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Christian Beliefs

Reflection Paper

Melissa L. Morgan


Part 1: General Reflection - how this class impacted you.

Please reflect on your learning experience in this class. Some questions that may help you reflect would be:

I would have to say that my expectations for the class were exceeded—there is challenging and life improving material. The class notes were very in depth, and I spent many hours each week puzzling over some of the questions. I hope to never forget Dr. Brown reminding us to “Prove it!” Through this class, I gained a greater ability to prove what I believe, using the specific scriptural references. I am a “big picture” learner, and I sometimes forget that the details are often important. My focus is on ministering to families who are homeschooling children with special needs. I wondered, “How will this class help me to help these families?
This class, especially the focus questions in the notes, forced me to aspire to higher standards of biblical scholarship and accountability in my personal life and witness. Initially, I found myself somewhat overwhelmed by the amount of material which we covered. Part of this was due to a somewhat overloaded schedule of three classes this semester. I was able to fully participate in the class, but I would have loved to have listened to the lectures multiple times—they were challenging and thought-provoking. In addition, participating in the forums has helped me to feel connected to other students, and sharpened my ability to discuss scriptural and doctrinal issues. Although I initially was skeptical that this course was “for me,” because I am not planning to be a minister, I have learned to more diligently search the scriptures for specific biblical information. This course has stretched me spiritually and academically. I expect to continue studying the Bible throughout my lifetime, in order to know Christ better and walk in Him.I grew up in a Lutheran home, but I was saved through the ministry of the Campus Crusade for Christ. Sadly, many of those from our generation fell away from the faith. Only God knows if those who fell away were truly saved or not, but it may be that Campus Crusade materials were of the “once saved, always saved” variety. Over the years, I have learned a great deal through books such as Ray Comfort's
Hell's Best-Kept Secret. However, through this course I have learned more in depth information to back up what already made sense to me spiritually. What I have found most life-changing has perhaps been a better understanding of the biblical basis for what I already believed regarding the specifics of standing firm and continuing in the faith (Colossians 1:21-23).

Part 2: On the class syllabus for Christian Beliefs, there were three “values” objectives. The syllabus stated that at the end of this course the student should:

  1. Have a new or renewed appreciation for the importance of basing one’s beliefs on what the Scripture actually says (Book, chapter, and verse) rather than on one’s church or family traditions.

  2. Become more cautious about asserting anything the Bible does not clearly teach.

  3. Feel equipped and confident that you can find in the Bible (with the help of your permanently attached notes) the Scriptural basis for your Christian beliefs and be able to share your beliefs with anyone who is interested.

    Regarding values, I don't recall being in conflict with any values or doctrine in this or my previous GBS courses. This course has strengthened my positions which I already held by giving me a greater appreciation for determining what the Scripture actually says, rather than blindly believing family or church traditions. For instance, I knew that the “once saved, always saved” doctrine was not scripturally sound, but this course helped me to study the issue in more depth for myself to discover what the Bible says. It has helped me to study and learn the specific chapter and verse to back up concepts such as sanctification.

In this course, we learned that “no prophecy of the Scripture is of any private interpretation.” (2 Peter 1: 19-21). I will be more cautious about questionable teachings, and test them by studying the Bible for myself. If someone looks to me for an answer, I will need to find that answer in the Scriptures, and not “off the top of my head!”

I spent many, many hours preparing my permanently attached notes, and I feel that they are valuable to me. I had written notes in my Bible over the years, but had not been doing it in a systematic method until now. I think that they have already helped me to be better prepared to defend the truth of the Scriptures. I am very thankful to have these notes, and I think they will aid me greatly, in sharing my Christian faith with others. I also think they are beneficial to me personally, to help me to stand firm in the faith.



As you reflect on what you learned this semester, please discuss how you feel about each of the above “values” objectives. Were these purposes achieved in your life? If they were, to what degree? If they were not, why not?

 

I think the above values and objectives were achieved completely, as I am currrently able. Through this course, I have been more encouraged to search the Scriptures carefully, to see what the Word of God actually says. I am more convinced than ever about the necessity of searching the Scriptures to seek truth, and not just blindly believing the doctrines of men. I will continue to seek the truth in Scriptures, with the help of the Holy Spirit.

Part 3: On the class syllabus for Christian Beliefs, there were three “skills” objectives. The syllabus stated that at the end of this course the student should:

    1. Have a new or renewed appreciation for the importance of basing one’s beliefs on what the Scripture actually says (Book, chapter, and verse) rather than on one’s church or family traditions.



I used this Reflection paper as an opportunity to study my notes for the final test, although I will not submit the paper until after the test. After reviewing the syllabus, I definitely feel a renewed appreciation for the importance of basing my beliefs on what the Bible actually says rather than what my family or church taught me. This course has helped me to be more disciplined in learning to find specific Book, chapter and verse to defend biblical theological positions.

