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NOMHLE MPOTSHA Discussion 2 Ethical Principles from scriptures in (Matthew 17:24-27, 22:15-22, 6:24-27 and 25:14-30)
In first scripture Jesus was showing obedience to authority that recognizing and respecting governmental and societal structures as part of God ‘s order and the need to pay taxes, and he did even miracle to provide the means.
Second scripture teaches the principle of rendering to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s suggesting a balance between civic duty and spiritual faithfulness to God. This involves an ethical principle of fulfilling societal responsibilities while maintaining faith.
Third scripture warns us as Christians, of not allowing the things of these earth to own us like material needs to possess our love for God and neighbour, to God we are more valuable than the birds and wildflowers.
The last scripture illustrates stewardship, where individuals are entrusted with resources and expected to use them wisely and productively. The ethical principle here is accountability and responsibility to use of what one is given, with the reward or consequence depending on one’s diligence.
“Money and Possessions- God’s Wealth in our Hands” I can say is a perspective where wealth is seen as a divine gift to be managed ethically, agreeing with Christian values of generosity, fairness and spiritual priority over material gain. Ethical principles that can be drawn include the Stewardship by managing resources (money, possessions) as a trust from God, using them to benefit others and honour God. Spiritual focus by prioritizing spiritual growth and service over material wealth or fleshly desires.
Personal instances I have experience about, was in the church after service two leaders were responsible for counting, recording, and signing the total money. When the time of one of them go to bank for depositing. The teller discovered cash shortage of amount of R200 and that leader eventually paid the money because she realised that she did not do check-up and learning that both must do all processes of counting, recording and signing together. The money was taken by one of them for her personal needs. (Spirit of flesh: greed, selfish ambition).Discussion1: Children at Risk -Church Intervention
To limit the risks faced by young people like Sarah and respond to their needs, my faith community I could take the following actions:
1. Provide a safe and nurturing Environment: We could establish a regular after -school program at the church, offering a safe space with adult supervision, nutritious snacks, and educational support. This would address Sarah’s lack of supervision and resources scarcity, fostering a caring environment where her first faith experience can be nurtured through positive role modelling, as Brewster describes.
2. Offer Mentorship and Positive Role Models: I could volunteer as a mentor, or the community could recruit caring adults to guide at-risk youth. This would help Sarah navigate negative peer influences by providing consistent, trustworthy figures who model healthy behaviours and support her through the questioning and experimentation stages of faith development.
3. Create Opportunities for Exploration and Support: The faith community could organize workshops or discussion groups where young people feel safe to explore their doubts and search for meaning, as Brewster suggests is crucial during the second stage of faith development. Additionally, we could connect Sarah’s family with financial or emotional support resources, helping to reduce economic instability and encouraging her to remain engaged with the community. These steps would not only limit the risks Sarah faces but also respond to her needs by fostering a supportive faith journey, aligning with the church’s potential to focus 75% of its efforts on youth ministry, as noted earlier.NOMHLE MPOTSHA: Discussion1: Children at Risk -Church Intervention
To limit the risks faced by young people like Sarah and respond to their needs, my faith community I could take the following actions:
1. Provide a safe and nurturing Environment: We could establish a regular after -school program at the church, offering a safe space with adult supervision, nutritious snacks, and educational support. This would address Sarah’s lack of supervision and resources scarcity, fostering a caring environment where her first faith experience can be nurtured through positive role modelling, as Brewster describes.
2. Offer Mentorship and Positive Role Models: I could volunteer as a mentor, or the community could recruit caring adults to guide at-risk youth. This would help Sarah navigate negative peer influences by providing consistent, trustworthy figures who model healthy behaviours and support her through the questioning and experimentation stages of faith development.
3. Create Opportunities for Exploration and Support: The faith community could organize workshops or discussion groups where young people feel safe to explore their doubts and search for meaning, as Brewster suggests is crucial during the second stage of faith development. Additionally, we could connect Sarah’s family with financial or emotional support resources, helping to reduce economic instability and encouraging her to remain engaged with the community. These steps would not only limit the risks Sarah faces but also respond to her needs by fostering a supportive faith journey, aligning with the church’s potential to focus 75% of its efforts on youth ministry, as noted earlier.NOMHLE MPOTSHA: DISCUSSION1: All Life Matters
a. Genesis1 and 2: These chapters describe the creation of humanity in God’s image (Genesis 1:26-27). This highlights the quality right dignity and worth of every person, regardless of circumstances as a reflection of the Creator. Genesis 2:7 is the detailed account of God forming Adam from the dust and breathing life into him emphasizes that human life is a unique and sanctify gift. Christ restores this fullness by redeeming humanity through his sacrifice, offering a renewed relationship with God that restores our original purpose and identity as His image messengers.
