FAITHFUL OBSERVATIONS

By BOB SHILLINGSTAD

Special to The Press

Sometimes people come into your life who are so interesting, you have to make people aware of them and spread the word.

One person we have met through local friends is Dr. Titus Kennedy. Titus is an archaeologist with a focus on the Middle East and lands of the Bible. He has a B.A. from Biola University, a master’s degree in Near Eastern Archaeology from the University of Toronto, and another master’s and doctorate in Biblical Archaeology from the University of South Africa. He has directed a dig of a Biblical site, worked as staff on several others, published a number of articles, consulted on a few documentaries, and now is writing his first book.

I had an opportunity to interview Dr. Kennedy prior to him coming to Post Falls on Oct. 10 to speak on the “Archaeology of Jesus and the Gospels” at North Country Chapel at 9:30 a.m. This is an open meeting sponsored by their Seniors Fellowship.

Titus, I am interested how a young student became interested in archaeology and the Bible? How did that happen?

As a young person I was interested in science, history, and languages, which I later found out are major components of archaeology. In fourth grade, I happened to read a book called “The Gold of Troy,” which was the amazing story of the discovery and excavation of Troy in the early days of archaeology. This fascinated me, and influenced me to study archaeology related to the Bible.

You mentioned an affinity of languages. Which ones do you speak and work with as you dig at a site?

It helps to have proficiency in relevant ancient languages such as Hebrew, Greek, Egyptian Akkadian, and Latin, but reading articles in modern languages such as French and German is also useful. I find myself working not only in sites with colleagues from other countries but certainly analyzing ancient texts and occasionally digging up artifacts with inscriptions.

What have you discovered from the digs you have been on and others that are turning up artifacts about the reliability of the Bible as a source?

The last 100 years have been amazing in terms of significant discoveries. The evidence that is being turned up continues to demonstrate the accuracy of the Bible. Archaeology and history also help us to better interpret the Bible through understanding the ancient context. We need to remember, however, that the Bible is not merely a book of history or geography, but the word of God on spiritual and theological matters.

What is your most recent dig?

We recently excavated a Canaanite religious center probably described in the book of Joshua. We started this last fall and have more work to do, but frankly we need to raise funds to complete the project before moving on to more major Biblical sites.

There is a marvelous video series entitled “Drive Through History” that covers not only the Gospels but the latest series is on Acts through Revelation. What was your part in this series?

I served as the lead researcher and location expert for this series, and I have had a great experience traveling to many ancient sites throughout Israel, the West Bank, Jordan, Cyprus, Turkey, Greece, Malta, and Italy. It was my job to ensure the accuracy of all the historical and archaeological content in the show.

What is next on your busy schedule?

I am working on a book, a few articles, and hope to soon start a new “Biblical Archeology” journal. I am also leading a tour group through Greece, Malta and Rome to see and explain the locations and events mentioned in the New Testament. I am also planning an Israel tour next spring for those interested. I prefer smaller groups where we can plan a tour that fits their needs and interests, and yet covers all of the historical sites of importance.

Titus, if people want to know more about you or contact you, how do they do that?

The institute sends out a quarterly newsletter, plus weekly photo posts on the website (www.APXAIOC.com) and Instagram @APXAIOC. People can contact me or sign up for the newsletter through the website.