10' | Drawing near | Still Palms down: letting go Palms up: taking hold
read moreSynopsesDustThere are no free thinkers
The world is forming us continuously …into what?
Even on days of doubt, I want to believe. I resonate with Peter’s conclusion Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.
Apprentice to JesusDramatisation of Peter’s calling by Jesus. Conclusion: bizarre, what on earth made him do that? Rabbi as guru, each with a yoke (Hebrew idiom for briefs and practices). read moreGroupsSession 2: Prayer: source of joyStepping into worshipGive thanks to God for the good gifts of life: health, faculties, food, clothes, shelter, work… family, friends, beauty of the world, creativity, leisure… Everything created by God is good. We receive God’s gitfts with thanksgiving. (1 Timothy 4:4)
Give praise to God: His revelation of Himself in Jesus Christ. our experience ofo His mercy, goodness, help and grace. Rejoice in the Lord, always; and again I say rejoice. We will rejoice in the Lord at all times. (Philippians 4:4)
read moreGroupsRunning order| Start | Activity | Notes |
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0' | Welcome | | 10' | Drawing near | Still Palms down: letting go Palms up: taking hold
read moreGroupsSession 2: Prayer: source of joyStepping into worshipGive thanks to God for the good gifts of life: health, faculties, food, clothes, shelter, work… family, friends, beauty of the world, creativity, leisure… Everything created by God is good. We receive God’s gitfts with thanksgiving. (1 Timothy 4:4)
Give praise to God: His revelation of Himself in Jesus Christ. our experience ofo His mercy, goodness, help and grace. Rejoice in the Lord, always; and again I say rejoice. We will rejoice in the Lord at all times. (Philippians 4:4)
read moreGroupsRunning order| Start | Activity | Notes |
|---|
0' | Welcome | | 10' | Drawing near | Still Palms down: letting go Palms up: taking hold
read morePostsThis evening, we’re going to carry on with our intro to all the spiritual and the discipleship related. Tonight’s prayer. It’s quite difficult to talk about prayer because it’s so broad and vast. But just try and capture something on different kinds of prayer. read more SourcesChapter 12 of Living Witness: Explorations in Missional Ethics. Leicester: Apollos, 2012. Pages 240-257. read more SourcesThis session will introduce foundational biblical material and theological concepts for engagement with economic ethical questions and will aim to equip students to consider how Christians and churches should respond to wealth and poverty, and which economic system, if any, is most compatible with Christian teaching. read more SourcesAim: to equip students with an informed understanding of the prevalence and experience in contemporary life of abortion and fertility treatment, the pastoral needs of those who experience them, and to enable them to engage with the ethical questions they raise. Trigger warning. You may find some of the material in some of these items distressing. read more SourcesThis session will apply the hermeneutic approach explored in last week’s class to the topic of medical ethics. It will aim to enable students to consider the ways in which biblical, theological and philosophical themes might have a bearing on contemporary medical ethical issues. read more SourcesThis session will explore possible contemporary hermeneutical approaches to Christian ethics, and seek to equip students to think for themselves about the way in which they use and apply the Bible in ethical deliberation and decision-making. read more SourcesChapter 12 of Living Witness: Explorations in Missional Ethics. Leicester: Apollos, 2012. Pages 240-257. read more SourcesThis session will introduce foundational biblical material and theological concepts for engagement with economic ethical questions and will aim to equip students to consider how Christians and churches should respond to wealth and poverty, and which economic system, if any, is most compatible with Christian teaching. read more SourcesAim: to equip students with an informed understanding of the prevalence and experience in contemporary life of abortion and fertility treatment, the pastoral needs of those who experience them, and to enable them to engage with the ethical questions they raise. Trigger warning. You may find some of the material in some of these items distressing. read more SourcesThis session will apply the hermeneutic approach explored in last week’s class to the topic of medical ethics. It will aim to enable students to consider the ways in which biblical, theological and philosophical themes might have a bearing on contemporary medical ethical issues. read more SourcesThis session will explore possible contemporary hermeneutical approaches to Christian ethics, and seek to equip students to think for themselves about the way in which they use and apply the Bible in ethical deliberation and decision-making. read more SourcesThe concept of personhood is crucial for our understanding of what it is to be human. This article considers the ways that Christological debates in the early Church contributed to the emergence of the concept of person. It then suggests that neglect of the theological roots of this concept is the reason why modern definitions of person are unsatisfactory. The latter typically refer to particular properties of the individual, whereas the Trinitarian concept of person is relational. Finally, some ethical implications are drawn from the Christological insight that the person is a fundamental ontological category. In particular, this perspective defends the personhood of those who do not meet the criteria of modern definitions of person.
Asking what it means to be human may be as old as humankind itself. Many conflicting views of human nature are on offer. Philosophy of mind has occupied a significant place in the debates. Much of these debates have been shaped by the monism-dualism dichotomy and varieties of these two opposing conceptions. Although challenging arguments abound, and there is much fruitful discussion, the possibility of consensus appears remote, even among those who share the same religious worldview. The time may therefore be ripe for a change of paradigm, a hunt for new insights that could help us to move out of well-worn ruts of discussion. The present article seeks to meet this challenge, by bringing together two intellectual worlds that hardly ever meet: philosophy of mind, and patristic theology. The hope is that this endeavor might indicate fresh directions to explore in our understanding of ourselves, whilst also throwing new light on old debates.
The present article focuses on the concept of person, which is key to our understanding of ourselves as human beings. It also played a decisive role in the fierce controversies that arose concerning the Trinity and the Incarnation, early in Church history. The Council of Chalcedon’s declaration is famous for stating that 'Jesus Christ … must be confessed to be in two natures, … being united in one Person.' What is less well known is the fact that the Church Fathers had to significantly advance the concept of person in order to achieve the fine balance of the Christological creed. If we consider this development carefully, and its thoroughly biblical basis, we may better understand what it means to be a person, which has repercussions for human self-awareness. read more SourcesCHAPTER ONE - Christian VisionAlthough a great deal of the best work in bioethics has involved
the application of certain ethical principles — such as respect
for autonomy, beneficence, and justice — to particular issues of concern,
there is no way to apply principles in a vacuum.
How we understand such principles, and how we understand the situations we encounter,
will depend on background beliefs that we bring to moral
reflection — beliefs about the meaning of human life, the significance
of suffering and dying, and the ultimate context in which to understand our being and doing.
Our views on such matters are shaped by
reasoned argument and reflection less often than we like to imagine.
Our background beliefs are commonly held at a kind of prearticulate
level. We take them in with the air we breathe, drink them in from the
surrounding culture. It is, therefore, useful sometimes to call to mind
simply and straightforwardly certain basic elements in a Christian vision of
the world — to remind ourselves of how contrary to the assumptions of our culture that vision may be.
Hence, before we turn in the following chapters to complicated issues in bioethics,
we do well to reflect briefly upon some of our background beliefs. read moreSourcesCHAPTER ONE - Christian VisionAlthough a great deal of the best work in bioethics has involved
the application of certain ethical principles — such as respect
for autonomy, beneficence, and justice — to particular issues of concern,
there is no way to apply principles in a vacuum.
How we understand such principles, and how we understand the situations we encounter,
will depend on background beliefs that we bring to moral
reflection — beliefs about the meaning of human life, the significance
of suffering and dying, and the ultimate context in which to understand our being and doing.
Our views on such matters are shaped by
reasoned argument and reflection less often than we like to imagine.
Our background beliefs are commonly held at a kind of prearticulate
level. We take them in with the air we breathe, drink them in from the
surrounding culture. It is, therefore, useful sometimes to call to mind
simply and straightforwardly certain basic elements in a Christian vision of
the world — to remind ourselves of how contrary to the assumptions of our culture that vision may be.