Jeremiah 1: This scripture shows God appointing Jeremiah as a prophet before he was even born (Jeremia 1:5’’ Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you”). This affirms the sanctity of life from conception, recommending that every individual has a divine purpose. Christ’s coming fulfils this by proving the grace and strength needed to live out that purpose, restoring individuals to a life aligned with God’s plan through his teachings and sacrifice.
Psalm139: This psalm observes God’s intimate knowledge of each person, considering that He knit us together in the womb (Psalm 139;14-16. It emphasizes that every life is precious and known to God, with no one outside his care. Christ restores this fullness by offering salvation and eternal life, ensuring that every person can experience the depth of God’s love and purpose, regardless of their past.
Galatians 3:26-29: This passage declares that all who are baptized into Christ are one, with no difference by race, or gender, as all are heirs to God’s promise (Galatians 3:28, “There is neither Jew nor Greek….”). It advocates for the equal sanctity of every human life, breaking down human division. Christ restores fullness by uniting all people in him, offering a new identity and group where every life is valued and restored to its intended harmony with God.
In conclusion, Christ came to restore every human life to fullness in him by reconciling us to God through his death and resurrection. (John 10:10 Ï come that they may have life and have it abundantly”) His sacrifice instructs sins separation, offering redemption, purpose, and eternal life to all, regardless of background or status.
b. The Sanctity of life is the belief that all human life is holy and valuable created by God, deserving respect, protection regardless of any circumstance.
c. Ministries and communities can demonstrate the value of every human life in several practical ways: Service projects that address specific needs, such as medical clinics for the poor, job training for the unemployed, and support for single parents, ensuring no one is overlooked due to their circumstances. The organized service will reflect unity in Christ, challenging community tendencies that they devalue certain lives and the ministries will affirm that every person is equally precious in God’s eyes.
d. What can you do specifically?
Educate and Encourage Others: I could share awareness on the sanctity of life with friends or family, perhaps leading a small group discussion on scriptures like Psalm139 and encourage them to join me in outreach programs.Born to Victory
The favourite sermon type is a Topical message whereby it addresses real life challenges, offers biblical guidance for daily living and engaging the audience with relevant truth. Jesus said as we live in the world we are going to have trouble. (John 16:33 The Amplified Bible) and (I can witness for that) but we are not just in the world. We are in Jesus in the world, and that makes all the difference. We are in Him and He is overcome every kind of trouble. As God’s child you are not the defeated trying to get victory. You are the overcomer, and Devil is trying to rob us of the victory that already belongs to us. When you made Jesus, the Lord of your life you were born into victory because, the Victor came to live in you. The victorious Jesus, The Anointed One, The Ruler of the Universe, and the glorified and resurrected Lord. We must cheer up, friends, have “perfect peace and confidence “. that is Jesus who lives in us.A spiritual leader has a unique and important role, not just within his or her community but also within his or her own family. The way he nurtures his family’s spiritual growth sets a foundation that can positively influence his congregation. Here are some practical strategies that leaders can use to help their families grow in faith together.
1. Create Regular Family Devotions: He should set aside time for family devotions, and it will be a great way to connect spiritually. This could be as simple as reading a passage from the Bible together and discussing its meaning. It encourages openness and helps everyone see how faith plays a role in daily life.
2. Open Conversations About Faith: Encouraging family members to share their thoughts and questions about faith is crucial. When leaders create a safe space for dialogue, it allows everyone to express their feelings about spirituality. This exchange can deepen relationships and understanding within the family.
3. Lead by Example: Spiritual leaders can have a powerful impact by simply living out their faith. When they demonstrate how they believe shape their choices and interactions, it inspires family members to do the same. The actions should often resound more than words, and a modelling faith can be a very effective teaching tool.
4. Serve Together as a Family: Engaging in community service as a family can strengthen bonds and instil values like compassion and empathy. The working together on a service project not only builds memories but also shows how faith can be active in the world around them.
However, there are challenges that spiritual leaders and their families might face. One major risk is the pressure on family members to live up to the ideal image of a “leader’s family.” This can create stress and feelings of inadequacy, leading to resentment towards their role in the church. Additionally, the time demands of ministry can lead to neglecting family relationships, which is a struggle to many leaders are facing.
The way a spiritual leader cares for their family can have a knock-on effect on the congregation. A leader who invests time and energy in his or her family sets a powerful example for others. It encourages church members to prioritize their own families, fostering a healthy community where faith is nurtured at home. In contrast, if a leader neglects their family, it can create a disconnect, making congregants question the authenticity of the leader’s teachings.
