nathan ch 7

1. What does it mean the spiritual life is a "cooperative effort" and what do you believe this implies?
Scott's definition gives that the responsibility relies not only on the Spirit, but on the believer for continuing growth. We cannot just sit on our tail and expect growth. There must be effort and learning on our part to continue to grow in the Lord.
2. Some denominations believe that the gift of the Holy Spirit can be gained and lost. Can human‟s affect the work of the Holy Spirit to the point where it can be lost and regained in one‟s life?
Tim F. and I have talked about this numerous times this Semester. I believe that a true believer will (as Tim puts it) perservere to the end. If no they might not have ever been a believer. This is a tough question that I wanted to get everyone else's opinion on this question.
3. What is the purpose of the Sermon on the Mount as presented by Scott? How does Scott's understanding contribute to the sanctification process?
Scott communicates that the purpose of the Sermon on the Mount was for Jesus to instruct on HOw to fulfill the Law. He stresses that the disciples will be governed by their relationship with God and not what they do. Jesus is saying that believers are to have the same mature of the nature and intent of the Law the way God veiws it.
Jesus is giving specific instructions on how to communicate with the Father. This contributes to the sanctification process in that He teaches us how to have a reationship with the Father. Spiritual lessons that will continue to challenge a believer t no matter how mature they are in their faith.