Hence, before we turn in the following chapters to complicated issues in bioethics,
we do well to reflect briefly upon some of our background beliefs. read moreSourcesChapter 2: Disciple-MakingMatthew’s Model of Mission(Bosch, TM, pp. 56-83)Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth
has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations,
baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy
Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And
surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
read moreSynopsesChapter 1 - What are the keys to understanding the OT?An overview of OT study: attractions and obstaclesThe attractions of the OT1. Gripping stories[Contrary to Richter] Longman finds Christians increasingly attracted to OT. 'spell-binding plots', 'vivid characters' Paul says [1 Cor 10:1-11] that these are warnings against behaviour such as Solomon’s who lost a kingdom as a result of his marriages to foreign wives [1 Kings]. read moreSynopsesIntroductionMost people have a hodge-podge of knowledge of the old testament but no
coherent structure. Richter suggests there are three reasons for this: Never been taught the OT is their story. Both story and God different
to the NT and to Jesus, even unnecessary. OT is inaccessible for historical, geographical, cultural, linguistic
etc. reasons. The 'dysfunctional closet syndrome'.
OT as your storyOT is two thirds of the Bible and redemption story but treated as 'unfortunate preface'.
Yet the characters are unknown to us as close relatives may be to an Alzheimer’s sufferer. read moreSourcesMike Higton, Christian Doctrine, London, SCM, 2008 read more SourcesChurch development in the 20th century — war, conscientous objectors, ecumenicalism, Vatican II, pentacostalism, women read more SourcesDecisive Moments in the History of Christianity read more SourcesBackground Factors/EventsThe French Revolution (1789) An up-ending of tthe status quo that had been in place since medieval times. By contrast, Britain had already had its revolution. Church and status quo had been very closely linked thus Revolution almost destroyed the church (and it was illegal for a time) Initiated on the back of growing disparity between rich and poor and by Descartes, then Voltaire, Russeau whose rational humanism was able to undermine the status quo Within the revolution a period when no one was in charge and everything was violently turned on its head In Britain, church and aristocracy very threatened and caused them to challenge the rational, enlightenment under-pinnings of revolution.
read moreSourcesMethodism and the Evangelical RevivalThe Hanoverian Church of England, despite its redeeming
qualities, stood sorely in need of reform. The age of reason
had forgotten certain fundamental human needs; natural
religion might satisfy the minds of some, but the hearts of
multitudes were hungry. The weaknesses of the established
church - its failure to provide adequate care, the inflexibility
of its parish system, its neglect of the new towns — left a vast
and needy population waiting to be touched by a new word
of power. ‘Just at this time, when we wanted little of
“filling up the measure of our iniquities”, two or three
clergymen of the Church of England began vehemently to
“call sinners to repentance”’. In two or three years they had
sounded the alarm to the utmost borders of the land. Many
thousands gathered to hear them; and in every place where
they came, many began to show such a concern for religion
as they never had done before,’ This is Wesley’s own account
of the beginnings of the Methodist revival. read moreSourcesHenry VIII (1491–1547), King of England from 1509–1547. Married Katherine of Aragon (daughter of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella) in
1509. K had been married to Henry’s older brother, Arthur, who had died in
1502. Henry wasn’t a natural ‘reformer’ – tended to be very conservative about belief
and practice: wrote Assertio Septem Sacramentorum (asserting there are seven sacraments) against Luther in 1521.
Pope bestowed on him the title Defender of the Faith (Fides Defensor) in
thanks. read moreSourcesZwingli (1484-1531)In Zurich the Reformation came in the way normal among
the free cities of the Holy Roman Empire. The leading
citizens were influenced by the reforming doctrines; they
resisted and repudiated the authority of the Bishop of
Constance when he tried to interfere; the city council
legislated to reform the churches and parishes, with the
advice of its chief pastors, to allow clerical marriage, to
remove superstitious images and relics, to suppress. the
monasteries and use their endowments for education, and
to order a vernacular and simplified liturgy instead of the
mass, The process began in 1522 and was complete by
1525, As in other cities, the council followed with reforming
regulations to control public morals, read moreSourcesTue name of Counter-Reformation suggests a fight against
Protestantism; There was a political aspect of the CounterReformation, a league of Catholic powers ready to crusade
against the new Protestant states. There was also a true
sense in which the fight against Protestantism encouraged
the reforming movement within the Roman Catholic
Church. But it did not create it. The conflict with Protestantism gave to reform a new edge, to cut through the vested
interests and administrative conservatism which 2
frustrated reform. It gave to reform a dynamic, a vitality, an
affection for ancient ways, and a mistrust of Protestant ways, read moreSourcesMartin Luther and the start of the Reformation. Handout from Paul Roberts as part of his 'Introduction to Church History' at Trinity College, Bristol, Easter Term, 2022 read more SourcesDecisive Moments in the History of Christianity read more SourcesThe Medieval Church in the West. Handout from Paul Roberts as part of his 'Introduction to Church History' at Trinity College, Bristol, Easter Term, 2022 read more SourcesThe Great Councils. Handout from Paul Roberts as part of his 'Introduction to Church History' at Trinity College, Bristol, Easter Term, 2022 read more SourcesWe will attempt to cover nearly 1000 years in one session - obviously we have to be selective, so we’ll look at how Christianity survived the collapse of Roman rule in the West. We’ll look at how Ireland, Scotland and England were evangelized and also how Britain went on to help re-established Christianity in Europe through the work of missionary monks. We’ll look at the fortunes of the papacy, some key figures and some important developments in theology and culture. read more SourcesExtract from "Introduction to Church History" by George Herring. read more SourcesHandout from Paul Roberts as part of his 'Introduction to Church History' at Trinity College, Bristol, Easter Term, 2022 read more SourcesHistory and writings of the Cappadocian Fathers: Basil the Great, his younger brother Gregory of Nyssa, and their friend Gregory of Nazianzus. read more SourcesToday we’ll look at the major times of widespread persecutions of Christians by the Roman State, together with some of the long-term effects it had upon the Church. Then we will move forward to look at the process whereby the Empire itself became Christian. read more SourcesThis reading topic gives you a chance to look at how the Early Church worked, in terms of its core activities of worship, prayer and ministry. Patterns familiar in our day were in their earliest stages of development. read more SourcesThe purpose of this session is to give you a taste as to how the first generation of Christian 'theologians' tackled the issues of their day, arising from the existence and mission of the Church. You will be reading these writers in other modules, but this session is to introduce them and give you an idea of their overall context and thought. read more SynopsesChapter 1 from Jerusalem to RomeChristians were first Jews so necessary to find continuity from Old Testament and old covenant P9, 10 Jews 'a race apart' but 'ready to dedicate synagogues "to God in honour of the emperor"' 'A million Jews in Alexandria and Egypt' → influential. Often easier to let them have their own way in matters of religion Admired for monotheism, morality and antiquity Septuagint (work of 70 authors) dated from Alexandria in 3rd C BC under sponsorships of Ptolemy Philadelphus
read moreSourcesChapter 4: Justin and IrenaeusJUSTIN MARTYRThe Gnostic heretics had appealed to the principles of Platonism to provide a philosophical justification for their doctrine that the elect soul must be liberated from the evil inherent in the material realm to escape to its true home and to enjoy the beatific vision.
Their deep pessimism about this created order was not quite fairly deduced from the text of Plato, but there was a sufficient plausibility about the argument to make it look impressive.
The Gnostic appeal to pagan philosophy did not tend to encourage the study of philosophy among those who feared Gnosticism as a corrupter of the truth.
Philosophy came to seem like the mother of heresy.
To Irenaeus of Lyons Gnosticism was a ragbag of heathen speculations with bits taken from different philosophers to dress out a bogus, anti-rational mythology.
His successor as an anti-heretical writer, Hippolytus, whose mind was a curious mixture of scholarship and foolishness, wrote a lengthy refutation of the sects based on the presupposition that each sect had corrupted the authentic gospel by principles drawn from a pagan philosopher; he incidentally preserved thereby many fragments of classical philosophers like Heraclitus which would otherwise have been lost.
