How is your reading of the NT going, my fellow readers? Do you have any questions about what you’re reading? For instance, in Luke 4:38-44, when Jesus tells the demons not to tell anyone that he was the Christ? Why wouldn’t Jesus not want the world to know who he was? Isn’t that the point?
The silencing of both demons and others is what is known as the Messianic Secret. There are differing views of regarding this call to be silent. One theory is that Jesus did not want his Messiahship associated with the popular view that he was a political/military Messiah come to establish the Kingdom of God by force, uproot the Romans and begin a new Davidic Kingdom from Jerusalem. A second theory is that he wanted people to understand his mission and identity in light of his resurrection. Making a proclamation too early would distort their view of his purposes.
I’ve been thinking further about how we might connect around this project of NT in a Year. Perhaps we could meet occasionally to do a discussion group about the readings and what it means to us individually. Or perhaps an evening of finger food and a presentation about history and formation of the New Testament, and/or a video related to some aspect of the NT – discussion to follow. We might also invite someone, a biblical scholar for example to speak to us. Let me know what you think, or any other ideas you might have.
Rev. Steve
Have just signed up to start the readings. It will be something I have never done. As I mentioned last night at Paul Gilroy’s presentation, I have been going to church all my life but have never really studied the bible. Paul presented “our results of the survey” and I think gave us something to think about. I hope that the bible readings will help me in my own spiritual journey. Based on the recent survey results, it seems to be an area many of us could benefit from and in turn will benefit Tansley. By the way, this is first time I have Blogged!!Great idea!
Comment by Nancy Holman — January 21, 2010 @ 5:11 pm |
There are lots of passages that I have difficulty understanding. And questions come up, such as: When John baptized Jesus, he knew He was God’s son when he saw the Holy Spirit descend in the form of a dove & rest on Him. Why then did he later send his disciples to ask Jesus if He was the one, or should they expect someone else? I depend quite a bit on the comments in the Study Bible to help me out.
I think it would be a good idea to meet occasionally as a group. I like the suggestion of a presentation, or a speaker.
Comment by Cheryl Giardina — January 22, 2010 @ 10:49 pm |
Cheryl, Thanks for your questions. I’m sure everyone struggles when reading one of the Gospels. This is in part, because you are not reading an actual historical account. Gospel means “good news” and that tells us that it is a particular kind of literature. This doesn’t negate truth, it is just that truth is told in a different way. Time lines and geographical location are sometime used by the authour to make theological or religious points. Such is the case with John the Baptist. John had a large following as he was the first, and it took a while for people to realize Jesus was he one John came to herald. So the writer tells the story in such a way, as to direct people to Jesus. Also, we can ask the question, was it entirely clear to John who Jesus was. There were a lot of false “messiah’s”, in this heightened time of messianic expectation. How could he be sure Jesus was the one? Jesus’ reply seems unusual, perhaps he is distinguishing his ministry from that of John’s.
Comment by Rev Steve — January 25, 2010 @ 5:08 pm |
I have enjoyed the reading to-date. But, yes a discussion group is a great idea.
Comment by Meegan Morris — January 25, 2010 @ 9:17 am |
Meegan, Yes, I would like to start a group. What times would work for you? Is there any day times that could work, or for anyone else? If not I could find an evening. Steve
Comment by Rev Steve — January 26, 2010 @ 11:00 am |
Mondays & Wednesdays are usually OK for me for a daytime group, because I work in the evening on those days. Mondays & Wednesdays are usually the only 2 evenings that I would not be available.
Comment by Cheryl Giardina — January 31, 2010 @ 6:49 pm |