Religious Thought, Theology and Philosophy of Religion | Open Access Articles

Mary's Song: How Wonderful You Are, Mike Nartker S.M.

Musical Compositions about the Marianist Charism

Praise of Mary

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On Writing Of Faith Broken Open And Other Evidences Of Love, Jennifer Sears

Publications and Research

No abstract provided.

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Transformation Of The Prescott Foursquare Church: Becoming A Church Planting Church, John W. Gooding

All Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This study is a qualitative study of the Prescott Foursquare Church and its transformation from a small, broken denominational church to a disciple making and church planting fellowship of churches. The project sought to discover the key trigger events or processes that brought about church growth in the Prescott church and led to the growth of a fellowship of over twenty-two hundred churches in one hundred and sixteen countries. The result of interviews of pastors and review of historical data of the church and Christian Fellowship Ministries was the discovery of a discipleship culture in the local congregation in Prescott …

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Engaging Leadership At Marshfield Christian Church, Nicholas Alexander Ruth

All Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This project addresses the dwindling number of people active in leadership roles at Marshfield Christian Church. Research focused on four aspects of church leadership: barriers and incentives to assuming a leadership role, characteristics of leaders, models for structuring leadership, and equipping the congregation to participate in leadership. The researcher conducts a biblical and theological research on leadership in the New Testament, membership in the New Testament and the implications of relational theology on church leadership. A literature review on collaborative leadership, employee engagement, and changes in volunteering adds to the research. The field research for this project comprises surveys and …

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Cooperative Catechesis: A Model For Equipping Lutheran Parents And Pastors To Catechize Children In The Christian Faith, Phillip E. Booe

All Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Parents have a God-given duty to bring up their children in the faith. God calls pastors to shepherd flocks, point them to the Gospel, proclaim sound doctrine, and teach the people about the will and ways of God. The problem this project addressed was the decline of parental involvement in and responsibility for the Christian catechesis of their children in the context of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Parents have all but abdicated their responsibility to catechize their children to the church, and pastors have been complicit in allowing it. The purpose of this research was to identify the attitudes pastors …

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The Use Of Oral Training In Uganda To Develop Biblically Trained Leaders, Kevin J. Olson

All Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The researcher spent a year in rural Tanzania and found that the volunteer lay leaders had little training. These lay leaders had a love for Jesus and for his people, but the obstacles these men faced in order to get further training were overwhelming. Attending seminary meant paying tuition, leaving families, leaving farms, taking classes in English, and following a Western style of education. There were economic, emotional, and educational barriers these lay leaders faced. This caused this researcher to seek a new method to train people in God’s Word. This search led to the oral training method that was …

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Little Rebecca, Rebecca Collins

Undergraduate Theses, Professional Papers, and Capstone Artifacts

Santiago de Compostela, a city in Galicia, Spain, has been said since the 8th century to hold the remains of St. James, an apostle and the patron saint of Spain. Old walking routes, still in use, fork all throughout the European continent toward this singular destination, with the collective label of the “Way of St. James,” (the Camino de Santiago in Spanish, Le Chemin du St. Jacques in French). For nine months of this past year, the Camino de Santiago and the study of pilgrimage was my singular destination as well. I studied the history of pilgrimage, European pilgrimage literature, …

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Response To Letters To The Editor, Alan H. Kadish

Office of the President Publications and Research

The author responds to letters to the editor about his article "God, Man, Chaos and Control: How God Might Control the Universe."

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Pursuing Kingdom Growth By Intentionally Engaging Our Culture, Florin Docea

All Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The goal of this research project was to strengthen the church’s ability to effectively engage the culture and expand the kingdom of God. This project is important because American Churches have invested time and resources looking for ways to transform the culture. In the process many discovered that the culture has also transformed the church with mixed results. This research project showed that new churches continue to face difficulties engaging the culture without compromising the mission of the church or disrupting the unity of the body. Using the attractional or missional models, churches have struggled in the tension created by …

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Prayers Of Resistance: Kalymyk Women's Covert Buddhist Practice, Karma Lekshe Tsomo Phd

