1. What are the three different ways the early church has responded to the social order in which it lived?
We are to enter into our culture, but to rise above it. We are refuse to comprimise Christ to the society around us. Third is the attempt to transform a culture. These are three different ways in which Christians have tried to reach the culture around them. Each has its unique attributes and each could work in the right context.
2. St. Paul said that he became "all things to all men" for the purpose of spreading the Gospel. What are the limits to this approach in being a Christian witness?
All things must not be contrary to Scripture. A person can integrate themslef into a culture or society as long as they don't comprimise what the Bible teaches as sin. This also includes causing someone else to stumble. The Christian Witness must realize that their purpose is for Christian Witness and keep their focus upon that.
3. Regarding the apostles, Scott says "The hostile, negative reaction they experience from society is to be expected." (P. 267) Question: What kinds of negative reaction do you experience from this current society?
I think that the media is one of the biggest avenues for negative reaction. It seems that Hollywood is looking for someone who claims to be a believer who is willing to go onto a reality show so they can document them sinning. Their claim is that the "Christians" are no different than the rest of society. Another area is when a person has had a bad experience in the church (Maybe by no fault of the church at all). Many people complain just for the sake of complaining.
4. Scott states; "The state, on the other hand, does not know of the lordship of Christ but still serves Him unconsciously and against its will." (P. 287) Question: What action can we take to help change the state for serving Christ and following God‟s Will?
Portraying our faith as real and showing others how it affects us on a daily basis is a start. It seems that the church secludes themselves and talks about the Lord to each other, but not to those who don't believe. The society must be taught what serving the Lord is and what His will is. They will not know if they have not been told.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Ch. 10 - Ana
Chapter 10
1. What are the three different ways the early church has responded to the social order in which it lived?
I believe the first thing was, as Jesus said, that we are in the world but no part of it, our citizen is in heaven and obeying to God our priority. Second we should give to society of state what belongs to them and to God what belongs to Him. And third we should denounce and rebel against anyone who what’s to take God’s place in our lives. That’s what the early church did and that is what we should do.
2. St. Paul said that he became “all things to all men” for the purpose of spreading the Gospel. What are the limits to this approach in being a Christian witness?
I believe the limit is to do something sinful that others do to feel accepted by them and supposedly sharing the Gospel. I should add that doing this will be confusing for them but most than anything else denying the Scripture since we ought to be doers of the Word before we become witness of the Word.
3. Regarding the apostles, Scott says “The hostile, negative reaction they experience from society is to be expected.” (P. 267) Question: What kinds of negative reaction do you experience from this current society?
I had experience people at work and even family and friends making fun of me, people walking away when I started to share the gospel, friends getting separated from me or not inviting me to their gatherings, I had lost friends that I have had for years, I had people at work expressively telling me not to talk about religion and I was also defied by someone who assure me he was going to get me out of that absurd religion.
4. Scott states; “The state, on the other hand, does not know of the lordship of Christ but still serves Him unconsciously and against its will.” (P. 287) Question: What action can we take to help change the state for serving Christ and following God‟s Will?
I am not sure I understand this question, but according to the Scott, our responsibility is to respect and obey the state as long as its goal is to create peace and order which is God’s will; but since the state can also be used by the devil, if the state would required from us to do something that “clearly” is against Scripture we should remember our first allegiance is to Christ and the Scripture.
1. What are the three different ways the early church has responded to the social order in which it lived?
I believe the first thing was, as Jesus said, that we are in the world but no part of it, our citizen is in heaven and obeying to God our priority. Second we should give to society of state what belongs to them and to God what belongs to Him. And third we should denounce and rebel against anyone who what’s to take God’s place in our lives. That’s what the early church did and that is what we should do.
2. St. Paul said that he became “all things to all men” for the purpose of spreading the Gospel. What are the limits to this approach in being a Christian witness?
