Bibliography: 2/2/2025Summaries provided with the assistance of AI [My thoughts or comments in brackets]
Introduction:[
The adventure begins: It's important to remember that we all bring our biases to everything we read and interpret through our world view. The most challenging aspect of this is that we may have grown up with the Bible in front of your face and verses in our hearts yet missed things that were there in the story all along. We continue in our culture and grab what applies to life, our life.
Think of how difficult it would be to embody the cultures of a foreign people without being able to visit their country, live with them and learn from them. Imagine only reading their correspondence with one another trying to imagine how they view the world, God, the cosmos, death. This is the task we face when our hope is to embody the movement described in the Bible. We must strive to understand the context and culture of the biblical authors, setting aside our modern biases to truly grasp the transformative message of God's Word.]
[
Biblical Theology: Systematic theology compared to Biblical theology. To illustrate, consider trying to understand a frog by dissecting it rather than observing it in its natural habitat, a pond. Dissecting the frog removes it from its context, potentially missing the full picture of its behavior in context of its environment. Similarly, dissecting the Bible into isolated statements can strip away the richness of its context and the interconnectedness of its stories, leading to a limited understanding of God's message, and reading texts as though they conflict.]
[
The organization of this Bibliography:
The first section below, about worldview and missing lenses book, are designed to help us recognize our worldview, allowing us to see how our western personal experiences, culture, age, and technology and individualism influence our reading of the Bible. Once we understand our own lenses through which we have been trained to see the world, we are more able to remove them in an attempt to see the world through the Biblical writers’ lenses and see what they are hoping will be forwarded to the intended reader to embody. Once we see this clearly, the modern People of God can be assured by a clear identity and purpose.
The Bible spans three distinct ages in a foreign land:
- Ancient Days: The time from creation to the story of Abram and Sarai, as referred to by Peter.
- Story of Israel: From Abram and Sarai to the arrival of the Messiah documented in the Gospels.
- New Covenant/New Creation: Acts and through Revelation.
The Bible was written by authors inspired by the Holy Spirit across these ages, each with their own unique literary methods, images, practices, and stories to their intended readers within those ages and drawing from the ages that passed before theirs. The Story of God through these ages forward a narrative that the modern reader is invited to enter, under its authority, in hopes that we live out the narrative in our day and plants the seed bed to grow into future generations.
To truly be transformed by God's Word, we must set aside our modern biases and strive to understand the text as it was originally intended and to whom it was originally intended. This means not only taking off our glasses but putting on the reading glasses of the ancient authors and immersing ourselves in their context, as opposed to chain referencing various verses for our own purposes, perhaps missing the world view they hoped to forward.
Understanding this approach allows us to engage with the Bible in a more meaningful and transformative way, ensuring that we are not merely enriching our stories, but truly entering and continuing the story of God's redemptive work through His People; first as God’s blessing through Abraham among the nations, and then through Jesus to the ends of the earth.]
The adventure of learning: how to transport from our modern foreign world into God’s good creation as lived out in the Bible story, and return to continue the story in the already and not yet world in which we live.
Worldview: Worldviews, the Bible, and the Believer on Udemy is a course taught by Professor N.T. Wright.
This course delves into the concept of worldviews and how they shape both beliefs and behaviors. Worldviews, the Bible, and the Believer
Udemy Class on World view by N.T. Wright
Here's a brief overview of what the course covers:
- Understanding Worldviews: Learn what constitutes a worldview and how it influences individuals and societies.
- Ancient Worldviews: Explore the worldviews of the Ancient Roman world, the Jewish world of the 1st Century AD, and the emerging Christian worldview.
- Cultural Narratives: Discuss how cultural narratives dictate behavior and beliefs.
- Symbols and Praxis: Examine how symbols reinforce worldviews and how automatic behaviors (praxis) reflect these worldviews.
- Reflective Perspective: Develop a reflective perspective on your own worldview.
- New Testament Context: Understand how the New Testament texts can be better understood by comprehending the worldviews of the time.
- Modern Worldviews: Trace the journey from the pre-Modern Age to the present day, focusing on Western culture and its underlying worldviews.
The course is designed for students of the New Testament and anyone interested in understanding how cultures and worldviews shape our understanding of the Bible and our place in the world today.
Misreading Scripture with Western Eyes: Removing Cultural Blinders to Better Understand the Bible by E. Randolph Richards and Brandon J. O’Brien is a book that explores how Western cultural assumptions can distort our understanding of the Bible. The authors argue that readers often bring unconscious cultural biases to their interpretation of Scripture, which can lead to misreading. They come from a missionary background where they were faced with the cross-inter cultural challenges of Biblical interpretation.
The book is divided into three parts, using the metaphor of an iceberg to illustrate cultural differences. The tip of the iceberg represents the most obvious cultural differences, the middle section includes assumptions that are visible once you know to look for them, and the bottom section covers cultural issues that are not obvious to all.
please expand on the 9 key differences in the book Misreading Scripture with Western Eyes: Removing Cultural Blinders to Better Understand the Bible:
- Individualism vs. Collectivism: Western cultures emphasize individualism, while many biblical cultures were more collectivist, focusing on the community and family.
- Honor/Shame vs. Guilt/Innocence: Biblical cultures often operated on an honor/shame system, whereas Western cultures are more familiar with a guilt/innocence framework.
- Linear Time vs. Cyclical Time: Westerners tend to view time linearly, while many biblical cultures saw time as cyclical or event-based.
- Direct Communication vs. Indirect Communication: Westerners often prefer direct communication, while biblical cultures may have used more indirect methods to convey messages.
- Rule of Law vs. Rule of Relationships: Western cultures prioritize the rule of law, whereas biblical cultures placed a higher value on relationships and social harmony.
- Public vs. Private: Westerners often distinguish between public and private spheres, while biblical cultures may have had a more integrated view of public and private life.
- Materialism vs. Spirituality: Western cultures tend to be more materialistic, while biblical cultures often placed a greater emphasis on spiritual and communal values.
