Context-Based Theological Education Assignment
Because of the ubiquitous impact of social media and online interactions where subjective narratives frequently take precedence over objective truths postmodernism has a subtle but pervasive hold on my life. An incomplete understanding of reality can result from placing too much emphasis on individual viewpoints. This could lead to different interpretations of biblical teachings in my local church, which could weaken the main point.
“Salvation by Therapy” speaks to the societal desire for instant relief from emotional problems and self-help (Gwynne, 32). In my life, there’s a temptation to rely only on therapeutic methods to achieve emotional well-being instead of growing spiritually and depending on God. This could show up in the local church as a tendency to prioritize counseling over spiritual direction. Context-Based Theological Education Assignment
Building a community devoted to biblical values and objective truth is crucial to fending off these influences (Harris, 7). Postmodern thinking can be lessened by having candid conversations that support a range of viewpoints and firmly establish theological principles. Within the church, putting more emphasis on spiritual development than on fast emotional cures can shift the conversation away from “Salvation by Therapy” and toward a more comprehensive reliance on faith.
Incorporating thorough theological education into church programs can also empower people to assess cultural influences critically and make well-informed, biblically based decisions (Berryman, 20) Within the church, fostering deliberate mentorship relationships can help with navigating the intricacies of postmodern thought and therapeutic approaches.
Ultimately, finding a balance between individual experiences and a common commitment to biblical principles is crucial. Our community can lessen the effects of postmodernism and “Salvation by Therapy” while maintaining a strong theological basis if we work together to overcome these obstacles. Context-Based Theological Education Assignment
Works Cited
Berryman, Keith G. Context-Based Theological Education: An Appraisal by Partnering Churches. Diss. Dallas Baptist University, 2022.https://search.proquest.com/openview/428e16267daf40451f72a0bbe59b617b/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750&diss=y
Gwynne, Amber E. “‘Up to you’: Self-help books, depression and the reconstruction of reading.” Media, Culture & Society (2023): 01634437231198431.https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/01634437231198431
Harris, Kara Yvette. “Implementing and Equipping a Fivefold Ministry with Theological Education to Defend and Uphold Biblical Doctrines in the Church.” (2022). Context-Based Theological Education Assignment
Wilkins, Steve and Mark L. Sanford. Hidden Worldviews. IVP, 2009. ISBN: 978-0830838547
Wilkins and Sanford: [43 pages]
Chapter 8: “Postmodern Tribalism: My Tribe/My Worldview”
Chapter 9: “Salvation by Therapy: Not as Good as It Gets”
Give specific examples of how Postmodernism and “Salvation by Therapy†are present in your own life and the life of your local church. Describe or propose ways to minimize these influences, or propose a theologically appropriate way to properly direct these tendencies. Context-Based Theological Education Assignment