Arts and Humanities Commons^™

Pastoral Care In Lutheran Rural America-Its Uniqueness And Challenge, Stephen Nickodemus

Master of Divinity Thesis

The subject of this research paper deals with the topic, Pastoral Care in Lutheran Rural America: Its Uniqueness and Challenge. The paper will be divided into four chapters as follows: (1) Pastoral Care in general, a Lutheran definition and what this entails for the Lutheran pastor; (2) Rural America, the unique American sub-culture: what it is and how it is changing; (3) Lutheran Rural America, a definition and how it is changing; and (4) Pastoral Care in Lutheran Rural America its uniqueness and its challenge to the Lutheran Pastor. Each of these chapters might involve an entire research paper, but …

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.

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.

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 …

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.

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 …

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 …

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 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.

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.

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

Master of Sacred Theology Thesis

No abstract provided.

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.

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 …

A Lutheran Confessional Critique Of The Understanding And Function Of The Believer’S Union With Christ In The Theolcgy Of Watchman Nee, Dennis Paul Schiefelbein

Master of Sacred Theology Thesis

The purpose of this thesis, therefore, is to construct systematically Nee's understanding of the believer's union with Christ, and then outline the function he ascribes to this union in Christian sanctification. Then after identifying specific focal points on which Nee's theological system depends, I will bring an extensive study of the Lutheran Confessions to bear on these issues. In terms of a question, has Nee developed a theology which may be acceptable to Confessional Lutheranism? Our study will begin with a brief historical section on Nee.

Soli Deo Gloria: The Relationship Between Christianity And The Arts, Frederic Baue

Master of Divinity Thesis

For Eliot, for Bach, for the redeemed of every age, "Soli Deo Gloria" sums up the relationship between Christianity and the arts. It is the purpose of this paper to examine that relationship, past, present, and future.

The Whole Counsel Of God: A Study Of The Development Of The Church Year And The Pericopal System, Neil Andersen

Master of Divinity Thesis

Within the scope of this paper the cycle of worship will be examined. This cycle of worship, called the "Church Year" has taken two forms. Traditionally, with the Roman Catholic Church, the Church of England, the Eastern Rites, and the Lutheran Churches a set pattern or Liturgical Year has been followed. As will be seen this has developed into a rich and complete celebration including the life and ministry of the Savior from His birth and culminating in His Triumphant return. The first half is termed the First Semester of the Church Year or the Dominical Semester. This is followed …

Billy Graham’S Theology Of Conversion In The Light Of The Lutheran Confessions, Wilhelm Stoll

Master of Sacred Theology Thesis

The broad aim of the author was therefore to prepare a comprehensive summary of Graham's theology of conversion and to offer a comparative and critical analysis of it in the light of the Lutheran Confessions. The aim was not to deal specifically with the obvious question of the sacraments and their serious omission from his theology. In any case, the study was to be based only on Graham's own published writings, and they hardly refer to the sacraments. The more specific goal within the broader context that had to be considered was to discover and come to grips with the …

Catecismo-Instrucción Primera Comunión-Bilingüe, Gerardo Kempff

Catecismo

No abstract provided.

The Preservation And Restoration Of Creation With A Special Reference To Romans 8:18-23, Robert Neff

Doctor of Theology Dissertation

The topic dealt with in this dissertation is "The Preservation and Restoration of Creation." In dealing with this topic there is "A Special Reference to Rom. 8:18-23" since this passage, if any, is the "sedes doctrinae" of such a topic. To deal with this passage of Scripture in connection with the "Restoration of Creation" is not at all exotic or peripheral to the Gospel message. R. C. H. Lenski sees the teaching of this pericope as "the final result of justification by faith as it is depicted by Paul. This is the great consolation section ofRomans."1If the human body is …

An Examination Of The Lutheran Doctrine Of Conversion, George Volkert

Master of Divinity Thesis

Having summarized the doctrine of conversion and its relation to the various articles of faith, it becomes incumbent upon us in a paper of the scope of this one to focus our attention on one aspect of this vast topic with the present prominence of "decision theology,” popularized by such as Billy Graham and asserted in many evangelism programs, notably Dr. James Kennedy's Evangelism Explosion, one particular aspect of Lutheran teaching stands out as deserving our special attention. That point on which we wish to concentrate is Luther's understanding of man as pure passive (purely passive) or mere passive(merely passive) …

Two Early Church Homilies Compared, Russell Sommerfeld

Master of Divinity Thesis

Thus, it becomes the purpose of this paper to examine the two earliest extant homilies of the Early Church in order to glean from them an import of assistance in doing the homiletical task today. The two early sermons to be examined, compared and used as homiletical tools are the, so-called, second Epistle of Clement and Passion Homily of Melito . Bishop of Sardis.

The Reformation In Norway: A Historical-Bibliographical Survey, Jack Preus

Master of Divinity Thesis

The purpose of this study is to explore a few of the many questions that could be raised concerning the advent of the Reformation to Norway. When did the Lutheran Church of Norway begin? How did it come into being? Where did it begin? Where did it flourish first? How did Norway become a truly “Lutheran" country? Who were the heros or the antiheros of the Reformation in Norway? Where can one go to find out more about the Church of Norway? This study attempts to answer some of these questions.

The Influence Of Traditional Practices In The Church Life Of Etche People, Emmanuel Amadi

Master of Sacred Theology Thesis

All through the ages, even before the advent of Christianity, the Ibos, in general, have treasured these practices because they served their cultural and social concerns. But no sooner was Christianity introduced into the various segments of our society than conflicts upon conflicts began to erupt. The Etche man, like his relatives the Ibos, is torn between two worlds. Christianity demands that he give up his past, while his culture insists that he stick to his heritage. The Etche man today asks how these conflicting thoughts can be reconciled. In this thesis, the writer shall attempt to describe these traditional …

An Effort To Sample Scientifically The Attitudes Of Pastors Toward Alcholism In A Section Of The Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod, James Hallerberg

Master of Sacred Theology Thesis

What attitudes do pastors have toward alcoholics? Specifically, do parish pastors of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod have positive or negative attitudes in their ministry to alcoholics? Are the attitudes of pastors a significant factor in an effective ministry to alcoholics? What attitudinal factors can be specified as having particular significance? These are the fundamental questions which this study addresses.

A Critical And Exegetical Analysis Of Exodus Twenty-Four With Special Attention To Covenant Ratification, Peter Talia

Doctor of Theology Dissertation

The discussion employed in this treatise, first, sets forth the original text of Exodus 24 in its original languages, in order to present the evidence for the traditional view and to test it by an examination of these languages. This rather fresh procedure has been done in order to put the case in its most favorable light, reduce the limits of uncertainty proportionally in favor of the traditional view and support the originality and integrity of the chapter in question. In this way the internal tests of the trustworthiness of these texts will be exhibited and the historic character of …

Covenant And Kingdom As Fulfilled In The Synoptics, Marvin Middendorf

Doctor of Theology Dissertation

The first chapter of this paper will concern itself with the covenant concept in the Old Testament and related literature. The second chapter will take up the kingdom concept in the same material. In Chapter III the kingdom concept will be considered on the basis of the Synoptic Gospels. Chapter IV will concern itself with the covenant concept in the Synoptics. Finally, in Chapter V a comparison will be made between the two concepts. Similarities, differences, and unique features of each concept will be discussed.