Arts and Humanities Commons^™

An Exegetical Study Of Galatians 1:1-12, Ted Laesch

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

The passage under discussion, Galatians 1:1-12, serves as a prologue into this great epistle. It is itself unique in its own way. The first part of this paper is a translation of the passage with exegetical notes. Following is a discussion of its limits, structure, style, literary genre, and historical and literary setting.

Christology In Africa: Work In Progress, Carl Rockrohr

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

Can Jesus Christ be preached, teached and confessed only through the worldviews, philosophies and languages of the writers of the Nicene and Chalcedonian creeds? Can Christology be faithfully understood only from traditional Western perspectives? Now in the life of the Christian church in Africa at the end of 20th century, this is a question being addressed by a variety of African Christian theologians. This paper will: 1) briefly outline some difficulties currently being identified by African theologians and missionaries with Christology presented from Western world views in Africa; 2) overview some Christologies developed with an African perspective; and 3) review …

Narrative Seam Antics In Luke's Gospel, James Waddell

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

By presenting the above seven text models at the beginning of this study my intention is to recreate a reading experience I once had. You might say, it is intended to recreate the experience of reading the Magnificat again for the first time.

De Poenitentia Et Evangelio Coming Together And Coming Clear In Luther's Theology, Korey Maas

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

These three breakthroughs - the understanding of God's righteousness, law and gospel, and repentance - are not noted here arbitrarily. While the present examination is concerned primarily with tracing Luther's changing theology of repentance, we can not do so as if this doctrine existed in isolation, standing and falling on its own. Any understanding of repentance, Luther's not excepted, is intimately entwined with one's understanding of God's righteousness and the gospel- and most importantly, how these meet in one's conception of the person and work of Christ.

Holy Baptism’S Liturgy : What Is Extolled In Ones And Threes?, Jonathan Bontke

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

The following is a study of the historical usage of single and triple immersion / sprinkling practices through the first twelve centuries A.D. The questions at hand are: 1) Has either practice historically been predominant 2) What doctrine is informing each practice? 3) Is there a specific text of Scripture informing each practice? 4) How does this study resource us in our current practice?

The Latin expression, "Lex orandi, lex credendi" has for centuries encapsulated the truth that liturgical practice serves a looking glass into the worshiper's theology. It is the purpose of this study to use baptismal liturgies as …

The Usage Of A Κατ Ω Formula In The Book Of Revelation, Shiu Ming Lau

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

In this paper I will first describe the background and usage of the "Alpha and Omega" formula. Next, I will evaluate all these possibilities. Finally, I will explain the meaning and significance of this formula in the Book of Revelation.

Suspended Endings In Ancient Literature-A Context For The Evaluation Of The Ending Of Mark's Gospel, David Lewis

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

In response to this second, literary level argumentation, this paper will attempt to provide evidence which will support the view that Mark 16:1-8 can be properly interpreted on the literary level as the ending intended by the author. In addition, in response to the objection that the use of a sudden, unexpected, inconclusive ending (such as 16:8 would be) demonstrates a modern literary device which would be foreign to ancient authors, this paper will consider the endings of other ancient literary works and examine how these endings function in relationship to the narrative as a whole and to the expectations …

How Can The Ancient Greek Translations Of The Song Of The Suffering Servant, Michael Walther

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

The ancient Greek Translations of The Song of the Suffering Servant 1n Isaiah 52.13-53.12 provide and interesting example of the way 1n which people of the past have struggled with difficult texts. This particular study draws from the septuagint (LXX) as well as the later Greek versions produced by Aquila, Theodotion, and Symmachus. Following a brief review of these four important Greek translations, I will examine the important variations and offer my conclusions regarding the meaning of the Song and the task of translation.

ΔιαθήΚη In The Lord's Supper And The Lord's Supper's Liturgy In Luther And The Lutheran Tradition, Chuck Ramsey

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

This paper addresses this question, and in the process reflects on the use and understanding of the word διαθήκη in the writings of Dr. Martin Luther, in the Lutheran Confessions, and in Lutheran tradition.

"What Is A Christian To Do: A Study Of Christian Service From Pertinent Writings Of Dr. Martin Luther In Light Of Recent Developments In The Church", Daniel Quinn

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

This paper will, from the Lutheran perspective, address the imbalance that occurs when the priesthood of all believers is exalted at the expense of the clergy, specifically when what God has given the laity to do is made to be the same as what God has given the clergy to do, i.e., the tasks of the office of the Ministry. Applying pertinent writings of Luther, this paper will attempt to exalt both the laity and the clergy by emphasizing the distinctiveness of what each has been given by God to do.

