The Bible NETWork ~ Impacting the World for Christ one post at a time!

I appologize if I'm not doing this correctly, but I can't find the specific discussion questions and answers anywhere, so I'm walking out on a limb here and hoping I can have a decent discussion with anyone willing to share answers.

1. It was mentioned in class that the Christian faith is not a virtuous intellectual
leap into the dark, believing that trusting God means that you check your
brains in at the front door. How was Christian faith defined in the class
lecture?

A: Trust or dependence on God based on the fact that we take him at his word and believe what he has said. This requires us to know what he has said and understand what is to come.

2a. Read Isaiah 45:18–22; 46:5–10.
Do these passages encourage or discourage “blind faith”? Explain.

A: It discourages blind faith. On more than one passage, God demanded the people to bring forth their idols for comparison with him. He laid a challenge to all those that prayed to idols, look at the evidence. This encourages educated faith.

2b. Pay particular attention to God’s rebuke of the Israelites for worshiping other
gods. Which took more “blind” faith, to worship a carved idol or to worship a
God who predicts the future? Which kind of faith is God mocking them for
having?

A: God is clearly mocking the Israelites worshipping other gods. He is calling out their “blind faith”, and showing how ridiculous they are.

3. How does this change your thinking about what it means to have faith?
Explain.

A: To many, faith is the greatest problem with religion. They view it as a “leap”, something that is ungraspable. Some may view it as “believing, no matter what”. The Christian faith I have is one which all science and biblical reading can back up. There has been no examples given anywhere that contradict the Bible, and those that claim such have taken a “great” leap of faith as well. To know our God is real, true, and faithful, is where my faith comes in.

4. In the “Who are you and why are you taking this course” section, which of the
nine types of people do you identify with most? Explain.

A: Somewhere between “want an answer Will” and “curious Carla”. I have been looking for courses or “something” to enhance my understanding of Christianity. I have found for the most part, the courses offered and “peer group sessions” lacking badly in the areas of deeper understanding of our religion. I feel this course is exactly what I’ve been looking for.

5. How do you think having so many different types of people with different
perspectives, backgrounds, traditions, and passions will make this type of
study better?

A: There are many different viewpoints on a number of differing areas of Christianity. There are even more backgrounds and experiences that people have had that have helped shape our attitudes and convictions. This will open up debate and really challenge people to question why they believe and do what they do.

6. Irenic theology was described as theology that is done in a peaceable manner,
accurately and humbly representing all views, even if you disagree with them.
Polemic theology was described as theology that is done in a warlike manner
inside the Church, prophetically speaking against those with whom there is
disagreement. Do you think that Irenic theology is a better starting point for
doing theology than Polemic theology? Explain.

A: I would argue that an irenic approach is much more suitable to this study due to the fact that many people are going to face challenges to beliefs they may hold very dear. Using a polemic approach would close the minds of those people, whereas the irenic approach is not done aggressively and with judgment, but with understanding and compassion which will help all parties keep an open mind to other viewpoints.

7a. Are there times when polemic confrontation is necessary? Explain.

A: In terms of differing opinions that are serious contenders with the basic premise of the faith must be met with vigorous opposition. Such topics as the validity of Jesus’ deity, the meaning of the sacrifice et al, those are not topics which are minor, but rather serious dividing lines that must be met aggressively in the church.

7b. Think of possible times when you have been personally rebuked for something
sinful, destructive, or selfish. Did you need someone to peaceably come and
represent your side, or did you need someone to give you stern rebuke?

A: There were times that I needed a little of both. When making minor mistakes and whatnot, a friendly “adjustment” would’ve sufficed. Other times, I needed to have a “stern rebuke”.

8. How was your thinking most challenged by the lesson? Explain.

A: To tell the truth, there wasn’t really any part that challenged me intellectually. I have come in to this course with an “open book” approach. I am not confident enough in any area of theology and belief to have any notion of an “I’m right, you’re wrong” opinion. I am here to learn, and discover how to go about believing.

I took a long break from the classes, but decided to restart. So below is how I answered the questions from the first lesson...

