrance requirements.
2. Validity: The discount applies only to the following Summer 2026 travel courses: May 2026 Land of the Bible, June 2026 Pastor & Parishioner, and July 2026 Jesus & His Times.
3. Expiration Date: This discount is valid until June 2026.
4. Non-Stackable: This discount cannot be combined with any other offers or discounts.
5. Usage Limitations: This discount can only be used once per eligible individual and cannot be combined with any other discount or voucher.
6. Non-Redeemable for Cash: This discount is non-redeemable for cash.
7. Eligibility Verification: Eligibility requires that the participant complete the registration and attend the JUC Online Seminar "Geography and the Bible."
8. Non-Transferable: This discount is non-transferable and can only be used by the individual who meets the eligibility criteria.
9. Registration Requirements: Registration for the course must be made by the course registration deadline and is subject to availability.
10. Cancellation Policy: Standard cancellation policies apply. The discount will not be reissued if the course is canceled.
11. Modification Rights: JUC reserves the right to modify or cancel this discount offer at any time without prior notice.