I believe the limit is to do something sinful that others do to feel accepted by them and supposedly sharing the Gospel. I should add that doing this will be confusing for them but most than anything else denying the Scripture since we ought to be doers of the Word before we become witness of the Word.
3. Regarding the apostles, Scott says “The hostile, negative reaction they experience from society is to be expected.” (P. 267) Question: What kinds of negative reaction do you experience from this current society?
I had experience people at work and even family and friends making fun of me, people walking away when I started to share the gospel, friends getting separated from me or not inviting me to their gatherings, I had lost friends that I have had for years, I had people at work expressively telling me not to talk about religion and I was also defied by someone who assure me he was going to get me out of that absurd religion.
4. Scott states; “The state, on the other hand, does not know of the lordship of Christ but still serves Him unconsciously and against its will.” (P. 287) Question: What action can we take to help change the state for serving Christ and following God‟s Will?
I am not sure I understand this question, but according to the Scott, our responsibility is to respect and obey the state as long as its goal is to create peace and order which is God’s will; but since the state can also be used by the devil, if the state would required from us to do something that “clearly” is against Scripture we should remember our first allegiance is to Christ and the Scripture.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Ch. 9 UP IN HERE!
1. How does the church today mimic the church described in the chapter? How does it not?
The church today mimics the church in the chapter in many ways. One particular way is in the way that both the church in the chapter and today’s church is in relationship with Christ. Those who are called the church in the chapter and in today's church are called that as a result of this relationship. Without a relationship with the God of the universe through His son Jesus Christ one cannot be considered as part of the church in the sense that it was addressed here.
2. Define the Church
The church as defined by http://www.bible.org/page.php?page_id=435 (I am in agreement) is as follows: There is only one church, or the unity of the church. Every Believer in Jesus Christ is a member of the church of Jesus Christ (I Cor. 12:27; Rom. 15:7). Jesus Christ is the Head of the Church (Eph. 5:23; Col. 1:18). Every believer in Jesus Christ is a priest (I Pet. 2:5,9). In the church, as in marriage, the man is to reflect the headship of Christ and the woman is privileged to portray the submission of the church to her Lord. A New Testament church is one that expresses the life of Christ in a tangible way.
The church today mimics the church in the chapter in many ways. One particular way is in the way that both the church in the chapter and today’s church is in relationship with Christ. Those who are called the church in the chapter and in today's church are called that as a result of this relationship. Without a relationship with the God of the universe through His son Jesus Christ one cannot be considered as part of the church in the sense that it was addressed here.
2. Define the Church
The church as defined by http://www.bible.org/page.php?page_id=435 (I am in agreement) is as follows: There is only one church, or the unity of the church. Every Believer in Jesus Christ is a member of the church of Jesus Christ (I Cor. 12:27; Rom. 15:7). Jesus Christ is the Head of the Church (Eph. 5:23; Col. 1:18). Every believer in Jesus Christ is a priest (I Pet. 2:5,9). In the church, as in marriage, the man is to reflect the headship of Christ and the woman is privileged to portray the submission of the church to her Lord. A New Testament church is one that expresses the life of Christ in a tangible way.
1. How does the church today mimic the church described in the chapter? How does it not?
Again, I think these are pretty weak questions that are so broad that cannot be answered without going through the entire chapter. To ask for the church as a whole is almost impossible to describe. Are they talking about the Southern Baptist realm, or all Christian denominations. Even to go with one denomination would be pretty difficult since each church is autonomous. Anyway, most churches try to mimic the ministries and sacraments that are described in Scripture. Each church may have a different interpretaion of passages, but hold to their beliefs based on their interpretation. Again, I don't think this is very good question, I hope I gave enough reasons and answered sufficiently for you all.
How do you Define Church?
The Church is the body of Christ. Made of many parts coming together to work for one purpose (1 Cor. 12). The Church is also the Bride of Christ, submitting to the Lord and waiting for his guidance and Love (Eph 5). Most of all it is God's followers. Not a building, or place to worship, but a community that is committed to the Lord.