Yes,
3,
b,
all of the above... j/k...

The key is to discuss theology and how it was developed.

1. It was mentioned in class that the Christian faith is not a virtuous intellectual leap into the dark, believing that trusting God means that you check your brains in at the front door. How was Christian faith defined in the class?
It is impossible for the heart to receive what the mind rejects. Faith cannot stand if you separate your mind from your heart. We are not to just believe God with our heart and ignore learning about who God is with our mind. When we go that route, we may often fall away when troubles come, because our conception of God is based on emotions and not on logic of who He is.

2. Read Isaiah 45:18-22; 46:5-10.

Do these passages encourage or discourage "blind faith"? Explain. These passages encourage us to weigh who God is and what He has done and compare it to other things we may worship. In this sense, it is opposed to "blind faith".

Pay particular attention to God's rebuke of the Israelites for worshiping other gods. Which took more "blind" faith, to worship a carved idol or to worship a God who predicts the future? Which kind of faith is God mocking them for having?
God is mocking them for believing in that which is obviously dead as opposed to that which cannot be "viewed" by our five senses. We should expand our thoughts to think that there are things beyond what we can perceive in our limited capacity.

3. How does this change your thinking about what it means to have faith? Explain.
I have always approached my faith with an intellectual bent. I have condemned myself for not believing when my mind couldn't comprehend, but I now realize that God wants we to use my mind and to comprehend. That doesn't mean I can fully comprehend all that is God, but I know that I can comprehend all that He has revealed for me, in His word.

4. In the "who are you and why are you taking this course" section, which of the nine types of people do you identify with most? Explain.
I have been the Practical one for many years. I think this is a direct result of the Charismatic movement I was involved in. They gave lip service to renewing the mind, but spent a lot of time appealing to the emotions. I am not the Scared one, as I am not afraid of theology. I have been the Know-It-All, but I would like to think I am beyond that time in my life. I am not the Fundamental type in the sense described, though I was at one point. I am Want-An-Answer and it will be a push to find someone to discuss these topics with. I have my own Traditions, and I hope they prove correct, but I am willing to listen. I am not a Confrontationalist form outside the faith. I am not much of a Struggler, but wonder if I should be more of one. I am Curious, but I do know what it is I am hoping to get out of the class in the end.

5. How do you think having so many different types of people with different perspectives, backgrounds, traditions, and passions will make this type of study better?
I see the value in diversity and differences of opinions. I like to learn how others see the world and find out if I am capable of seeing it through their eyes, even if I don't agree with their conclusions. Also dealing with people who major on what I consider minor issues helps me to learn the value of things I may take for granted.

6. Irenic theology was described as theology that is done in a peaceable manner, accurately and humbly representing all views, even if you disagree with them. Polemic theology was described as theology that is done in a warlike manner inside the Church, prophetically speaking against those with who there is disagreement. Do you think that Irenic theology is a better starting point for doing theology than Polemic theology? Explain.

I do think the irenic approach is the best approach, given time to discuss the issues. It allows for everyone to be heard and by doing that it bypasses our "pride" switch that gets hit when arguing over points. When the pride switch is hit, the discussion ends and consensus or agreement to disagree cannot come about. Instead you end up with name calling and worse.

7. Are there times when polemic confrontation is necessary? Explain.

There are times when all types of confrontation are necessary. If someone is using rhetoric to lead others astray, it is best to confront the rhetoric, and if the polemic approach is being short-circuited, it may be necessary to use a polemic approach.

Think of possible times when you have been personally rebuked for something sinful, destructive, or selfish. Did you need someone to peaceably come and represent your side, or did you need someone to give you stern rebuke?

I haven't experienced this situation myself, but I do believe there is a place for it. We must be careful, however, that we give those people time to think afterward so that they can get by their own pride. I have seen this approach used on others and backfire and drive people away from each other and cause needless division in families.

8. How was your thinking most challenged by the lesson? Explain.
To reconsider my mind in relation to my faith. To step away and evaluate the way I need to approach my faith.