Theology and Religious Studies: Faculty Scholarship

Throughout decades of Soviet repression of religion and into modern times, groups of Buddhist women known as babushki matsik, or ‘‘group of old women precept holders’’ have covertly engaged in Buddhist practices in Kalmykia, following the Tibetan tantric tradition. Located to the northwest of the Caspian Sea, the Kalmyk Republic of the Russian Federation is the only region of Europe with a predominantly Buddhist population. For centuries, the region has been the site of repeated migrations, shifting political and military alliances, and Russian Orthodox conversion efforts. The devastating period of forced relocation and exile in Siberia between 1943 and 1957 …

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Christians And Cultural Difference (Calvin Shorts), David I. Smith, Pennylyn Dykstra Pruim

Calvin Press

"Encountering cultural differences in the classroom, in the workplace, in the church, and in the public square is an everyday part of contemporary life. The chances that we will live our lives interacting only with those who share our cultural identity and ways of thinking are shrinking. Understanding culture and how cultural difference affects how we understand one another and live well together is no longer just for travelers. It has become a basic life skill. Past Christian ways of thinking about cultural difference as most important for missions to far away places do not harmonize with today's realities. This …

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Hermeneutics Of Slavery: A “Bible-Alone” Faith And The Problem Of Human Enslavement, Darius Jankiewicz

Journal of Adventist Mission Studies

No abstract provided.

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The Interplay Between Forms Of Revelation: Implications For Theological Method, Andrew Tompkins

Journal of Adventist Mission Studies

No abstract provided.

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Immanuel Kant's Atonement "Within The Bounds Of Bare Reason" And The Viability Of Moral Receptivity As A Condition Of Grace, Derek S. Nutt

Andrews University Seminary Studies (AUSS)

No abstract provided.

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Union With Christ In The Writings Of Ellen G. White, Katrina B. Blue

Andrews University Seminary Studies (AUSS)

No abstract provided.

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Church Authority And Biblical Interpretation: Forms Of Authoritative Hermeneutics In Irenaeus And Tertullian, Adriani M. Rodrigues

Andrews University Seminary Student Journal

In order to protect the church from the misuse of scripture promoted by heretical movements, early church fathers advanced hermeneutical mechanisms of control to guide biblical interpretation, which included forms of authoritative hermeneutics. The present investigation describes and briefly analyzes occurrences of these forms in Irenaeus and Tertullian, focusing on the concepts of the rule of truth/faith and church authority. The conclusion of the article highlights inadequacies of authoritative hermeneutics.

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The Big News On Small Churches: Re-Evaluating The Contribution Of Small Churches To The Fulfillment Of The Great Commission ., Ian Hussey

Great Commission Research Journal

Although many small churches are declining, research presented in this article suggests that on almost every measure of vitality or effectiveness (including newcomers), smaller churches are doing as well, if not better, than larger churches. Of particular note is that people in smaller congregations tend to find it easier to make friends in the congregation and are more likely to seek to make new arrivals welcome. Indeed, small churches may have a number of strategic advantages that are discussed and identified as ways smaller churches can make a significant contribution to the fulfillment of the Great Commission.

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2016 Faculty Summer Seminar - Meeting Paul Of Tarsus: Teacher Of Nations, Center For Catholic Studies, Seton Hall University

Center for Catholic Studies Faculty Seminars and Core Curriculum Seminars

No abstract provided.

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A Question Of Sin And Responsibility: Exploring Innocence In Dante, Cassandra Stephenson

Global Tides

Dante’s use of the word innocent—referring to infants who died soon after birth—presents a unique perspective on the spiritual hierarchy of The Divine Comedy. Though labeled as innocent, Dante’s infants are nonetheless excluded from Paradise. Concurrent mentions of innocence and original sin raise the question of the meaning of Dante’s innocence and its implications on the concepts of true choice, merit, and ignorance. These combined factors determine infants’ placement in Limbo or just below Paradise, and they help further a complete understanding of Dante’s theology and work as a whole.

