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Christian Faith|Christian Education: What is the Gift of Teaching?
May 31st
Christian Education: What is the Gift of Teaching?
We could talk about the gift of teaching in terms of skill sets, personality types, and rhetorical styles – but we won’t. Not here.
Instead, using a slightly different approach, let’s discuss the gift of teaching in terms of what it is meant to accomplish in the Body of Christ. Ephesians 4:11-13 expands on I Corinthians 12:7 as to the purpose of the spiritual gifts as a whole. We will look at these verses, however, from the specific perspective of the gift of teaching:
“He gave some as … teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:11-13).
The first thing that is noted is that teachers are to equip the saints for the work of service. The teacher equips the saints for the work of service by helping them to gain a firm foundation in the faith – in the Word of God, in relationship with God, and in the practice of a life lived for God:
Christians cannot serve effectively if they do not know the standard of the Word of God.
Christians cannot serve effectively if they are out of communion with God.
Christians cannot serve effectively if they do not practice the spiritual disciplines of the Christian faith.
The teacher is positioned to instruct, encourage, and reprove people in all of these areas.
Second, the teacher is to build up of the body of Christ. Teachers are called to be examples in the church, building up the body by demonstrating the life of Christ in their own life. James 3:1 issues a warning that refers to this responsibility: “Let not many of you become teachers, my brethren, knowing that as such we shall incur a stricter judgment.” A teacher is a type of leader, and therefore must challenge, stimulate, and encourage others to excellence through the example of his or her own life.
Third, teachers are to help the Church attain to the unity of the faith. This is the double call to teach orthodoxy and orthopraxy – right teaching and right practice. In a world of moral relativism and countless philosophies, sects, cults, religions, and heresies, the guardianship of the truth lies in great part in the hands of the teachers. We are called to know the truth – and to teach it. Paul reminds Timothy that he is called to “entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also” the “things which you have heard from me” (II Timothy 2:2). He also commands Timothy to “retain the standard of sound words which you have heard from me” (II Timothy 1:13), and to “be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, handling accurately the word of truth” (II Timothy 2:15). Only through devotion to the truth and the teaching of it will the Church remain pure, undefiled, and unified before God and the world.
Fourth, we are called to guide people into the knowledge of the Son of God. This speaks of relationship. As teachers, we are not only to deal with information. Right teaching is not enough if it leaves out the crucial element of intimacy with God. We must live in and teach people how to grasp a vital, growing, personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Prayer, meditation, and worship must be characteristic of our lives – and we must engender that in others.
Fifth, we must help each individual in the church to mature. Spiritual maturity involves fulfillment, or completion. Being what we are called by God to be. Think of the words we normally associate with someone who is mature: responsible, thoughtful, wise, compassionate, understanding, reasonable, reliable, faithful. By our teaching and example, we can help those around us toward spiritual maturity.
Finally, we are called to build up the Body of Christ to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ. It is Christ and Christ-likeness we aim for. Relationship with Christ and sanctification in Christ. In the final analysis, maturity is not measured by knowledge, or even by wisdom. It is not measured by the spiritual disciplines or by orthodox belief. All of these things are essential parts of the whole, and without them one cannot be mature in Christ, nor become like Christ – yet, somehow, we could have all those things and yet not be like Christ. The final element is love – what Paul called “the more excellent way.” What John described the infinite, almighty God as. What Christ demonstrated for us on the cross.
We are called to love others – first, foremost, and always. Only if we love those whom we teach will we teach them well. Only through love do orthodoxy and orthopraxy make sense. Only through love can both encouragement and reproof be given and received safely. Only through love can we attain unity and holiness as a Church.
That is our gift. That is our calling. That is our purpose, our intention, and our goal.
“He gave some as … teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ.” (Ephesians 4:11-13)
Note: All Scripture references are from the NAS translation.
© 2008 Paula Marolewski
You have my permission to reprint and distribute this article as long as it is distributed in its entirety, including all links and copyright information. This article is not to be sold or included with anything that is sold.
Paula J. Marolewski provides challenging and interactive adult Bible studies for individuals, Bible studies, small groups, and adult Sunday School classes at Sink Your Roots (www.SinkYourRoots.com). Studies include such topics as Debunking the Myths about Knowing God’s Will. The above article is an excerpt from Called to Teach.