- Secular vs. Sacred: Westerners often separate the secular from the sacred, while biblical cultures may have seen all aspects of life as interconnected and infused with spiritual significance.
- Self-Reliance vs. Community Dependence: Western cultures emphasize self-reliance, while biblical cultures often relied on community support and interdependence.
The goal of the book is to help readers recognize and remove these cultural blinders, allowing for a deeper and more accurate understanding of Scripture.
[A significant influence on Western theology comes from thinkers of the Middle Ages who incorporated Enlightenment thinking into our theological framework. This approach often involves dissecting and compartmentalizing the Bible and its teachings. However, this method was not the intention of the original biblical writers and can lead to conclusions about God that ignore the broader context of the biblical narrative.]
Missing Lenses: How Reading Scripture with the First Century Church Can Help Us Find Our Lost Identity by Tom Holland is a thought-provoking book that challenges the way Western readers interpret the Bible. Holland argues that the Bible is often read through an individualistic lens, focusing on personal morality and individual experience, which is influenced by Greek [Gnostic] thought.
Holland suggests that this approach has led to a misunderstanding of key biblical texts and has caused readers to miss out on the communal, Hebraic mindset of the New Testament writers. By recovering this communal perspective and understanding the Old Testament background, particularly the Passover-New Exodus storyline, readers can gain a richer understanding of scripture, their identity as individuals, and their corporate life together in Christ.
The book is written for non-academic readers and aims to show how a different interpretative lens can lead to a community entering into the purpose that God has for his People in every generation.
Bible study and Theologywww.Faithlife.com Platform Overview
Faithlife is a comprehensive platform designed to empower believers in their Bible study and spiritual growth. It includes a variety of resources and tools to help users deepen their understanding of the Bible and engage with Christian content1.
Logos Bible Software: There is ample free content and then you can purchase indexed versions of most books to add into your library. The user can even upload their own work into their library and create extensive notes and precept highlights and notation with this tool. The app is user friendly on one’s mobile device.
- Library Indexing Platform: Logos is a robust Bible study platform that provides a curated theological library. It includes powerful indexing features that allow users to search through their entire library efficiently.
- [Many of the free resources are not the best to use when forming one’s theology. There are packages that one can add on which come from various schools of theological thought and denominations.]
- Bible Study Tools: Logos offers a wide range of tools for in-depth Bible study, including all versions of the Bible, commentaries, dictionaries, original language tools, and more.
- Digital Library: Users can access a vast collection of Christian books, journals, and other resources. [A user can add their personal library if it is in document format (not PDF) and it will be indexed and added as a resource.]
Faithlife Connect
- Subscription Service: Faithlife Connect combines Logos Bible Software with additional Christian resources such as books, video courses, and movies.
- Exclusive Content: Subscribers get access to exclusive sales, free ebooks, and digital issues of Bible Study Magazine.
- Faithlife TV Plus: Full access to hundreds of Christian movies and shows.
Additional Resources
- Proclaim Church Presentation Software: Tools for creating engaging church presentations.
- Lexham Press: Publishing resources for deeper biblical studies.
- Verbum: A version of Logos tailored for Catholic studies.
- Didaktikos Journal: A journal focused on theological education and ministry.
Faithlife aims to increase biblical literacy and accessibility worldwide by providing a fusion of biblical content and powerful technology.
Reading Revelation Responsibly: Uncivil Worship and Witness, Following the Lamb into the New Creation by Michael J. Gorman is a book that aims to provide a more accurate and meaningful interpretation of the Book of Revelation. Gorman addresses common misunderstandings and misinterpretations of Revelation, such as the focus on end-time predictions, the antichrist, and the rapture.
Gorman emphasizes that Revelation should be read as a call to faithful witness and worship rather than a cryptic forecast of doom. He encourages readers to understand Revelation within its historical, literary, and theological contexts, highlighting its role as a source of hope and encouragement for believers facing adversity.
The book also explores the rich symbolism and imagery in Revelation, urging readers to embrace its messages of justice, worship, and transformative action. Gorman's goal is to help Christians read Revelation responsibly, seeing it as a script for the church's life and mission rather than a script for the future.
[Gorman launches into exploring a parallel between the Imperialism of Babylon, and the many "imperialistic" tendencies found in our super-power nations today, namely the USA, as he is a citizen there. It is a difficult read as a patriotic US citizen with deep appreciation for the difficult role the US plays on the world stage. But it is fruitful for the mature reader to not cancel the voice out completely, rather glean from the reflection of other Godly people in order to deepen one's appreciation for what the writers of the Bible are intending to communicate.
He provides a tool for discerning how people approach the book of revelation that has proved very useful.]
John's Use of the Old Testament in Revelation by Gregory K. Beale is a detailed examination of how the Apostle John incorporates Old Testament themes, symbols, and prophecies into the Book of Revelation. Beale argues that understanding these references is crucial for interpreting Revelation accurately.
Beale identifies several key ways John uses the Old Testament:
- Direct Citations: John directly quotes or closely paraphrases Old Testament passages, often to reinforce his message or to provide a foundation for his visions.
- Allusions: John makes numerous indirect references to Old Testament events, characters, and prophecies, inviting readers familiar with the Hebrew Scriptures to recognize and understand the connections.
- Typology: John uses Old Testament events and figures as types or foreshadows of New Testament realities, showing how God's plan unfolds across both Testaments.
- Symbolism: Many symbols in Revelation are rooted in Old Testament imagery, such as the Lamb representing Jesus as the ultimate Passover sacrifice.
Beale's work helps readers see Revelation as a continuation and fulfillment of the Old Testament narrative, emphasizing the unity and coherence of the biblical story.
Commentary on the New Testament Use of the Old Testament by G.K. Beale and D.A. Carson is a comprehensive scholarly work that examines how New Testament authors utilized Old Testament texts. The commentary is unique in that it provides detailed analysis of every Old Testament citation and almost every allusion found in the New Testament1.