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Church Growth And Outreach Lessons From The Oil Boom In North Dakota, Mark R. Teasdale, Steve Trefz

Great Commission Research Journal

Using primary data collected from four churches situated in the North Dakota towns of Williston and Watford City, this study considers how the outreach ministries of these churches have been affected by the massive population growth brought about by the oil boom in the Bakken region. Drawing from the survey responses provided by the leaders of these congregations, the study concludes that people engaged in new outreach ministries can apply several lessons, including the definition of evangelism, the importance of relationship building, the need for multifaceted teams and resources, and issues with denominational support.

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A Framework For Developing Global Leadership According To The Apostle Paul, Peter Rios

Great Commission Research Journal

Globalization is inevitable. There is no longer any need to debate whether an organization or a leader should consider becoming global. Such a discussion is as dead as universities debating whether they should have online studies. Being a global leader or organization is imperative today, especially if the goal of the organization is to extend the reach of its markets. The apostle Paul personified global leadership during the course of his ministry. The skills he displayed as a leader were (1) having a global mentality, (2) becoming all things, (3) displaying cultural agility, (4) overcoming adversity, (5) assembling strategic teams, …

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Book Review: Comeback Churches: How 300 Churches Turned Around And Yours Can Too By Ed Stetzer And Mike Dodson, Philips Sunday Akinbobola

Great Commission Research Journal

No abstract provided.

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A Historical Analysis Of Hinderances Related To The Slow Growth Of Christianity In Thailand, Kelly Michael Hilderbrand

Great Commission Research Journal

From the very beginning, Christianity has experienced slow growth in Thailand. This article examines the historical hindrances to growth in Thailand. What are they, and why have they hindered church growth? Early hindrances have included climate and disease, ministry approaches, and a lack of persecution. Historical and present hindrances are also examined, including the foreignness of Christianity, confrontational evangelism, and the Thai patron-client social structure. Once identified, missions organizations and missionaries can make adjustments to be more effective in impacting the kingdom of Thailand for the gospel.

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Book Review: Advanced Strategic Planning: A 21st Century Model For Church And Ministry Leaders By Aubrey Malphurs, Chase Weeks

Great Commission Research Journal

No abstract provided.

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The Lost Balance In Missions Today, Mike Morris

Great Commission Research Journal

Many evangelical Christian missiologists emphasize search-only theology (i.e., search theology that is not balanced by harvest theology). When the Great Commission is reexamined, search-only theology deficiencies are revealed. When search-only proponents attempt to sow seed speedily in all UPGs at the same time without regard for receptivity, poor stewardship of gospel seed is evident. A lack of thorough discipleship results in UdPGs. Such speedy search-only theology is not the pattern set by Jesus or Paul. e dangers of search-only theology’s emphasis on speed include placing unqualified people in leadership positions and getting involved in the deceptive insider movement.

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The Case For Prioritism: Part 1, Christopher R. Little

Great Commission Research Journal

The global evangelical missions movement has embraced holism or integral mission as a framework for engaging the nations. Many astute observers maintain that this development indicates that present-day evangelicals are following in the footsteps of ecumenicals and repeating the mistakes of the past. The matter of the relationship between proclamation and social action in the mission of the church must therefore be revisited for the sake of the world. The first installment of this article seeks to highlight why the debate is still necessary, clarify the fundamental differences between prioritism and holism, recount the road to evangelical holism, and address …

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Book Review: Donald A. Mcgavran: A Biography Of The Twentieth Century’S Premier Missiologist By Gary Mcintosh, Mike Morris

Great Commission Research Journal

No abstract provided.

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Book Review: Can These Bones Live? A Practical Guide To Church Revitalization By Bill Henard, Nicholas Clark

Great Commission Research Journal

No abstract provided.

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Review Of 'Republican Theology: The Civil Religion Of American Evangelicals', John Compton

Political Science Faculty Articles and Research

"Although I find Lynerd’s characterization of the Christian Right unpersuasive (for reasons explained below), Republican Theology nonetheless performs a valuable service in highlighting the reciprocal influence of religious and political ideas, particularly in the early years of the republic... Lynerd makes a strong case that American evangelicals, while aware of the potential for tension, viewed each commitment as indispensable to the formation of a Godly republic."

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Advent Devotional Guide 2016, Belmont University

Advent Devotional Guides

No abstract provided.