Tertullian scornfully mocked those who 'advocate a Stoic or a Platonic or an Aristotelian Christianity'.
It was a Gnostic thesis that faith needs supplementation by philosophical inquiries.
'What has Athens in common with Jerusalem?' read moreSourcesThis session tracks the early developments in Christian, and not-so-Christian, thought. It looks at the emergence of 'heresy', the emergence of the concept of 'Catholicity' and 'orthodoxy', and the reaction to the increasingly structured nature of the Church. read more SourcesThe death of the apostles; an increasingly delayed parousia; a growing Church; state-sponsored persecution and the rise of convincing, but 'false' teaching — all in the midst of a world which had very different ideas to those of the Bible and a culture which was deeply suspicious of monotheism and its implied challenge to the political and social ways of doing things. This was the entry moment for Christianity onto the wider world scene. read more SourcesChapter 1: Sin and GraceAugustine and PelagiusThe incident of the pearsTheft receives certain punishment by your law (Exodus 20:15) Lord and by the law written in the hearts of men (Rom 2:14) which not even iniquity itself destroys … I wanted to carry out an act of theft and did so, driven by no kind of need other than my inner lack of any sense of or feeling for, justice. Wickedness filled me. I stole something which I had in plenty and of much better quality. My desire was to enjoy not what I sought by stealing but merely the excitement of thieving and the doing of what was wrong. There was a pear tree near our vineyard laden with fruit, though attractive neither in colour nor taste. To shake the fruit off the tree and carry off the pears, I and a gang of naughty adolescents set off late at night after (in our usual pestilential way) we had continued our game in the streets. We carried off a huge load of pears. But they were not for our feasts but merely to throw to the pigs. Even if we ate a few, nevertheless our pleasure lay in doing what was not allowed. Such was my heart, O God, such was my heart. You had pity on it when it was at the bottom of the abyss. Now let my heart tell you what it was seeking there in that I became evil for no reason. I had no motive for my wickedness except wickedness itself. It was foul and I loved it. I loved the self-destruction, I loved my fall, not the object for which I had fallen but my fall itself. My depraved soul leaped down from your firmament to ruin. I was seeking not to gain any thing by shameful means but shame for its own sake.
read moreSourcesLohse, Bernhard 'A Short History of Christian Doctrine.' Trans. F. Ernest Stoeffler. Philadelphia: Fortress, 1966. read more SourcesChapter 1: Sin and GraceAugustine and PelagiusThe incident of the pearsTheft receives certain punishment by your law (Exodus 20:15) Lord and by the law written in the hearts of men (Rom 2:14) which not even iniquity itself destroys … I wanted to carry out an act of theft and did so, driven by no kind of need other than my inner lack of any sense of or feeling for, justice. Wickedness filled me. I stole something which I had in plenty and of much better quality. My desire was to enjoy not what I sought by stealing but merely the excitement of thieving and the doing of what was wrong. There was a pear tree near our vineyard laden with fruit, though attractive neither in colour nor taste. To shake the fruit off the tree and carry off the pears, I and a gang of naughty adolescents set off late at night after (in our usual pestilential way) we had continued our game in the streets. We carried off a huge load of pears. But they were not for our feasts but merely to throw to the pigs. Even if we ate a few, nevertheless our pleasure lay in doing what was not allowed. Such was my heart, O God, such was my heart. You had pity on it when it was at the bottom of the abyss. Now let my heart tell you what it was seeking there in that I became evil for no reason. I had no motive for my wickedness except wickedness itself. It was foul and I loved it. I loved the self-destruction, I loved my fall, not the object for which I had fallen but my fall itself. My depraved soul leaped down from your firmament to ruin. I was seeking not to gain any thing by shameful means but shame for its own sake.
read moreSynopsesMission shaped churchChapter 1:post-Christendomdrop from 55 to 4% Sunday school atendence in 20th century. multi-culturalism reinforces consumerism in faith—whatever 'works' for you. citation 59 no dormant faith to revive, second of third generation pagans. a 'diametrically different' approach emerging from 'come' to 'go'
read morePostsOption 2) Fresh Expression in Each New GenerationIn 2,500 words discuss how new forms of Church might engage with a consumerist culture whilst being true to the discipleship of Jesus. How might an ‘It-must-fit-me culture’ be discipled? Make reference to wider biblical and theological sources in your answer. Finally, discuss the implications of fresh expressions in the way that mission might be engaged in your current context? As you look at the insights for mission detailed by your mission audit, what actions will you be taking? read moreSynopsesMission shaped churchChapter 1:post-Christendomdrop from 55 to 4% Sunday school atendence in 20th century. multi-culturalism reinforces consumerism in faith—whatever 'works' for you. citation 59 no dormant faith to revive, second of third generation pagans. a 'diametrically different' approach emerging from 'come' to 'go'
read morePostsOption 2) Fresh Expression in Each New GenerationIn 2,500 words discuss how new forms of Church might engage with a consumerist culture whilst being true to the discipleship of Jesus. How might an ‘It-must-fit-me culture’ be discipled? Make reference to wider biblical and theological sources in your answer. Finally, discuss the implications of fresh expressions in the way that mission might be engaged in your current context? As you look at the insights for mission detailed by your mission audit, what actions will you be taking? read moreSynopsesMission shaped churchChapter 1:post-Christendomdrop from 55 to 4% Sunday school atendence in 20th century. multi-culturalism reinforces consumerism in faith—whatever 'works' for you. citation 59 no dormant faith to revive, second of third generation pagans. a 'diametrically different' approach emerging from 'come' to 'go'
read morePostsOption 2) Fresh Expression in Each New GenerationIn 2,500 words discuss how new forms of Church might engage with a consumerist culture whilst being true to the discipleship of Jesus. How might an ‘It-must-fit-me culture’ be discipled? Make reference to wider biblical and theological sources in your answer. Finally, discuss the implications of fresh expressions in the way that mission might be engaged in your current context? As you look at the insights for mission detailed by your mission audit, what actions will you be taking? read moreSynopsesMission shaped churchChapter 1:post-Christendomdrop from 55 to 4% Sunday school atendence in 20th century. multi-culturalism reinforces consumerism in faith—whatever 'works' for you. citation 59 no dormant faith to revive, second of third generation pagans. a 'diametrically different' approach emerging from 'come' to 'go'
read morePostsOption 2) Fresh Expression in Each New GenerationIn 2,500 words discuss how new forms of Church might engage with a consumerist culture whilst being true to the discipleship of Jesus. How might an ‘It-must-fit-me culture’ be discipled? Make reference to wider biblical and theological sources in your answer. Finally, discuss the implications of fresh expressions in the way that mission might be engaged in your current context? As you look at the insights for mission detailed by your mission audit, what actions will you be taking? read moreFebruary 5, 2023 This article works with the notion of 'tribal anxiety' as being a concern over the maintenance of an overarching story and a pressure that causes new identity to emerge. It considers the loss of metanarrative in both the message of the Christian gospel and in its vehicle of universal grammar. The impact of this loss is considered by considering Daniel Everett’s encounter with the Pirahã. Anxious tribalism seen in the challenged Christian constructs of Everett is discussed in relation to the larger tribe (the missional perspectives of Everett). The apparent lack of anxious tribalism is discussed in terms of the unchallenged constructs of the smaller tribe (the Pirahã). The linguistic and theological issues arising for missiology are discussed. read moreFebruary 5, 2023 This article works with the notion of 'tribal anxiety' as being a concern over the maintenance of an overarching story and a pressure that causes new identity to emerge. It considers the loss of metanarrative in both the message of the Christian gospel and in its vehicle of universal grammar. The impact of this loss is considered by considering Daniel Everett’s encounter with the Pirahã. Anxious tribalism seen in the challenged Christian constructs of Everett is discussed in relation to the larger tribe (the missional perspectives of Everett). The apparent lack of anxious tribalism is discussed in terms of the unchallenged constructs of the smaller tribe (the Pirahã). The linguistic and theological issues arising for missiology are discussed. read moreFebruary 5, 2023 This article works with the notion of 'tribal anxiety' as being a concern over the maintenance of an overarching story and a pressure that causes new identity to emerge. It considers the loss of metanarrative in both the message of the Christian gospel and in its vehicle of universal grammar. The impact of this loss is considered by considering Daniel Everett’s encounter with the Pirahã. Anxious tribalism seen in the challenged Christian constructs of Everett is discussed in relation to the larger tribe (the missional perspectives of Everett). The apparent lack of anxious tribalism is discussed in terms of the unchallenged constructs of the smaller tribe (the Pirahã). The linguistic and theological issues arising for missiology are discussed. read moreFebruary 5, 2023 This article works with the notion of 'tribal anxiety' as being a concern over the maintenance of an overarching story and a pressure that causes new identity to emerge. It considers the loss of metanarrative in both the message of the Christian gospel and in its vehicle of universal grammar. The impact of this loss is considered by considering Daniel Everett’s encounter with the Pirahã. Anxious tribalism seen in the challenged Christian constructs of Everett is discussed in relation to the larger tribe (the missional perspectives of Everett). The apparent lack of anxious tribalism is discussed in terms of the unchallenged constructs of the smaller tribe (the Pirahã). The linguistic and theological issues arising for missiology are discussed. read moreSourcesTheology concerns itself with God and all things in relation to God.
