Posted: March 12th, 2023

Bible

The Church and Culture

Instructions

· In your initial post, use approximately 250 words and include at least one specific citation in order to receive full credit.

· In your replies, include scholarly questions, additional examples or counterexamples, and/or additional connections to assigned course materials (readings/videos).

Questions

1.
After watching the weekly videos and reading the chapter by Livermore, how would you describe the relationship between the Church (universal and local) and the way that the Church functions in culture?

2.
How does culture inform the way that we engage in gospel ministry? Be sure to include specific examples.

Church Visits Reflection

Instructions

You must visit two churches that are different from your regular experience in some significant way (ethnic diversity or denominational emphasis). The goal is to notice each church’s style, culture, practices, similarities and differences, theology and how it informs its practices (worship and programs), and your reactions. Submit either a 3-page reflection or a 10-slide presentation on your visits.

Questions for Future Learning

Instructions

Now that we have introduced a variety of spiritual formation, human development, cultural, and practical leadership topics throughout this course, take some time to compile a list of 7-10 key questions that you would like to investigate further in your future ministry courses. These questions should be specific and informed by your learning in this course. Submit your questions only. There is no need to explain or comment on your questions unless that would be helpful to you personally.

These are the topics we have been dealing with in the course.

Week 1: What is God doing in human history, and how do we fit into his purposes?

Week 2: How do you develop intimacy with God and grow spiritually?

Week 3: What are our nonnegotiable beliefs and priorities as followers of Christ?

Week 4: How does your psychological development or personality relate to your spiritual formation?

Week 5: How has God made you, and what is your life calling?

Week 6: Is your vision to be a hero or to be a hero maker?

Week 7: How do we engage the culture for the sake of gospel ministry?

These are books for the course.

McKnight, S. (2015). A fellowship of different: Showing the world God’s design for life together. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan. [978-0310531470] The following textbooks are available at no cost to students through the University Library (linked on the course site).

Barton, R. H. (2008). Strengthening the soul of your leadership: Seeking God in the crucible of ministry. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press. [978-0830846450]

Smith, G. T. (2017). Evangelical, Sacramental, and Pentecostal: Why the Church Should Be All Three. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press. [978-0830851607