Christian Ethics

Christian Ethics, taught by Martin Baldree at Lee College, Spring 1990.

How My Ethics Were Formed

A funny thing happened on my way through life---my ethics were formed.  Since I was born at an early age, and am now approaching 40, life has offered me several years and many situations through which my ethics were formed.  Life is a continual growing experience, and I am open to changes.  Therefore, my ethics may still be in the process of forming, but I believe the basic foundation has been laid.  I know who I am in Christ, and I know what I stand for.  In one simple word, I stand for Truth.

The foundation began when God gave me the privilege of being raised in a Christian home by parents who were solidly committed to their faith in Jesus Christ.  Each day in our home was started with the family gathering for Bible reading and prayer together.  I grew up very aware that I was accountable before God as well as to my parents.  My tender conscience has become the root to all of my ethical decisions.

Attending church whenever the doors were open was our family lifestyle.  Church became another area of accountability for me.  My entire social life revolved around the church community.  School dances and clubs had no appeal to me as they were not part of my world.  The Christian atmosphere in my home and my church and social world sheltered me from the norms and values of the world.  Perhaps this sheltering was not the best preparation for me to face the real world as an adult, but I still count it a privilege and a blessing to be raised in such an atmosphere.  It gave me the solid foundation I needed when I did start facing reality in the world, and decisions and choices had to be made.

My constant exposure to the Christian lifestyle, and my tender conscience, led me to a public altar at the age of eleven to confess my sins and accept Jesus as my own personal Savior.  What weighed heavily in my mind was the candy bar I had stolen several months earlier.  I confessed this not only to Jesus, but also to my parents.  My mother made me realize how important it was to make things right after confessing the wrong.  It is called restitution.  That has become one of my ethical codes.  If I choose to do wrong, then to be forgiven I must go back and make it right if I possibly can.  Knowing that has kept me from choosing to do wrong many times.  Apologizing and admitting guilt can be very difficult and humbling.

What is astounding to me is that the very world which shaped me and protected me as a child, the church world, is the one in which I was broken and crushed.  I came face to face with situations that made me evaluate life very closely.  There came a point where I had to make a choice.  Did I want to end life, which had become such a disappointment, or did I want to live life above the circumstances, walking on in faith as a child of God, totally dependent on Him and no longer focused on living to please mankind.  I chose life.  It was time to grow up, and live as Jesus would have me live. 

As long as I lived at home I was responsible to live according to my parents' rules.  When I married and moved to the south, I became a member of a church which based religious experience on rules.  Some were rules I had grown up with and felt comfortable with, but some were much stricter.  For several years I lived a life of fear that I would break someone's rules and displease them and God and be condemned to hell.  Where was the "freedom" in Christ I heard about in songs and scripture?  I found myself becoming very critical and bitter toward others.  My attitudes were certainly not Christ-like as I became disillusioned by Christianity as portrayed by church leaders.

After living a few years in the conservative Bible Belt, we were transferred to the Chicago area by my husband's company.  There we attended a very liberal church of our same denomination.  In the south I was too liberal for the church, and in the north I was too conservative for the church.  I upset the apple cart no matter where I was.  The frustration of trying to please church leaders left me in a constant state of emotional upheaval.  If I did 99 things right, and one thing that was not pleasing to someone, it was the one things that I was judged by.  My sensitivity to people made this an issue that would try to destroy me again and again.

I was sick of trying to please people.  I began to intensely hunger to live accountable to God alone and please Him, regardless of the opinion of man.  In January of 1987 I asked God to set me free from what others thought of me as long as I had His approval.  I found that when I pray a sincere prayer from the heart, God answers.  He does not usually answer in the way I expect Him to, but His ways are best.  My road to freedom has been a three year walk of faith, through the valley of failure, through the desert of depression, and on into the hill climbing of preparation for full time service to God.  Today I am a free woman---free to live for Jesus, free to please God, free to serve others in love (Galatians 5:13:  You, my brothers, were called to be free.  But do not use your freedom in indulge the sinful nature; rather serve one another in love.)

As a teenager I read the book and saw the movie "In His Steps".  The theme of the story is living as Christ would live.  In each decision the question should be asked, "What would Christ do?"  That is the question I ask myself when facing ethical decisions.  I am dependent upon His guidance.

The experiences I have come through have helped shaped my guidelines for living.  Perhaps they could be called my ethical guidelines.  In closing, I share them with you.