I believe in God,
the Father Almighty,
Creator of Heaven and earth…
‘…the doctrine of creation no less than the remaining content of Christian confession is an article of faith, i.e., the rendering of a knowledge which no man has procured for himself or ever will; which is neither native to him nor accessible by way of observation and logical thinking; for which he has no organ and no ability; which he can in fact achieve only in faith; but which is actually consummated in faith, i.e., in the reception of and response to the divine witness…’
--(Karl Barth, CD III/1, 3-4)
read more SourcesPre-readingGod exists as three persons – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – and each is fully God,
and there is one God. Would it matter if God wasn’t triune? Karl Rahner, 1967'The treatise on the Trinity occupies a rather isolated position in the total dogmatic system. To put it crassly, and not without exaggeration, when the treatise is concluded, its subject is never brought up again. Its function in the whole dogmatic construction is not clearly perceived. It is as though this mystery has been revealed for its own sake, and that even after it has been made known to us, it remains, as a reality, locked up within itself. We make statements about it, but as a reality it has nothing to do with us at all.' — Karl Rahner The Trinity read moreSourcesRecap: My own approachTheology is rational reflection on the person, nature, and works of God which is guided by the witness of scripture, informed by tradition, and in conversation with culture. Primarily systematic over time and over place
Opening discussion: What is Scripture?Ideas:66 books + ? inspired/revealed word of God, written by people a guide a gift points to God, not to itself
read moreSourcesA brief introduction to Christian doctrine: Introduction read more February 5, 2023 This article works with the notion of 'tribal anxiety' as being a concern over the maintenance of an overarching story and a pressure that causes new identity to emerge. It considers the loss of metanarrative in both the message of the Christian gospel and in its vehicle of universal grammar. The impact of this loss is considered by considering Daniel Everett’s encounter with the Pirahã. Anxious tribalism seen in the challenged Christian constructs of Everett is discussed in relation to the larger tribe (the missional perspectives of Everett). The apparent lack of anxious tribalism is discussed in terms of the unchallenged constructs of the smaller tribe (the Pirahã). The linguistic and theological issues arising for missiology are discussed. read moreFebruary 5, 2023 This article works with the notion of 'tribal anxiety' as being a concern over the maintenance of an overarching story and a pressure that causes new identity to emerge. It considers the loss of metanarrative in both the message of the Christian gospel and in its vehicle of universal grammar. The impact of this loss is considered by considering Daniel Everett’s encounter with the Pirahã. Anxious tribalism seen in the challenged Christian constructs of Everett is discussed in relation to the larger tribe (the missional perspectives of Everett). The apparent lack of anxious tribalism is discussed in terms of the unchallenged constructs of the smaller tribe (the Pirahã). The linguistic and theological issues arising for missiology are discussed. read moreSourcesIntroduction: The Importance of HistoryBefore we think specifically about mission history, it’s important to
get our bearings: why is history important? How do we interpret it, so
that it speaks to us today? All Christians should have a strong sense of
history since their identity has been forged out of historical events,
even if those events, for Anglicans for example, were often politically
very ambiguous and even embarrassing. But that is just as true of all
history, and no less true of the history which shaped the people of God
in Scripture! That was also sometimes very ambiguous and embarrassing.
Biblical faith is itself a historical faith, and God reveals himself
through its story. As we interpret the past we try to understand what
God has been doing in history and therefore how he is at work today. If
we believe that the Lord of history was in providential control of past
events to fulfil his missio Dei mission purposes, so we trust that
'God is working His purpose out' today, even through the tortuous
complexity of human affairs. read moreSourcesIntroduction: The Importance of HistoryBefore we think specifically about mission history, it’s important to
get our bearings: why is history important? How do we interpret it, so
that it speaks to us today? All Christians should have a strong sense of
history since their identity has been forged out of historical events,
even if those events, for Anglicans for example, were often politically
very ambiguous and even embarrassing. But that is just as true of all
history, and no less true of the history which shaped the people of God
in Scripture! That was also sometimes very ambiguous and embarrassing.
Biblical faith is itself a historical faith, and God reveals himself
through its story. As we interpret the past we try to understand what
God has been doing in history and therefore how he is at work today. If
we believe that the Lord of history was in providential control of past
events to fulfil his missio Dei mission purposes, so we trust that
'God is working His purpose out' today, even through the tortuous
complexity of human affairs. read moreSourcesIntroduction: The Importance of HistoryBefore we think specifically about mission history, it’s important to
get our bearings: why is history important? How do we interpret it, so
that it speaks to us today? All Christians should have a strong sense of
history since their identity has been forged out of historical events,
even if those events, for Anglicans for example, were often politically
very ambiguous and even embarrassing. But that is just as true of all
history, and no less true of the history which shaped the people of God
in Scripture! That was also sometimes very ambiguous and embarrassing.
Biblical faith is itself a historical faith, and God reveals himself
through its story. As we interpret the past we try to understand what
God has been doing in history and therefore how he is at work today. If
we believe that the Lord of history was in providential control of past
events to fulfil his missio Dei mission purposes, so we trust that
'God is working His purpose out' today, even through the tortuous
complexity of human affairs. read moreSourcesIntroduction: The Importance of HistoryBefore we think specifically about mission history, it’s important to
get our bearings: why is history important? How do we interpret it, so
that it speaks to us today? All Christians should have a strong sense of
history since their identity has been forged out of historical events,
even if those events, for Anglicans for example, were often politically
very ambiguous and even embarrassing. But that is just as true of all
history, and no less true of the history which shaped the people of God
in Scripture! That was also sometimes very ambiguous and embarrassing.
Biblical faith is itself a historical faith, and God reveals himself
through its story. As we interpret the past we try to understand what
God has been doing in history and therefore how he is at work today. If
we believe that the Lord of history was in providential control of past
events to fulfil his missio Dei mission purposes, so we trust that
'God is working His purpose out' today, even through the tortuous
complexity of human affairs. read moreSynopsesChapter 1 - What are the keys to understanding the OT?An overview of OT study: attractions and obstaclesThe attractions of the OT1. Gripping stories[Contrary to Richter] Longman finds Christians increasingly attracted to OT. 'spell-binding plots', 'vivid characters' Paul says [1 Cor 10:1-11] that these are warnings against behaviour such as Solomon’s who lost a kingdom as a result of his marriages to foreign wives [1 Kings]. read moreSynopsesIntroductionMost people have a hodge-podge of knowledge of the old testament but no
coherent structure. Richter suggests there are three reasons for this: Never been taught the OT is their story. Both story and God different
to the NT and to Jesus, even unnecessary. OT is inaccessible for historical, geographical, cultural, linguistic
etc. reasons. The 'dysfunctional closet syndrome'.