Christian Lessons|The Influence Of Christianity On Childhood-A Christian Perspective
May 31st
The Influence Of Christianity On Childhood-A Christian Perspective
The framework for societal understanding of the nature and the place of the child has for a very long time been shaped by the church, upon which all depended for direction and guidance. For instance, when a child was born, during the medieval period and even today in quite a number of places across the world, it was a requirement that that child undergo the Christian rite of baptism. The aim was to ensure that the child was incorporated into the particular society. Now every society is governed by particular rules and regulations. In Christianity, the most prominent figure of childhood was that of Jesus Christ, who also happens to be the founder of the church. It was understood and required therefore, that every child be shaped within the context of Jesus. This is because Christ was the model, and so ideas like the pure childhood, holy childhood, were all coined based on this understanding. As soon as the child was baptized, it was expected that that child would conform to the demands of the Christian principles. The question that comes up with regard to this understanding is whether Christianity was sufficiently informed about the teachings that it imparted on the people regarding the child and childhood. At some point, there were cases of indoctrination, whereby children were forced to believe that the kind of knowledge they were given was the absolute truth, and were therefore required to follow it with great religiosity.
The greatest model parental guidance is the family of Nazareth, which is considered by Christianity as the most exemplary family. The parents of Jesus therefore provide great lessons on the ways in which childhood is to be ordered.
The Christian Culture and Childhood
Christianity is a culture by its own rights. This is because, every aspect that is found in Christianity has been founded on the Jewish culture. Therefore, this culture has greatly shaped the understanding of childhood. For instance, the child was considered inferior to the adult. This is why it would be unacceptable for a child to stand against an adult, while there was no problem for an adult to stand against a child, with a reason of course. This placed children in a very risky situation, because children were somehow vulnerable. Children did not have a lot of defenders in this situation. It is common in the Bible for instance, to find children not being counted, because they did not total to a person. This view shaped the idea of childhood for a long time in many parts of the world. Children were expected to stand for instance, when an adult was passing, and so on. Childhood became like a punishment, and children craved for the time that they would become adults. In this way, childhood was not enjoyed, and as science today reveals, this situation leads to even more complicated situations. This understanding of childhood was very well seen in the medieval period, where in many societies, even today, children were not considered as comprising the membership of their particular societies. This of course meant that children could for instance not work, and so on.
The Idea of Innocence
This idea has become widely accepted among the non-Christians. It is common knowledge that children are innocent and pure. According to Christianity, the child is born in a state of innocence. This understanding has been greatly informed by the fact that children had traditionally been considered incapable of making informed decisions, meaning that they cannot be held accountable for their acts or omissions. This idea of innocence however, is kind of contradicted by the understanding of the original sin, which is taught by the church. The idea claims that when a child is born, there are certain sins that somehow pass onto the child from the first parents, Adam and Eve, through what has been referred to as propagation. Therefore, although a child is claimed to be innocent, they are required to undergo a certain kind of ritual, in order to be purified from this sin. The contradiction lies in the fact that the child cannot be innocent, and have a hereditary sin at the same time.
The idea of innocence has also been greatly contradicted by the fact that Christianity teaches that a child is born with the potential to be sinful, what has been referred to as concupiscence. If it is absolutely clear that childhood will at some point be riddled with sinfulness, the dormancy which is seemingly there cannot be considered as innocence. It is for this reason that the idea of childhood innocence as advanced by Christianity seems to lack sufficient ground. At the same time, it is important to make a distinction between innocence and ignorance. Christianity has for very long time confused ignorance in the child with innocence. This is because, if there was innocence, it should not be lost. However, it is very clear that as soon as a child develops further, innocence is lost, or rather, the ignorance is gone, and the child becomes informed about the realities of life. This cannot be considered innocence; it is pure ignorance. John Locke came up with the understanding that a child is born with absolutely nothing in the mind. In there is only the potential for acquiring something. Innocence can only be acquired where knowledge has already become possible.
The claim of childhood innocence has also been very greatly boosted by the scientific claim that mind lacks full development. This claim does not suffice for the claim of innocence. In other words, the fact that the mind is not fully developed does not mean that there is no sufficient knowledge of moral issues. Therefore innocence as such cannot be fully justified in childhood.
