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Biblical Reflections |
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The focus of our Developing Theology has been intimately bound to Scripture, but here we turn our attention more deliberately to the Bible. This takes the form of exegesis and interpretation of some passages, and theological reflection on others. Giving Scripture this deliberate treatment should hopefully reinforce the conviction that it is to hold a prominent and normative place in any theology. This is especially true for our Developing Theology, for not only are the life experiences and knowledge developing, but they are being developed and formed in (we should hope) almost constant interaction with Scripture. |
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Biblical Authority and The Marriage Metaphors of Jeremiah, Ezekiel and Hosea |
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The metaphor of marriage is one that appears frequently in the Old Testament to describe the relationship between God and Israel. It provides for us an intimate picture of how God has chosen to relate to His people. Yet, this metaphor is not without some troubling elements. Many scholars, especially in light of the development of feminist readings of scripture, have elevated these metaphors as troubling because of the brutality and patriarchy that these images convey. Here we take a look at these metaphors, in light of this critique, and seek to show their continuing power. |
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Developing a Biblical Theology |
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Here we take a deliberate look at the doctrine of scripture, as we seek to make it the foundation of our developing theology. This means we are precise in our understanding of what scripture is and what this means for Christian faith and life. |
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The Restrained God: A Theological Reflection on Genesis 32:22-32 |
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In Genesis 32, we have an interesting story of Jacob wrestling with God. This passage provides the basis for some interesting reflections on the nature of God's relationship with Jacob, and the nature of this wrestling. God chose to wrestle. That may at first seem like an odd little anecdote to include in the Bible, but it provides some deep insight into God's love, and into God's restraint. |
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Biblical Meditations |
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One of the most important parts of this developing theology is simply getting into scripture. We seek to know and love God more, so here we seek to meditate on God's written Word, to provide a foundation for our lives, as well as our theology. |
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A Vivid Portrayal of God: A Theological Reflection on Exodus 32:9-14 |
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The "God of the Old Testament" is often portrayed as a God of judgment, whereas the "God of the New Testament" is a God of mercy. Too often, this forms a disjunction in our thinking. This text in Exodus 32 is one of many that serve to deepen our understanding of God as a God of covenant, and a God of mercy. |
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Ezekiel 7 and the Wrath of God |
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The Wrath of God is a topic which is found throughout the Old Testament, and is one which many people find problematic. Here we look at Ezekiel's declarations concerning the wrath of God in Ezekiel 7, and also reflect on the relevance of this type of understanding for our world today. |
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