OT as your storyOT is two thirds of the Bible and redemption story but treated as 'unfortunate preface'.
Yet the characters are unknown to us as close relatives may be to an Alzheimer’s sufferer. read moreSynopsesChapter 1 - What are the keys to understanding the OT?An overview of OT study: attractions and obstaclesThe attractions of the OT1. Gripping stories[Contrary to Richter] Longman finds Christians increasingly attracted to OT. 'spell-binding plots', 'vivid characters' Paul says [1 Cor 10:1-11] that these are warnings against behaviour such as Solomon’s who lost a kingdom as a result of his marriages to foreign wives [1 Kings]. read moreSynopsesIntroductionMost people have a hodge-podge of knowledge of the old testament but no
coherent structure. Richter suggests there are three reasons for this: Never been taught the OT is their story. Both story and God different
to the NT and to Jesus, even unnecessary. OT is inaccessible for historical, geographical, cultural, linguistic
etc. reasons. The 'dysfunctional closet syndrome'.
OT as your storyOT is two thirds of the Bible and redemption story but treated as 'unfortunate preface'.
Yet the characters are unknown to us as close relatives may be to an Alzheimer’s sufferer. read moreSynopsesChapter 1 - What are the keys to understanding the OT?An overview of OT study: attractions and obstaclesThe attractions of the OT1. Gripping stories[Contrary to Richter] Longman finds Christians increasingly attracted to OT. 'spell-binding plots', 'vivid characters' Paul says [1 Cor 10:1-11] that these are warnings against behaviour such as Solomon’s who lost a kingdom as a result of his marriages to foreign wives [1 Kings]. read moreSynopsesIntroductionMost people have a hodge-podge of knowledge of the old testament but no
coherent structure. Richter suggests there are three reasons for this: Never been taught the OT is their story. Both story and God different
to the NT and to Jesus, even unnecessary. OT is inaccessible for historical, geographical, cultural, linguistic
etc. reasons. The 'dysfunctional closet syndrome'.
OT as your storyOT is two thirds of the Bible and redemption story but treated as 'unfortunate preface'.
Yet the characters are unknown to us as close relatives may be to an Alzheimer’s sufferer. read morePostsQ4 TraditionPerlegoVanhoozer, Kevin J., The Drama of Doctrine, ch.7 (‘Jesus, Spirit,
Church’) and ch.8 (esp. pp.231ff., ‘The Practice of Sola Scriptura and
the Role of Tradition’). Franke, John R., ‘Scripture, Tradition and Authority’ in Evangelicals
and Scripture, ed. Vincent Bacote et al. Migliore, Daniel, Faith Seeking Understanding, ch.2 (esp. the section ‘Revelation, Scripture, and Church’)
LibraryBerkhof, Hendrikus, Christian Faith, ch.17 Williams, A.N. ‘Tradition’ in The Oxford Handbook of Systematic Theology
read moreSourcesTheology concerns itself with God and all things in relation to God.
I believe in God,
the Father Almighty,
Creator of Heaven and earth…
‘…the doctrine of creation no less than the remaining content of Christian confession is an article of faith, i.e., the rendering of a knowledge which no man has procured for himself or ever will; which is neither native to him nor accessible by way of observation and logical thinking; for which he has no organ and no ability; which he can in fact achieve only in faith; but which is actually consummated in faith, i.e., in the reception of and response to the divine witness…’
--(Karl Barth, CD III/1, 3-4)
read more SourcesPre-readingGod exists as three persons – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – and each is fully God,
and there is one God. Would it matter if God wasn’t triune? Karl Rahner, 1967'The treatise on the Trinity occupies a rather isolated position in the total dogmatic system. To put it crassly, and not without exaggeration, when the treatise is concluded, its subject is never brought up again. Its function in the whole dogmatic construction is not clearly perceived. It is as though this mystery has been revealed for its own sake, and that even after it has been made known to us, it remains, as a reality, locked up within itself. We make statements about it, but as a reality it has nothing to do with us at all.' — Karl Rahner The Trinity read moreSourcesAimsTo compare and contrast classical and modern intuitions about the being of God. To become aware of the unique relationship between God and human language. To gain a basic familiarity with certain issues surrounding talk of divine ‘attributes.’ To instil an impulse of humility and prayer when attempting to speak about God.
SourcesRecap: My own approachTheology is rational reflection on the person, nature, and works of God which is guided by the witness of scripture, informed by tradition, and in conversation with culture. Primarily systematic over time and over place
Opening discussion: What is Scripture?Ideas:66 books + ? inspired/revealed word of God, written by people a guide a gift points to God, not to itself
read moreSourcesA brief introduction to Christian doctrine: Introduction read more PostsQ4 TraditionPerlegoVanhoozer, Kevin J., The Drama of Doctrine, ch.7 (‘Jesus, Spirit,
Church’) and ch.8 (esp. pp.231ff., ‘The Practice of Sola Scriptura and
the Role of Tradition’). Franke, John R., ‘Scripture, Tradition and Authority’ in Evangelicals
and Scripture, ed. Vincent Bacote et al. Migliore, Daniel, Faith Seeking Understanding, ch.2 (esp. the section ‘Revelation, Scripture, and Church’)
LibraryBerkhof, Hendrikus, Christian Faith, ch.17 Williams, A.N. ‘Tradition’ in The Oxford Handbook of Systematic Theology
read moreSourcesTheology concerns itself with God and all things in relation to God.
