Abstract This is an exegesis paper analyzing the time period, author, world-view, location and other relevant information regarding this passage in Acts. It also incorporates commentary from a number of sources that reveal the context and meaning behind the passage.
From the Paper "In chapter 9 of the book of Acts, Luke details the resurrection of a woman by the apostle Peter. This, in the broadest terms, is agreed upon by all. However, a number of more minor details are somewhat disputed, and no two translations are exactly the same. One is reminded of the childhood game "Telephone"-each player delivers their perception of the original message, and by the end of the line the original phrase has been so distorted as to be unrecognizable. While the Bible has retained, in large part, its original message, slight alterations (especially when taken as literal fact) are enough to cause disruption and division within churches. By analyzing the differing translations and meanings behind particular passages, one can come to a better understanding of the original intent."
Abstract In this paper, the writer looks at Jackie Robinson who was the first African American baseball player in the major leagues. The writer discusses that Jackie Robinson did not overcome the hatred of racial bigots all across America by sharing their love for baseball; he overcame their hatred by conducting himself as a disciple of Jesus Christ.
From the Paper "Because of his moral courage, Jackie Robinson became a legend both on and off the baseball diamond. As the first African American baseball player in the major leagues, Robinson quietly confronted the pervasive racism infesting mid-twentieth century American society and culture with dignity and a fierce determination to suppress his combative nature. He understood that America's pastime was cherished with almost sacred reverence by tens of millions of Americans and demonstrated his own reverence and unquenchable passion for the game of baseball every time he stepped on to the playing field."
Abstract This paper looks at the stories behind the disciples Matthew, Mark, Luke and John as portrayed in the gospels. It discusses how Matthew was a tax collector before he became a disciple of Jesus and how he gave up everything, how Mark was discovered by Peter, how Luke was believed to be a physician and an evangelist and finally how many believe that John was Jesus' cousin.
From the Paper "Many historians agree that Luke wrote his for the Greek audience and that the book was written around 60 AD. Halley observes that much of Greek culture revolved around culture, philosophy, and education, Luke to a philosophic approach to writing his book. According to Halley, Luke's Gospel is a completely "orderly, and classical story" (Halley 485). MacArthur adds that in this Gospel, we can see Luke's petition to the Greeks because Luke "usually preferred Greek terminology over Hebraisms" (MacArthur 289). Moreover, it is important to note that Luke reinforces the "universal scope of the gospel invitation" (289). Bryant backs up this notion adding that Luke's Gospel is called a "Gospel of the nations, full of mercy and hope, assured to the world by the love of a suffering Savior" (Bryant 392)."
The following paper examines the Bible's use of parables and the way in which they explain complex concepts as well as serving as a deconstruction of what is being symbolized.
1,020 words (approx. 4.1 pages), 3 sources, 2003, $ 36.95
Abstract This essay discusses the use of parables in describing the Kingdom of God. It examines how the parables helped Jesus explain the Kingdom of God to His disciples in terms that they could relate to.
From the paper:
?In the Parables of the Mustard Seed and the Leaven, Jesus described the Kingdom of God using parables. He compared it to a mustard seed in the beginning, saying that when it is first planted, it is the smallest of the seeds on Earth. He added that when it grows, it becomes the greatest of all shrubs. Next Jesus spoke of the parable of the leaven, saying that the Kingdom of God is like a leaven, which a woman took and hid in three measures of flour, until it was all leavened.?
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 examines how women in the New Testament are presented in a positive light with Jesus and how women are seen as individuals who can comprehend the teaching of Jesus. It looks at how Jesus disregards the way he was supposed to treat women as society dictated and how instead he saw them as simply human beings, setting an example for his followers and the rest of the Christian church. It shows how the life of Mary Magdalene clearly illustrates that women were to be seen, treated and spoken to as equal individuals and how her life and time with Jesus and his disciples demonstrate the beginning of social change for women.
