Arts and Humanities Commons^™

Prolegomena To The Study Of Hegel's Philosophy Of Religion, Alan Borcherding

Master of Divinity Thesis

This introduction is designed to aid a person with the desire to study the Hegelian philosophy of religion; it is not itself an introduction to his philosophy of religion (this ought to be obvious from the relative length of the early chapters and the relative brevity of the last two chapter0. It is hoped that three particular enemies of the reader in Hegel's philosophy can be overcome in this paper: the tracing of origins, the identification of main principles, and the vast literature.

Developing Pastoral Counseling In The Missionary Church Of Brazil Through The Oms International, Darrell Wayne Mishler

Western Evangelical Seminary Theses

The local pastor will have ample opportunity to counsel his flock. This, simply, is a fact. People will bring their problems to him, and the well-being of his ministry-not to mention himself--may depend on the pastor's management of these important times. The "people-helper"-oriented pastor will probably welcome this ministry, even though it has the potential of being a stressful form of shepherding. A goal for this project is to facilitate the development of the pastoral counseling role of the Brazilian local pastor, making him as totally effective a minister as possible. For, to quote Dr. Wayne Oates, "... (the pastor's) …

Recent Developments In Daniel Research, Erwin J. Joham

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses, Dissertations & Projects

This thesis analyzes and evaluates significant directions in Daniel research during the past fifteen to twenty years. The material is organized in two categories (a) introductory, (b) exegetical, which form the two main parts of the thesis.

In the first chapter on introductory material I review studies dealing with provenance, authorship, text, and literary style and form of the Book of Daniel. The second chapter examines the interpretations of specific portions of the Book, particularly chapter seven.

The general finding of this study shows a more cautious use of extra-Biblical sources for Daniel, and a growing emphasis upon the Biblical, …

St. Paul's Apostolic Authority And His First Letter To The Corinthians, Robert Weinhold

Master of Divinity Thesis

The search for an authoritative word from God has been at the heart and center of man's struggle for existence since the beginning of time. God, in His wisdom, has seen fit to provide that authoritative word through many messengers in the course of history. Abraham, Moses, Samuel, Isaiah and Malachi were all messengers, mediators, of God's sacred will to his chosen and beloved people, Israel. With the sending of his own Son, God sent the ultimate messenger in the perfect God-Man, Jesus. Even though Jesus spoke God's message clearly and perfectly, man still needed guidance in understanding God's will …

High Technology And The Church: The Computer As An Aid To Ministry, Warren Uecker

Master of Divinity Thesis

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the possible uses and potential benefits to the church on the congregational level of highly technological advances in the area of data management and information handling. More specifically, this discussion will center around the feasibility of the use of the small computer in the parish setting, including areas not only involving the financial and bookkeeping functions of the congregation but also, and in more detail, other potential uses of a computer system which could benefit the mission and ministry of the parish.

Towards A Model For The Religious Nurture Of Black Young Adults In Urban Seventh-Day Adventist Churches, Byron Dulan

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses, Dissertations & Projects

Black young adults in urban Seventh-day Adventist churches are not only leaving the fellowship of the church in alarming numbers, but those who continue with the church do not seem to be growing in spiritual maturity as might be expected. Written from the historical, sociological, and theological perspective, the thesis endeavors to analyze the dynamics at work in the Black church and among urban Black young adults, with a view toward developing a viable program of religious nurture at the local church level.

Since the 1940's, little has been written regarding religious nurture in Black churches of any Christian denomination …

Faith And Readiness In The Faith Stage Theory Of James W. Fowler, Douglas Herrmann

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses, Dissertations & Projects

James W. Fowler's theory of faith stage development has received widespread attention and general approval, especially in religious education circles. The first part of this paper examines the stage theory of Fowler, concentrating on the concept of faith assumed by this theorist. The second part applies the theory to secondary religious, education, following the concept of "readiness" inherent in Fowler's work.