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Full-Text Articles in Religious Thought, Theology and Philosophy of Religion

Mary's Song: How Wonderful You Are, Mike Nartker S.M.

Musical Compositions about the Marianist Charism

On Writing Of Faith Broken Open And Other Evidences Of Love, Jennifer Sears

Publications and Research

Transformation Of The Prescott Foursquare Church: Becoming A Church Planting Church, John W. Gooding

All Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Engaging Leadership At Marshfield Christian Church, Nicholas Alexander Ruth

All Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Cooperative Catechesis: A Model For Equipping Lutheran Parents And Pastors To Catechize Children In The Christian Faith, Phillip E. Booe

All Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The Use Of Oral Training In Uganda To Develop Biblically Trained Leaders, Kevin J. Olson

All Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Little Rebecca, Rebecca Collins

Undergraduate Theses, Professional Papers, and Capstone Artifacts

Response To Letters To The Editor, Alan H. Kadish

Office of the President Publications and Research

Pursuing Kingdom Growth By Intentionally Engaging Our Culture, Florin Docea

All Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Prayers Of Resistance: Kalymyk Women's Covert Buddhist Practice, Karma Lekshe Tsomo Phd

Theology and Religious Studies: Faculty Scholarship

Christians And Cultural Difference (Calvin Shorts), David I. Smith, Pennylyn Dykstra Pruim

Calvin Press

Hermeneutics Of Slavery: A “Bible-Alone” Faith And The Problem Of Human Enslavement, Darius Jankiewicz

Journal of Adventist Mission Studies

The Interplay Between Forms Of Revelation: Implications For Theological Method, Andrew Tompkins

Journal of Adventist Mission Studies

Immanuel Kant's Atonement "Within The Bounds Of Bare Reason" And The Viability Of Moral Receptivity As A Condition Of Grace, Derek S. Nutt

Andrews University Seminary Studies (AUSS)

Union With Christ In The Writings Of Ellen G. White, Katrina B. Blue

Andrews University Seminary Studies (AUSS)

Church Authority And Biblical Interpretation: Forms Of Authoritative Hermeneutics In Irenaeus And Tertullian, Adriani M. Rodrigues

Andrews University Seminary Student Journal

The Big News On Small Churches: Re-Evaluating The Contribution Of Small Churches To The Fulfillment Of The Great Commission ., Ian Hussey

Great Commission Research Journal

2016 Faculty Summer Seminar - Meeting Paul Of Tarsus: Teacher Of Nations, Center For Catholic Studies, Seton Hall University

Center for Catholic Studies Faculty Seminars and Core Curriculum Seminars

A Question Of Sin And Responsibility: Exploring Innocence In Dante, Cassandra Stephenson

Global Tides

Church Growth And Outreach Lessons From The Oil Boom In North Dakota, Mark R. Teasdale, Steve Trefz

Great Commission Research Journal

A Framework For Developing Global Leadership According To The Apostle Paul, Peter Rios

Great Commission Research Journal

Book Review: Comeback Churches: How 300 Churches Turned Around And Yours Can Too By Ed Stetzer And Mike Dodson, Philips Sunday Akinbobola

Great Commission Research Journal

A Historical Analysis Of Hinderances Related To The Slow Growth Of Christianity In Thailand, Kelly Michael Hilderbrand

Great Commission Research Journal

Book Review: Advanced Strategic Planning: A 21st Century Model For Church And Ministry Leaders By Aubrey Malphurs, Chase Weeks

Great Commission Research Journal

The Lost Balance In Missions Today, Mike Morris

Great Commission Research Journal

The Case For Prioritism: Part 1, Christopher R. Little

Great Commission Research Journal

Book Review: Donald A. Mcgavran: A Biography Of The Twentieth Century’S Premier Missiologist By Gary Mcintosh, Mike Morris

Great Commission Research Journal

Book Review: Can These Bones Live? A Practical Guide To Church Revitalization By Bill Henard, Nicholas Clark

Great Commission Research Journal

Review Of 'Republican Theology: The Civil Religion Of American Evangelicals', John Compton

Political Science Faculty Articles and Research

Advent Devotional Guide 2016, Belmont University

Advent Devotional Guides