The author Anna Petrescu has academic writing experience of over 5 years. She holds a PHD in education from Cambridge. She has been assisting students in writing professional academic papers including thesis, dissertations, research papers and term papers. bestessayscenter.com
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Christian Faith|How to Find and Bond With Christian Friends
May 31st
How to Find and Bond With Christian Friends
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Treat all your friends like gold dust and value your friend irrespective of his faith. If you are looking for a Christian friend, it is not at all a difficult task. Having a Christian friend will help you to grow in your faith and enlighten you spiritually. And if you are from the same faith, you will be glad to meet your folks in your church or by being a part of various Christian groups. If you are single and interested in dating Christian singles, then you can join Christian community. However, there are more ways to make Christian friends and you can search for them through various social networks.
Make Friends through Christian Dating Sites
This is one of the easiest ways to find Christian friends online for dating. There are many websites worldwide which feature Christian groups settled in various countries. These sites help you in finding your perfect Christian friend or date by making you register or join Christian community. If you are the one who is glued to your computer system and loves to surf or chat online, this is the most convenient way to share your thoughts and communicate with other Christian singles.
Make Friends through Social Websites
Social websites like MySpace and others help you to become member of multiple of Christian groups. Create a profile of yours in any of the social websites and join Christian community formed in the website. If no such community exits, then you can create one and you might be surprised to have scores of Christian friends visiting your profile and giving you their thoughts and views. Even you can find in some social websites Christian blogs, forums and discussions where you can read views towards Christian faith and world.
There are many other social networks and organizations, too, which introduce you to Christian groups of different countries. When you happen to come across these organizations, then take your chance to join Christian community and make friends. It might be a perfect chance to have friends of same faith and value, though coming from different walks of life.
I webmaster of http://www.true2ourselves.com a Christian community website that features the join Christian community,Christian groups, Christian news, church jobs and group of ministers belonging to different faith that share their wisdom.
Christian Lessons|The Focus Of Christian Teaching
May 31st
The Focus Of Christian Teaching
Christian teaching involves the empowerment of an individual’s intellect to improve body, mind and soul. Becoming a Christian teacher takes time, because the physical, mental, and spiritual focus must not only be discerned but practised. It is crucial that both students and teachers make an effort to work together in order to be successful. Christian teachers are those who have a never ending determination and willingness to ensure that all students take control of their own learning and reach their maximum potential, while constantly striving to ‘reach and teach’ every student under their care. The Christian teacher teaches with the view of making the student develop into a wholistic individual. The Christian teacher also requires one major element to accomplish the task of solid Christian teaching. This element; passion is the zeal and vigour needed to capture and ensure that the students are taught and do learn in a wholistic Christian manner, to ultimately prepare and create great leaders of the future.
The Component Needed For Christian Teaching and Teachers.
Passion for teaching is not innate, it has to be developed and maintained. In fact, it needs to be adapted to the teachers’ value system. According to Gilliland (2007) he states that “Passion is the burning desire to make a difference for students and persist and persevere to define your level of effectiveness. Passion means being able to take the frustration, the road blocks, the disappointments and the endless stress and still want to come to work each day determined to turn vision into reality (Gilliland, 2007). Teaching with passion allows the Christian teacher to teach, inspire and still hold people accountable. Hence the question comes to mind, what makes a passionate teacher different from an ordinary teacher? Without a passionate commitment, educators cannot last in a leadership role needed to surpass the resources available to meet them. Being a successful teacher is not a thing you acquire or achieve. Rather, it is a journey you take your whole career” (Gilliland, 2007). This is a journey of commitment, sacrifice, and zeal. It is what allows Christian teaching to be empowered for a student’s intellect to be improved in body, mind and soul. Day (1999a, b) states that teachers with a passion for teaching are those who are committed, enthusiastic and intellectually and emotionally energetic in their work with children, young people and adults alike. This is of greater importance for Christian teachers who should be “called” to teach.
Christian teaching is not just about imparting information. It involves emotions, social relationships, character and much more (Poe, 2004). It involves a Christian life that can be valued and emulated by students. Christian teaching is not only about giving students room to learn how to think for themselves, but creating leaders for the future. This is highly necessary in today’s world to conquer these difficult and challenging times of teaching. Thus the converse is true, once the a teacher gets easily frustrated, lacks passion and commitment in teaching then the question that needs to be asked is; am I committed to Christian teaching?