• Above all else, be honest.  Be honest with your feelings, your words, and your actions.  The conscience rests much easier when you know you have been honest, for deceit is destructive.
• Always part leaving the best impression you can, for it may be the last impression you leave.  Life is so uncertain.
• Give everything over to God:  the hurts, the anger, the frustration, the confusion, the "why's?".  The only safe and sane place for it is in God's control.  Otherwise, IT begins to control YOU, and guess who loses!
• Remember life is a moment by moment commitment.  Determine to whom and to what you are committed, and live it moment by moment.  God's will for you is not HERE or THERE, but it is simply that you be totally submitted, totally obedient to Him in each situation, each moment that comes your way.
• Continually practice the formula for JOY:  J (Jesus first) O (others second) Y (yourself last).

New Testament Survey - Chapter 5

I and II Peter

These two books in the New Testament were written by Apostle Peter.  They were written  to Jewish Christians as well as Gentile Christians throughout the Mediterranean world.  

The theme of I Peter is Christian suffering.  We are reminded that we will suffer just as our Lord Jesus Christ suffered.  But suffering is only temporary, whereas salvation is eternal.  In suffering our faith is refined in the same way that fire purifies gold.

The theme of II Peter is preservation of the true faith.  True Christian character is defined as diligently seeking moral excellence; one who is knowledgeable; one who exercises self-control; and one who perseveres and does not give up.  Peter warns against false teachers and mockers.  The Lord's return will come like a thief in the night, and we must be ready.


I, II, III John

Apostle John is the author of these three books in the New Testament.  They were written for preservation of the faith.  Christianity settled the Jewish Christian dilemma of faith versus works.  Now John fights against the philosophy of Gnosticism.  This was a belief that Jesus could not be both God and man.  

John writes to give security to those who have believed and that they might be certain of their faith.  Certainty comes through walking in the Light, accepting Jesus as the Son of God and having fellowship with God.  The love for God and the love for material things cannot co-exist.  True love for God is expressed by obeying Him.  


Revelation

The last book of the New Testament was also written by Apostle John.  The purpose of the book was to encourage Christians under persecution to be faithful to God...God is in control! 

Chapters two and three are letters to the seven churches in Asia Minor.  Then John wrote of the three woes in chapters four through twenty.  Chapter 21 tells of the creation of the new heaven and new earth, and the book ends in Chapter 22 where it is stated that Jesus is coming quickly (22:7).  Thus the New Testament ends.

The events of Revelation are in this order:
1.  Present Age

2.  Tribulation - seven years; rapture may occur prior to this and is the first resurrection where every believer is spared of going through the tribulation period.  (Many scholars do not agree with this timing of the rapture.)

3.  Battle of Armageddon - the second coming of Christ who comes to defeat the armies of satan on earth and to establish the Kingdom of God.

4.  Millennial Age (1,000 years) - an age of Peace - Christ and all his saints establish the Kingdom of God on literal earth.  The saints rule and reign during this period, ruling over the sinners that come out of the tribulation alive.  Satan is chained in the abyss, so there is no sin during this age of Peace.

5.  Satan is Loosed - for a season he will try and tempt people from tribulation period who must then decide to go with the Kingdom of God, or succumb to sin and satan.  This is the final rebellion.

6.  Great White Throne Judgement - This is the second resurrection.  The judgement is of sinners, not saints.  The wicked and satan are cast into the lake of fire, and the earth is destroyed by fire.  God creates a new earth where there is no sea.

7.  Eternity.

This concludes my notes from my class on New Testament Survey.  I would enjoy taking a class like this again, and perhaps I will.

New Testament Survey - Chapter 4

Continuation from my class notes:

The Book of Hebrews

The author of Hebrews is unknown.  Many would surmise it was written by Apostle Paul, but it would be unusual for Paul not to identify himself in this letter, since he did in his other 13 epistles.  Since my studies in seminary, I lean toward an author no one else has mentioned...Priscilla.  Paul often stayed with Priscilla and Aquila, and they were under his teaching as they did tent making together.  The theology in Hebrews is very much Pauline, but presented in a different manner.  

Priscilla, being a woman, did not dare mention her authorship of the letter as it would have been discarded by her culture, as well as ours.  She knew women were not respected for their knowledge or skills.  She was very wise in withholding her identity, while presenting one of the strongest writings in a book intended for reestablishing the Jewish Christians in their faith.  They could not go back to Judaism and remain established in their salvation experience.

The arguments made in Hebrews are that Jesus Christ is better:
- than angels
- than Moses and Joshua
- as a high priest than the Levites

The New Covenant is better than the Old Covenant, as the Laws are written on the heart, not on a tablet of stone.  Faith is the key to salvation and results in practical Christian conduct.