Group discussion Questions.
1It was mentioned in class that Christian Faith is not a virtuous Intellectual leap into the dark, believing that trusting God means that you check your brains in at the front door. How was christian Faith defined in the class lecture?

Ans: It was said that in the book of acts the early church was referred to 42 times as believers.


2 Read Isaiah 45 18-22 46: 5-10
Do these passages encourage or discourage "blind faith"? Explain
Ans It seems to discourage it ,God seems more than annoyed at The Israelites need to worship things they can see and value and craft with their own Hands and forgetting all that He had done for them this seems to run thru the whole old Testament This reminds me a bit Of the conversation that God had with Job when Job was asking why? and God went onto declare all that He had created and his Power.....

3.How does this change your thinking about what it means to have faith?

Ans:It makes me think It's easy to look at the Text and say how dumb the Israelites where to make Idols and bow down and worship them but then but I need to reflect on my life to see what Idols I have that are preventing me from worshipping God and His Power and Majesty.

4. In the Who are you and why are you Taking the course section which of the nine types of people do you Identify with the most?
Explain.

Ans:A mixture of struggling Sam and scared Susan. Just that I have been burned in different situations I really do want a proper relationship with the Lord and not to feel So Lost also I feel so dumb.

5 How do you Think having so many different types of people with different perspectives ,backgrounds, Traditions and passions, will make this type of study better?
Ans:Great I have already learned so much about the Different types of Church's and Traditions It seems to me we can each Bring something together and learn from each other.

6.Irenic theology Was described as theology that is done in peaceable manner. accurately and humbly representing all views. even if you disagree with them.
Polemic theology was described as that is done in a warlike manner inside the Church, prophectically speaking against those with whom there is disagreement Do you Think Irenic theology is a better starting point for doing theology than Polemic theology? Explain.
Ans: absolutely It seems strange to me that sometimes we as Christian fail to get on with each other so much and can't respect and value
our differences I think its the saddest sight to see two christian leaders on TV criticizing each others beliefs in this polemic style the world loves it but It It must make God sad.
7 Are the Times when polemic confrontation is necessary? Explain.
Ans: I am not sure I suppose there could be but using Irenic first as a starting point seems to me to be the best also I think as a church we need to swing more to this side we have done this polemic thing and It's not born such good fruit everyone is defensive and nobody listens whats the point If I need a personal rebuke on Issues I respect Those Leaders that at least listen to what I have to say first the humbly reason with me to show me the truth.
8.How was you thinking most challenged by the lesson? Explain.

Ans:Well I guess it's making me Think! I really enjoy and I am exited but what you teach us Just wish I could be there in Class with you all thanks for all you Hard work In putting this class together It is challenging me and making be examing everything I have been taught but I believe that is where I am at in my Life and these classes are what I need at this time in my Life and walk with God.

Amen to that! I used to shake my head at how idiotic the Israelites could be, but then I had to stop myself. Being a Canadian and an avid hockey fan, I idolized Wayne Gretzky. He wasn't a calf made of gold, but he sure as heck isn't Jesus either!!! You look at everything our society cherishes, and it's rather scary. We are really no better than our beloved Israelites are we!?

Nice to share answers dutchmike, keep them coming.

Well this is my first post and I'm not sure I've got all of this right. All I can say is I'm glad this program is available and for anyone else who is traveling along this road with me, I am looking forward to meeting you and sharing or ideas. God bless you.

1. It was mentioned in class that the Christian faith is not a virtuous intellectual leap into the dark, believing that trusting God means that you check your brains in at the front door. How was Christian faith defined in the class lecture?

Christian faith must include both the heart and the intellect. While our emotions and our simple childlike response to Christ is important, it is sustained by disciplined thought and the systematic development of knowledge and understanding. Without the disciplines of the mind our faith will fail to make an impact in the marketplace of ideas and it will fail us when we are faced with the challenges of life.

2. Read Isaiah 45:18–22; 46:5–10. Do these passages encourage or discourage “blind faith”? Explain.
These passages describe a God who deserves our faith because his power and glory are not hidden in a dead and mute idol, but rather are demonstrated everywhere in His creation.