Christian teaching can be an exciting and rewarding experience. It requires standards that must encompass the principles and guidelines accepted by the world but far exceeded the worlds. It is therefore not considered unreasonable to entrust the responsibility of teaching innocent children, youth or adults to persons without insisting on educators possessing the required academic background and/or relevant teacher education. To be a successful Christian educator, you need to have intense passion for teaching and teaching with success. The Christian teacher should be far above excitement and inspiration but must be selfless in service. Christian teachers must believe in the mystery of good teaching until it becomes a part of them. As they explore new avenues for successful teaching and shared with others, the insight and energy of mystery will begin to inform and reform their practice. Christian teachers face the same dilemma as other teachers in every walk of life (Poe 2004). Soon they discover and develop methods of teaching that emerge from their own integrity, but they never reduce their teaching to just strategies and technique. The Christian teacher teaches with the view of making the student develop into a wholistic individual. Christian teaching is empowerment of an individual’s intellect to improve body, mind and soul.
Becoming a Christian teacher takes all the avenues of physical, mental, and spiritual discernment and practise. It involves as Christian teachers the emotions, character and the will, if not more (Poe, 2004). Christian teachers are given great responsibility to develop young minds. It requires both instruction and wisdom, so that it may be done in a manner that is both glorifying to God, and profitable to those students with whom you teach. It therefore means that Christian teachers, need to make sure that they are Christians and do not merely think that you are. Upon examining yourself, if you then come to the realization that you are not yet converted, then you need to quickly take care of this problem. Otherwise, you cannot hope to glorify God through your giving of spiritual instruction to students, since you yourself are not yet a Christian. After you have determined that you are in fact a real Christian, the next thing to determine is the foundation upon which you will base your training or teaching. Having the correct foundation is not at all a minor issue. The basis of the instruction as Christian teachers is not what the world itself offers, but a morally, rooted teaching that offers wholistic development of the individual. Therefore, the Bible must indeed be the primary source used by Christian teachers when training or teaching students.
The number one quality of a good teacher should be knowledge of the subject. Teachers must be experts in their field to be a good teacher in any university, which is a definite prerequisite. Christian teachers should not only possess the ability to communicate their knowledge and expertise to their students but should be able to create an atmosphere where Christian principles can be emulated by students and make learning wholistic. Effective communication of the subject will facilitate easy learning of the subject by students. With a firm knowledge of the subject, it builds clarity and understanding designed to help students master the material. The best teachers then go one step further. Because good teachers are interested in the material being taught, they make the class interesting and relevant to the students (Brain, 1998). So should Christian teachers. This will ultimately allow students to see you as human, and accept and respect you, for who you are. The Christian teacher will therefore not only apply these principles but will endeavour to emulate a Christian –like character for each student to learn and have a wholistic educational development. Teachers must understand their students, and know what motivates them to ensure that maximum learning takes place. To be successful in teaching the teacher must imagine him/her doing nothing else but teaching effectively and efficiently. By knowing your students well they will become comfortable and they will be at ease with you. The students will then enjoy having you as their teacher and will look forward to the lesson. In order to be an effective Christian teacher there must be time commitment.
Monique Grant-Coke is an Assistant Professor in Nursing at Northern Caribbean University-Jamaica. She has been a Nurse Educator for over seven years and still continues to explore the field of Education.
Christian Faith|Christian Jewellery That Speaks About you
May 31st
Christian Jewellery That Speaks About you
Men and women alike enjoy wearing items of jewellery that are a sign of both their style and their individuality. Gold cross pendants can speak for a particular lifestyle, namely the Christian way. Whether you are someone who needs to show his or her belief or his or her wish for good luck or you just enjoy, the adequate Christian jewellery accessory can state many things about you.
The first stage to selecting Christian jewellery with a meaning is to find out what style of look you want to portray. In most of the cases, those of Christian faith who want to make a fashionable statement out of their belief opt for gold cross pendants. One might assume that he or she does not have a wide range of choices when it comes to cross pendants. On the contrary, cross pendants can come in an incredible variety. For example you may opt for a refined design of the pendant. Alternatively, you can opt for such cross pendants in the material of which (gold, in our case) the manufacturer has chosen to incrust precious stones such as diamonds.
In this manner, you can accessorize with such a pendant both with simple and more sophisticated outfits. Indeed, Christian jewellery is something that you can wear on a daily basis. It will speak about your faith in a subtle, yet stylish manner, as it will suit your individuality. On the other hand, it can easily turn into a chic accessory for an evening outfit.
In addition, many women enjoy the benefit of wearing jewellery that is a symbol of good fortune. Insofar as one can speak about their religion as a deliverer of good fortune, gold cross pendants are also going to function as a symbol of the blessings-providing faith. Such items of jewellery are likely to offer to certain individuals the chance to strengthen their faith, but also their confidence in their own powers.