I believe in God,
the Father Almighty,
Creator of Heaven and earth…
‘…the doctrine of creation no less than the remaining content of Christian confession is an article of faith, i.e., the rendering of a knowledge which no man has procured for himself or ever will; which is neither native to him nor accessible by way of observation and logical thinking; for which he has no organ and no ability; which he can in fact achieve only in faith; but which is actually consummated in faith, i.e., in the reception of and response to the divine witness…’
--(Karl Barth, CD III/1, 3-4)
read more SourcesIs God in Charge? Creation and ProvidenceIf Christians know anything about the Old Testament, they know the first few
lines in which God is said to have cteated heaven and earth, Following the carly
ecumenical creeds in which Gods creation of the world is cited first among the
acts of salvation history, Christians often express such a belief in the routine
course of worship—for example, in the thanksgiving portions of eucharistic
services or when renewing baptismal vows. read moreSourcesIs God in Charge? Creation and ProvidenceIf Christians know anything about the Old Testament, they know the first few
lines in which God is said to have cteated heaven and earth, Following the carly
ecumenical creeds in which Gods creation of the world is cited first among the
acts of salvation history, Christians often express such a belief in the routine
course of worship—for example, in the thanksgiving portions of eucharistic
services or when renewing baptismal vows. read moreSourcesIs God in Charge? Creation and ProvidenceIf Christians know anything about the Old Testament, they know the first few
lines in which God is said to have cteated heaven and earth, Following the carly
ecumenical creeds in which Gods creation of the world is cited first among the
acts of salvation history, Christians often express such a belief in the routine
course of worship—for example, in the thanksgiving portions of eucharistic
services or when renewing baptismal vows. read moreSourcesPre-readingGod exists as three persons – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – and each is fully God,
and there is one God. Would it matter if God wasn’t triune? Karl Rahner, 1967'The treatise on the Trinity occupies a rather isolated position in the total dogmatic system. To put it crassly, and not without exaggeration, when the treatise is concluded, its subject is never brought up again. Its function in the whole dogmatic construction is not clearly perceived. It is as though this mystery has been revealed for its own sake, and that even after it has been made known to us, it remains, as a reality, locked up within itself. We make statements about it, but as a reality it has nothing to do with us at all.' — Karl Rahner The Trinity read moreSourcesJournal of Reformed Theology 3 (2009) 125-143 The Trinity in Africa James Kombo Associate Professor of Systematic Theology; Daystar University, Kenya E-mail: jkombo@daystar.ac.ke (c) Koninklijke Brill NV, Leiden, 2009 DOL: 10.1163/156973109X448698 Downloaded from Brill.com read more SourcesJournal of Reformed Theology 3 (2009) 125-143 The Trinity in Africa James Kombo Associate Professor of Systematic Theology; Daystar University, Kenya E-mail: jkombo@daystar.ac.ke (c) Koninklijke Brill NV, Leiden, 2009 DOL: 10.1163/156973109X448698 Downloaded from Brill.com read more SourcesJournal of Reformed Theology 3 (2009) 125-143 The Trinity in Africa James Kombo Associate Professor of Systematic Theology; Daystar University, Kenya E-mail: jkombo@daystar.ac.ke (c) Koninklijke Brill NV, Leiden, 2009 DOL: 10.1163/156973109X448698 Downloaded from Brill.com read more SourcesJournal of Reformed Theology 3 (2009) 125-143 The Trinity in Africa James Kombo Associate Professor of Systematic Theology; Daystar University, Kenya E-mail: jkombo@daystar.ac.ke (c) Koninklijke Brill NV, Leiden, 2009 DOL: 10.1163/156973109X448698 Downloaded from Brill.com read more SourcesLohse, Bernhard 'A Short History of Christian Doctrine.' Trans. F. Ernest Stoeffler. Philadelphia: Fortress, 1966. read more SourcesLohse, Bernhard 'A Short History of Christian Doctrine.' Trans. F. Ernest Stoeffler. Philadelphia: Fortress, 1966. read more SourcesLohse, Bernhard 'A Short History of Christian Doctrine.' Trans. F. Ernest Stoeffler. Philadelphia: Fortress, 1966. read more SourcesGregory Nazianzus—The First Theological OrationIntroductionGregory of Nazianzus (c.329-c.390) was a fourth century theologian who, along with
the other so-called 'Cappadocian Fathers' (Basil of Caesarea and Gregory of Nyssa)
played a large part in the theological settlement represented in the Council of
Constantinople in 381 (which produced the final form of the Nicene Creed). In the
years leading up to the Council, Gregory preached what have become known as the
the five 'Theological Orations' in defence of the divinity of the Son, and chiefly
against a group of heretics known as the Eunomians. The first oration is notable for
its development of the following themes:
1. The portrayal of heretics as those who indulge in theological debate merely
for 'sport' or amusement.
2. The purity of one’s heart as a prerequisite for doing theology.
3. The need for 'restraining one’s tongue' when it comes to speaking of the
divine mysteries.
4. The belief that theology should be protected from becoming too 'common.'
5. The insistence that the agenda for theology should be set by its own subject
matter (i.e., God) rather than by debates with opponents.
6. The plea for those interested in simply debating to focus on any subject other
than God—since talking about God must always be, in a certain sense,
'dangerous.' read moreSourcesJournal of Reformed Theology 3 (2009) 125-143 The Trinity in Africa James Kombo Associate Professor of Systematic Theology; Daystar University, Kenya E-mail: jkombo@daystar.ac.ke (c) Koninklijke Brill NV, Leiden, 2009 DOL: 10.1163/156973109X448698 Downloaded from Brill.com read more SourcesLohse, Bernhard 'A Short History of Christian Doctrine.' Trans. F. Ernest Stoeffler. Philadelphia: Fortress, 1966. read more SourcesLohse, Bernhard 'A Short History of Christian Doctrine.' Trans. F. Ernest Stoeffler. Philadelphia: Fortress, 1966. read more SourcesLohse, Bernhard 'A Short History of Christian Doctrine.' Trans. F. Ernest Stoeffler. Philadelphia: Fortress, 1966. read more SourcesGregory Nazianzus—The First Theological OrationIntroductionGregory of Nazianzus (c.329-c.390) was a fourth century theologian who, along with
the other so-called 'Cappadocian Fathers' (Basil of Caesarea and Gregory of Nyssa)
played a large part in the theological settlement represented in the Council of
Constantinople in 381 (which produced the final form of the Nicene Creed). In the
years leading up to the Council, Gregory preached what have become known as the
the five 'Theological Orations' in defence of the divinity of the Son, and chiefly
against a group of heretics known as the Eunomians. The first oration is notable for
its development of the following themes:
1. The portrayal of heretics as those who indulge in theological debate merely
for 'sport' or amusement.
2. The purity of one’s heart as a prerequisite for doing theology.
3. The need for 'restraining one’s tongue' when it comes to speaking of the
divine mysteries.
4. The belief that theology should be protected from becoming too 'common.'
5. The insistence that the agenda for theology should be set by its own subject
matter (i.e., God) rather than by debates with opponents.
6. The plea for those interested in simply debating to focus on any subject other
than God—since talking about God must always be, in a certain sense,
'dangerous.' read moreSourcesLohse, Bernhard 'A Short History of Christian Doctrine.' Trans. F. Ernest Stoeffler. Philadelphia: Fortress, 1966. read more SourcesLohse, Bernhard 'A Short History of Christian Doctrine.' Trans. F. Ernest Stoeffler. Philadelphia: Fortress, 1966. read more SourcesChapter 4: Justin and IrenaeusJUSTIN MARTYRThe Gnostic heretics had appealed to the principles of Platonism to provide a philosophical justification for their doctrine that the elect soul must be liberated from the evil inherent in the material realm to escape to its true home and to enjoy the beatific vision.
Their deep pessimism about this created order was not quite fairly deduced from the text of Plato, but there was a sufficient plausibility about the argument to make it look impressive.
The Gnostic appeal to pagan philosophy did not tend to encourage the study of philosophy among those who feared Gnosticism as a corrupter of the truth.
Philosophy came to seem like the mother of heresy.
To Irenaeus of Lyons Gnosticism was a ragbag of heathen speculations with bits taken from different philosophers to dress out a bogus, anti-rational mythology.
His successor as an anti-heretical writer, Hippolytus, whose mind was a curious mixture of scholarship and foolishness, wrote a lengthy refutation of the sects based on the presupposition that each sect had corrupted the authentic gospel by principles drawn from a pagan philosopher; he incidentally preserved thereby many fragments of classical philosophers like Heraclitus which would otherwise have been lost.
Tertullian scornfully mocked those who 'advocate a Stoic or a Platonic or an Aristotelian Christianity'.
It was a Gnostic thesis that faith needs supplementation by philosophical inquiries.
'What has Athens in common with Jerusalem?' read moreSourcesJournal of Reformed Theology 3 (2009) 125-143 The Trinity in Africa James Kombo Associate Professor of Systematic Theology; Daystar University, Kenya E-mail: jkombo@daystar.ac.ke (c) Koninklijke Brill NV, Leiden, 2009 DOL: 10.1163/156973109X448698 Downloaded from Brill.com read more SourcesAimsTo compare and contrast classical and modern intuitions about the being of God. To become aware of the unique relationship between God and human language. To gain a basic familiarity with certain issues surrounding talk of divine ‘attributes.’ To instil an impulse of humility and prayer when attempting to speak about God.