2. Become more cautious about asserting anything the Bible does not clearly teach.



The course has encouraged me to be more cautious about things which the Bible does not clearly teach. Through information in this course, I am better equipped to answer questions and share my beliefs with others, using the scriptures.



3. Feel equipped and confident that you can find in the Bible (with the help of your permanently attached notes) the Scriptural basis for your Christian beliefs and be able to share your beliefs with anyone who is interested.



I went back over and checked my notes against the syllabus to ensure, to the best of my ability, that I have equipped myself with the Scriptural basis for my beliefs. Through information from this course, I do feel more confident that I will be ready to back up my beliefs with Scripture. For example, in this course, we learned the meaning of the term "inspired" (2 timothy 3:16) as applied to Scripture. Inerrancy means that there is no error or untruths in what God has revealed. The course clearly taught that the Old Testament is profitable for doctrine in this NT dispensation (2 Tim. 3:16)..



As you reflect on what you learned this semester, please discuss how you feel about each of the above objectives. Were these purposes achieved in your life? If they were, to what degree? If they were not, why not?



The key Scriptural references in this course did substantiate my beliefs in each doctrinal area covered in this class. I am not sure how to define the degree—100% of the objectives being met, if that means that I am better equipped to defend my theological beliefs and share them with others, with the help of my notes on the Scriptures. By saying this, I do not claim to have perfect knowledge of the things of God, as I expect to continue to grow in my relationship with Christ and my understanding of God's Word throughout my life.

Specifically, course material helped me to better comprehend ways in which Calvinism and Arminianism differ, exercising my thinking skills by evaluating them in light of Scriptural truth. Christ died for all, not just some, although not all will accept Him. Christ’s atonement was sufficient for all men, but efficient only for believers. (Galatians 3:13)1 John 2:2 says that “He is the propitiation not just for our sins (for believers) but for the sins of the whole world.” Propitiate refers to appeasing the righteous wrath of a Holy God. The Bible is incompatible with the Calvinistic idea of limited atonement (meaning Christ died only for the elect, but did not die for non-elect). On the contrary, God wants all men to be saved and embrace the truth that He has revealed in Christ: 1 Timothy 2:3-4 explains that God is not behind schedule in dealing with mankind nor is He willing that anyone perish and go to hell. Jesus died for sinners, the whole world, and me personally. Jesus' death was substitutional; while we were sinners, Christ died for us (Romans 5:8). “For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age” (Titus 2:11, 12);

In addition, I learned key scriptural references that establish both the deity and humanity of Christ. In Matthew 14:33, Jesus allowed his disciples to worship Him. Christ's humanity on earth was empowered by the Holy Spirit and is the pattern for all believers (1 John 2:6). I also learned key passages that tell for whom Christ died and the benefits that His atonement provides. Jesus died because 1. Mankind was lost (Romans 3:23), 2. No One Else Could Do It—because no one else was sinless (Matthew 20:28) and 3. Because of His love and mercy (Ephesians 2:4-5). The classic passage on the resurrection is 1 Corinthians 15; Hebrews chapter 7 is the classic passage describing Jesus’ Melchizedekian priesthood.

Romans 5:12 describes how sin came into the world through Adam. The classic passage on inherited depravity (in sin mother conceived) is Psalms 51:5. We are “hard wired” to want our own way from the moment of birth--We want our own way (Isaiah 53:6. This course explained four different types of sin: high handed (willful, premeditated, done defiantly), willful sin, sin of deception, and sin of ignorance, 2 Corinthians 1:12 is the classic passage that believers are to keep their conscience clear, testifying on the basis of their conscience.

Grace is the outreaching of God’s love and mercy to an undeserving people (Ephesians 2:4-5) producing in them the desire and power to do God’s will (1 Corinthians 15:10); Since grace outpouring of God’s love and mercy on undeserving people, and since all people are undeserving, everyone receives God’s grace (Eph. 2:4-5). Repentance is a change of heart and mind, but must be demonstrated by a change of attitude and behavior.” II Corinthians 7:8-10 is the classic passage on repentance. Luke 15:17-20 is the clearest example that describes a person repenting. Justification is the gracious and judicial act of God, whereby on the basis of what Christ did for us on the Cross, God grants full pardon from guilt and complete release from the penalty of sins committed, and declares to be in the right all who by faith receive Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. “Justification changes our relation to the law—it removes condemnation, but does not change our nature, or make us holy..”(See Romans 3:24-25) “Sanctification” is the gracious and continuous work of God in us through His Holy Spirit, in which He creates us anew in Christ Jesus, separating us from the common and sinful. Through sanctification, He transforms our nature into the likeness of Christ. Sanctification enables us to perform good works, and live above willful sin. Sanctification occurs simultaneously with justification. You cannot have the one without the other. (See 1 Corinthians 1:2 and 1 Corinthians 6:11.) Regeneration (a subcategory of sanctification) is the imparting of spiritual life to a person who was spiritually dead (Titus 3:5).Entire sanctification is God’s further working in the life of a believer (1 Thes. 5:23-24). It requires the believer fully surrender to God (Romans 12:1), and be filled with the Holy Spirit (Eph. 5:18). Entire sanctification occurs the moment a believer’s faith appropriates this work of God. At that moment of faith, the believer’s heart is purified from inherited depravity (Acts 15:9). As descendents of Adam, we were all born “children” of the devil. Colossians 1:21-23 says “If you continue in the faith, and but not removed from the hope ….” Philippians 1:6 says that“He who began a good work in you shall continue it unto the day of Christ.” However, this is conditional, as 1:7 continues and says that "it is fitting..because they are living right." Only people who live right are secure in Christ.