The Book of James

James, the brother of Jesus, is responsible for authorship of this book.  The crowd he addresses is the Jews in the Diaspora.  He puts strong emphasis on practical Christian living.

James stresses doing more than believing, unlike Paul.  True Faith does not discriminate; is always complemented by good works; controls the tongue; does not argue with his neighbors; and remains in open communication with God.  Key verse in James:

James 1:22 New Living Translation (NLT)

22 But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves.

New Testament Survey - Chapter 3

Continuation from my notes:

Paul wrote three letters which are considered the Pastoral Epistles:  I and II Timothy and Titus.

The first letter of Timothy is addressed to Paul's devoted disciple who was pastoring in the church at Ephesus.  Paul focused on the administration of the local church.  The epistle is divided into four major sections:  personal greetings; qualities of the laity; qualifications for church leadership; and admonitions to Timothy concerning the ministry.

The second letter to Timothy continued admonitions to him concerning his conduct and ministry.  The two most notable challenges:

2 Timothy 2:15 New Living Translation (NLT)

Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth.

2 Timothy 3:16 New Living Translation (NLT)

All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.

Paul's second letter to Timothy is considered to be Paul's last epistle written.  However, before writing II Timothy, Paul wrote a pastoral letter to Titus, who was also a young pastor struggling with the difficulties of church administration.  In this epistle Paul focused on qualifications of leadership and content of sound doctrine.

Titus, more than any other epistle, emphasizes grace and good works:

Titus 3:4-8 New Living Translation (NLT)

4 But—

When God our Savior revealed his kindness and love, 5 he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit.[a] 6 He generously poured out the Spirit upon us through Jesus Christ our Savior. 7 Because of his grace he made us right in his sight and gave us confidence that we will inherit eternal life.

8 This is a trustworthy saying, and I want you to insist on these teachings so that all who trust in God will devote themselves to doing good. These teachings are good and beneficial for everyone.

This completes the 13 letters written by Apostle Paul, which comprises almost half of the 27 books included in the New Testament writings.

New Testament Survey - Chapter 2

Continuation from my notes:

The 13 epistles that Paul wrote which were included in the New Testament, were not put in chronological order.  Instead, they are in order by size...from the longest (Romans) to the shortest (Philemon).  Here's an overview of each of them:


Romans

Paul wrote this book to the church in Rome.  It contains theology and the theme is "The Just Shall Live by Faith".   It gives the doctrinal discussion of salvation and how it relates to the Jews.  Practical applications of Christianity are given, such as responsibilities to God, to the Body of Christ, to adversaries, to government, to weaker Christians, and to others.

I have often said that if our Bible was taken from us and we could only keep one book...the book of Romans has all we need to find salvation and live and grow as a Christian.  Very good book for use in a Bible Study or personal study.

I and II Corinthians

These letters were written in reply to an inquiry from the church in Corinth.  Some of the topics covered are marriage, spiritual gifts, love (The Love Chapter - Chapter 13 of I Corinthians), and resurrection.  II Corinthians gives a defense of Paul's ministry and apostleship, and instructions for giving.

The Prison Epistles - Ephesians, Colosians, Philippians, Philemon

After Paul's third missionary journey he went to Jerusalem.  He was arrested and beaten.  Since Paul was a Roman citizen, he had the right to receive a fair trial, so he was put in prison in Ceasarea for two years to await the trial.  During this time he wrote his Prison Epistles.

Ephesians - was written to mature Christians at the church in Ephesus to encourage their faith and growth.  Paul expounded on salvation was by God's grace, and the responsibility of Christian conduct.  

Colosians - sent to a church in Colossee that Paul did not establish, and containing much of the same material as the letter to the Ephesians.

Philippians - is the most personal of all of Paul's epistles to the churches.  They had supported Paul financially and were dear to his heart.  They were exhorted to live by the example of Jesus Christ and be steadfast in their faith, unified in love, and be humble, putting the needs of others before their own.

Philemon - was not a church, but a person, a businessman in Colossee.  Paul asked Philemon to receive his former servant Onesimus back without punishment.  The Christian principle of forgiveness was the purpose of this epistle.

New Testament Survey - Chapter 1

From my notes, second summer session 1989

Geography

Israel, the land of the New Testament, is a small country...about the size of the state of Vermont.  It's approximately 150 miles long and 45 miles wide.  Israel contains the lowest point on the earth, the Dead Sea, which sits 1,400' below sea level.  There are two seasons in this small country:  the wet season from November to April, and the dry season from May to October.  The Arabian Desert on the east influences the climate, which is subtropical and produces citrus fruits.