Again, I think these are pretty weak questions that are so broad that cannot be answered without going through the entire chapter. To ask for the church as a whole is almost impossible to describe. Are they talking about the Southern Baptist realm, or all Christian denominations. Even to go with one denomination would be pretty difficult since each church is autonomous. Anyway, most churches try to mimic the ministries and sacraments that are described in Scripture. Each church may have a different interpretaion of passages, but hold to their beliefs based on their interpretation. Again, I don't think this is very good question, I hope I gave enough reasons and answered sufficiently for you all.
How do you Define Church?
The Church is the body of Christ. Made of many parts coming together to work for one purpose (1 Cor. 12). The Church is also the Bride of Christ, submitting to the Lord and waiting for his guidance and Love (Eph 5). Most of all it is God's followers. Not a building, or place to worship, but a community that is committed to the Lord.
Monday, April 13, 2009
1. How does the church today mimic the church described in the chapter? How does it not?
2. How do you define "church"?
Here are the questions for the blog, I guess we none of us did them. I am not surprised because the questions are kinda weak. anyway, if we just want to blog about them we can at least get the points for that!!
2. How do you define "church"?
Here are the questions for the blog, I guess we none of us did them. I am not surprised because the questions are kinda weak. anyway, if we just want to blog about them we can at least get the points for that!!
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Ch.8 - Ana
Chapter 8
1. Discuss Scott's findings on the "filling" or "baptism" of the Holy Spirit. Did you agree or disagree with his view? How did it fit with your own personal view on this subject?
Scott states the New Testament has several evidences that the baptism and the filling with the Holy Spirit referred to different things. The baptism of the Spirit is related to His presence and activity in the life of the new believer, and the new believer’s identification with the Family of God. The filling of the Spirit has the purpose to meet a special need or provide a special ability for the benefit of the Christian community. Whether is by baptism or by filling, I believe all of those who have place their faith in Christ had been sealed by the Holy Spirit, and He helps the believer in their Spiritual journey by helping them to mature and providing gifts and abilities for this purpose and the edification of the church.
2. Discuss Scott's Presentation of Church governance. What may be the best method?
Congregational church government seems to be the best method, because is democratic and in it each member (who should have made a statement of faith in Jesus) has an equal vote in all church matters. This implies the leadership of a gifted and called servant of God, but a system of accountability as well. It should include a system of “checks and balances”; but the most important thing as the author states is that the congregation recognized Christ as the head, the Spirit as the presence and catalyst of God’s purpose and the authority of the Scriptures.
3. Why is the word ekklesia appropriate to designate this particular group or body? pp. 199
It is appropriate because it designates its function and involves a close communion, service and worship. It refers to a group of believes in Christ who have a relationship with God in Christ. The term carries a concept of individual needs but also one of wholeness and community; it is also free from racial or nationalistic limitations, it conveys novelty and is able to express the deepest expression of a relationship between God and His people.
4. Compare and contrast the role of prophecy in the Old Testament with the New Testament.
The prophets’ task in the OT was:
1. To remind Israel of God’s past revelation (the Covenant, Law and Exodus).
2. To call attention to and condemn sins and to explain how this breaks their relationship with God.
3. Depending on how they respond to the message: to warn of punishment or promise blessings.
4. To promise restoration after times of punishment. (Revelation).
In the NT the apostles were mainly God’ spokespersons; their responsibility was to give revelation, and new information while speaking of the life and ministry of Jesus and interpret those facts; they applied the teachings of the New and Old Testament.
In essence the OT prophets interpreted and applied previously given revelation to God’s people; while according to Scriptures besides the apostolic writes, Agabus, God’s revelation was completed in our Lord Jesus Christ; any new message needs to be tested based on the existent revelation and cannot contradict it since God can not contradict Himself.