In other words, cross pendants can turn into authentic signs of the celebration of one’s Christian faith. Without doubt, the style of jewellery that you have on can speak immensely about your individuality. For a case in point, a classic design for gold cross pendants is frequently a sign of strength. Such a classic approach will always be in style. In addition, it will signal to those around you that you are fond of what can last.
Finally, because the Christian faith is so popular, its popularity spreads over the items that stand for it as well. This means that Christian jewellery will make you stand out insofar as you know the proper manner to display it with elegance. You need to keep in mind that you choose the way in which your accessories talk about who you are. If you opt for bold cross pendants, you might appear a bit too daring in the eyes of those that prefer a subtler style. However, such confidence will also speak about the confidence that you have in your faith.
You have to remember that durable, individual style comes with durable items that build that particular style. Christian jewellery is one of the most durable jewellery fashions in the world. By opting for some of the items available in this category, you are opting for a long-lasting individual style. In the end, you have to choose it in such a manner that it should fit your inner nature. Remember that most of the people will constantly judge you according to what you are showing to them. In other words, Christian items of jewellery will bring to the surface what you hold within and let the world know something about your faithful nature.
If you need to find a way to speak about your faith, Christian jewellery will do it perfectly. You can choose from the range of gold cross pendants, for instance, to have one of these items talk about your Christian individuality.
Christian Belief|Various uses of Christian Search Engines
May 31st
Various uses of Christian Search Engines
Christian Search Engines are search engines that list and index websites that are dealing with Christian content only. Secular search engines like Google, Yahoo, Bing, MSN and Ask index all websites that have relevance to the topic searched. This often leads to mixed results and the front page may throw up results that present the websites that have unbiblical views and even worse, may attack the Christian faith.
There are several Christian Search Engines on the internet as well. Good examples are SeekFind, WorthLinks, and ChristSites. These are good websites that are family friendly and do not contravene the teachings of the Bible. The websites subscribe to the view that they will only index content that is biblically based, theologically sound and in line with Christian beliefs. This discernment ensures that believers will only find great content which is trustworthy and spiritually uplifting.
In order for a Christian website to be indexed, it should be opposed to the Christian way of life and should be in line with:
1: The Religious Ethos
The Christian ethos as reflected in the Bible which includes both the Old Testament and New Testaments as the authoritative God’s Word. The website should support the belief that there is one God and he is the Creator of the world. Lord Jesus Christ is the Son of God.
2: Humanity and Salvation
The website should not contradict the belief that God created humanity and man has been made in the image and likeness of God. It should also not be against the belief that salvation is a gift of God’s grace through faith in the finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross, or that salvation is received by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone.
3: The Church
The Church does God’s work and spreads God’s word in the world
Christian Search Engines are an excellent concept since they serve as tools of spiritual enrichment. They also help ethical businesses to run without unfair and often irreligious competition.
In case you have a Christian business website or a Christian owned business that complies with the parameters necessary for inclusion into Christian Search Engines, you should visit them and add your link. However you need to know that most of them do not index forums, blogs, social networking sites and blogs since the content on these websites is often beyond the control of the owner of the website owing to their free and interactive nature. They also frown on overly commercial websites and would prefer to focus on God’s word.
All you need to do is comply with these requirements. Since these search engines are geared towards the glory of God and the power of the Bible, you not only work towards the success of your business, you also do the work of God and interact with like minded people. If you get listed in a Christian Search Engine, you can be assured of the fact that you are in good company.
Guy Yancey is the President and owner of GSYCO Enterprises and he runs a christian business directory where he helps people owning christian search engines gain extra exposure.
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Christian Belief|Basic Beliefs of Pagans and Wiccans
May 31st
Basic Beliefs of Pagans and Wiccans
Believe it or not, it is exceptionally difficult to write a page on “basic beliefs” for pagans. The main reason is because there are such a wide variety of individual beliefs in paganism, and so many different paths, that it is difficult to write a page on specific beliefs. However there are a few certain universal pagan beliefs that I will attempt to cover on this page.
As far as diety is concerned, most pagans believe in A Goddess, and a God. Instead of the Christian belief where there is only ONE supreme being and that he is male, pagans choose to believe that everything in nature has a duality…a male and female side, and therefore so should Spirit. Although believing in both a Goddess and God are central to pagan beliefs, it should be noted that there are feminist pagan groups who only believe in a Goddess, and other groups that believe that there are many Gods and many Goddesses (representing different aspects of nature).