Pay particular attention to God’s rebuke of the Israelites for worshiping other gods. Which took more “blind” faith, to worship a carved idol or to worship a God who predicts the future? Which kind of faith is God mocking them for having?
Clearly these passages speak of the blind and mindless faith required to worship an idol that was made from materials pulled from nature that, once made can never speak or answer prayers. Faith in these idols requires that the intellect be set aside and is a reasonable target of God’s ridicule. This is contrasted with faith in a God whose presence and power is everywhere apparent in the creation and in answered prayer.

3. How does this change your thinking about what it means to have faith? Explain.

This doesn’t really change my views of faith. For a long time I have had a sense that something was wrong in the ideas of faith in Churches where I have visited or attended. I have a sense that in many churches, the preaching and teaching occurs without knowledge or regard for the theological foundations of their beliefs and traditions or the history of how that theology came to be articulated.

4. In the “Who are you and why are you taking this course” section, which of the nine types of people do you identify with most? Explain.

I most closely identify with Struggling Sam. While I don’t really have doubts about my faith, I struggle with being able to clearly explain what I believe and why. I want to know where our theological traditions and understandings came from and I want to develop that understanding with other Christians who have the same questions and struggles that I have.

5. How do you think having so many different types of people with different perspectives, backgrounds, traditions, and passions will make this type of study better?

I see Church as a training ground for going out into the world where we will encounter each of these types of people. In the world, however, it is not likely to be the safe environment that “Struggling Sam” is hoping for. This class will benefit from the presence of each of these personality types in a relatively safe, controlled, environment, led by Godly teachers, where we will be able to grow our theological maturity and prepare ourselves for more difficult battles to come.

6. Irenic theology was described as theology that is done in a peaceable manner, accurately and humbly representing all views, even if you disagree with them. Polemic theology was described as theology that is done in a warlike manner inside the Church, prophetically speaking against those with whom there is disagreement. Do you think that Irenic theology is a better starting point for doing theology than Polemic theology? Explain.

While there may be a place for Polemic theology, as a starting point it stifles discussion and seems to demand submission. It prevents the free flow of ideas that leads to understanding and confidence with ideas.

7. Are there times when polemic confrontation is necessary? Explain. Think of possible times when you have been personally rebuked for something sinful, destructive, or selfish. Did you need someone to peaceably come and represent your side, or did you need someone to give you stern rebuke?

I think there may be times when polemic is necessary to break through entrenched sin or hard hearts. I might be useful as a means to get people ready to listen in a less confrontational environment.

8. How was your thinking most challenged by the lesson? Explain.

This lesson reminds me that I may have to learn how to calmly and respectfully discuss theology in an Irenic fashion with others who have a completely different tradition from my own and ideas of theology that seem almost heretical or offensive to me.

1. It was mentioned in class that the Christian faith is not a virtuous intellectual leap into the dark, believing that trusting God means that you check your brains in at the front door. How was Christian faith defined in the class lecture?
It is our belief that makes us Christian, or not Christian. It is important to know what we believe and why we believe it as well as why others believe what they believe.

2. Do these passages encourage or discourage “blind faith”? explain

They discourage it.
God has made himself accessible to us if we seek him. “I have not spoken in secret from somewhere in a land of darkness.” “ I have not said to Jacob’s descendants ‘seek me in vain’” He has provided a book about Himself, His love for us, our place in His creation, and His plan for the future.

2. Which took more “blind” faith, to worship a carved idol or to worship a God who predicts the future?

This is a difficult question. It is one that I don’t feel I can answer without further investigation. As much as I would like to say it would be easier for the Israelites to worship the one true God of their ancestors, I as a believer, struggle with my faith at times. I know that sometimes it is easy to be influenced by others and there have certainly been times when God has made me aware of idols in my life.

b. Which kind of faith is God mocking them for having?
He is mocking them for having a fruitless blind-faith in expensive man-made idols that cannot hear, answer or save them.

3. How does this change your thinking about what it means to have faith? Explain.

We do not have to have “blind” faith in God. He has made Himself known, He invites us to turn to Him, to seek Him.