Overview of the New Testament


The New Testament is comprised of 27 books written to fill specific needs of the church at the time of their writing.  As more than 27 books were actually written, a process, called canonization, determined which books were truly inspired by the Holy Spirit and accurately represented the teachings and doings of Jesus Christ and the early church.

A.  The Four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) and the Acts of the Apostles were written as the disciples began to die off, and no one would be around to tell what Jesus had done and taught...no eye witnesses.  It was 25-30 years after the ascension of Jesus that the Gospels were written.  Mark was the first to be written, and John was the last.  The Gospels were both historical and "good news" books.

B.  The Epistles were letters written by Apostle Paul to churches to keep unity as the gospel message spread.  We get our church doctrine from these epistles.  The letters were written to correct false teachings and to encourage and build up the faith.


The Four Gospels

1 - Mark was the first gospel written, and also the shortest.  John Mark, a comrade of Apostle Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary journey, was not a disciple.  Most of his knowledge came from Apostle Peter.  One third of his gospel focused on the passion and resurrection of Jesus.  Unique to Mark's gospel is fast action.  The word "immediately" occurs 42 times in his gospel.  Mark was written more for the Gentile audience.

 2 - Matthew was written by the disciple Matthew, also known as Levi.  He was a tax collector, and he wrote his gospel for the Jewish audience.  He wrote to defend the truth that Jesus was the Messiah by relating Jesus' life with the Old Testament prophecies.  The genealogy includes Abraham and David, describing how Jesus came from royal bloodline...Son of David (King).  Also the genealogy was from Joseph's perspective, through the male line (the father of Jesus.) Matthew used Jesus' reference to Old Testament scriptures being fulfilled.

3 - Luke was also a gospel written by a non-disciple.  Luke was a Gentile aristocrat and a physician.  He was also a companion of Apostle Paul, and the only Gentile writer in the New Testament.  He wrote to Theophilus, a Roman official, who wanted a chronological order of the life of Jesus.  Luke gives the most comprehensive coverage of Jesus' life.  His genealogy was from Mary's perspective, the female line (the mother of Jesus).  He emphasized prayer and the Holy Spirit in his writing. 

4 - John was the last gospel written, and the author was a disciple of Jesus Christ.  He was referred to as the beloved disciple.  He and his brother James were fishermen from Galilee.  John was actually a disciple of John the Baptist first.  As the disciple of Jesus, he was one of three of Jesus' inner circle (Peter, James, John).  John was the last disciple to die, and wrote five books total (the Gospel of John, 1,2,3 John, and Revelation).  He wrote to reach the Jews by referring to Jesus as the Messiah, and to reach the Gentiles by referring to Christ as the Son of God.  John was more theological than the other gospels and emphasized belief, which occurred 98 times in his gospel.

Acts

Acts was was by Luke as a sequel to his gospel, and was also written to Theophilus.  It was written with a historical purpose, giving the early church history for the first 30-35 years.  It tells us how the disciples of Jesus changed from fearful to bold and empowered by the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, which was the beginning of the early church.  Whereas the gospels were a record of what Jesus began to do and teach before the cross, Acts records what Jesus continued to do through His gift of the Holy Spirit after His ascension.

The conversion of Saul (Apostle Paul) and the missionary journeys of Paul and Barnabas are written in detail.  The letters, or epistles, that Paul wrote, which comprise 13 books of the New Testament, stem from those three missionary journeys.

Aspects of Christian Literature - Class Presentations

Love Comes Softly, Janette Oakes

This sounds like an interesting author to read when I'm looking for easy-reading, fantasy escape type reading.  I have trouble reading love stories at this time because of the longings within me.  It tends to make me focus on what's missing in my life instead of living grateful for the blessings in my life.

My choice of reading for now seems to be that which is beneficial to building the inner life, strengthening the character, preparing me for the ministry God has chosen me for.


The Valliant Papers, Calvin Miller

The powers behind the scenes - guardian angels.  Sounds like a very interesting book/author.  The angel is Valiant.


Phantasies, George McDonald

Fantasies of main character.  Main goal to get back to real life (search for God).  Deep reading, lots of poetry.


Patricia, Grace Livingston Hill

Christian romance series - easy reading.  She had such a spiritually rich background that the influence carried over in her writing.  I've read several of her books, and find her very enjoyable to read.


