Abstract This paper is an in-depth exploration of the role of the Apostles after Christ's resurrection. The author details 'The Acts' and its teachings, which marked the beginning of Christianity. The Apostles' goals in the aftermath of Christ's death and resurrection and the roles they played in shaping the development of Christianity is examined in detail. Some of the topics discussed include the sins of the people, the life of Saul, who became Paul, and many of the issues surrounding Baptism and the occurrence of miracles.
From the Paper "As well the apostles are required to help the world understand the teachings of Christ and to encourage them to carry forward the word of the Lord themselves, that is, in order to be converted and Saved. To that end, Peter performs a miracle, and both he and John preach the word of God to the people; as a result, the people begin to sell their possessions and give their lives over to Christ. An enraged Jewish authority then arrest the apostles for their heresies about resurrection and their apparent threat to what the authorities would have felt was their own just and rightful leadership. The apostles proclaimed Christ to be the one true power, and though the authorities were swayed by their "notable miracle" (4:16), they chose to contain their voices by commanding them not to speak, nor teach, the Word of the Lord. Of course, the apostles would return to their teachings in the temple, performing miracles, and would again face conflict with the authorities."
Abstract This paper is an in-depth exploration of the role of the Apostles after Christ's resurrection. The author details 'The Acts' and its teachings, which marked the beginning of Christianity. The Apostles' goals in the aftermath of Christ's death and resurrection and the roles they played in shaping the development of Christianity is examined in detail. Some of the topics discussed include the sins of the people, the life of Saul, who became Paul, and many of the issues surrounding Baptism and the occurrence of miracles.
From the Paper "As well the apostles are required to help the world understand the teachings of Christ and to encourage them to carry forward the word of the Lord themselves, that is, in order to be converted and Saved. To that end, Peter performs a miracle, and both he and John preach the word of God to the people; as a result, the people begin to sell their possessions and give their lives over to Christ. An enraged Jewish authority then arrest the apostles for their heresies about resurrection and their apparent threat to what the authorities would have felt was their own just and rightful leadership. The apostles proclaimed Christ to be the one true power, and though the authorities were swayed by their "notable miracle" (4:16), they chose to contain their voices by commanding them not to speak, nor teach, the Word of the Lord. Of course, the apostles would return to their teachings in the temple, performing miracles, and would again face conflict with the authorities."
Abstract The paper maintains that Stott's book, "The Cross of Christ," is an important book. For those Christians who want to further explore the meaning behind the Cross and behind Christ's death, it is a thought-provoking resource. The paper explains how Stott makes a very good case for the Cross being more than simply important, but rather that it is a vital part of Christianity. Without the Cross, Stott argues that Christianity as we know it would not exist. The paper is of the opinion that after reading this book, it is difficult to argue with this perspective.
From the Paper "John R. W. Stott takes the position that the Cross is essential to Christianity. He makes his convincing argument by dividing the discussion into four parts, discussing the Cross as a symbol, the need for forgiveness, the spiritual benefits that the Cross has provided to believers and finally, on the practical and earthly teachings that the Cross can offer. Stott does not have all the answers on the subject of Christ's Cross. However, the book is a thoughtful and complex study offering suggestions on the subject of the Cross upon which Christ died. The Cross is important, Stott states, because it performs more than the single function of being the method of execution favored by the Romans."
Abstract This book review strongly recommends Thomas Kempis' "The Imitation of Christ" and claims that it is a life-changing book for Christian readers. The paper summarizes the book and discusses some of the issues it addresses, such as self-assessment, resisting temptation and the willingness to change. The author concludes by stating that the book helped him to become more self-reflective and aware of the changes that need to be made in his life.
Table of Contents:
The Benefits of Reading "The Imitation of Christ"
The Importance of Self-Assessment
Resisting Temptation and the Willingness to Change
Personal Relationship to Christ Putting God First and the Willingness to Change
From the Paper "Throughout Kempis's meditations, the focus is on self-reflection and being willing to make changes when needed. The third book of Kempis's writings is different in that the disciple speaks and then the voice of Christ. One of the stories in the Old Testament is about Samuel hearing the voice of God. He is told to ask the Lord to speak to him. The second chapter in the III Book says, "Speak, therefore, Lord, for your servant listens. 'Thou hast the words of eternal life. Speak to me for the comfort of my soul and for the amendment of my life" (Kempis IIIii para. 7). When I read this, I asked myself if I was willing to listen. Am I willing to hear his voice? Sometimes we are so busy that we fail to hear his voice."
Abstract This paper is an in-depth exploration of the role of the Apostles after Christ's resurrection. The author details 'The Acts' and its teachings, which marked the beginning of Christianity. The Apostles' goals in the aftermath of Christ's death and resurrection and the roles they played in shaping the development of Christianity is examined in detail. Some of the topics discussed include the sins of the people, the life of Saul, who became Paul, and many of the issues surrounding Baptism and the occurrence of miracles.
