Classes Are Underway

Whew, finding time to blog is going to be tough! I've spent the afternoon trying to be proactive as far as homework goes. Some sort of "set the tone for the semester" thing going on, I guess. My first class was this morning. We talked about the nature of Scripture, Inspiration, Inerrancy vs. Infallibility, and Canonicity (all in a days work). I wanted to offer a few reflections based on that class and some conversations I've been having with friends.

First, I could go into a huge discourse on Inerrancy vs. Infallibility, talk about inconsistencies in text, the nature of inspiration, etc., but I don't think this is the venue. Scripture is authoritative in my life. It bears witness to our Savior and His teachings. It clearly states that the Christian life is one of "agape" love, as defined by the cross. I'm told therein of a God who loved me and the rest of His creation enough to become a man, die, descend to hell, and rise again on the third day in order to redeem that creation, which includes me, to Himself.

Second, the authors of the Bible never sat down to write with theological intentions in mind. What I mean is Paul didn't devote a portion of his letter to the Romans (chapter 9) or to the Ephesians (chapter 1) with the intent of clearing up any rogue theisms in either of those churches. He didn't write in order to weigh in on the Reformed View, or the Arminian View, or the Open View, or any nuance thereof. He wrote to teach and admonish his church plants in love. Jesus didn't tell his followers they were to be known by their profession of dispensationalism, but by their love (John 13:35). Therefore, my first and most common response to Scripture should be the realization of my brokenness, my need for a Savior, and my desire to live and to live like Him. This cannot get lost amidst my practice of theology.

By the way of a disclaimer, I will echo and affirm Paul's argument in 1 Corinthians 15. (I know, how noble of me to affirm Scripture). If Christ didn't actually die for our sins and actually resurrect on the third day, "then our preaching is in vain and [our] faith is in vain" (1Cor 15:14, ESV). The historicity of these events, the existence of this Man, we must hold to as the foundation of our faith, lest it all be in vain.

There it is, my rant is done. If every class session for the rest of my degree here is this stimulating, I count myself chief among the blessed in this world. I'll leave with a top 3 reading list from this summer.

3. A Million Miles in a Thousand Years by Donald Miller. I started the summer with this book. It is an inspiring read on story and how I am writing mine. Not Miller's best work, but very good nonetheless.

2. Prodigal God by Timothy Keller. For anyone who ever struggles in the identity we have as God's adopted children, read this book. Over and over again. The imagery is unbelievable; I tear up every time I picture God running to me.

1. Sex God by Rob Bell. This book has deeply satisfied what I have observed is a glaring lack in conversation about sexuality in the church. Rob takes an honest biblical look at the concept of sexuality and its godly expression. Must read.

"Therefore, my beloved brothers and sisters, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain." (1Cor 15:58)

Grace and Peace to you all,

Mike