SourcesRecap: My own approachTheology is rational reflection on the person, nature, and works of God which is guided by the witness of scripture, informed by tradition, and in conversation with culture. Primarily systematic over time and over place
Opening discussion: What is Scripture?Ideas:66 books + ? inspired/revealed word of God, written by people a guide a gift points to God, not to itself
read moreSourcesTHE OXFORD HANDBOOK OF Systematic theology Edited by JOHN WEBSTER, KATHRYN TANNER, IAIN TORRANCE Chapter 19 - Stephen E. Fowl read more SourcesTHE OXFORD HANDBOOK OF Systematic theology Edited by JOHN WEBSTER, KATHRYN TANNER, IAIN TORRANCE Chapter 19 - Stephen E. Fowl read more SourcesA brief introduction to Christian doctrine: Introduction read more SourcesSome notes and quotations from Justo Gonsalvez’s "Story of Christianity Vol II" chapters 7 and 21. Key events in Calvin’s life, theology and how this was developed after his lifetime. read more SourcesSome notes and quotations from Justo Gonsalvez’s "Story of Christianity Vol II" chapters 7 and 21. Key events in Calvin’s life, theology and how this was developed after his lifetime. read more SourcesSome notes and quotations from Justo Gonsalvez’s "Story of Christianity Vol II" chapters 4,5 and 20 read more SourcesSome notes and quotations from Justo Gonsalvez’s "Story of Christianity Vol II" chapters 4,5 and 20 read more SourcesSome notes and quotations from Justo Gonsalvez’s "Story of Christianity Vol II" chapters 4,5 and 20 read more SourcesMartin Luther and the start of the Reformation. Handout from Paul Roberts as part of his 'Introduction to Church History' at Trinity College, Bristol, Easter Term, 2022 read more SourcesSome notes and quotations from Justo Gonsalvez’s "Story of Christianity Vol II" chapters 7 and 21. Key events in Calvin’s life, theology and how this was developed after his lifetime. read more SourcesSome notes and quotations from Justo Gonsalvez’s "Story of Christianity Vol II" chapters 7 and 21. Key events in Calvin’s life, theology and how this was developed after his lifetime. read more SourcesSome notes and quotations from Justo Gonsalvez’s "Story of Christianity Vol II" chapters 4,5 and 20 read more SourcesMartin Luther and the start of the Reformation. Handout from Paul Roberts as part of his 'Introduction to Church History' at Trinity College, Bristol, Easter Term, 2022 read more SourcesSome notes and quotations from Justo Gonsalvez’s "Story of Christianity Vol II" chapters 4,5 and 20 read more SourcesSome notes and quotations from Justo Gonsalvez’s "Story of Christianity Vol II" chapters 7 and 21. Key events in Calvin’s life, theology and how this was developed after his lifetime. read more SourcesSome notes and quotations from Justo Gonsalvez’s "Story of Christianity Vol II" chapters 4,5 and 20 read more SourcesSome notes and quotations from Justo Gonsalvez’s "Story of Christianity Vol II" chapters 7 and 21. Key events in Calvin’s life, theology and how this was developed after his lifetime. read more SourcesSome notes and quotations from Justo Gonsalvez’s "Story of Christianity Vol II" chapters 7 and 21. Key events in Calvin’s life, theology and how this was developed after his lifetime. read more SourcesSome notes and quotations from Justo Gonsalvez’s "Story of Christianity Vol II" chapters 7 and 21. Key events in Calvin’s life, theology and how this was developed after his lifetime. read more SourcesSome notes and quotations from Justo Gonsalvez’s "Story of Christianity Vol II" chapters 4,5 and 20 read more SourcesMartin Luther and the start of the Reformation. Handout from Paul Roberts as part of his 'Introduction to Church History' at Trinity College, Bristol, Easter Term, 2022 read more SourcesChurch development in the 20th century — war, conscientous objectors, ecumenicalism, Vatican II, pentacostalism, women read more SourcesChurch development in the 20th century — war, conscientous objectors, ecumenicalism, Vatican II, pentacostalism, women read more SourcesChurch development in the 20th century — war, conscientous objectors, ecumenicalism, Vatican II, pentacostalism, women read more SourcesChurch development in the 20th century — war, conscientous objectors, ecumenicalism, Vatican II, pentacostalism, women read more SourcesChurch development in the 20th century — war, conscientous objectors, ecumenicalism, Vatican II, pentacostalism, women read more SourcesChurch development in the 20th century — war, conscientous objectors, ecumenicalism, Vatican II, pentacostalism, women read more SourcesChurch development in the 20th century — war, conscientous objectors, ecumenicalism, Vatican II, pentacostalism, women read more SourcesChurch development in the 20th century — war, conscientous objectors, ecumenicalism, Vatican II, pentacostalism, women read more SourcesMethodism and the Evangelical RevivalThe Hanoverian Church of England, despite its redeeming
qualities, stood sorely in need of reform. The age of reason
had forgotten certain fundamental human needs; natural
religion might satisfy the minds of some, but the hearts of
multitudes were hungry. The weaknesses of the established
church - its failure to provide adequate care, the inflexibility
of its parish system, its neglect of the new towns — left a vast
and needy population waiting to be touched by a new word
of power. ‘Just at this time, when we wanted little of
“filling up the measure of our iniquities”, two or three
clergymen of the Church of England began vehemently to
“call sinners to repentance”’. In two or three years they had
sounded the alarm to the utmost borders of the land. Many
thousands gathered to hear them; and in every place where
they came, many began to show such a concern for religion
as they never had done before,’ This is Wesley’s own account
of the beginnings of the Methodist revival. read moreSourcesMethodism and the Evangelical RevivalThe Hanoverian Church of England, despite its redeeming
qualities, stood sorely in need of reform. The age of reason
had forgotten certain fundamental human needs; natural
religion might satisfy the minds of some, but the hearts of
multitudes were hungry. The weaknesses of the established
church - its failure to provide adequate care, the inflexibility
of its parish system, its neglect of the new towns — left a vast
and needy population waiting to be touched by a new word
of power. ‘Just at this time, when we wanted little of
“filling up the measure of our iniquities”, two or three
clergymen of the Church of England began vehemently to
“call sinners to repentance”’. In two or three years they had
sounded the alarm to the utmost borders of the land. Many
thousands gathered to hear them; and in every place where
they came, many began to show such a concern for religion
as they never had done before,’ This is Wesley’s own account
of the beginnings of the Methodist revival. read moreSourcesMethodism and the Evangelical RevivalThe Hanoverian Church of England, despite its redeeming
qualities, stood sorely in need of reform. The age of reason
had forgotten certain fundamental human needs; natural
religion might satisfy the minds of some, but the hearts of
multitudes were hungry. The weaknesses of the established
church - its failure to provide adequate care, the inflexibility
of its parish system, its neglect of the new towns — left a vast
and needy population waiting to be touched by a new word
of power. ‘Just at this time, when we wanted little of
“filling up the measure of our iniquities”, two or three
clergymen of the Church of England began vehemently to
“call sinners to repentance”’. In two or three years they had
sounded the alarm to the utmost borders of the land. Many
thousands gathered to hear them; and in every place where
they came, many began to show such a concern for religion
as they never had done before,’ This is Wesley’s own account
of the beginnings of the Methodist revival. read moreSourcesMethodism and the Evangelical RevivalThe Hanoverian Church of England, despite its redeeming
qualities, stood sorely in need of reform. The age of reason
had forgotten certain fundamental human needs; natural
religion might satisfy the minds of some, but the hearts of
multitudes were hungry. The weaknesses of the established
church - its failure to provide adequate care, the inflexibility
of its parish system, its neglect of the new towns — left a vast
and needy population waiting to be touched by a new word
of power. ‘Just at this time, when we wanted little of
“filling up the measure of our iniquities”, two or three
clergymen of the Church of England began vehemently to
“call sinners to repentance”’. In two or three years they had
sounded the alarm to the utmost borders of the land. Many
thousands gathered to hear them; and in every place where
they came, many began to show such a concern for religion
as they never had done before,’ This is Wesley’s own account