Another belief that is universal to paganism is called “The Wiccan Rede”, and it goes like this:
“Eight words the Wiccan Rede fulfill:
An’ it harm none,
Do what ye will.
Blessed Be to thee .”
That is actually the shortened version, however you can look up the full version on nearly any search engine. Since pagans do not have a long list of rules to live by like many other mainstream religions, this one rede is universally accepted by pagans as a “moral code”. In essence, it means “As long as you harm NO ONE (including yourself, other people, animals, plants, or anything living), then you may do what you like.” Pagans take this creed to heart. For instance, most pagans will not do love spells, because it intereferes with free will, which harms someone.
Another part of the full version of the Wiccan Rede talks about the threefold law. This is another belief that is almost universally recognized by pagans. The threefold law states that whatever your actions are, they will come back to you threefold. In otherwords, if you do a bad deed, it will be visited back upon you three times (or three times as bad!). If you do a good deed, it will likewise be returned to you threefold.
Those are the main universal beliefs of paganism. Individual pagans may include additional beliefs and ways to worship, but these 3 main points are the essence of paganism. All pagans also hold a universal high respect for nature, and everything in it. We believe that the four elements: Earth, Air, Fire, and Water, are very powerful, and are to be respected and honored.
As stated before, individual pagans may have beliefs specific to them, such as: belief in fairies, doing rituals only in skyclad (naked!), focus on herbal magick, and many others.
Stephanie Davies is a 27 year old Missourian with a loving husband and an 8 year old son. She currently owns her own business, Mystickal Incense & More, and sells handmade candles, incense, bath & body products and more at http://www.mystickalincense.com
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Christian Faith|How Attending a Christian College Can Change your Life
May 30th
How Attending a Christian College Can Change your Life
Spring is the time of year when many high school seniors are either rushing to complete college applications or waiting to hear from their college or colleges of choice, living in hope that the financial aid award will be sufficient, and moving into the final phase of the serious deliberation that leads to choosing a college.
Every part of the college search process is important, and all the information gathered is useful to gain the fullest understanding about which college fits best with a prospective student’s interests and plans. Understandably, those students and their parents want to know about the rigor of academic programs, the quality and engagement of faculty, all curricular and extra-curricular options, and the campus community atmosphere. In addition, one area admissions counselors are increasingly asked about is “outcomes.†How does a Christian college prepare a student for life after college? What are the benefits of attending and graduating from a Christian College versus the financial cost?
A recent Christianity Today article by Steve Henderson, President of Christian Consulting for Colleges and Ministries, Inc., addresses an outcome that should be of particular interest to Christian students and parents. In the article, titled “A Question of Price versus Cost,†Henderson makes the following points: Because “the college years are one of the most significant times in a student’s search for identity…the literature and the research…suggest a strong link between a young person’s choice of a college and their short-term and long-term commitment to Christian faith…The results of nearly 25 years of research consistently reveal that those who do not attend a Christ-centered college will experience a decline in religious values, attitudes, and behaviors during college…More than 52 percent of incoming freshmen who identify themselves as born-again upon entering a public university will either no longer identify themselves as born-again four years later or, even if they do still claim that identification, will not have attended any religious service in over a year.†And one final quote from that article, “The bottom line is this: if the past is a fair indication of the future, at least half and possibly over two-thirds of our kids will step away from their faith while attending non-Christian colleges and universities.â€
Based not only on research but also on Henderson’s personal experience with a daughter who attended a non-Christian college and lost her way spiritually for about a decade, Henderson asks parents to consider whether they can afford not to send their child to a Christ-centered college. A college education is a big-ticket item, no matter what type of school is chosen. Henderson encourages families to look closely at and give due weight to the potentially life-long effect of whichever college community is chosen – Christian or secular. College years are a time of serious examination of personal faith. Students at colleges that aren’t supportive of Christian faith can become confused, at best, or more likely, skeptical of the Christian teaching of their youth.
Henderson also emphasizes early in his article, “I neither mean to imply that Christian colleges are perfect places with perfect people, nor that Christian students can never emerge from secular schools with strong Christian faith still intact. Neither statement is true. What I do know, however, is that immersion in a Christ-centered residential, educational community is an incredible opportunity for Christian young men and women who want to learn and grow spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, etc.â€
Christian high school students, as well as those who know and counsel them, should give serious consideration to the benefits of living and learning in this kind of college environment. At its best, education at the collegiate level should begin an honest evaluation and infusion of both faith and scholarship. The dual influence of academic discipline that creates the ability to think critically balanced with moral and spiritual integrity help prepare Christians to positively impact a global society.