The book is divided into sections, each focusing on a different New Testament book. For each citation or allusion, the commentary addresses several key questions:
- New Testament Context: What is the context in which the Old Testament text is used in the New Testament?
- Old Testament Context: What is the original context of the Old Testament passage being cited or alluded to?
- Second Temple Literature: How was the Old Testament passage understood in the literature of Second Temple Judaism?
- Textual Factors: What textual considerations are important for understanding the use of the Old Testament text?
- Theological Use: How does the New Testament writer use the Old Testament passage theologically?
The commentary aims to show how the New Testament writers saw themselves as standing under the authority of Old Testament texts, rather than as originators of new doctrines. It emphasizes the unity and coherence of the biblical narrative, demonstrating that the New Testament authors interpreted the Old Testament in ways that were consistent with its original meaning and context.
Surprised by Hope: Rethinking Heaven, the Resurrection, and the Mission of the Church by N.T. [Wright has come under scrutiny by U.S. contemporaries for his new take on Paul, and some of his thoughts on Hell and some thoughts on justification. One of those writers is Tom Holland below. However, most of his work has brought to light the message that has always been in the scriptures and is of incredible benefit to the People of God.]
Wright challenges common Christian assumptions about the afterlife, the resurrection, and the mission of the church. Wright, [was?] an Anglican bishop and prolific Christian scholar, argues for a transformative view of heaven, hell, and the resurrection.
Wright contends that many Christians have a Platonic idea of heaven, viewing it as an ethereal place where disembodied souls go after death. Instead, he emphasizes the biblical teaching of bodily resurrection and the renewal of creation [Key understanding]. According to Wright, Jesus' resurrection is the first fruits of this hope, symbolizing God's ultimate victory over death and decay. [It is my contention that the 1st resurrection was of the Godly in the Old Testament (Matthew 27:52) that were the bodily resurrected first fruits from the first Covenant People of God. It is foundational that he completed one covenant entirely (Firstfruits of which he’s the first) before offering a second to all who would enter. (I offer more of this in my inter-advent view (Beale)]
He argues that heaven and earth will eventually be united (Rev. 21:1-6), transforming into a renewed creation. This perspective, Wright believes, should radically influence how believers live in the present world, focusing on God's mission to restore and renew creation. [This does not mean things get better and better, but rather the People of God shine brighter and brighter and are like him on the day of his appearing, consumation.]
[This and further works introduce 4 major contributions of Tom’s: 1. He connects the whole bible and tells it’s unified and unifying story. 2. He puts the Event back into Jesus and how the 1st advent changed everything for everyone, every where and every when. 3. Sheds new light on Kingdom of God/ New Creation. 4. He provides a new path forward regarding morals, being created as those who image God’s good creation into the world. We image him as culture creators.]
BibleProject.com is a non-profit organization founded in 2014 by Tim Mackie and Jon Collins. Their mission is “to help people experience the Bible as a unified story that leads to Jesus.” They create free educational resources, including animated videos, podcasts, study guides, online classes, and a mobile app.
The videos explore the literary structure, themes, and history of individual books of the Bible, as well as key biblical concepts and themes. These resources are available on their website, YouTube, and various social media platforms and they have a great App. The organization is crowdfunded and relies on the support of its community to continue making these resources available for free in multiple languages.
[Favorites: that are all on the website]
Learn How to Read the Bible | Watch Animated Explainer Videos
Bible Project Guides
Free, Online Courses with BibleProject™ [This is seminary level stuff!]
Blog Articles from BibleProject | Study the Story of the Bible
Bible Podcast Studying Christian Theology
Hope for the Nations: Paul's Letter to the Romans by Tom Holland is a comprehensive commentary on Paul's letter to the Romans. Holland invites readers to rethink familiar passages in fresh ways, offering corrections to widespread individualistic misunderstandings of Paul’s writings.
The book emphasizes the importance of understanding Paul's teachings in the context of Old Testament Scriptures, particularly Isaiah. Holland's analysis is both biblical and theological, showing how Romans contributes to our understanding of God's covenant with humankind.
Holland's work is praised for being scholarly yet accessible, rich in exegetical insights, and focused on the communal and Christ-centered aspects of Paul's message. It encourages readers to break away from fixed ideas and journey to new places in their understanding of the gospel.
[His work in revealing the Typological imagery, Corporate theology and Household of God contextual view behind Paul’s words were very helpful in dragging Romans out of the individualistic centered approach often imposed on Romans by modern western readers.]
Elect in the Son Shank, Robert Elect in the Son by Robert Shank is a comprehensive study of the doctrine of election. Shank challenges the Calvinist view of unconditional election and reprobation, arguing that it lacks a solid foundation in the Scriptures. He interacts extensively with Calvin, Berkouwer, and other Reformed writers, presenting a thorough and well-researched treatment of election.
Shank defends the concept of class election, where God chooses the Church as a category unconditionally but selects individuals to populate the Church conditionally. He argues that the election of grace does not exclude the salvation of any person and that God truly desires all people to be saved. The cross is seen as the focal point of election, where time and eternity find their true perspective.
Throughout the book, Shank critiques the use of certain proof passages by Calvinists, showing that their application requires circumventing some of the most explicit affirmations of Scripture. He also addresses the idea that God's provision via the atonement is sufficient for all but efficient for the elect.
[I think Shank does a good job of articulating the argument for a chosen class or group and handling many texts that support the election of individuals for heaven, which is a narrow view of “salvation.”
However, I take issue with his classical understanding that foreknowledge means foreordained. Additionally, he focuses on the church age, but I believe God’s plan for a chosen one to redeem all humanity begins before creation and is manifest by adopting Abraham and, through him, a chosen people group through which the chosen seed would arrive.
To me, the chosen class is not exclusive. In the Old Testament, proselytizing was allowed, which meant people could become one of the chosen by participating as a member of the chosen people of God. Ephesians 1:12-13 makes it clear that in the New Testament, people can become one of the chosen or elect as well.