The research procedure for the first part consists of a survey of literature in three areas: 1. Fowler's published work from 1974, when he began, to the present; 2. critiques of Fowler's work; 3. the writings of selected theologians …

Theological Education In The Third World: An Appraisal And Recommendation, Thomas Warren Hawkins Land

Western Evangelical Seminary Theses

Theological education in the third world is caning of age, but not without growing pains. The church overseas has been experiencing tremendous growth in recent years and is becoming more mature. Because of this, the demand for well-trained leaders has increased remarkably. In many areas of the world, the established theological schools have not been able to supply the necessary numbers of trained pastors required by the churches. This is further aggravated by the fact that not all of the graduates of theological and Bible schools actually became pastors. This phenomenon has precipitated a serious and necessary re-evaluation of the …

Theological Education In The Third World: An Appraisal And Recommendation, Thomas Warren Hawkins Land

Western Evangelical Seminary Theses

Theological education in the third world is coming of age, but not without growing pains. The church overseas has been experiencing tremendous growth in recent years and is becoming more mature. Because of this, the demand for well-trained leaders has increased remarkably. In many areas of the world, the established theological schools have not been able to supply the necessary numbers of trained pastors required by the churches. This is further aggravated by the fact that not all of the graduates of theological and Bible schools actually become pastors. This phenomenon has precipitated a serious and necessary re-evaluation of the …

The Predestinarian Controversy And Its Effects On The Missouri Synod's Attempts Toward Lutheran Unity, John Wohlrabe

Master of Divinity Thesis

This paper will attempt to set forth important facts involved in the Predestinarian Controversy and then analyze its effects on the Missouri Synod’s attempts toward Lutheran unity. One must realize that it is very difficult to set forth a totally unbiased account and analysis. Yeti have sincerely tried to give an honest presentation while holding true to my own convictions.

Gifts Of The Spirit, Glenn Nielsen

Master of Divinity Thesis

The format for this paper is relatively simple. First, a brief section on the history of spiritual gifts will be given. This will be followed by an indepth doctrinal study of the subject. On the basis of that study, each gift will be discussed with the purpose of providing a definition for that gift. And last, the benefits and dangers involved with the use of spiritual gifts within the Church today will be discussed. But, while the format is relatively simple, the topic of spiritual gifts is not. Thus it is wise always to keep in mind Paul’s advice when …

The Material Principle Of Lutheran Theology As A Hermeneutical Presupposition, Ralph Blomenberg

Master of Divinity Thesis

The scope of this paper has been limited by suggestion of the advisor to a discussion of the material principle of Lutheran theology as a hermeneutical presupposition, although readings for the research elective included a much wider range of subjects related to contemporary hermeneutics. It is the purpose of this paper to demonstrate the theological background for the concept of the Lutheran material principle, to describe its function as a hermeneutical presupposition, and to demonstrate that certain presuppositions of some contemporary methods of interpretation contradict those underlying the material principle of Lutheran theology.

The Validity Of Separating Altar From Pulpit Fellowship, Steven Bauer

Master of Divinity Thesis

This solution to the problem of church fellowship between the ALC and the LCMS deserves some attention. It offers a simple but practical compromise which seems to go a long way towards seeking out Christian fellowship among Lutheran church bodies which are very close while protecting their concern for the truth of God's Word. But, no matter how pratical it may be, the primary question we must ask of it is, "Is this in accordance with God's Word?” The purpose of this paper is to determine whether the separation of altar from pulpit fellowship is valid in the light of …

The Gift Of Prophecy In The New Testament, Kevin Popp

Master of Divinity Thesis

The purpose of this study is not to provide a thorough treatment of all spiritual gifts, but to concentrate on one such gift and trace it through the entire witness of Scripture. It is hoped that this method will contribute to the overall understanding of spiritual gifts and provide a basis for continuing study.