From the Paper "Perhaps the strongest example we have of how to treat women is through Jesus himself. Although Jesus did not specifically explain his teaching on women, how he treated them demonstrates his attitude toward them. His encounters with women seem to point to the fact that he expected them to maintain an equal footing in many situations, as did men. In fact, some of the most magnificent conversations were women. These conversations include that of Mary Magdalene and the Samaritan woman, and Martha. From Jesus, we can see how important it is to look beyond social class and race to find the real person. Such thinking was unusual for the society at this time, but Jesus, the disciples, and the women who followed Jesus obviously never experienced any problems with females functioning as active members of their group?in fact, they were probably helpful and even necessary in some circumstances."
Abstract This paper explains that Socrates and his disciples maintained that democracy was not the best form of government because the principles of equality and liberty for everyone were flawed since they gave unwise and uneducated men the right to vote and make important decisions. The author points out that, according to Plato's "Republic", justice is a virtue, which must be exercised in its true spirit to bring about good. The paper concludes, using the grossly unjust case of famous boxer Hurricane, if justice is to be exercised by wise men, it must be seen as a virtue that focuses on extracting good out of any situation.
From the Paper "Justice according to Cephalus was telling the truth and repaying what one receives. Thrasymachus felt justice was the rule of the stronger. Both these views were harshly discredited by Socrates whose version of justice was based on lofty principles of wisdom and virtue. Thrasymachus' view of justice is actually based on injustice. He felt that the people who did not take into consideration the welfare of others were happier and could lead a successful life. How this could be called justice is simply beyond many. Socrates maintained that justice was something good which when exercised must bring out good. In other words, justice should focus on the common good of everyone and must leave the world a better place when exercised."
Tags: government, uneducated, virtue, boxer, president
Abstract This paper explains that, although Plato and Aristotle's views on society and its role were fairly distinct, they had an identical purpose, to create a dignified living for communities. The author points out that concepts of Aristotle are different from those of Plato because Aristotle is an empiricist - he appreciates the relevance of immediate examination to find out the truth; whereas, Plato feels that simple logical conclusion can confirm the ultimate authenticity. The paper relates that, employing Socrates as an illusory narrator, Plato regards the character and the importance of justice as they are observed in the composition of society in general and in the character of an individual human being. Aristotle, disciple of Plato, broadened the concept of virtue by reasoning that righteous behavior should take up some midway between extreme conduct and conduct that lacks.
From the Paper "Concurrently, forgiveness is usually considered as a significant virtue - a society in which there is complete lack of forgiveness will be a society that is oppressive, there is a dearth of freedom and would be devoid of the three fundamental ethics of compassion. That is strange; nevertheless, since forgiveness basically needs that justice not be performed. It has to be understood at this point that forgiveness is not an issue of showing sympathy or behaving well, even though these virtues might result in the likelihood of expressing increased forgiveness. Forgiveness even is not equal to empathy or compassion. The thing forgiveness involves is that certain things less than justice is one. In situations where a criminal who has been convicted begs for forgiveness, in that case he is requesting that a lenient penalty be given compared to what is slated for. While a Christian proscribes before God for forgiveness, she is requesting Him for a lesser penalty than He has in store for her."
Abstract This paper explains that Jesus was born in Bethlehem, sometime between 8 BC and 29 AD, of virgin birth; whereas, Mohammed was born in a well-to-do family in Mecca (in present-day Saudi Arabia) in 570 AD and was raised by his uncle Abu Talib,the leader of the Hashim clan of the Quraish tribe. The author points out that the death of Jesus and Mohammed did not impede the growth of their religions mainly due to the efforts of their disciples. The paper relates that, although moderate Muslims emphasize the peaceful character of the religion, the extremist elements among the Muslims emphasize the aspects of Mohammed's teachings relating to "Jihad" and his military conquests; however, Jesus' message is purely non-violent and stresses the infinite love of God for humanity.