Luther's Teaching Of "Faith" In His Catechisms, Randy Asburry

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

In this paper we will examine Luther's understanding of faith in the following ways. First, we will define "faith" by unpacking its meaning. We will ask, "Who believes and in what do they believe?" Second, we will look at Luther's language of faith in his Catechisms and catechetical writings. We will note how he changes his language of faith depending on which part of Christian teaching he is explaining. Third, we will examine Luther's grammar of faith-his use of grammatical subjects, verbs, and objects-in the Small Catechism. And finally, we will see how Luther combines the teachings of the Christian …

August Vilmar's Theology Of Fact Versus The Theology Of Rhetoric, Martin Conkling

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

The work and theology of August Vilmar has largely been neglected in this country even though he was a prominenet theologian who lent substantial weight in a momentous effort to resurrect and restore the Lutheran confessions- to Germany in the first half of the nineteenth century. This translation is an attempt to recognize the vast contributions which Vilmar made to this effort and to identify those writings which would serve the church well today. Vilmar left no school of thought or method behind him as other great figures in the German universities often did. There are many reasons for this …

Suffering And Eschatology In Light Of An Exegetical Study Of 2 Thessalonians 1:4-5, Richard Shields

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

This paper examines suffering in light of an exegetical study of 2 Thessalonians 1:4-5.According to rhetorical analysis the exordium includes 1:1-12, with three major parts: epistolary prescript (1: 1-2); thanksgiving (1:3-10); and intercessory prayer (1: 11-12).2 Thus, this text occurs near the beginning of Paul's introductory thanks giving. 3 Many commentators appear to rush through this section in anticipation of examining the heart of the letter, chapter2.Recently, deSilva, commenting on 1 Thessalonians, "proposes that the thanksgiving section [of 1 Thessalonians 1] functions as much more than a captatio benevolentiae ....Rather, it addresses a real concern for the congregation(s)." Even more …

The Function Of The Questions "How Long?" And "Why?" Addressed To God In The Lament Psalms, Robert Shreckhise

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

The issue under consideration in this paper is the meaning and purpose of the questions How long? and Why? addressed directly to God in the lament psalms. The psalms which contain these questions are a subset of the larger body of psalms classified as laments or prayers for help. These particular question-psalms are comprised of nine individual laments, five community laments, one each of a kingly lament and an individual lament in behalf of the community. Of over one hundred and fifty questions in the entire Psalter, these psalms contain the majority of the questions addressed directly to God. The …

Der Grund Der Seligkeit Luther's Evangelical & Christological Method Of Distinguishing Doctrine Within The Early Church Councils & Fathers, Jeffrey Meyers

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

This essay will analyze Luther's On the Councils and the Church, especially Parts I and II, in search of the criteria he uses for distinguishing between true and false doctrine in the ecumenical councils and consequently for "locating" the "true" church amid the confusing whirl of ecclesiastical traditions. It is my desire to allow Luther himself to speak, to engage the reader in Luther's own argument as it develops in this treatise. He does not show all of his cards in the first pages of the treatise. He builds his case slowly, methodically. As we shall see, according to Luther, …

An Examination Of The Theology Of Blessing As Found In The Book Of Job, Charles Fox

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

The true blessing that we find in Job, as we will see, is a far different matter! In this paper on blessing as revealed to us in the book of Job I will examine the Hebrew words used there for blessing; the conveyor, content, cause, and purpose of blessing; Job's theological shift; and finally the theology of blessing as revealed to us in the book of Job.

Contextualization A Development Of A Theology And Examination Of Its Application, David Meggers

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

The purpose of this paper is to examine and critique "contextualization", a particular theological method which has seen development in what are often considered areas of World Mission. The aspect of this theological development with which we are most concerned has to do with the role of the Word of God as it relates to the development of theology and theological education. This particular examination consists of three parts; an introduction to the history and development of the term" contextualization", Contextualization and African Theology, and Contextualization and Latin American Liberation Theology. The portion devoted to African Theology will take a …

Ransomed/Redeemed - At What Price A Study Of The Λυτρον Group Of Words, Frederick Schmitt

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

A major problem in word studies is how much of the meanings and implications found in earlier word usage carries over into later usage, or in moving from one language to another. Today when we use the words "ransom" or "redeem" many of the aspects common to their usage 200 years ago will not be inferred or understood by today's average hearer. Nor is it likely that most of the nuances of the corresponding biblical Greek and Hebrew terms for "ransom" and "redeem" would be picked up by today's audience. But was there a significant change in understanding in these …