A Basic Course For Sunday School Teacher Training, Rebecca Wang

Western Evangelical Seminary Theses

Teaching has never been easy. There is no formula for instant teaching success. It takes time, energy, patience, work and prayer. But, teaching can be a exciting and satisfying experience, if the teacher knows what to teach and how to do it effectively.

There are many specific steps and techniques which teachers can employ that will lead to more effective teaching. This project is a attempt to identify and systematize some of the basic elements of teaching and learning in the church. We can not cover everything, but we can uncover some of the essential inqurdients to effective teaching.

Teacher …

Relations Between The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod And The Igreja Evangelica Luterana Do Brasil, Paulo Buss

Master of Sacred Theology Thesis

This study is an attempt to describe and analyze the relations between the Synod (LC-MS) and the Brazil District., the Igreja Evangelica Luterano do Brasil (IELB). A study of this nature seems to be particularly timely now that the traditional relations between Synod and District have given place to a new relationship in which both organizations see themselves as partner churches.

The Ministry Of Jesus Christ As The Fulfillment Of The Servant Prophecies Of Isaiah, Vilson Scholz

Master of Sacred Theology Thesis

No abstract provided.

The Mediation Of The Spirit Through The Word: A Critical Analysis Of The Theology Of Theodore Jungkuntz In The Light Of The Lutheran Confessions, Timothy Maschke

Master of Sacred Theology Thesis

A critical analysis of any theology can be presumptuous at worst; unnecessary at best. This study was undertaken a number of years ago as the writer struggled to determine the critical area where the charismatic movement touches Lutheran theology most sensitively. To start with a premise that the Lutheran charismatic movement is heretical (as a few writers have assumed) did not seem scholarly or fair. To impose Lutheran terminology on charismatic and nee-Pentecostal concepts seemed equally unsound. After observing the growing pains of the Lutheran charismatic movement, the writer became aware that a study of one area--the mediation of the …

Augustana Vii And The Unity Of The Church Major Interpretive Accents In Nineteenth And Twentieth Century American Lutheranism, Mark Wangerin

Master of Sacred Theology Thesis

It is the intent of this thesis to examine the meaning of the Seventh Article of the Augsburg Confession on the basis of the article itself, its Scriptural and creedal antecedents, and its context within the corpus of the Lutheran Confessions. The interpretation of this article by key theologians of the period of Lutheran Orthodoxy as well as by nineteenth century American Lutherans will then be presented. Finally, the clashing and sometimes bitter debate regarding the interpretation of this article in the twentieth century will be fully presented both from the viewpoint of official church documents am from the pen …

The Cosmic Christ Of Colossians, Victor Raj

Doctor of Theology Dissertation

This study was undertaken as an attempt to evaluate and possibly correct some recent interpretations of Christ's person and work. Much of theology today has left the impression that Christianity is just another agency of good will to fight against social, political and eco­ nomic injustice in the world. Accordingly, the motive behind much of contemporary theological discussions has been to challenge the church to join in what is often called the "humanization" of man.

It is our position that Christology occupies the pivotal position in any facet of Christian theology. In fact, it performs normative functions for the rest …

Predestination: A Comparative Analysis Of The Theology Of A. W. Pink In Relation To The Westminster Confession Of Faith, Richard Belcher

Doctor of Theology Dissertation

The subject matter of this dissertation concerns the doctrine of predestination in the theology of Arthur W. Pink. The study will include a comparison of his view to the Westminster Confession of Faith. Several areas of preliminary consideration must be presented before the primary subject can be approached.

Was Jesus The Priestly Messiah A Study Of The New Testament's Teaching Of Jesus' Priestly Office Against The Background Of Jewish Hopes For A Priestly Messiah, Jonathan Grothe

Doctor of Theology Dissertation

Thus, on a narrower scale, this study aims to test an hypothesis in one area of New Testament Christology and to present conclusions regarding it. Since the question involves also the relationship of Judaism to the New Testament, this study also aspires to make a contribution to the ongoing task of methodically examining and carefully describing that relationship. Inasmuch as a major section of the study deals with the Epistle to the Hebrews, it also includes among its goals the attempt to add to the current discussion of the proper background and purpose of Hebrews.