Christian college graduates attend some of the most prestigious graduate schools in the country and around the world. They go on to work in inspiring careers after graduation. At least one is in Baghdad assisting the Constitutional Drafting Committee in Iraq. Others are members of Harvard’s medical school faculty or are practicing medicine. They work for the top companies or have started successful businesses of their own. Others have chosen to work to develop sustainable agriculture in developing countries, aid in humanitarian relief and poverty reduction or serve in the top levels of our country’s government.
The academic rigor of the top Christian colleges is leavened by the incorporation of faith and spiritual discipline that will produce the next generation of Christ-lead and inspired servant leaders that our culture cries for.
With those potential outcomes in mind, Christian high school students should learn as much as possible about the numerous fine Christian colleges and universities throughout this country. Preliminary information is available on the web at college search sites such as CCCU.org and Christiancollege.com. Also, sign up for college mailing lists. College mailing lists are a great resource, as you only need to sign up once to start receiving helpful information throughout the year. Also, remember to schedule time to visit each campus that seems like a good fit – including an overnight stay in a resident hall. Visiting a college campus in person and sleeping over helps students solidify if a school is a good fit by finding out what it’s like to live, as well as study, there.
The college years are a unique time in life for the formation of habits of the heart and mind and relationships that will shape life for years to come. Students (and their parents) should consider a college that offers serious academic and personal preparation for life – along with a framework of people and programs that nurtures and strengthens Christian understanding and commitment.
Nancy Mering is Director of Admissions at Gordon College. Gordon College is a nationally-ranked, four-year, nondenominational, liberal arts Christian college on Boston’s North Shore. For more information on the programs and campus life at Gordon College, contact the Office of Admissions at 866-464-6736 or visit http://www.gordon.edu
(Yes, I’m able to upload videos longer than 10 min and up to 1GB in size now. You can click here to learn more about why: www.lanechaplin.com ) (Descr. coming soon.) www.heartcrymissionary.com
Christian Belief|Book Review: the Poetry of Piety, an Annotated Anthology of Christian Poetry by Ben Witherington III
May 30th
Book Review: the Poetry of Piety, an Annotated Anthology of Christian Poetry by Ben Witherington III
Literary as well as Religious, Poems of Piety
More than religious sentiment or drift, these poems express genuine piety, a sense of God and Christian belief. Titled, “The Poetry of Piety: An Annotated Anthology of Christian Poetry,” take the paperback book by what it’s worth: a book that “…offers both expert literary and theological analysis of a wide range of Christian poetry…” that is an excellent addition to a personal library. As someone interested in the pious sensibility, and in poetry, I find the work complete though short since the Baker Academic book categorized as literature and the arts encompasses only 28 poets. But that is enough for intellectual depth and illuminating poetry.
Ben Witherington III and Christopher Mead Armitage have done a fine job of finding work that shows piety. Let’s have a starting point for what is pious. This quote on Biblical poetry and its piety from The Encyclopedia Britannica 2006 Ultimate Reference Suite for computer:
“There is poetry of the first rank, devotional poetry in the Psalms, and erotic poetry in the Song of Songs. Lamentations is a poetic elegy, mourning over fallen Jerusalem. Job is dramatic theological dialogue. The books of the great prophets consist mainly of oral addresses in poetic form.” These are illuminated writings inspired by the Holy Ghost and written by holy men. In this sense, the poems selected in “The Poetry of Piety” also reveal a deep attachment, affection and desire for God in the Christian sense by the poets comprising this 172-page book. You may recognize some of the writers.
T.S. Eliot, the modernist, C.S. Lewis, from the 20th Century also, John Updike, and others like John Henry Newman, John Donne, Gerard Manley Hopkins, William Blake, are a few represented in the title. I could go on with more names like Richard Wilbur and Robert Herrick. You as a reader won’t be sorry to get to read these poets.