Finally, in all our passages about being chosen, I think we need to ask: for what were they chosen? Salvation, in the story of the gospel, is someone stepping back into their purpose for which they were created in the first place. Only through Christ’s accomplishment is this accessible to all. It’s about participating in the Edenic edict, the new creation planting and tending God’s will on earth as it is in heaven. I don’t believe that any are chosen for going to heaven after they die; rather, they are all chosen for making heaven on earth. A life lived with Jesus now, being born again now, results in a life that continues with God through death into the resurrection and beyond (Broad understanding of Biblical Salvation).]
The New Chosen People: A Corporate View of Election by William Klein is a thought-provoking exploration of the concept of election in the Bible. Klein delves into the Old Testament, examining how God chose individuals like prophets, priests, and kings to serve divine purposes, as well as the election of the nation of Israel as His special people. He proposes that God's election is both individual and corporate, but not always determinative, meaning that faith in Yahweh was required for salvation.
The book also traces these elective understandings through intertestamental literature, identifying continuities and shifts. The heart of Klein's argument focuses on the New Testament, where he identifies concepts of election and relationships between writers in the gospels, the Lucan material, Paul's writings, and more. Klein emphasizes that the new covenant, God choosing the church in Christ, highlights election as corporate, while the individual election of Jesus' disciples and Paul raises questions about whether such closeness is necessarily salvific.
Personalizing what only God could provide: How to personally enter this corporate idea of Election.Renovation of the Heart: Putting Sin to Death and Living with Christ's Power by Dallas Willard is a profound exploration of spiritual formation and character transformation. Willard addresses the crucial question of how God transforms our character to reflect Christ.
Summary:
Willard argues that spiritual formation is not a passive process but an active journey of becoming more like Christ. He emphasizes that this transformation involves every aspect of our being: thoughts, feelings, will, body, social context, and soul. Willard asserts that spiritual formation requires effort, the working of the Holy Spirit, and a deep commitment to living out the teachings of Jesus.
He critiques the overemphasis on "regular church services" and encourages believers to engage in practices that foster spiritual growth, such as prayer, Bible study, and community life. Willard also highlights the importance of grace in this process, noting that Christlikeness is ultimately a gift from God.
Key Themes:
- Spiritual Formation: The process of becoming more like Christ in every aspect of our being.
- Active Participation: Spiritual growth requires intentional effort and the work of the Holy Spirit.
- Grace: Christlikeness is a gift from God, not solely a human achievement. [Grace is a place, a reciprocal environment, into which we enter by participation, like the new garden of eden.]
- Critique of Church Practices: Encourages deeper engagement beyond regular church attendance.
"Celebration of Discipline: The Path to Spiritual Growth", Richard J. Foster. Foster delves deeply into the process of personal transformation and the interplay of various influences, including God's Spirit, in shaping our inner selves.
Summary:
"Celebration of Discipline" outlines six key disciplines that Foster believes are essential for spiritual growth and transformation:
- The Disciplines of the Heart: These include meditation, prayer, fasting, and study, which help us to focus on God and deepen our relationship with Him.
- The Disciplines of Engagement: These involve simplicity, solitude, submission, and service, which help us to live out our faith in practical ways and engage with the world around us.
- The Disciplines of Corporate Worship: These include confession, worship, guidance, and celebration, which help us to connect with the larger Christian community and participate in corporate expressions of faith.
Foster emphasizes that these disciplines are not ends in themselves but means to an end—the transformation of our hearts and lives to reflect Christ more fully. He encourages readers to practice these disciplines regularly and intentionally, allowing God's Spirit to work within them and conform their will to God's will.
Key Themes:
- Personal Transformation: The process of becoming more like Christ through intentional spiritual practices.
- Influence of God's Spirit: The role of the Holy Spirit in guiding and transforming our lives.
- Interplay of Influences: The dynamic interaction between personal effort, spiritual practices, and divine grace.
- Corporate and Individual Growth: The importance of both personal disciplines and participation in the Christian community.
Foster's work has been instrumental in helping many Christians understand and engage in the process of spiritual formation, emphasizing that it is a lifelong journey of becoming more like Jesus.
You Are What You Love: The Spiritual Power of Habit by James K.A. Smith is a book that explores the formative power of our daily habits and practices. Smith argues that our actions and routines shape our hearts and desires, ultimately forming who we are. He emphasizes that we are not just thinkers, but also lovers whose identities are shaped by what we love and desire.
Key Concepts:
- Liturgy: Smith uses the term "liturgy" to describe the routines and practices that shape our loves and desires, whether they are secular or religious. These liturgies have the power to form our hearts and guide our affections.
- Desire and Worship: The book explores how our desires are aligned through worship and how true worship helps us reorient our loves towards God. Smith argues that our ultimate love should be directed towards God, and our daily practices should reflect and reinforce this love.
- Cultural Liturgies: Smith discusses how modern cultural practices and rituals, such as consumerism and social media, shape our desires in ways that can distract us from our ultimate love for God. He encourages readers to be mindful of these influences and to cultivate practices that align their hearts with God's kingdom.
- Christian Practices: The book highlights the importance of intentional Christian practices, such as prayer, scripture reading, and community worship, in shaping our hearts and aligning our desires with God's will. These practices help form our character and identity as followers of Christ.
Outline:
- Introduction: Desiring, Not Thinking
- The Heart of Worship: The End of Desire
- The Structure of Worship: Forming Practices
- The Story of Worship: Shaping Narrative
- The Shape of Worship: Forming Practices
- The Church: Practices for a Love Orientation
- Worship and the Heart: Forming Desires
Smith's book encourages readers to pay attention to their daily habits and to intentionally cultivate practices that shape their hearts and align their desires with the love of God. By doing so, we can become more fully formed disciples of Christ.
[Willard, Foster, and Smith focus on the process of personal transformation and the various influences that shape it. They explore how God's Spirit interacts with these influences through what Dallas Willard calls the "interface of the Will". Here are the key points:
- Interface of the Will: This concept refers to how our will interacts with and aligns with God's will. As we align our personal will with God's will for humanity, we experience transformation, often described as the renewing of our inner selves.
