Religion Final
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University of Mt. Olive *
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110
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Religion
Date
Dec 6, 2023
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docx
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6
Uploaded by DoctorSummerGoose10
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Religion and Theology
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Religion
Journal Entry 1: Background Insights and Interpretation
Reading the books of the New Testament assigned to me, from James to Revelation, and
then studying the chapters that corresponded to those books in "The New Testament in
Antiquity," helped me better analyze the texts. The textbook helped me understand the letters'
themes. These ideas illuminate these letters' historical, cultural, and social context.
For instance, learning the Jewish and Greco-Roman history of the early Christian
communities has helped me appreciate James' complex beliefs. My study of the Jewish wisdom
tradition and the social dynamics of early Christian gatherings has helped me understand James'
emphasis on faith in action and practical Christian living. These customs are centuries old.
The background material also helped me grasp Peter, John, and Jude's letters. I now
comprehend these passages' encouragement, exhortation, and warnings in the context of
persecution and the early Christian organizations' struggles. Apocalyptic and symbolic,
Revelation is written. This helped me appreciate the book's religious subject of triumph and hope
in adversity.
The prescribed reading improved my understanding of New Testament ideas and
theological concerns. It made me appreciate the writers' various experiences and voices. My
newfound knowledge allows me to read the New Testament with greater awareness and
judgment, considering historical, cultural, and literary influences.
The textbook has increased my comprehension of how to read the New Testament, from
James through Revelation. Since I now know more about their historical and cultural roots, I can
better understand the writers' topics.
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Journal Entry 2: The Holy Spirit's Work in My Life
The Holy Spirit has spoken to me via the eloquent words of James through Revelation.
The Holy Spirit has spoken of criticism, encouragement, promise, and mandate, challenging me
to live a more Christ-centered life.
Through reading James, the Holy Spirit has shown me where my faith is not matched by
my actions (Moo, 2021). James' challenge to show true religion via charity deeds has inspired me
to work on my own life and ensure my values are reflected. In order to exhibit the Gospel's
regenerative power, the Holy Spirit's reproof compels me to improve the congruence between my
beliefs and actions.
The letters of Peter, John, and Jude have encouraged me through numerous trials.
(Nienhuis, 2013) These readings have reminded me of Christ's continuous hope and God's
loyalty even in tough times. The Holy Spirit has reminded me to trust God's promises and
persevere despite my obstacles.
These letters have also alerted me to specific commands requiring my reaction from the
Holy Spirit. The challenge of loving one another selflessly, pursuing righteousness, and standing
firm in the truth resonates with me. I must follow these orders and ask for the Holy Spirit's help.
The Holy Spirit's activity in my life via these writings has led me to accept the rebukes,
gather strength from the words of encouragement, and follow the New Testament's instructions. I
pledge to integrate my beliefs and acts, hold fast to Christ's hope, and show the regenerative love
and virtue I am called to.
Journal Entry 3: Impact of Reading the Entire New Testament
Reading the New Testament in two months affected my mind, heart, and soul. While
reading the New Testament, my faith, comprehension, and heart have grown.
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Immersion in Jesus' and the apostles' teachings has kindled my devotion to Christ and
enhanced my relationship with God. I am amazed to follow Jesus' life, death, and resurrection in
the Gospels (Burge et al., 2010). The radical teachings of Jesus have challenged my view of
discipleship and called me to more profound devotion and surrender.
Reading the New Testament from cover to cover has helped me understand its stories and
ideas. Powell (2018) helped me understand the historical and theological context in which early
Christian communities thrived and struggled. I have been inspired to think critically about
religion and Scripture by exploring the New Testament's different opinions.
The New Testament may evoke many emotions, from joy and tranquility in God's
promises to anguish and empathy in Jesus and the early Christians' suffering. I am driven to
teach the Gospel and live Christ's love for his followers through stories of change, redemption,
and hope.
To conclude, condensing the New Testament through time was formative. This deeply
affected my spirituality, understanding, and emotions. I appreciate this opportunity to connect
with the sacred books and look forward to exploring their implications as I grow spiritually.
Summary of 1
st
and 2
nd
Peter
First Peter:
The First Epistle of Peter is a letter written by the apostle Peter to the early Christian
believers scattered throughout Asia Minor. In 1
st
Peter, the apostles' function as God's chosen
representatives of the Gospel is emphasized. As a result, their persecution can be considered a
blessing since it gives them a chance to demonstrate to others Jesus' surprisingly generous and
loving nature, which is motivated by hope in his coming back and triumph over evil. Hence,
Peter wrote this letter to encourage and strengthen their faith amidst persecution and suffering. In
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the first chapter of 1 Peter, Peter explains that the Scripture foretells that they will endure
suffering and even death due to being sincere believers. Christians should be the most obedient
during this period by relying on the Lord to see them through. He urges them to live holy lives,
to submit to authorities, and to love one another fervently (New International Version 1
st
and 2
nd
Peter). He also addresses the role of husbands and wives and the importance of humility and
mutual service within the Christian community. Peter concludes the letter by exhorting them to
stand firm in their faith and to entrust themselves to God's care.
Second Peter:
This is the second letter written by Peter to Christians around. In this letter, Peter warns
them about false teachers who will arise and lead people astray with their destructive teachings
and immoral behavior. He reminds them of his eyewitness experience of Jesus' transfiguration
and highlights the authority of the prophetic word as a sure foundation for their faith. Peter
emphasizes the importance of living godly lives, growing in knowledge and virtue, and being
diligent in their spiritual growth. He warns against the influence of false teachers and encourages
believers to remain steadfast in the truth. Peter concludes by exhorting them to anticipate the day
of the Lord's return and to continue living in holiness and godliness.
In conclusion, Peter writes in both Letters 1 and 2 to encourage us in our faith during our
challenging circumstances. He addressed his letter primarily to Christians facing discrimination
and exclusion due to their faith, even in their communities. He speaks to us about patience,
obedience, and faith when life is difficult.
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References
Burge, G. M., Cohick, L. H., & Green, G. L. (2010).
The New Testament in Antiquity: A Survey
of the New Testament within Its Cultural Context
. Zondervan Academic.
Moo, D. J. (2021).
The letter of James
. Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing.
New International Version (NIV): 1
st
and 2
nd
Peter:
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?
search=2%20Peter%201&version=NIV
Nienhuis, D., & Wall, R. W. (2013).
Reading the Epistles of James, Peter, John & Jude as
Scripture: The Shaping and Shape of a Canonical Collection
. Wm. B. Eerdmans
Publishing.
Powell, M. A. (2018).
Introducing the New Testament: A Historical, literary, and theological
survey
. Baker Books.
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