Two From Galilee, Marjorie Holms

Romantic love story about Mary & Joseph.  I have read this book several years ago, and would like to read it again.


The Scarlet Letter, Nathaniel Hawthorne

Lady is adulterous - letter A to represent it
Has secret lover - minister
Symbolism in his writing


In His Steps, Charles Sheldon

This is an excellent book - leaves one changed in priorities and worldview.  I have read the book and seen the movie.


Pilgrim's Progress, Paul Bunyon

Major works of all times.   Story is of a man's search for eternal life (Christian).  Characters are allegories.  Names of characters portrayed their characters.  Christian is John Bunyon, and the characters re people he had met.  Written from prison.  This is a book I would like to read since it is a Christian Classic.  
(Professor's note:  You will love it!)


Utopia, Sir Thomas Moore

Lots of dialog.
Narrator (Moore, author) and sailor
Utopia - land of no existence, new world based on Christian values


War In Heaven, Charles ?

Struggle between good and evil


Swiss Family Robinson, ??

Family shipwrecked on island


Tilly,   ??

About abortion

Aspects of Christian Literature - Chapter 10

6-25-1989

I'm working at Cleveland Helpline today and I just finished preparing my book/author presentation for tomorrow's class.

Joyce Landorff Heatherly has suffered a lot in her life, mostly from rejection.  I sometimes wonder if those who write for the Lord are the ones who have to carry the heavier crosses, and have depended upon God more.  The lessons they learn are so valuable to us.

It is my hope to publish something some day in the form of inspiration reading.  But it may mean traveling through the deep valleys to "gather data".  I've been in two of them thus far, but God is so faithful to bring me through, deeper in love with Him.  

C.S. Lewis captured my attention, and I bought his book The Screwtape Letters, which I'm now reading.  There's so much truth in that book, it takes time to absorb what all is being said.  Lewis, I have respect for, but O'Connor and I exist in two different world.  (I recognize both of these authors are deceased, and we do live in different worlds...my guess is three different worlds.  (Oops, too judgmental on my part.  For give me.)

6-26-1989

Today I gave my oral presentation to the class.  I presented Joyce Landorff Heatherly, He Began with Eve. 

In all my searching for facts on this author, I really didn't come up with much.  Prior to class I stopped at Nelda George's office and Betty Baldree was there.  She noticed my book and mentioned she had net Joyce last summer when she stopped in to see the Lee campus.  (She had attended when it was Bob Jones University).  So Betty was able to share more details on Joyce's life.  I see that as God's personal touch, not as coincidence.  

God is so neat...one never knows how, when, or where He's going to act.  Unpredictable, but always faithful.

Aspects of Christian Literature - Chapter 9

What happens after the end of the novel?

Rayber was found dead by the woman at the Cherokee Lodge.  He had collapsed and died when he realized Bishop was drowned and Tarwater was going on to meet his fate.  He was left alone.  No son, no nephew, no God, no one to care.  There was no hope, just dullness...nothingness.  His spirit left him.

The woman at the lodge suspected foul play.  She had not trusted Tarwater from the moment she saw him, and had told him not to do the devil's work there.  When they dragged the lake and found Bishop's body, after discovering Rayber's body, she knew her worst fears had come true.  Tarwater had put his address down, Powderhead, Tennessee.  The police found Buford in the cornfield and forced the story from him of the strangeness of Tarwater and all he had done to his great uncle and his home and land.

Back in the city Tarwater was prophesying and was easy to pick out on the street because of his strange dress and speech.  There was no difficulty whatsoever in reducing his charge of double homicide to not guilty by reason of insanity.  He was then locked away in the state mental institution where the attendants had to keep him away from all forms of water so he could not baptize people.

(Professor's note:  Talk about realism!  This brings it down to the grass roots!)

Aspects of Christian Literature - Chapter 8

6-19-1989

We began discussing The Violent Bear It Away by Flannery O'Connor.

Personally, I do not care for this book.  I have serious doubts about the author being a Christian.  I don't see how anyone who has a tender heart toward Jesus Christ can write a story that would take his name carelessly and portray such a slanted view of a fanatical religion.  It certainly wouldn't draw one to Christ, but rather support the stereo-type view of Christians being off-balance.  I'm very offended by the over all tune of the book.

Also, it refers to blacks in a cruel way, and if I were black, I would be angered at having to read this book in a Christian college.  I expect it in the world, but not at Lee.  I'm disappointed.  There are too many good books to have to examine borderline material. 