In summary, the commitment a spiritual leader makes to his family’s spiritual formation is vital for personal and congregational growth. By being intentional and aware of potential challenges, leaders can create a loving environment that nurtures genuine faith within their families and, ultimately, their congregations.Response to Classmate’s Post
I really enjoyed reading your thoughts on the importance of modelling faith in the family. Your emphasis on open dialogue struck a melody with me; it’s so important for family members to feel comfortable sharing their beliefs and questions. I also love your idea of getting the family involved in community service. It’s such a meaningful way to live out faith together. The balancing of the demands of ministry and family life can be tough, but your suggestions show that with intention, it’s possible to create a nurturing spiritual environment both at home and in the wider community. Great insights!A memorable sermon was about Jesus the Resurrection and the Life. The application of the message was seeing a sacrificial love of Jesus for Lazarus. The faith of Lazarus’s sisters, Martha and Mary. The scripture reference is found in Gospel of (John 11:1-44). The story was an interesting when Jesus said, “Those who believe in me will live even though they die”, and all those who live and believe in me will never die (John 11: 25- 27). The reason I remember this sermon is to see Jesus’s heart was touched and deeply moved weeping and how he loved Lazarus. He took the stone away and called out in a loud voice “Lazarus, come out” “untie him and let him go. We serve a miracle working God.
One day I attended course at my work place. It was included theory and practical. The practical side was required to build tents as learners on open field in the forest. In the forest is where furious wild animals, snakes and frogs are lived whereby there is no light. While I was in this situation God revealed scripture Psalm 23 and to me I usually knew this scripture at school as memory verse but, that day I received a revelation knowledge of the scripture concerning my situation. I understood that even David, as a shepherd boy saw God guiding and leading beside peaceful streams in challenges of the field. God renewed strength in the midst of fear. During night he is the light and a protector close to me. He cared and comforted me. His hands of blessings was over me and knowing that when things go wrong, hope is gone, over mountains and deep down in the sea is always there to show his goodness and unfailing love.
Bible is God’s Word: In Genesis says that heaven, earth and all that is in it were created by God and he saw that it was very good. All scripture is inspired by God and useful to teach us what is true, to make us realise what is wrong in our lives, to corrects us when we are wrong, teaches us to do what is right, and to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.(2Timothy 3:16 ASB)It was the day my younger sister, Lulu was sick under the attacked of evil spirit(demon) As I was in a distressed condition the people advised me to go to traditional healer. My sister did not helped until we visited the church. During the church service the pastor called people to altar it was the day I knew God.
It was a happy day to me and had a feeling that the heavy burden has taken away off the shoulder and yoke from off my neck because of the anointing. (Isaiah 10:27 KJV)
It prepare my faith and mind. The inner person was revived and I knew all things has passed away. I ‘m a new creation and I’m born again.(2Corinthians 5:17 KJV)
It was two bible scriptures say ”In all things we more than conquerors through Christ Jesus who loves us”. ”What is impossible for people is possible with God.”(Roman 8:37 and Luke 18:27 KJV).
I started to attend foundation bible class, home cell, whole night prayers, and outreach. My faith was built and saw things different. My faith was preserved until to day.Jesus went into the synagogue where he noticed a man with a deformed hand. Since it was the Sabbath, Jesus’s enemies watched him closely if he healed the man’s hand (Mark 3:1-6 ASB).
Analysis: Pharisees had a heart condition that grieved Jesus, their hearts were hard and insensitive to the needs of the people around them. They protected their religious traditions instead of obeying Jesus’s word.
Wisdom: Jesus said to the man” hold out your hand” and it was restored.
Problem solved: Jesus shows compassion and love to heal the man with a deformed hand on the Sabbath. They were so angry that they planned to kill Jesus. He risked his own life to show compassion and mercy to the needy man.
The leadership displayed (was hope enhanced or vision provided): Jesus risked as he was standing with leaders to help the man with the deformed hand. I learned that we need to show compassion even when it may not be understood by others and we must show justice and mercy.It requires sensitivity and understanding for an example, I grew in village where most people their beliefs are so steeped in cultural practices contrary to the bible and indeed the new convert needs teachings in order to follow Christ. At home I’m the one who accepted Lord Jesus Christ. One day I hand a conversation with my uncle about my Christian believe. He responded that the ancestors are God that as family they related to directly and he was so aggressive. This Christian belief is a new thing but, I did not retaliate with him to show respect for his beliefs and traditions.(My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge (Hosea 4:6 KJV) because they rejected God’s knowledge as their creator. My uncle knows now that my family are born again, children of God but it took long time to be converted. Benefit for new convert is to guide and correct not alienate or cause him to backslide in faith. To emphasize the grace and forgiveness offered through faith.(Ephesian 4:8-10) Let the love be a driving force behind all interactions and caring. Prayer for wisdom and direction of the Holy Spirit how to approach situation. Help her/him to find accountability partner for support and encouragement.
Worldview is basic framework that shapes out understanding of reality. The bible presents a clear worldview cantered on God, humanity and redemption through Jesus Christ. The understanding worldview is essential for interpreting scripture, living faithfully and engaging with the around us. It also requires continual study, reflection, and prayer to allow the truth of scripture to shape our thinking and our lives. (Genesis 1-11 These chapters lay the foundation for the biblical worldview, establishing God as a creator, humanity’s relationship with God and consequences of sin. African Study Bible)