4.In the “Who are you and why are you taking this course” section, which of the nine types of people do you identify with most? Explain.

I am a mix between Traditional Teri and Struggling Sam. As a child I was led to believe that my salvation was based on my “good works.” As a young adult I learned that it is Christ and His work on the cross that saves me. This has caused me to have some questions and doubts about my faith.

5.How do you think having so many different types of people with different perspectives, backgrounds, traditions, and passions will make this type of study better?

I think it will be great, if this is truly a place where we can express our ideas and beliefs.

6.Do you think that Irenic theology is a better starting point for doing theology than Polemic theology? Explain.

Yes. I would prefer to learn in an environment where I can think freely.

7.Are there times when polemic confrontation is necessary? Explain.

Yes. For example, when the deity of Christ is being attacked.

8.How was your thinking most challenged by the lesson? Explain.

I would have to say the question about “blind” faith challenged me the most. I feel God used it to help me recognize my judgmental attitude.

Hi everyone! Thanks for posting, makes me feel more comfortable abut sharing my thoughts and its good to have other ppl's opinions to make you think about things

1. It was mentioned in class that the Christian faith is not a virtuous intellectual leap into the dark, believing that trusting God means that you check your brains in at the front door. How was Christian faith defined in the class?
Hmm, I think it was defined as something that involves knowing the truth and knowing it with both your heart and the mind, not just one or the other.

2. Read Isaiah 45:18-22; 46:5-10.

Do these passages encourage or discourage "blind faith"? Explain.

It seems they discourage blind faith. God said he has foretold of events and not made it a secret or said it in a distant place. He has made things known to us therefore faith in him (what he wants) isn't blind faith.

Pay particular attention to God's rebuke of the Israelites for worshiping other gods. Which took more "blind" faith, to worship a carved idol or to worship a God who predicts the future? Which kind of faith is God mocking them for having?
Faith in things that we made with our own hands that don't answer us and cannot save us. It took more blind faith to worship them because they can't speak to us or do anything but God has spoken to us and has made things that will happen and his powers known and answered prayers.

3. How does this change your thinking about what it means to have faith? Explain.
Its made me think a lot actually. I have been really struggling. Im new at thinking about these things and a new friend of mine has been telling me to seek God with the heart. My heart toward religion can be pretty cold and dead to be honest and i've prayed and prayed etc. but i knew my mind was a problem too or i found i could agree intellectually with something but not feel it in my heart. just feel disjointed. I've always been told feelings are futile and cant be trusted so i've always felt that its either trusting the mind or the heart and thats bugged the heck out of me. Its made me really angry and resentful because i feel in conflict and then i feel guilty for feeling angry. Now i dont feel so bad about that. It makes sense that there should be a union between the two. Another thing is that faith isn't blind. I have always thought faith in God was taking a blind leap, because he knows better than us, we dont have the answers he does etc. I never understood what ppl talk about when they talk about God's promises either. Now i feel like faith isn't all blind, God has told us things, we just need to find out what these things are. We need a foundation to work from, a true knowledge of who God is, in order to have a solid faith (although this last comment is something i kind of felt over the last few months anyway. Its strange, I've been so busy doing in life, I never noticed i actually had no idea in who or what i was beleiving in! Seems pretty important, how could i miss it! No wonder things have been so hard)

4. In the "who are you and why are you taking this course" section, which of the nine types of people do you identify with most? Explain.
Mix between want an answer Will and struggling Sam. I do really struggle with doubts and because they tear me up and make me so restless and uneasy I want answers and i want them now! Im so childish!


5. How do you think having so many different types of people with different perspectives, backgrounds, traditions, and passions will make this type of study better?
It gives a balanced view of things and maybe gives you an opportunity to think about things you had never even thought of. Expands your horizons!

6. Irenic theology was described as theology that is done in a peaceable manner, accurately and humbly representing all views, even if you disagree with them. Polemic theology was described as theology that is done in a warlike manner inside the Church, prophetically speaking against those with who there is disagreement. Do you think that Irenic theology is a better starting point for doing theology than Polemic theology? Explain.

definetly! Polemic theology would scare loads of ppl off (possibly me included although im kind of getting used to it) either scare people away or bug them. Sometimes its better to have a gentle start. It gives people breathing room and comfort to express their opinions without the fear of being shot down any second (something i get worried about a lot!) Not only that, it means theres more chance of getting a balanced view.