The analysis of the poetry is thoughtful, interesting, and revealing. In George Herbert’s poem, “The Collar,” the analysis notes, “…he recognizes his petulant and irrational actions, and his tirade is interrupted by a voice uttering the potent monosyllable, `Child!’ The uncertainty of `Methoughts I heard one calling’ leaves open whether God utters the word or whether the speaker is checked from within. In any case, the admonition and expression of paternal concern lead him to acknowledge his heavenly Father with the last two words of the poem.” There is a great deal of thought in these analyses in this book, and the reader has room to reflect. Some poems are like a dialogue with self and self, self and God, as is this poem from the period 16th to 17th century.
Perhaps you have heard of the American poet T.S. Eliot’s “Journey of the Magi.” A pious poem, certainly, and entertaining as well. Even the beginning is strong and engaging in a modern way of sensibility. Right to the point it reads: “‘A cold coming we had of it,/Just the worst time of the year/For a journey, and such a long journey…’” Right away the reader is engaged. The section of the analysis of this poem called, “Piety” explains the faith statement of the journey: “As it turned out, the good news of birth was the death knell for all things dark and dangerous, all things sordid and sorry. In short, the birth signaled the death of the old era through which the magi had suffered to get to the manger. The birth left the magi dissatisfied with the old dispensation and longing for its death. Yet the birth also meant hard and bitter agony, for it was difficult for even wise men to let go of `our places,’ `these Kingdoms.’”
I find something moving even in the analysis, and certainly in the poems. A reader will find these poems moving, worth reading again, and also rereading the analysis which helps the reader in understanding and appreciating the work. Scholarly, but understandably so, this work is a keeper.
Known for literary distinction, these poems were chosen also for presenting, “sentiments and ideas about Christ and Christian theology.” (That from the introduction.) There is a history of the poet, a section on the “literary aspects of the poem,” and one which “enlarges the religious significance and relevance of the poem, especially for today’s world.” One notation by a Publisher Baker Book House says, “…the questions for reflection make this book an excellent devotional or creative small group resource.” The book is for someone who wishes to take a concerted look at these poems, someone who has an interest in poetry, or wishes a deeper appreciation of Christianity and piety.
–Peter Menkin, Pentecost 2007
Peter Menkin, an aspiring poet, lives in Mill Valley, CA USA (north of San Francisco).
My blog:
http://www.petermenkin.blogspot.com
Christian Belief|The Christian Entrepreneur Business Plan
May 30th
The Christian Entrepreneur Business Plan
The blueprint for a secular business may not include the same inspiration or intent as a Christian business plan. However, a business plan is important to the successful operation of any business. The Christian entrepreneur has to have the same knowledge of basic business principals as a secular business owner. However, the partnerships are very different.
Acquiring an education of basic business principals important to the day-to-day operation of the business. The education in the realm of Christian business principals will empower you to obtain financial independence. You will discover within the pages of the Bible, every resource needed to expand and explode your business profits.
By following the teachings of Jesus, your business can reap all the benefits that you envision for this endeavor. Do not follow or listen to the philosophy that God wants Christians to be poor. This is not the truth that the Bible teaches.
There are many misconceptions concerning the role of wealth in the life of Christians that are received as absolute truth. Do not allow these misconceptions keep you from reaching a high level of success in your business. There are some principals that Christian businesses must follow to receive the blessings of God.
An important part of gaining prosperity or riches is that to continue receiving the blessings of God, the Christian business must also fulfill their commitment by tithing. Some Christian businesses will give lip service to their Christian beliefs until it comes to the actual giving of money.
They will praise the Lord with their mouths but not with their pocket books. When you decide to follow the success principals of the Bible in their unaltered form to acquire abundance, then generosity of spirit in the way of tithing is a major requirement.
Pray about the business and ask God for guidance in selecting and running your business. Ecclesiastes 5:2 (paraphrased) . When you hear the voice of god and obey his voice there are vast benefits awaiting you. Deuteronomy 28:1-14 offers an amazing picture of what God has in store for you when you hear and obey His voice.
Your business and your life will be blessed when God is your partner. The Bible has a clear outline for your life. How much can you accomplish with a clear plan for your life? You will accomplish great things when you embrace the truth of the scriptures for your business venture. There is a surplus in the Kingdom of God. As a result of your partnership with God, you will have freedom from debt. God will show you ways to innovate your business by creating new streams of revenue.
The priests of the Old Testament were millionaires. The priestly tribe of Levi did not share in the abundance that the Promised Land provided. During the reign of Joshua, these priests prospered as a result of the tithe that they received from the children of Egypt. (Joshua 18:7; Numbers 18:21; and Numbers:18:26 .)
There is no benefit in being mediocre. God expects greatness.
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