- Expression of the Will:
- For some people, the will is evident through their deep inner convictions and what they express outwardly.
- For others, it is through their consistent patterns and behaviors that they learn and align with God's will.
- Combination of Both: Most individuals experience a combination of both inner convictions and outward behaviors as they grow in alignment with God's will.
- Corporate Manifestation of the Kingdom of God: The Kingdom of God is not just an individual experience but manifests corporately, leading to societal change. This collective participation is where the community of believers works together to create and sustain an environment of Grace.
- Environment of Grace:
- Some individuals create this environment by embodying and demonstrating God's grace.
- Others participate in, further develop, and adapt this environment as they continue to meet God's people and venture in faith.
From the creation story's beginning, through Christ's restart of creation and to the renewed creation with His consummation, God's plan has always been to redeem all creation—above, on, and under the earth. This redemptive work is accomplished through the Christ Spirit embodied by His people, Jesus, and the church.
This explanation shows that personal transformation involves a dynamic interplay between individual effort, spiritual practices, and the guiding influence of God's Spirit. It emphasizes the importance of both personal and communal growth in manifesting the Kingdom of God. God's plan of redemption spans the entire narrative of creation, revealing His intention to restore all things through Christ and His followers.]
How People Grow by Henry Cloud and John Townsend is a book that explores the process of personal and spiritual growth from a Christian perspective. The authors integrate psychology and theology to provide a comprehensive guide on how individuals can grow emotionally, relationally, and spiritually.
[This book is a must for understanding how transparent, purposeful community plays an indispensable role in the transformation of our ego, me to we, in a person’s life. We as in, “in Christ” denying self and taking up you cross and following him into what he has for us, his people chosen to be the vehicle through which he redeems the world.]
Summary:
The book is divided into four main parts:
- Paradise Lost: This section addresses common misconceptions about personal growth, such as the sin model, truth model, experiential model, and supernatural model. The authors argue that true growth requires a more holistic approach that includes God, Christ, the Holy Spirit, sin, salvation, and the Church.
- The Master Gardener: The God of Growth: Here, the authors discuss the roles of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in the growth process. They emphasize the importance of grace, Jesus as an example for living, and the Holy Spirit as a guide in the redemptive journey.
- Finding the Best Climate: This section focuses on the necessity of relationships for growth. The authors highlight that growth cannot happen in isolation and that God uses people to help us grow.
- The Path of Growth: The final part covers various aspects of growth, including the role of the Bible, suffering, discipline, obedience, and the problem of sin and temptation. The authors provide practical advice on how to achieve spiritual growth and maintain it throughout life.
The importance of God’s coordinated Corporate Elect: What are we are saved FROM and most importantly what we are saved FOR?The Community of the King by Howard A. Snyder is a classic work that explores the relationship between the kingdom of God and the church. Snyder delves into how the church is called to embody and advance God's kingdom on earth.
1. Introduction: Does the Church Bring the Kingdom?
- Discusses the church's role in bringing the kingdom of God: This section explores the critical question of whether the church is merely a passive recipient of God's kingdom or an active agent in bringing it about. It delves into the theological and practical implications of the church's mission and its responsibility in advancing the kingdom of God on earth.
2. Perceiving the Kingdom
- Kingdom Consciousness: Understanding the nature of the kingdom: This part emphasizes the importance of developing a kingdom consciousness, an awareness of the nature and values of God's kingdom. It encourages believers to align their thoughts and actions with the principles of the kingdom. [This is world view changing dialogue!]
- Models of the Church: Different models of how the church has been understood: Here, Snyder reviews various historical and contemporary models of the church, analyzing how each model reflects different aspects of the kingdom. It provides a comparative study of how the church has been perceived and its role defined.
- Fresh Streams: New models of the church since 1975: This section examines innovative and emerging models of the church that have developed since 1975. It highlights the fresh approaches and movements that have sought to reimagine the church in ways that are more aligned with the kingdom's values and mission. [Likely that we’ve seen others since 1975!]
3. Understanding the Kingdom Community
- God's Master Plan: The overarching plan of God: Snyder discusses God's comprehensive plan for creation, emphasizing that it includes more than just individual salvation. It encompasses the restoration and reconciliation of all things under God's rule.
- The Church in God's Plan: The church's role in God's plan: This part underscores the church's pivotal role in God's redemptive plan. The church is portrayed as the primary instrument through which God's kingdom is manifested and advanced in the world.
- The Messianic Community: The community centered around the Messiah: Snyder describes the messianic community as a collective of believers who are centered around Jesus Christ. This community is called to embody the teachings and values of Jesus, serving as a witness to the transformative power of the kingdom.
4. Embodying the Kingdom Community
- The Kingdom Mandate: The church's mission to advance the kingdom: This section outlines the church's mission to actively participate in advancing God's kingdom. It calls for a proactive approach to living out the kingdom's values in every aspect of life.
- Church Growth and Kingdom Growth: How the church grows in line with the kingdom: Snyder explores the relationship between numerical growth of the church and the qualitative growth that aligns with kingdom values. He advocates for growth that reflects the character and mission of the kingdom.
- The Form of the Church: The structure and organization of the church: This part examines the various forms and organizational structures that the church can take. It emphasizes the need for structures that facilitate the mission and values of the kingdom.
- The Unity of the Church: The importance of unity within the church: Snyder highlights the critical importance of unity among believers. He argues that the church's unity is a powerful witness to the kingdom and essential for fulfilling its mission.
- From Here to the Kingdom: Moving forward in the mission of the kingdom: The final section provides practical guidance on how the church can continue to move forward in its mission. It encourages believers to stay committed to the kingdom's vision and to continually seek ways to embody its values in their communities.