The Reign Of Christ And The Mission Of The Church, William Eickhoff

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

This paper will explore the reign of Christ and the mission of the Church in the Book of Revelation. Specifically, it will be a study of Revelation 11:3-13. In the exegetical study of those verses, the great theme of the Church's mission will then be related to the book as a whole. First, the situation of the churches in mission will be discussed. Then a word study of the word μάρτς will be presented. The specific study of Revelation 11:3-13 will follow and finally the conclusion will draw out implications for the Church in mission today. The Church of John's …

A Study Of The Influence Of C. F. W. Walther On The Norwegian Synod, Michael Dorner

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

This paper will look at some of the interpretations of Walther's influence and also the strength of confessional Lutheranism among Norwegian-Americans during four periods: the time until 1860, the period during the slavery issue, the period during the election controversy and the period after Walther's death.1

Jerome On Virginity: An Analysis Of St. Jerome's Position On Consecrated Virginity And Celibacy And Their Relation To Marriage, Daniel Kempin

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

How and why Jerome came to be a champion of this cause is a story in itself, and his own accounts of his personal experience are often emotional and dramatic. Of greater significance, however, is the theological legacy to which Jerome contributed by his strong emphasis on Christian celibacy, particularly consecrated virginity. In this paper I will investigate Jerome's position on Christian celibacy and virginity, including the influences that contributed to his position, in order to identify the theological implications that were a part of his position, and to discuss briefly the exegesis with which he supported his position.

The Arrest Of Jesus: An Exegesis Of Matthew 26:47-56, Michael Schmidt

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

This paper will examine Matthew 26: 47-56, the arrest of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane. Only the larger context of Matthew and what Matthew had available to him (i.e., the Old Testament) will be drawn upon to understand this pericope. This paper has been divided into the following parts: I)Translation and Notes, II) Limits, Structure, and Themes, and III) Genre and Literary Setting, IV) Concluding Thoughts.

Ministratores Verbi In Fidem Remissionis Gospel And Ministry In Luther's Writings To 1520, William Schumacher

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

The scope of this study is explicitly and intentionally (and hence, perhaps, artificially) limited to Luther's early writings, up to and including the milestone works of1520. It will seek to pay attention to detail, but makes no claim of being exhaustive. We will explore how Luther came to confess the gospel when speaking about the office of the holy ministry. Or, to put the question another way, what happened to the doctrine and vocabulary of the ministry when the gospel began to make itself heard in Luther's thinking, teaching, and preaching?

The Organic And Dynamic Relationship Of Justification And Sanctification For Christian Faith And Life In Reformation Soteriology, Seon-Dae Chae

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

For this study of justification and sanctification, the writer divides the fallen state of human beings into three phases of life experientially: sin, sinful life, and eternal death, although they are already dead spiritually (Eph 2: 1) from the beginning in the first Adam Rom 5: 12-21). And the processes of our life in Christ are also distinguished experientially into three phases: forgiveness of sin and justification ("set free from sin"), sanctification (righteous life), and eternal life, as the Word of God says: "But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves to God, the …

Mariology In The Roman Catholic Magisterium Since The Second Vatican Council, David Mahsman

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

When Pope Paul VI on November 21, 1964, closed the third session of the Second Vatican Council, which had approved the Dogmatic Constitution on the Church, he did so with a prayer to the Virgin Mary.

He addressed her as "Mother of the Church. "When Pope John Paul II on October 11, 1992, concluded an apostolic constitution for the publication of a new Roman Catholic catechism, he did so with a prayer for the "powerful intercession" of the Virgin Mary. He addressed her as "Mother of the Incarnate Word and Mother of the Church. "

The parallels between these papal …

Luther And Zwingli On The Righteousness Of God, Liars Plume

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

It would be going too far to say that Zwingli was a Nestorian, but his christology definitely had weaknesses, similar to those of Scholastic theology. My thesis, which I hope to demonstrate in this paper, is that Zwingli did not come to Luther's evangelical understanding of "the righteousness of God" because he did not recognize the importance of the proper distinction between the law and the gospel. The result of this was that Christ remained a lawgiver for him, as Christ was for Luther before his rediscovery of the gospel. I shall base my research on Luther's two sermons, "Sermo …

Christology And The Cleansing Of The Temple: Integrating Biblical And Dogmatic Theology, Gerhard Bode

Master of Sacred Theology Seminar Papers

Although extremism4 is to be avoided, both Christology "from above" and "from below" can make a valuable contribution to the overall study of the doctrine of Christ. A biblical, historical approach to the study of Christ is vital. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the integration of dogmatic and biblical theology, specifically demonstrating how the findings of biblical theology can be implemented by dogmatic theology to enhance the understanding of the person and work of Christ.