From the Paper "As well the apostles are required to help the world understand the teachings of Christ and to encourage them to carry forward the word of the Lord themselves, that is, in order to be converted and Saved. To that end, Peter performs a miracle, and both he and John preach the word of God to the people; as a result, the people begin to sell their possessions and give their lives over to Christ. An enraged Jewish authority then arrest the apostles for their heresies about resurrection and their apparent threat to what the authorities would have felt was their own just and rightful leadership. The apostles proclaimed Christ to be the one true power, and though the authorities were swayed by their "notable miracle" (4:16), they chose to contain their voices by commanding them not to speak, nor teach, the Word of the Lord. Of course, the apostles would return to their teachings in the temple, performing miracles, and would again face conflict with the authorities."
Abstract The author of this paper attended a Jehovah's Witness service "Memorial for Christ's Death" (akin to a Passover Celebration or Easter Service). In a personal observation, the author notes the social interaction and comments on the differences between members and "outsiders". Details of the service are also included, textually and graphically.
From the Paper "I do feel that the people I met were sincere in their belief that they were practicing God's will, but what was the "hidden agenda". I definitely conformed to the social standard operating procedures regardless of my religion. Their meeting place, the "Kingdom Hall" is subtle thus reinforcing the passive attitude of the attendees. I think way the Witnesses dressed distinguishes them from society. Even though I was clean and presentable I felt different. I think that they present themselves as interested (introducing themselves) and helpful (sharing the hymn book) to convince outsiders that they are a caring organization. If one is convinced that they are an organization to be trusted then perhaps the ultimate goal of converting new recruits can be reached."
Abstract This paper examines the way in which Hemingway uses Christ imagery to characterize Santiago in his novel, "The Old Man and the Sea." The paper explains how Hemingway emphasizes the power of suffering.
From the Paper "On the surface Ernest Hemingway's novella "The Old Man and the Sea" appears to be a rather simple story about an old fisherman and his struggles on the open sea. If one delves deeper into the narrative, however, it becomes apparent that Hemingway's intent is much more complex. Indeed the way in which the author utilizes religious symbolism within the novella works to effectively convey his main theme, namely, man's ability to endure through hardships and the nobility of such struggles."
Tags: hemingway, old man and the sea, santiago, christ, crucifixion, religious, symbolism, suffering, sacrifice, nobility
Abstract This paper explains that there are several ambiguities presented in the metaphysical and the materialist approaches to understanding the universe. The author points out that the basis of Hartshorne's arguments is blind faith, but his presentations are convincing, as he has considered "time" and "necessity" as important factors. The paper states that, through a doctrinal approach, the relation between God and the ?Nature of Christ? may be explained through the understanding that Christ is God himself or at least an extension of him in the form of flesh, and this specifically relates to all His (Christ) divine actions while He was on earth.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Review
Hartshorne's Argument
Immanuel Kant's Contradiction
Evidence from the Bible
The ?Nature of Christ?: Old and New Testaments
The Dualist Perspective
Descartes? Opinion
Ryle's Opinion
H.H. Price's Opinion
Hick's Opinion
Statement of the Problem
Thesis
Scope
Key Words
Terms and their Meanings
Perspectives (Philosophical)
Perspectives (Theological)
Proposal
From the Paper "In Descartes dualist concept, the belief in the existence of the mind and body is essential. Based on this concept, Descartes was able to know where he stood; he knew then that he existed because he could think. Hence, he believed in the following that is popular in contemporary times "cogito ergo sum" or "we think, therefore we are". Descartes apparently has had significant impact on concepts of life after death. However, he faced obstacles in certain explanations, and this is because he could not provide convincing explanation for the relationship between body and mind."
Abstract The paper describes the way that the film, "Passion of Christ" starts with a painful prayer from Jesus Christ followed by his disciple Judas betraying him. The author believes that the tortures and beatings of Jesus Christ are shown so intensely that they disturb the viewer's emotions. The paper relates the film's slow, gloomy environment as Christ moves along the path to the Mount of Olives. The author thinks that the most outstanding feature of the film is the portrayal of the human nature of the Son of God, which is beautifully expressed throughout the different emotional incidents.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
About the Story
Characterization of People
Characterization of Time
Characterization of Town and Others
From the Paper "The entire movie moves along a single streak of time expect for the events of Jesus' life and his preaching remembered now and then .The sky, the sun and the moon are used to denote transition of time. Jesus Christ is caught on a gloomy night when he offers prayers to God to free him from the evil. Satan appears and signifies the start of evil. Mother Mary also feels that night to be strange and signifying something evil."
Abstract This paper explores and explains the two natures of Christ. Here, the term "two natures of Christ" refers to the fact that Christ was both divine, being the son of God and therefore holy, as well as being human.
