If you attended an In the Word event this year with Jen Wilkin, you know Jen has a gift for helping others dive deeper into Scripture so that you not only understand what it says but also why it matters. Below, her reflections on these gatherings are filled with encouragement, insight, and a genuine passion for seeing women grow in their love for God’s Word. Whether you’ve been to one event or are just curious, her takeaways will leave you both inspired and ready to open your Bible with fresh eyes.
What was your favorite part about In the Word this spring?
I loved that we got to spend three sessions learning together. Typically I only get to teach one session at an event. In the Word is an opportunity for me to return to a format I love, one where we take our time exploring an idea at length, in a way that has staying power once the event concludes. I also just love the topic of wisdom and never get tired of exploring it, so it’s been fun to sit in that thought space for an extended period of time.
What surprised you about these events?
I wasn’t sure how the attendees would feel about our simplified approach to pretty much everything that happens from the platform, so I was so gratified to see their enthusiasm. I think of the approach we have taken as an act of remembrance, a way of gathering from the not-so-distant past that it is good to keep as a reference point. I recently heard a church historian talking about how the culture shapes our worship practices. He noted that early church gathering practices were shaped heavily by the paradigm of court rituals, so there was a great deal of formality—robes and rituals and so on. He then noted how our current church gathering practices are shaped predominantly by the paradigm of the rock concert. Neither paradigm is inherently right or wrong—both present opportunities and challenges from a discipleship standpoint. But we decided to let In the Word move away from the current paradigm just a bit, and I love how it came together.
What are you most looking forward to about the fall In the Word events?
I’m looking forward to revisiting the teachings, continuing to learn myself, and continuing to search for clearer ways to help women understand that wisdom is worth a lifelong pursuit because it helps us live in this life as Christ did.
What would you say to a woman considering attending this fall?
Fall is notoriously busy for just about everyone, myself included. Consider stepping out of the crazy for about twenty-four hours to take a breath, sing your heart out, and gather with other women to reorient yourself to the path of wisdom. I’d be so honored to spend the time with you!
Learn More About In the Word
At In The Word, you’ll be enriched through thought-provoking Bible teaching and worship. Learn tools to study Scripture for yourself as you discover how the pursuit of godly wisdom yields life and peace.