7. Are there times when polemic confrontation is necessary? Explain.

Well if you were teaching something really destrucive and unbliblical then i guess so.

Think of possible times when you have been personally rebuked for something sinful, destructive, or selfish. Did you need someone to peaceably come and represent your side, or did you need someone to give you stern rebuke?

Most of the time i need a gentle shove in the right direction. I need someone to gently say what im doing isn't clever so i dont freak out and get really upset. But there have been one or two occasions where i needed a fright so i couldn't ignore it, to get me to really see what i was doing was a bad move although that only ever was between me and God which in a way made it easier because i couldnt run away from him.

8. How was your thinking most challenged by the lesson? Explain.
Well there was the idea of blind faith, the idea between the mind and the heart. Also the fact that its not about noting down answers for yourself. The comment about the holy spirit descending on "us" not "me" also really struck a chord.

whoever started the rumor that being a Christian meant not using your brains did us a great disservice

Though actually it was a reaction against a scholarship (sadly still around) that says the heart/emotions/feelings have no place in religion ... They are not needed and should be ignored.

God wants all of us .... heart, mind, body, soul .... and all in top working order ...

keep studying, what a joy! .... and make sure your study leads you into ever deepening love of God, and joy in believing.

in Christ

Dinah

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thankyou for sharing that Dinah! Was very helpful and comforting!

1. It was mentioned in class that the Christian faith is not a virtuous intellectual leap into the dark, believing that trusting God means that you check your brains at the front door. How was the Christian faith defined in the class lecture?
The Christian faith is defined by what someone believes. It is impossible for your heart to accept what your mind rejects. If a person has not thought through their beliefs, the faith that they have in their heart will fail them when they are tested intellectually.

2. Read Isaiah 45: 18-22, Isaiah 46: 5-10 do these passages encourage or discourage blind faith? Explain
God discourages the people from having blind faith in their Idols. He encourages them to look at the evidence and decide who the true God is. He compares and contrasts himself with the idols that the people have been worshiping. He encourages the people to think through whom they put their faith in, himself or the idols.

Pay particular attention to God’s rebuke of the Israelites for worshipping other gods. Which took more blind faith, to worship a carved idol or to worship a God who predicts the future? Which kind of faith is God mocking them for having?
It takes more blind faith to worship a carved idol than a God who predicts the future. The carved idol just sits there and doesn’t do anything even when the people cry out to it. But a God that predicts the future can be worshipped without blind faith because there is evidence to support the fact that he is truly God. God is mocking the people for having faith in their idols.

3. How does this change your thinking about what it means to have faith? Explain.
This passage shows me that God is not afraid to be questioned or scrutinized. He knows that our faith will be stronger if we put him to the test and discover that our faith is actually based on truth. God does not want blind faith; he wants us to worship with our minds and our hearts.

4. In the “who are you and why are you taking this course” section who do you identify with most? Explain.
I can identify with Want an Answer Will because I would like to find some answers, and I am definitely guilty of wanting to write down things that I learn. I can also identify with struggling Sam because I am a believer but I have doubts and struggles, sometimes I don’t feel comfortable expressing my doubts with other believers.

5. How do you think having so many different types of people with different perspectives, backgrounds, traditions, and passions will make this type of study better?
I think it is good to get a variety of different points of view. I think it will be interesting to see how differently people interpret the Bible when we are all reading the same book.

6. Do you think Irenic Theology is a better starting point for doing theology than Polemic Theology? Explain
I think that irenic theology is definitely a better starting point for doing theology than Polemic theology. It is important to hear all sides of an issue so that we are forced to think through what we believe. The end result will be a much stronger understanding of why we believe what we believe. I think a lot of Christians (including myself) have a pre-determined set of beliefs that we haven’t completely thought through. If we are presented with several viewpoints we may find out that our pre-determined beliefs are not Biblically accurate and need to be modified or changed, or at least we can confirm our original beliefs and be able to more accurately explain it to somebody else.