1. Discuss Scott's findings on the "filling" or "baptism" of the Holy Spirit. Did you agree or disagree with his view? How did it fit with your own personal view on this subject?
Scott states the New Testament has several evidences that the baptism and the filling with the Holy Spirit referred to different things. The baptism of the Spirit is related to His presence and activity in the life of the new believer, and the new believer’s identification with the Family of God. The filling of the Spirit has the purpose to meet a special need or provide a special ability for the benefit of the Christian community. Whether is by baptism or by filling, I believe all of those who have place their faith in Christ had been sealed by the Holy Spirit, and He helps the believer in their Spiritual journey by helping them to mature and providing gifts and abilities for this purpose and the edification of the church.
2. Discuss Scott's Presentation of Church governance. What may be the best method?
Congregational church government seems to be the best method, because is democratic and in it each member (who should have made a statement of faith in Jesus) has an equal vote in all church matters. This implies the leadership of a gifted and called servant of God, but a system of accountability as well. It should include a system of “checks and balances”; but the most important thing as the author states is that the congregation recognized Christ as the head, the Spirit as the presence and catalyst of God’s purpose and the authority of the Scriptures.
3. Why is the word ekklesia appropriate to designate this particular group or body? pp. 199
It is appropriate because it designates its function and involves a close communion, service and worship. It refers to a group of believes in Christ who have a relationship with God in Christ. The term carries a concept of individual needs but also one of wholeness and community; it is also free from racial or nationalistic limitations, it conveys novelty and is able to express the deepest expression of a relationship between God and His people.
4. Compare and contrast the role of prophecy in the Old Testament with the New Testament.
The prophets’ task in the OT was:
1. To remind Israel of God’s past revelation (the Covenant, Law and Exodus).
2. To call attention to and condemn sins and to explain how this breaks their relationship with God.
3. Depending on how they respond to the message: to warn of punishment or promise blessings.
4. To promise restoration after times of punishment. (Revelation).
In the NT the apostles were mainly God’ spokespersons; their responsibility was to give revelation, and new information while speaking of the life and ministry of Jesus and interpret those facts; they applied the teachings of the New and Old Testament.
In essence the OT prophets interpreted and applied previously given revelation to God’s people; while according to Scriptures besides the apostolic writes, Agabus, God’s revelation was completed in our Lord Jesus Christ; any new message needs to be tested based on the existent revelation and cannot contradict it since God can not contradict Himself.
Tim On The Eighth Chapter Of Scott
1. Discuss Scott's findings on the "filling" or "baptism" of the Holy Spirit. Did you agree or disagree with his view? How did it fit with your own personal view on this subject?
I would agree with Scott that the Holy Spirit does indeed come upon the Church. However I would disagree with him to some extent because I believe that it can be upon the individual as well.
2. Discuss Scott's Presentation of Church governance. What may be the best method?
That’s a great question. I have only experienced a congregational model in my life and it has worked well. As for the other models, I am sure that they work well too. I think Nathan stated it well when he said “In each case a church can be run effectively if the persons involved are following the Word of God and praying through their decisions.” I believe the Lord is faithful and those he places in positions of any kind of power or responsibility can pursue a governing style that is both worthy, efficient and proper.
3. Why is the word ekklesia appropriate to designate this particular group or body? pp. 199
It names a particular group of people, the Christians, who are the “People of God”.4. Compare and contrast the role of prophecy in the Old Testament with the New Testament.
New Testament prophets were concerned with giving information that was of the Lord that was also new. As for the Old Testament prophets, they were concerned with giving Israel the proper words of the Lord dealing with their sin, giving blessing and punishment and to establish the hope of restoration.
I would agree with Scott that the Holy Spirit does indeed come upon the Church. However I would disagree with him to some extent because I believe that it can be upon the individual as well.