Snyder emphasizes that the church is not just an agent of evangelism or social change, but the primary agent of God's cosmic purpose to reconcile all things to Himself. The church is called to live in true Christian community and serve as a witness to God's reign
[When I think of a body, I consider what it would look like if all of its members began to work independently of one another, even though they do “random acts of kindness.” Bodies like that are often found in the hospital 😉(“My insides want to be on my outside!” – Brian Regan). However, Jesus the Messiah’s victory has established his reign above and under the earth (the place of the dead). Just as he works through his assembly in the heavenlies, he waits for his assembly (body) on earth to bring his enemies as his footstool (under his reign).
I picture all the members of his local body unifying around this purpose: freeing people from their prisons and freeing them for their life’s purpose as part of Christ’s new humanity in the acts of new creation.
Until he comes again!]
Centered-Set Church: Discipleship and Community Without Judgmentalism by Mark D. Baker is a book that explores a new way of thinking about church communities. Baker introduces the concept of a centered-set church, which contrasts with the traditional bounded-set and fuzzy-set approaches.
[Mark, one of my professors in Seminary, has written about his missionary experiences in South America. He shares how models of how to 'do church' that work in one culture don’t necessarily work in another. For instance, he uses the analogy of a late ‘50s model sedan driven on the pothole-ridden dirt roads of South America. Over time, the fenders fall off. He suggests that the vehicle (church) carrying the community into the next generation should be stripped down to its essentials.
In his book, Mark explores the ideas of:
- Investing and Inviting: Building a community by genuinely investing in relationships and inviting others to join.
- Belonging and Believing: Creating a sense of belonging first, which then leads to belief.
- Life Transformation by Transparency: Promoting genuine transformation through honesty and transparency.
- Re-arranging Our Lives Around Christ: Placing Christ at the center of the church and individual lives.
He also discusses the tension that often arises with accountability and how we can support each other through this process. Mark’s model provides insight into how the environment can nurture health and growth within the church community.]
In a bounded-set church, there are strict boundaries and rules that define who is in and who is out. This can often lead to judgmentalism and exclusion [Overemphasis of set-apart FROM]. On the other hand, a fuzzy-set church erases all boundaries, leading to a lack of direction and purpose [a lack of set-apart FOR].
Baker proposes the centered-set approach, where the focus is on Jesus Christ as the center. Instead of drawing lines or erasing them, the church is centered on following Jesus and moving towards Him. This approach emphasizes discipleship, community, and love without judgmentalism.
The book provides practical guidance for church leaders and members on how to implement this centered-set approach in various areas of ministry, such as discipleship, church membership, leadership, and evangelism.
[Mark has a website and video seminars that can help discussion on this: https://www.centeredsetchurch.com/ As well he has a treatise on Galatians.
He has helped me think well about ethics and how we can focus less on ethics arrived at by conformity and moving people to transformation.]
Societal issues: Viewed from a Biblical worldview.
Creation, Power and Truth: The Gospel in a World of Cultural Confusion by N.T. Wright is a thought-provoking book that explores how the Christian gospel challenges and subverts the intellectual, moral, and political values of contemporary culture. Wright examines three defining characteristics of our time: neo-Gnosticism, neo-imperialism, and postmodernity.
Using a Trinitarian framework, Wright reinterprets key elements of the biblical story, drawing connections between ancient and modern worldviews. He critiques common cultural assumptions and narratives, both past and present, and encourages Christians to speak truth to power rather than merely supporting or opposing it2.
The book ultimately emphasizes the importance of love and challenges both the left and right wings of the Church to be more Christlike. Wright's analysis aims to help the Church have a greater influence in the world by aligning more closely with the teachings of Christ2.
good summary but add his premise that includes the Imagers of God understanding from creation.
Certainly! Let's enrich the summary with Tim Keller's premise about humans as Imagers of God.
Every Good Endeavor: Connecting Your Work to God's Work by Tim Keller explores the profound relationship between faith and work. Keller posits that all work, not just ministry or religious jobs, can be a calling from God and a way to serve Him.
The book is divided into three parts:
- God's Plan for Work: Keller explains that work was part of God's design from the beginning and is inherently good. He highlights that humans are created as Imagers of God—meaning we reflect God's character through our creativity, stewardship, and cultivation of the world. This understanding gives work dignity and purpose, as it is a way to participate in God's creative activity.
- Our Problems with Work: Keller addresses common issues people face with work, such as feeling that work is fruitless, pointless, or selfish. He explores how sin has distorted our understanding and practice of work, causing frustration and disillusionment.
- The Gospel and Work: Keller shows how the gospel redeems work and gives it new meaning. By embracing our identity as Imagers of God, we can integrate our faith into our work, using our jobs to glorify God and serve others. Practical examples illustrate how Christians can reflect God's character in various professions and industries.
Keller emphasizes that all work, when done with a heart for God, can be an act of worship. This perspective encourages readers to see their daily tasks as significant and valuable contributions to God's kingdom.
[This book is a must read for any professional, or business owner. Tim works from the New Creation principle.
- All good things come from God, and he works through his imagers. We are the New Creation work of God as co-creators (God-imagers), as we express our giftedness into the world in a way that brings about human flourishing, God pleased culture, and communities that live at peace with God and one another. This is what the Holy Spirit is prompting and empowering us to do, as the agency through which God his redemption plans to reunite the world as his dwelling.
- Keller ties our giftedness, our God given wiring, to Vocation (latin- Vocatio). Voice comes from the same word. In other words, it is the “voice” into the world of creation, our voice in the chorus of life songs singing into the new creation symphony. Therefore it is important to remember whose you are and the song he wants to sing through you.
- (The Wiring that we all have and discern through various tools like Strength Finders 2.0, or S.H.A.P.E. assessment https://daybreak-academy.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/S.H.A.P.E-Assessment-DA.pdf , or various other discernment tools.)
- PRACTICAL: Keller introduces an Academy for professionals that they have developed at their church that helps people hammer out a professional life purpose.
- This is fleshing out his vision to redeem New York City.]
Paul, the Spirit, and the People of God by Gordon D. Fee is a comprehensive exploration of the Apostle Paul's understanding of the Holy Spirit and its significance for the early Christian community. Fee emphasizes that the Holy Spirit is the empowering presence of God, essential for the church's faithfulness and effectiveness2.
