An Exploration of Christianity
Weekly Essay for November 16, 2004 by James E. Nelson
This essay is a bit longer. It is both a story and a theological exploration. I have divided it into sections to make it more accessible. I assume not everyone will be interested in every part, so the following table of contents will help guide you through.
Chapter 1: A Conversation with a Cult Member
The beginning of the story. This takes place several months ago.
Excursis 1: Why My Niece Doesn't Believe in the Trinity
As a committed Christian and trained theologian, I wouldn't want anyone thinking I'm soft of heresy. This is a brief history of the doctrine of the Trinity. It's not a pretty picture and understanding that helps explain why some have rejected the doctrine.
Excursis 2: The Monophysite Conundrum, or, “What if a person says the wrong things but worships the right way?”
There is historical precedence for the questions I explore in the first excursis. This is an historical study setting out the foundations for my questions.
Chapter 2: A Tale of Two Weddings
Maybe I took a few too many "contrast and compare" essay tests in college and seminary. In this chapter I pick up the story several months later then contrast and compare my niece's wedding to another wedding I recently attended.
Chapter 3: Sacraments – Redefining an old idea.
I truly admire the energy young Christians put into discovering their own faith. I did that myself and wouldn't trade the experience. Ah, if only we could all have the historical perspective that comes with age. It would save us a lot of work when we're older. This chapter is a meditation on these fundamental sensibilities that have driven Christians through the centuries.
Copyright © 2004 James E. Nelson (Just Another Jim). All Rights Reserved.
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