2. Discuss Scott's Presentation of Church governance. What may be the best method?
That’s a great question. I have only experienced a congregational model in my life and it has worked well. As for the other models, I am sure that they work well too. I think Nathan stated it well when he said “In each case a church can be run effectively if the persons involved are following the Word of God and praying through their decisions.” I believe the Lord is faithful and those he places in positions of any kind of power or responsibility can pursue a governing style that is both worthy, efficient and proper.
3. Why is the word ekklesia appropriate to designate this particular group or body? pp. 199
It names a particular group of people, the Christians, who are the “People of God”.4. Compare and contrast the role of prophecy in the Old Testament with the New Testament.
New Testament prophets were concerned with giving information that was of the Lord that was also new. As for the Old Testament prophets, they were concerned with giving Israel the proper words of the Lord dealing with their sin, giving blessing and punishment and to establish the hope of restoration.
Nathan Chap 8
1. Discuss Scott's findings on the "filling" or "baptism" of the Holy Spirit. Did you agree or disagree with his view? How did it fit with your own personal view on this subject?
Scott says that the Holy Spirit, for the most part, does not come upon an individual, but on the church. I see what he is saying with the accounts of Acts and how the Spirit worked within the church. My question would be with Christ. I know that most times he would rely on His Father, but the Holy Spirit did descend on Him at His baptism. Would that count as the Spirit working through an individual. Personally I think that it can be both. The Holy Spirit can work through an individual and of course through the body of Christ.
2. Discuss Scott's Presentation of Church governance. What may be the best method?
The three different models are The Monarchial, meaning the the control is with one or a few different persons, The Presbyterial, the leasership is held with the elders, and the Congregational, which each member of the congregation has an equal vote.
This seems to me to be a loaded question that the answer is determined by individuals. In each case a church can be run effectively if the persons involved are following the Word of God and praying through their decisions. In the same way corruptness could come from any system. I have grown up with a congregational model that I have seen work effectively, but also has been used to for selfish reasons. So I don't know what the best method is.
3. Why is the word ekklesia appropriate to designate this particular group or body? pp. 199
It names a particular group of people, Christians, whoa are distinct from but have community with the Old Testament society, they are "the People of God." (taken from Scott 199)
4. Compare and contrast the role of prophecy in the Old Testament with the New Testament.
OT prophets were spokespersons of God to remind Israel of God's revelation, call attention to sins in the peoples lives, warn of punishment and give blessing, and promise restoration after times of punishment. NT prophets were spokespersons of God but were primarily concerned with giving new information and help applying the new information.
Scott says that the Holy Spirit, for the most part, does not come upon an individual, but on the church. I see what he is saying with the accounts of Acts and how the Spirit worked within the church. My question would be with Christ. I know that most times he would rely on His Father, but the Holy Spirit did descend on Him at His baptism. Would that count as the Spirit working through an individual. Personally I think that it can be both. The Holy Spirit can work through an individual and of course through the body of Christ.
2. Discuss Scott's Presentation of Church governance. What may be the best method?
The three different models are The Monarchial, meaning the the control is with one or a few different persons, The Presbyterial, the leasership is held with the elders, and the Congregational, which each member of the congregation has an equal vote.
This seems to me to be a loaded question that the answer is determined by individuals. In each case a church can be run effectively if the persons involved are following the Word of God and praying through their decisions. In the same way corruptness could come from any system. I have grown up with a congregational model that I have seen work effectively, but also has been used to for selfish reasons. So I don't know what the best method is.
3. Why is the word ekklesia appropriate to designate this particular group or body? pp. 199
It names a particular group of people, Christians, whoa are distinct from but have community with the Old Testament society, they are "the People of God." (taken from Scott 199)
4. Compare and contrast the role of prophecy in the Old Testament with the New Testament.
OT prophets were spokespersons of God to remind Israel of God's revelation, call attention to sins in the peoples lives, warn of punishment and give blessing, and promise restoration after times of punishment. NT prophets were spokespersons of God but were primarily concerned with giving new information and help applying the new information.
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