Table of Contents:
Tracing the Lives of Jesus and Mohammed
Jesus
Mohammed
Impact of the Deaths of Jesus and Mohammed on their Religions
How the Messages of Jesus and Mohammed Being Carried out in the World Today
From the Paper "Most Christians believe that Jesus is divine and a member of the Holy Trinity, i.e., one of the three divine persons who are God (the other two being the Father and the Holy Spirit). They believe that he is the Son of God and the Messiah. Hence all those Christians who consider Jesus as divine consider it appropriate to worship him. They do so by singing his praises in hymns, psalms and spiritual songs and by praying to him in the Church. They also quote passages in the Gospel in which the faithful are commanded to worship God (Matthew 4:10; Revelation 19:10; 22:9) and point out that Jesus never objected to his own worship."
A detailed analysis of the passage in 'John 21;1-14' in eight parts including text criticism, historical background, context analysis, literary analysis, literary technique evaluation, exegesis, hermeneutics and theological significance.
Abstract The following paper critically analyzes John 21:1-14, a narrative story about Jesus? post-resurrection appearance to the disciples, which revolves around the faith and activity of the disciples after Jesus? death. This paper asserts that the most important message from the text is that Jesus will be with us no matter where we are or what we are doing especially if we take the time to see Him and listen to his voice.
From the Paper "John 21:1-14, Christ's appearance to the disciples at the Sea of Tiberius, is an important addition to the epilogue of John. It is a feeding story which speaks to all those who doubt the presence of Jesus or who do not recognize his presence in our lives. After Jesus' death, the apostles were portrayed as a group of struggling evangelists who may have forgotten about Jesus. We find them after a night of unsuccessful fishing when Jesus appears, gives them instructions, and they catch a multitude of fish. This narrative offers strength and support to the faith of the Christian community. Today we have so many ways to communicate and share information that it is easy to lose oneself in the process of communication. Sometimes we lose sight of the relationships and the virtues that foster them. Jesus' acts reinforce the need for human interaction in Christian communities. At the same time it raises the concern about the equality of women in today’s society. The vision and challenges of this passage are very relevant to the Christian community today."
Abstract This paper compares and contrasts how the gospels of Mark and John describe the character of Jesus. The paper explains how Mark depicts Jesus as a miracle-worker, an exorcist and healer, and as one that spoke to his disciples in parables. The paper then describes the version of Jesus depicted by John as a riddler, who purposely invites misunderstanding, and who uses word puns to confuse outsiders as well as his own disciples.
From the Paper "The gospels of Mark and John are two very unique gospels that characterize Jesus very differently. Their portrayal of his nature, mission, passion narrative (his death), and the human predicament are largely contrary. Johannine Jesus never tells a parable and never casts out a demon in John. He doesn?t try to ?keep his identity a secret or command others to silence. Jesus does not institute the Last Supper in the Gospel, nor does he go to Gethsemane to pray to be released from his fate ? he is not put on trial before the Sanhedrin or found guilty of committing blasphemy,? but instead is found guilty of political insurrection by Roman officials (Ehrman 159). In Mark, Jesus speaks to crowds in parables, and proclaims the imminent appearance of the kingdom of heaven (to be brought about by his death and resurrection). In John, however, he speaks in word puns to certain people, and plainly to those who know him for who he is. All these differences show that the Markan Jesus was chiefly concerned with overcoming the evil age, the rulers of this world, whereas Johannine Jesus came to find and teach the children of light."
Abstract In an effort to shed light on the the full range and implications of cloning, this paper examines the topic from the point of view of a variety of disciples. The paper uses a multidisciplinary approach, presenting different views from the sciences and the humanities, to help present a broader picture regarding the controversial issues surrounding the medical practice of cloning and to point out that there is a need for all disciples to be heard on these issues. The paper points out that taking this approach allows us to see that, while the sciences view cloning as a great medical asset, the humanities and particularly theology act as balancing agents to prevent possible negative outcomes.
