An Introduction to the Course

Welcome to the seventh subject: Song of Solomon. Undertaking the study of the Song of Solomon is not just valuable for gaining biblical knowledge. It is that, but more than that. It is a Book which directs us to the reality of pure human love between man and woman. Originally a set of songs called ‘epithalamium’—that is, songs of love, often sung at weddings—it brings us into a true understanding of the purity of wholesome love. Because we need to see the difference between pulchritrude—beauty and comeliness; and prurience—lascivious understanding of beauty; the person doing the Course will find that the Book grows on him or her, and the effect will be lifelong, and may well change man–woman relationships. If, at the beginning, the Book seems difficult to understand the student should persevere and will be greatly rewarded.

There are thirteen Lessons in all. Lessons are accompanied by cassettes which were recorded when the Song of Solomon was being expounded in a class. The cassettes do not always align simply with the Lessons, but under each Lesson heading the cassette you should use is indicated. It may have part of another Study on it also, so the student will have to work this through carefully.

The student should note that Lesson 3 has material far beyond one lesson. It will be enlightening as to the Book and its author, but it is not intended that the assignment set should cover this essay. It is simply to help in an overall understanding of the subject.

The text and commentary given in the Lessons are from the Commentary by Geoffrey Bingham, entitled Love Is Stronger than Death and can be procured from New Creation Publications Inc. A Bibliography is listed below.

Compulsory listening to audio cassettes/ mp3, ETS 89:1–5. These are now available as mp3 on CD.

Read and re-read the text allotted to you in your printed lesson and Bible passages. Your attitude to your study will work for you if you are willing to say, ‘I want to increase my biblical knowledge and come to a deeper understanding of the truth, therefore I am determined to do this course through to completion’.

When you complete your first lesson and answer the questions set for that lesson, you should immediately send your answer section to us. We will then send you the next two lessons. Between the time of your sending the work and receiving those two lessons, you will be able to proceed with the second lesson. When you have completed your third lesson, we will then send you the fifth and sixth lessons. This means that you will never be without a lesson at hand.

Study Method I requires essay-style responses. Essays to the order of 150–250 words per question. According to the subject matter, some questions may require up to 500 words or more. We encourage you to follow the instructions on the attached sheet, ‘Hints for Writing Essays’.

• Neat, clear presentation is necessary to facilitate your tutor’s assessment.
• Write legibly at all times.
• Write on one side only of your paper.
• Leave a 3 cm margin on the left side of your paper.
• When using a typewriter, leave a one line space between lines.
• Be careful to read and answer the questions.
• Be sure that your answers are based soundly on Scripture.
• Refrain from an over-use of Bible quotations as a substitute for expressing your own grasp of the subject.
• Try to avoid ‘parrot-fashion’repeating of words and ideas in the study materials.
• Put your student number, your name and address, and your tutor’s name on the back of the last sheet.

Further to this way of study, you can read extra material recommended in the Bibliography below. In it we have recommended certain Bible helps. You do not have to buy these, but they certainly will be valuable books to have on your shelves. Links With Your Tutor

You will be assigned your own tutor who will see you through this subject. You should feel free to ask for help where needed. Your tutor will return your assignments with comments which will be helpful. You will receive a Certificate of Studies on completing this subject. Going the Course Alone

Some students will wish to do this subject entirely on their own. This means they will wish to receive the thirteen lessons and do the study without the aid of a tutor. No Certificate of Studies can be given in this case.

It is recommended that you persist continually in study so that you finish the course as soon as possible, without, however, putting yourself under stress. A good aim is to complete the questions within one month, or two months at the most. In the event of your study being interrupted or delayed through circumstances, do not give up your course. There is no time limit set for completion of the Certificate of Studies, however, to gain maximum benefit from your studies, you should aim to complete this subject within two years. If for any reason you have to relinquish your studies, please let your tutor know.

A Certificate will be granted to a student who completes eight subjects which cover the following six categories: Doctrine; Old Testament; New Testament; History; Christian Ministries; Practical Christian Living.