7. Are there times when polemic theology is necessary? Explain.
If a person or a group of people inside the church are acting in an inappropriate way it may be necessary to deal with them in a very blunt, direct way. If a person in the church is clearly in the wrong about a major doctrine they should be called on it.

Think of times when you have been personally rebuked for something sinful, destructive, or selfish. Did you need someone to come and represent your side or did you need someone to give you stern rebuke?
Sometimes a stern rebuke is exactly what I need to get back on the right track. If I am truly in the wrong about something then someone representing my side is only going to make things worse for me, by enabling me to continue sinning.

8. How was your thinking most challenged by the lesson? Explain.
The most challenging part for me is the realization that there are things I have believed for 20 plus years that I could potentially have to change my position on if they do not hold up when I closely and honestly examine them.

Hi
Is anyone reading this thread? I just got my books in the mail today and I finished the session 1 videos tonight. I am going to answer the questions tomorrow. Just wondered if I'd be talking to anyone, I really look forward to learning from this program. I wish I'd have found it a long time ago. Have a great day.
Mike

this is primarily a thread for students to interact with each other .... sometimes others also interact ... certainly if you want to discuss what you are learning, or ask questions I am sure others will join in.

General student chat can be found in the main forum TTP Self Study Area

in Christ

Dinah

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Forum Code of Conduct
Forum Statement of Beliefs

Hello,
I have just started this study and it seems as though it is going to be pretty good. I am definitely looking foward to hearing various opinions. I want to get a deeper understanding of Scriptures. I am doing this self-study. I read all of the post and it seems as though they have been answered, so I wanted to start a new one. I am answering the questions from session one, but I am not going to retype the questions, because if you are reading this I must assume that you already know the questions, if not then I will type them in the future. Here we go.

1. Christian faith was described as a connection between the brain and the heart and engaging both at the same time, to form a rational view of the Scriptures. We need to know why we believe what we believe in a very rational manner.

2. I do not believe that these scriptures encourage blind faith. God tells exactly why he is the only true God, especially in Is. 46:10 "From the beginning I told you what would happen in the end. A long time ago I told you things that have not yet happened. When I plan something, it happens. What I want to do, I will do."(ncv)

3. This does not change what it means to have faith to me. I am pursuing this study to have a more knowledgeable base of my faith. I want to be able to discuss faith rationally and not just say "I love Jesus", but don't know why.

4. I would like to say I identify the most with struggling sam. I don't believe that I am struggling to have faith, but that I am yearning for a deeper understanding of the scriptures and to be able to have an even more rational conversation of them. I believe that this will be a forum to have those discussions. The give and takes on what I think and hear what you think and to come to a deeper understanding of scripture. I am not looking for the answer as much as I am looking for other viewpoints and like they stated in the video, to work through the tension of understanding. I don't know where I will be afterwards, but I am open to it.

5. Any type of discussions that has differing opinions are great, because the world does not occur in a vaccum. To know what others think broadens your horizon on the subject. What would be the point if we all had the same opinion, I would already know what you think and there would be no need for discussion.

6. I believe that Irenic Theology would be a great starting point if you are witnessing to someone, because it is very objective and does not give them the fire and brimstone sermon or hit them over the head with your beliefs. It is very gentle and inviting and it will allow a seed to be planted, that may or may not grow for you, but prayerfully over time the person may come to know Jesus.

7. Polemic Theology may be used inside the church, because you are already in a body of believers. We are just like anyone else and we are going to have arguements over a myraid of things, but polemic theolgy will allow us to get our views into the community and all get together on the same page with our message as a group. This does not have to be done in a savage or personal manner, but once the problems have been worked out and we are on the same, we can pray together, regain fellowship and move forward together as a group.

8. With this being the introduction, I don't believe that it was necessarily meant to challenge our thinking, as much as to lay groundwork. In reading forward a little for title previews, it seems as though the challenges and belief stretching is coming and I definitely look forward to it.