The central images in the book include:
- The Holy Spirit as the Guarantee: The Spirit acts as the down payment or guarantee of the future consummation of God's kingdom, assuring believers of their salvation and God's presence.
- [Like a signet ring’s mark in wax, Paul uses the term “sealed” with the Holy spirit, as in telltale signs of his place of shalom being embodied by the group, for example. This is a reality that begins in the now and lasts through death into eternity.]
- The Spirit as the Empowerer: The Spirit empowers believers to live faithfully and to carry out God's work, enabling them to reflect God's character and expand the kingdom.
- [The spirit working in by prompting, among in “tenting” among our arranged lives, and through us as embodying his spirit with our diverse gifts as he deploys.]
- [I don’t believe that this should be thought of as he moves us off the couch. Rather it is a matter of will/spirit level yielding. like Jesus was empowered by the Holy Spirit when he walked into the desert after baptism, he had God’s will, over and above his own to wander in the wilderness with and learn the ways of the kingdom of God.]
- The Spirit as the Present Experience of God: The Spirit allows believers to experience God's presence in the present age, bridging the gap between the already and the not yet of God's kingdom.
- [Salvation begins now and lasts through death and into eternity.]
Fee's work helps readers appreciate the centrality of the Holy Spirit in Paul's theology and encourages a deeper understanding of the Spirit's role in the life of the church.
A Living Sacrifice? The concept of "A Living Sacrifice" appears to be explored in the podcast in relation to how the New Testament (NT) Letters reinterpret and continue the story of the People of God (POG) as the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham.
Here's a breakdown:
1. People of God: The NT Letters view the People of God (POG) as the realization of God's promise to Abraham. This promise included the blessing of Abraham’s offspring among the nations.
2. NT vs. OT: Unlike the limitations or "glass ceiling" present in the Old Testament (OT) age, the NT People of God can be the ultimate blessing among the nations.
3. Living Sacrifice: The idea of being a "living sacrifice" is rich with Old Testament (OT) imagery of sacrificial offerings. However, the new twist introduced in the NT is that these sacrifices result in living rather than in death.
So, in essence, the podcast presents the NT Letters as an interpretation of how believers, as the People of God, embody the blessings promised to Abraham through living out their faith, rather than through physical sacrifices.
The Other side of the veil: God’s story over heaven above and earth below. [Since the creation of the world through to Christ's victory over principalities and darkness, the story of God has always been surrounded by a world with greater interaction between God's unseen realm and the seen realm. Many characters and stories of such interactions exist in the Bible. Though not always explained by the narrators, they are explicitly described for a couple of reasons:
- They reflect the worldview and cosmos-view of the writers, who were addressing readers with the same view. Hence, there was no need for explanation.
- The writers used scenes from the unseen realm to further the story, emphasizing the interconnection between God's will being carried out in heaven and on earth.
The unseen and visible realms have populations designed to carry out the will of their Creator within their respective realms. By understanding the Biblical writers' worldview, we need not be alarmed when someone presents information about these realms from the Bible. We don't need to explain them away just because they don't fit our modern worldview or seem too mysterious.
Additionally, since Christ's victory over the chaos introduced into the unseen realm since the fall, our new covenant era has undergone a fundamental transition. Christ is now Lord over all heavens and earth, a new status resulting from His accomplishment as Christ the Victor. Further he has defeated the one who used to hold over humanity, the "fear of death." (Hebrews)
With this understanding, we can confidently carry out our role as the People of God advancing the Edenic Edict into the chaos in which we find the world, the world who is close to his heart.]
Heaven by Randy Alcorn is an exploration of the Christian concept of the afterlife, deeply rooted in biblical theology. Alcorn addresses common misconceptions about Heaven and aims to present a clear, hopeful vision of what believers can expect. He emphasizes that Heaven is a tangible, physical place where resurrected individuals will live eternally with God in restored, perfected bodies, enjoying all the good things of life, free from sin and suffering.
[Randy’s approach will be much more comfortable to the Western Reader as he is from our world. His argument is helpful to me in that he helped me build a timeline and understanding of the temporary state in which our current heavenlies and earth and under the earth exists. When we pass through the veil, it is into an “already but not yet” reality. The consummation or Day of the LORD, is yet to bring together both heaven and earth to its eternally redeemed state where humanity and all of creation is not under the results of having missed the mark by Adam 1.0.]
Synthesis of Arguments
- Biblical Foundation: Alcorn consistently refers to Scripture to support his views, arguing that the Bible provides a reliable and detailed depiction of Heaven. He emphasizes the continuity between this life and the next, proposing that Heaven will be a perfected version of Earth.
- Present vs. Eternal Heaven: He distinguishes between the present Heaven (where souls go immediately after death [with Jesus]) and the eternal Heaven, which will be established after the final resurrection and the renewal of the Earth [Consummation of the renewed heaven and earth]. He presents the idea that eternal Heaven is not just a spiritual realm but a tangible, physical reality.
- Resurrection: A central theme is the resurrection of the body. Alcorn asserts that believers will be resurrected in glorified bodies, free from pain and decay, to live on a renewed Earth. This aligns with his interpretation of biblical prophecies about the new creation.
- Renewed Earth: Alcorn argues that the final Heaven will be on a new Earth [“like in the days of Noah” – Paul], where the curse of sin is lifted, and God's original design for creation is restored. He envisions a place of beauty, creativity, and meaningful work, where people will enjoy relationships, culture, and nature in their perfected forms.
- God's Presence: The ultimate joy of Heaven, according to Alcorn, is the presence of God. He emphasizes the idea that seeing God face-to-face and experiencing His presence will be the greatest aspect of eternal life. Worship, fellowship, and intimacy with God will be central to the experience of Heaven.
- Practical Implications: Alcorn explores how a biblical understanding of Heaven should impact believers' lives now. He suggests that a clear vision of Heaven provides hope, encourages holy living, and motivates evangelism. It helps Christians to live with an eternal perspective, valuing things that have lasting significance.