Introduction
Cloning: A Brief Overview
Different and Interrelated Views
Genetics and Biology
Medical Views
Philosophy
Theology
Conclusion
From the Paper "Science fiction has for many years been the purveyor of outlandish and daring ideas about human cloning. However, we now know that cloning has emerged from the realms of science fiction and become science fact. An Italian doctor, Severino Antinori, recently announced that he was in the process of cloning a human baby. Claims of also conducting experiments to clone humans have been made by an American religious sect, "Clone Aid", which shortly expects a "new creation" to arrive through cloning technology. (Bedford-Strohm. 203) "
Abstract This paper explains that John Mark, son of Mary, was not one of Jesus' original disciples; however, it is widely accepted that he traveled with Paul on his first missionary journey; Mark interpreted a story told to him by Peter, one of Jesus' disciples. The author points out that "Gospel of Mark" was written around 60 A. D. and was published in Rome; the thesis of Mark is to present Jesus as the Son of God while being fully human. The paper concludes that Mark gives readers examples of how Christians should live their lives as servants.
From the Paper "Because the Gospel of Mark is not laid out chronologically, the Mark's argument successfully focuses on the character of Jesus. The fact that Mark begins with Jesus' baptism and follows with an account of his ministry is Mark intention to prove that Jesus was indeed a servant of God as well as the Messiah, the Son of God. Mark's construction of the book is effective in this way because it presents with another angle of Jesus' life. He sets out to prove that Jesus is the Son of God who is a servant who suffers to fulfill his father's will. Mark has not neglected any real facts in this text. His gospel is filled with eyewitness accounts and it is also told to him through none other than Peter. These facts give the gospel a certain amount of credibility because it is not something that has been passed from one generation to another."
Abstract This paper takes a negative approach to cult membership. It shows how cult rulers are usually charismatic people who take advantage of their followers in order to achieve the title of leader and obtain unlimited power.
From the Paper "One theme does run through the vast majority of cults: regimen and discipline. The environment is tightly controlled and discipline rigidly enforced by those specially chosen as being on a plane higher than the average "Cultee". What strengthens the young person's resolve to stay is that he or she has to "give up something". The act of giving up is something many of them may never have experienced before. Celibacy, giving up make-up and attractive clothes, even an austere life-style and a special diet: all this speaks of "commitment" a word and an act most of these people had never experienced before".
Tags: Lord's, Disciple, Dianetic, Disciples, John, Brown
Abstract This paper on Confucius and his philosophy begins by explaining that it is difficult to know how much of what is attributed to Confucian thinking comes from the man himself, and how much comes from his disciples. The paper first explores the issue of the history of Confucius, explaining the situation in China at the time, and the lack of a cohesive biography of Confucius. Next, the paper explores the topic of the 'Analects,' a collection of sayings and short dialogues which are said to have been collected by his disciples. The paper explains how Christian missionaries used his texts to appeal to the Chinese, and how Confucius described his own relationship to the higher power.
From the Paper "The development of the history of Confucius is itself interesting. The biography of Confucius which Sse-Ma Ch'ien wrote down among the histories of individual states, was an important point of distinction, for the uncrowned king of China and this will form the foundation of all biographies of Confucius at all stages of history. There was no chronologically arranged biography of Confucius before SseMa Ch'ien wrote it. At the same time, Sse-Ma Ch'ien had his own sources to write it. The historical works from the school established by the Master himself were first considered. Apart from this were the Commentaries of K'ung Yang and Ku Liang on the spring and Autumn Annals of Confucius. Sse-Ma Ch'ien also made extensive use of the History of Tso Ch'iu. This history is divided now into the so-called Tso Chuan. This was seen by the later scholars as a commentary on the spring and Autumn Annals, and the Kuo Yu, which are Speeches from the Various States. (Danton; Danton, 71)"
Tags: Confucius, religion, philosophy, china, chinese