of the beginnings of the Methodist revival. read moreSourcesDecisive Moments in the History of Christianity read more SourcesDecisive Moments in the History of Christianity read more SourcesMartin Luther and the start of the Reformation. Handout from Paul Roberts as part of his 'Introduction to Church History' at Trinity College, Bristol, Easter Term, 2022 read more SourcesMartin Luther and the start of the Reformation. Handout from Paul Roberts as part of his 'Introduction to Church History' at Trinity College, Bristol, Easter Term, 2022 read more SourcesMartin Luther and the start of the Reformation. Handout from Paul Roberts as part of his 'Introduction to Church History' at Trinity College, Bristol, Easter Term, 2022 read more SourcesMartin Luther and the start of the Reformation. Handout from Paul Roberts as part of his 'Introduction to Church History' at Trinity College, Bristol, Easter Term, 2022 read more SourcesThe Medieval Church in the West. Handout from Paul Roberts as part of his 'Introduction to Church History' at Trinity College, Bristol, Easter Term, 2022 read more SourcesThe Medieval Church in the West. Handout from Paul Roberts as part of his 'Introduction to Church History' at Trinity College, Bristol, Easter Term, 2022 read more SourcesThe Medieval Church in the West. Handout from Paul Roberts as part of his 'Introduction to Church History' at Trinity College, Bristol, Easter Term, 2022 read more SourcesThe Medieval Church in the West. Handout from Paul Roberts as part of his 'Introduction to Church History' at Trinity College, Bristol, Easter Term, 2022 read more SourcesThe Medieval Church in the West. Handout from Paul Roberts as part of his 'Introduction to Church History' at Trinity College, Bristol, Easter Term, 2022 read more SourcesThe Medieval Church in the West. Handout from Paul Roberts as part of his 'Introduction to Church History' at Trinity College, Bristol, Easter Term, 2022 read more SourcesThe Medieval Church in the West. Handout from Paul Roberts as part of his 'Introduction to Church History' at Trinity College, Bristol, Easter Term, 2022 read more SourcesThe Medieval Church in the West. Handout from Paul Roberts as part of his 'Introduction to Church History' at Trinity College, Bristol, Easter Term, 2022 read more SourcesThe Great Councils. Handout from Paul Roberts as part of his 'Introduction to Church History' at Trinity College, Bristol, Easter Term, 2022 read more SourcesThe Great Councils. Handout from Paul Roberts as part of his 'Introduction to Church History' at Trinity College, Bristol, Easter Term, 2022 read more SourcesThe Great Councils. Handout from Paul Roberts as part of his 'Introduction to Church History' at Trinity College, Bristol, Easter Term, 2022 read more SourcesThe Great Councils. Handout from Paul Roberts as part of his 'Introduction to Church History' at Trinity College, Bristol, Easter Term, 2022 read more SourcesThe importance of the Confessions (Confessiones), written in 397-8, is as a personal document and statement of faith.
This translation is in modern English found at the Stanford website. However it is incomplete and does not make clear its copyright. read more SourcesExtract from "Introduction to Church History" by George Herring. read more SourcesProject Gutenberg’s 'The Confessions of Saint Augustine', translated by E.B.Pusey and produced by Robert S. Munday read more SourcesExtract from "Introduction to Church History" by George Herring. read more SourcesExtract from "Introduction to Church History" by George Herring. read more SourcesExtract from "Introduction to Church History" by George Herring. read more SourcesHandout from Paul Roberts as part of his 'Introduction to Church History' at Trinity College, Bristol, Easter Term, 2022 read more SourcesHandout from Paul Roberts as part of his 'Introduction to Church History' at Trinity College, Bristol, Easter Term, 2022 read more SourcesHandout from Paul Roberts as part of his 'Introduction to Church History' at Trinity College, Bristol, Easter Term, 2022 read more SourcesHandout from Paul Roberts as part of his 'Introduction to Church History' at Trinity College, Bristol, Easter Term, 2022 read more SourcesHistory and writings of the Cappadocian Fathers: Basil the Great, his younger brother Gregory of Nyssa, and their friend Gregory of Nazianzus. read more SourcesChapter 4: Justin and IrenaeusJUSTIN MARTYRThe Gnostic heretics had appealed to the principles of Platonism to provide a philosophical justification for their doctrine that the elect soul must be liberated from the evil inherent in the material realm to escape to its true home and to enjoy the beatific vision.
Their deep pessimism about this created order was not quite fairly deduced from the text of Plato, but there was a sufficient plausibility about the argument to make it look impressive.
The Gnostic appeal to pagan philosophy did not tend to encourage the study of philosophy among those who feared Gnosticism as a corrupter of the truth.
Philosophy came to seem like the mother of heresy.
To Irenaeus of Lyons Gnosticism was a ragbag of heathen speculations with bits taken from different philosophers to dress out a bogus, anti-rational mythology.
His successor as an anti-heretical writer, Hippolytus, whose mind was a curious mixture of scholarship and foolishness, wrote a lengthy refutation of the sects based on the presupposition that each sect had corrupted the authentic gospel by principles drawn from a pagan philosopher; he incidentally preserved thereby many fragments of classical philosophers like Heraclitus which would otherwise have been lost.
Tertullian scornfully mocked those who 'advocate a Stoic or a Platonic or an Aristotelian Christianity'.
It was a Gnostic thesis that faith needs supplementation by philosophical inquiries.
'What has Athens in common with Jerusalem?' read moreSourcesChapter 4: Justin and IrenaeusJUSTIN MARTYRThe Gnostic heretics had appealed to the principles of Platonism to provide a philosophical justification for their doctrine that the elect soul must be liberated from the evil inherent in the material realm to escape to its true home and to enjoy the beatific vision.
Their deep pessimism about this created order was not quite fairly deduced from the text of Plato, but there was a sufficient plausibility about the argument to make it look impressive.
The Gnostic appeal to pagan philosophy did not tend to encourage the study of philosophy among those who feared Gnosticism as a corrupter of the truth.
Philosophy came to seem like the mother of heresy.
To Irenaeus of Lyons Gnosticism was a ragbag of heathen speculations with bits taken from different philosophers to dress out a bogus, anti-rational mythology.
His successor as an anti-heretical writer, Hippolytus, whose mind was a curious mixture of scholarship and foolishness, wrote a lengthy refutation of the sects based on the presupposition that each sect had corrupted the authentic gospel by principles drawn from a pagan philosopher; he incidentally preserved thereby many fragments of classical philosophers like Heraclitus which would otherwise have been lost.
Tertullian scornfully mocked those who 'advocate a Stoic or a Platonic or an Aristotelian Christianity'.
It was a Gnostic thesis that faith needs supplementation by philosophical inquiries.
'What has Athens in common with Jerusalem?' read moreSourcesChapter 4: Justin and IrenaeusJUSTIN MARTYRThe Gnostic heretics had appealed to the principles of Platonism to provide a philosophical justification for their doctrine that the elect soul must be liberated from the evil inherent in the material realm to escape to its true home and to enjoy the beatific vision.
Their deep pessimism about this created order was not quite fairly deduced from the text of Plato, but there was a sufficient plausibility about the argument to make it look impressive.
The Gnostic appeal to pagan philosophy did not tend to encourage the study of philosophy among those who feared Gnosticism as a corrupter of the truth.
Philosophy came to seem like the mother of heresy.
To Irenaeus of Lyons Gnosticism was a ragbag of heathen speculations with bits taken from different philosophers to dress out a bogus, anti-rational mythology.
His successor as an anti-heretical writer, Hippolytus, whose mind was a curious mixture of scholarship and foolishness, wrote a lengthy refutation of the sects based on the presupposition that each sect had corrupted the authentic gospel by principles drawn from a pagan philosopher; he incidentally preserved thereby many fragments of classical philosophers like Heraclitus which would otherwise have been lost.
Tertullian scornfully mocked those who 'advocate a Stoic or a Platonic or an Aristotelian Christianity'.
It was a Gnostic thesis that faith needs supplementation by philosophical inquiries.
'What has Athens in common with Jerusalem?' read more |
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