Abstract This paper explains that some film critics point out some glaring historical and scriptural inaccuracies in ?The Passion of the Christ?; using Latin might have been an impressive and unusual screenwriting technique, but it lent only a false sense of historical accuracy to the film. The author points out that part of why ?The Passion of the Christ? is passionless is because Gibson does not endeavor to explain the teachings of Jesus or invoke any real sympathy for the man. The paper concludes that the film does deliver a poignantly visceral rendition of the Passion of Christ, even if it does not amount to filmmaking genius and reveals the mind of Mel more than the mind of God.
From the Paper "The cinematography of "The Passion of Christ" is stunning, and along with the acting, offers the film some saving grace. For instance, at the end of the film, after Jesus has been crucified, Mary holds the body of her dead son with Mary Magdalene at her side in a modern amalgamation of Pieta representations in painting and sculpture. The shot is one of the film's most memorable and expertly composed, as if it were a study for a Michelangelo painting. Moreover, after the crucifixion, some brilliant camera work depicts the event as it would be viewed from heaven, in a swirling mass of color. This scene precedes a supposedly cosmic-inspired earthquake that destroys the Jewish Temple. Whether or not the earthquake actually did occur is irrelevant because Gibson was going for meaning and effect."
Abstract This paper attempts to present the salvation of Jesus Christ to those of the Jewish faith. The author provides a short history of Judaism and points out the many similarities of Christianity and Judaism. The paper states that many Jews resist believing in Jesus, for accepting him may be seen as abandonment of the Jewish heritage. The author argues that Christ is the answer to prophecies in the Old Testament and that the New Testament is actually a continuance of the Old Testament. The paper also disputes that since the bible is seen as the true word of God, even those of the Jewish faith should give credence to the message of Jesus Christ as observed in the New Testament.
From the Paper "Although similar in theology and origin, Christianity and Judaism incorporate differences which divide the two to the core. However, the Jewish people should recognize Jesus' message as the follow up from the one and only Lord. Christianity, as professed in the Gospels of the New Testament should be seen as the extension of the word of God, which originally appeared in the pages of the Old Testament."
Abstract A detailed analysis of the crucifixion of Christ. The author concentrates on the symbolism of the body of Christ during the crucifixion. It also looks at the importance and meaning that this created for the understanding and the conception of the human body during this time (in art and literature) and later on for the Christian religion and faith.
From the Paper "The symbolism of the body of Christ during the passion was the most influential and striking image during our later Medieval to the early modern period. The pain and wracking influence of the passion was so engrained on each person, through art, and through the constant images of crucifixion and pain that they viewed from day to day. This body held so much symbolism, each nook and cranny, and the importance of every wound. Because of this the manner in which the body of Christ is represented in art and literature is vitally important to understanding the conception of the human body during this time and the conception of the religion of these people."
Abstract This paper analyzes how Holden's religious beliefs are in fact driven by his dissatisfaction with society by utilizing a key quote from the novel "Catcher in the Rye" by J.D. Salinger. It looks at how Holden's close consideration of Christ as a lone figure, in spite of the Disciples surrounding him, shows that he identifies with Christ, by feeling that he himself is alone and not helped by anyone. It shows how Holden likens himself to Jesus because he feels both of them were misunderstood and unsupported in their intentions. Neither he nor Jesus had the support of those around them and neither, in Holden's eyes, have succeeded to achieve what they had wanted.
From the Paper "Holden basically feels a likeness to Jesus Christ because he sees in himself, as in Jesus, somebody who loves mankind and who wishes to do something good for the people -- but who is either misunderstood or simply not cared for by those who, according to logic, should be his most ardent supporters. For Jesus these are the Disciples, whom Holden finds to have been of as much use to Him as "a hole in the head." In his own life, it is, first and foremost, his family -- the mother and father who did not help him deal with his brother Allie's death and who don't try to solve his teenage problems and depression. There are also his teachers, who are supposed to be his guidance in everyday life but who, even if they do try to help, do it in an arrogant and condescending way like Mr. Spencer. "
Abstract This paper looks at how both Ernest Gaines and William Faulkner utilize the idea of a metaphorical Christ-figure in their respective novels "A Lesson Before Dying" and "Light in August." Though the type of Christ-figure portrayed in each novel differs dramatically, the writer shows how both tie into the Biblical story of Jesus in a unique way and impart in the reader a better understanding of overall themes and morals that the author attempts to convey.
From the Paper "Clear evidence exists in both A Lesson Before Dying and Light in August to indicate that Jefferson and Christmas are intended by the authors as Christ-figures. In Lesson, Gaines frequently refers directly to religious times like Easter in connection with Jefferson's execution. Even more blatantly, Jefferson says to Wiggins while in jail, "Me, Mr. Wiggins. Me. Me to take the cross?? This establishes beyond reasonable doubt that Jefferson's character has some religious significance in the context of Christ. Faulkner also clearly alerts his readers to the connection between Joe Christmas and Christ. Christmas' name alone, which contains within it the name Christ and the initials "J.C.," provides enough to establish the relationship. Further evidence exists in numerous references to crucifixion and wooden poles that may serve as metaphors for the cross."