This Christmas, as always, we celebrate the first advent of Christ. Jesus spoke of His 2nd ADVENT (Coming) in Mat. 25:31 and John 14:1-3. In Acts 1:9-11 the angels said that Jesus will come again. In I Tim. 6:14 Paul prophesies: "Keep this commandment without spot, unrebukeable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ."1 Thes. 4:17 says “Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together (the term “rapture” occurs in the Latin version) with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.”





Part 4: Lastly, please comment on the strengths and weaknesses of the class. What really helped you and what, in your opinion, could be changed or deleted from this course? Also comment on the required textbook reading. Which of the books did you like best and why? Which did you like least and why?



The course was very strong on increasing a student's personal biblical knowledge, especially in issues of doctrine such as temptation, inerrancy and dispensationalism. I appreciated that Dr. Brown encouraged students to search the Scriptures for themselves, and prove what they believe. The course offered an excellent mix of basic skills and higher order thinking skills. I also enjoyed the interaction with the other students; they were an encouragement, as well as a joy!

I have read all of the course materials. If I must pick my favorite, I would probably choose Tozer's book, The knowledge of the Holy, which offers valuable insight to help believers who seek a deeper relationship with Christ. The book provided much relevant material for my life, and I would recommend it to others. I think it deepened my knowledge of Christ's nature. As I wrote in my assignment previously, though we “see in a glass” we can meditate and grow in the aspects of Christ which He has revealed to us in His Word. I agree with the author when he says “Neither the writer or the reader of these words is qualified to appreciate the holiness of God...Only the Spirit of the Holy One can impart to the human spirit the knowledge of the holy.” (Tozer, 109-110, E Book edition).

I found great encouragement in Tozer's book, especially through a deeper understanding of 2 Cor. 10:5. We are told to “take every thought captive,” so we must be cautious when reading books about scripture. I also enjoyed reading Purkiser's book, Security: The False & the True. The text was brief but the subject matter was deep, and the author specifically answered many questions which new believers often encounter about salvation and issues of eternal security. It is a bit tricky to answer these questions, even though it is also common sense—so it was good to have this information. Of course it matters how you live—you can't go on sinning willfully after receiving knowledge of the truth of Christ (Hebrews 10:26).This is sobering information, and I shouldn't keep it to myself!

I Believe: Fundamentals for the Christian Faith was also a worthwhile book, and useful for basic information on the Christian faith as well as Wesleyan/Arminian theology. .I didn't really have a “least favorite” book, but I have previously read David Seamands book, Healing for Damaged Emotions, so perhaps it didn't seem as fresh to me as the other class materials. However, the book was important to learn about ways to counsel others, as well as myself.


I don't know how the class could be improved, as I am hardly qualified to make that determination. I did have a bit of trouble a few times with the clarity on the lectures, in a few cases with the classroom responses, but I don't know if that was significant. That may also have been the fault of the video card/sound card on my old netbook computer. Also, perhaps I could have made it easier on myself, had I asked for extra help with my vision impairment. (I have had several surgeries for severe, early cataracts, that make it very tiring for me to read small text for any length of time.) This is not the fault of the class design at all, as the syllabus even said that we should let the teacher know if we needed any accommodation. I just decided to “tough it out”--my choice—and so I had a great deal of eye strain working through the notes. I use a large print Bible, and I was able to obtain ebook versions (and use large, bold text) for of all of the textbooks except for Security: The False & the True, so the books were not fatiguing.

In the future, I may have to utilize more “text to speech” technology, perhaps—but that still leaves me with the problem of being able to read my own notes in my Bible! I may need to ask for help in future classes, to learn how to use an Ebook Bible, but I don't know how that will work with notes. I know that some Ebook readers allow you to use notes, but I haven't experience in this yet. God is good, and He is perhaps humbling me learn to depend more on Him through my limitations. Perhaps He is also using vision problems (which I have had in varying degrees throughout my life) to help me to better understand others who have various learning challenges. I think this course has encouraged me to be more Christ-like in my thoughts and actions—less of me and more of Him. As I become more Christlike, I will be able to use materials from this course to disciple others.