Key Themes
- Restoration and Renewal: Heaven is depicted as a place of complete restoration and renewal, both for individuals and for creation.
- Physicality of Heaven: Contrary to popular belief, Heaven is not merely a spiritual realm but a physical place where believers will live in resurrected bodies.
- Continuity and Fulfillment: There is continuity between the present life and the life to come, where the good aspects of this world are fulfilled and perfected.
- Centrality of God: The presence and glory of God are the central focus of Heaven, providing ultimate joy and satisfaction.
Alcorn’s work is a blend of scriptural exegesis, theological reflection, and imaginative speculation, painting a vivid picture of what the Bible promises for the afterlife. His arguments are aimed at dispelling misconceptions and providing a hopeful, inspiring vision of eternity.
The Unseen Realm by Michael S. Heiser
[Heiser has studied deeply into the unseen realms of Creation that may seem mysterious and even weird to the modern reader. But a study of Genesis 1-11 lays the groundwork for understanding the Ancient Days out of which Abraham’s story is birthed. It is a mysterious, mystical time.
Heiser delves into the supernatural world depicted in the Bible, arguing that modern readers often miss the ancient context and supernatural worldview of biblical texts. He explains the concept of the Divine Council, a group of spiritual beings, including angels, who participate in God's governance. Heiser suggests that the Hebrew word "elohim" refers to citizens of the unseen realm, including to both God and these spiritual beings, but asserts that God is God above all others. Though there are other "elohim", there is none like him or his unique Son.
Heiser explores the Nephilim, suggesting that these giants were the offspring of the "sons of God" (members of the Divine Council) and human women. He argues that the survival of the Nephilim post-flood had significant implications for human history.
Heiser reinterprets several biblical events, such as Eve's encounter with the serpent and Jacob's prayer, to highlight the spiritual conflict and complex interactions between God and spiritual beings. He argues that in the Garden of Eden, the serpent was seen as a divine figure, not just a mere creature. This insight reframes the fall from grace as not merely human error but a significant betrayal against a backdrop of spiritual conflict.
Heiser also delves into the implications of the survival of the Nephilim post-flood, linking it to the spiritual weaving of human and divine interactions throughout Scripture. He suggests that understanding these dynamics enriches one’s comprehension of God’s decisions and interactions with humanity.
A central theme in "The Unseen Realm" is the concept of the divine council. Heiser argues that the biblical narrative includes an assembly of spiritual beings that participate in God’s governance. He believes that recognizing the presence of the divine council in the biblical narrative enhances our understanding of God's divine plan.
Heiser also explores the role of spiritual beings in the administration of the nations, suggesting that the biblical authors did not see the world as a purely human affair but one deeply intertwined with the activities of these divine beings. He addresses the topic of the Nephilim, suggesting that they were the offspring of unions between divine beings and human women.
Heiser concludes by discussing the implications of his research for theology and faith, arguing that recognizing the presence of the divine council in the biblical narrative does
not diminish the sovereignty of God but rather enhances our understanding of His divine plan.
Bibliology Summary to date:[This perspective on the New Testament also supports the grand narrative of scripture. God is doing a wonderful thing through his people into the world. Christ arrived as the revelation of the capstone of the movement of the OT people of God. The scriptures reveal that he is also the foundation stone upon which they are built. The Gospel narratives place him at the apex of the story of God’s redeeming work of all creation unto himself.
The New Testament are these same Hebrews that lived through this transition and have recorded for us their transformation of entire view of reality, heaven above, earth and below the earth. This transformation of everything happened by the life work death and resurrection. They then record a most wonderful thing. The same Christ Spirit that was embodied among the OT people of God, in the Son of God, is now available through the accomplishment of the Son of God. They record the evidence that the People of God has continued into a new day, in a new and expanded body. In the New testament, the Tribes of Israel have ventured into the surrounding nations and are bulging with people streaming into the gates of the New Zion from every direction of the compass.
They bid to the modern day reader, read the whole story, understand that the gates are open to this Garden/City of God and “enter” the kingdom of God. As we drink of the water of life, we bear his fruit in every season/month of the year, offering leaves of healing for the nations, becoming streams in the desert that waters the mud (adama) into which God can breath life creating a new humanity (adam).]
[The New Testament writers reveal the unfolding story of God's plan to redeem all creation in heaven above and earth below and bring them back to Himself, even after they stepped out of the Garden of Eden. The Gospels emphasize that Christ is both the cornerstone and capstone of this divine plan. Before the ages, He was chosen for the act of reconciliation as the cornerstone, and He is the culmination of the TaNak (Torah, Nevi'im, Ketuvim) – the Law, Prophets, and Writings of the Old Testament as the Gospels portray, the Capstone of Faith.
The New Testament reader is invited to understand that these writings are from those who experienced the transformative work of Christ, not only in Israel's story but in the broader narrative of humanity. The once exclusive gates of Zion, which were open only to the Jews, are now open to all through the 12 apostles, representing the 12 tribes of Israel. Angels guard these gates, guiding the branches of the Vine, a result from Christ's accomplished work through His life, death, and resurrection.
The People of God in the New Testament embody the Christ Spirit, like Jesus did, continuing the mission of the apostles' ministries, extending like branches into the into our generation. As their fruit, we are called to bear witness to this transformation, offering healing and life to the nations, and becoming streams in the desert that bring new life to the world. This transformation of everything happened by the life, work, death, and resurrection of Christ. They record the evidence that the People of God has continued into a new day, in a new and expanded body. The Tribes of Israel have ventured into the surrounding nations and are bulging with people streaming into the gates of the New Zion from every direction of the compass.
They bid the modern-day reader to read the whole story, understand that the gates are open to this Garden/City of God, and “enter” the kingdom of God. As we drink of the water of life, we bear His fruit in every season/month of the year, offering leaves of healing for the nations, becoming streams in the desert that waters the mud (adama) into which God can breathe life, creating a new humanity (adam).]