As an historical and exegetical …

Membership Class Guidance For Pastors In The Japanese Free Methodist Church The Study Of Free Methodism And A Japanese Translation Of Belonging: Adventures In Church Membership, Toshiro David Takeya

Western Evangelical Seminary Theses

Excerpt: "The Free Methodist Church was organized in a meeting at Pekin, Niagara County, New York, on August 23, 1860. It came into existence as a result of spiritual declension in the parent body, the Methodist Episcopal Church. The call issued for the meeting by B. T. Roberts in his magazine, The Earnest Christian, identified several positions as a basis for the convention, including (a) the doctrines and usages of primitive Methodism- the witness of the Spirit, entire sanctification as a state of grace distinctive from justification attainable instantaneously by faith, free seats, congregational singing, and plainness of dress; …

A Mid-Week Program Handbook For Children Grades One Through Six, Jo Wiley

Western Evangelical Seminary Theses

This handbook is designed to provide a program skeleton for leaders of mid-week children's programs. The preparation of this book was developed to meet the need of Mock's Crest Evangelical Church of North America. Mock's Crest, like many churches, provides a mid-week Bible study/prayer meeting for youth and adults. Their need was for a program for the primary/junior age children of the adults attending the mid-week service.

A Guided Study To The Gospel According To John, Bruce R. Bray

Western Evangelical Seminary Theses

This project is intended to be used as an adult Bible study guide. It could be used in a Bible study, Sunday School class, or Sunday evening service. The purpose of this research project is compound.

First, it is to make the Scriptures vividly understandable to the student. Hopefully it will be so real that the student can almost reach out his hand and feel the splinters on the cross. It is the hope of the author that each student will see each Biblical person as someone the student can identify with and that he can put himself in the …

A Strategy For The Lutheran Church-Hong Kong Synod To Fulfill The Great Commission Of Making Disciples, Yat Kwong Wong

Master of Sacred Theology Thesis

There are three reasons for writing this thesis" "A Strategy for the Lutheran Church-Hong Kong Synod to Fulfill the Great Commission of Making Disciples. "

In the first place~ no one has evaluated the Hong Kong Synod in regard to church growth since it began thirty years ago. It is necessary to know whether our church in Hong Kong has grown effectively or not. Secondly, since no church on earth is prefect, a study such as this will help in identifying the weaknesses of the Hong Kong Synod as a first step toward improving it.

Finally, the author plans to …

Toward A Seventh-Day Adventist Theology Of Health, Hedrick J. Edwards

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses, Dissertations & Projects

The Seventh-day Adventist Church espouses the Three Angels' Messages of Revelation 14 as its raison d'etre. In its view the special mission of its members is to take these messages to the entire world. Yet about twenty-five percent of the church's financial worth and a much higher percentage of its paid employees are involved in the healthcare enterprise. Does this fact represent a dichotomy in the church's mission, or is it theologically defensible?

This investigation submits that the denomination's involvement in healthcare and training in the healing arts is theologically defensible and does not represent a departure from or a …

An Inquiry Into The Biblical Perspective Of The Purpose Of The Local Church, Herstel G. Carter

Western Evangelical Seminary Theses

The Biblical perspective of the purpose of the local church . That is, this study involves a search to find out from the Scriptures what the church is and what its purpose is.

A Proper Observance Of The Lord's Day Is Necessary For The Physical - Mental - Spiritual Health Of The Christian, Charles Lee Peters

Western Evangelical Seminary Theses

No abstract provided.

The Universal Priesthood Of All Believers: A Study Of Its Major Revivals With Implications For The Christian In Life And Ministry, Alvie E. Robbins

Western Evangelical Seminary Theses

No abstract provided.