I have written this opinion after having read part 1 and 2.  I had to force myself to read on after the first chapter.  I rebel against absorbing this story.

6-20-1989

I read part 3.  There had to be perverted sex because sex is realism, and since Flannery's characters were extremists, naturally there had to be a perversion.  It made me sick.  I told God I was sorry I read the story.  My conscience is till too seared by the realism in my own life.  

I hate that satan controls the mind set of the world.  It's a struggle for a Christian to remain pure and have pure thoughts with all that he must walk past in this world.  May God hasten His coming before we all grow numb to holiness of heart and lifestyle.

Aspects of Christian Literature - Chapter 7

6-15-1989

We took our first test yesterday and I felt confident at having done well, so I treated myself to a shopping trip to Hamilton Place Mall yesterday afternoon.  Today I was ticked to see I had made an A- on the test.  (Thank you, Jesus!)

We discussed modern man's alienation and estrangement today.  I'll write my thoughts on his alienation and estrangement.

From Nature:  God has created a very beautiful world for man to enjoy.  He was commanded to care for it.  I believe man has become abusive toward nature, using her, stripping her, perhaps even raping her.  He has taken for his own greedy purposes and pleasure, and then dumps her (or makes her into a dump with his garbage).  He has left scars, and all nature cries out to her Creator for restoration to her original beauty.

From Man:  Man is basically a very selfish person.  He uses other people to satisfy his wants and desires, always watching out for number one.  Things like trust, companionship, sharing each other's burdens...these are almost gone.  Dependability...who can you depend on anymore?  Responsibility...unless there is self gain, who cares?  Every man likes to think he is king of his island, when truly he's just a weed on a desert, to be devoured by someone else for their own pleasure, and then spit out.

From Himself:  People can't handle the emotional pain it would cause to take a good look at one's self and do some honest soul searching.  So instead they cop out and compare themselves to others by pointing out the flaws of others, thus making themselves look good.  Pride is man's most prevalent, most destructive sin.  If he could ever chip away pride and see  himself as God sees him, then a real person could emerge...one that could be developed in the image of Christ.  That's far too threatening, so man keeps hi guard up and marches through life as a tin soldier, unreal.

From God:  Pride again is the cause of this alienation and estrangement.  Man wants to think of himself as self-sufficient, in control of his own destiny, his own boss.  As long as man sits on his own throne God is limited, and ultimately man will be rejected by his Creator and left to his own chosen destiny.

The world is becoming rapidly self-destructive because of selfishness.  Every man, every nation is out for self.  "United we stand, divided we fall..."  Only the Kingdom of God will stand throughout eternity, and few there be that enter in.

Aspects of Christian Literature - Chapter 6

6-3-1989

What is the world view behind Till We Have Faces?

In the story the whole plot seems to revolve around Orual seeking for truth from the gods.  The Fox searches for truth through reasoning.  Psyche simply believes in truth without question.  Hers is the simple childlike faith that pleases God.  So I feel the characters value truth, which is a Christian characteristic.

I believe it is a Christian world view novel because Orual knows there is a reason for everything, and seeks the truth behind the reasoning.  She looks for justice and fairness, and is distraught at the evil that prevails.

In Psyche she sees all that is pure and true and lovely even though she doesn't understand the divine love Psyche has.  That is because her own love is very selfish.  However, in her search for truth, she discovers her true self, and sets out to change her inner self to be beautiful.

God looks on our hearts, and that's where Orual had to be changed, thus resulting in outward beauty.  She finally knew the true God.

Aspects of Christian Literature - Chapter 5

6-12-1989

Today we reviewed Till We Have Faces.  We discussed Orual's ugliness was a result of the ugly spirit she had inside her.  At the close of the book as she develops a kind spirit, she also turns physically beautiful.  

I think the same is true of us.  A beautiful girl can be spiteful and haughty and rude, and no one really cares to be around her.  But a person who has inner beauty and warmth has a drawing effect on others.  There is an attraction deeper than the skin.

Lewis wrote this book to portray how Christian people have a tendency to want others to fit their mold, as though they are God.  If you don't fit, you are rejected.  How well I know the feeling!  I have felt it in every church I have ever attended for any length of time.  Why do people think becoming a Christian makes them an instant judge.  Personally I don't think you can be both.  Christ never judged.  He offered the truth, to be accepted or rejected.  He did not come quoting dress codes and rules.

I am reminded of a point made in last night's sermon...we are accountable for every word we say.  We will stand before Christ one day, and this time He will be our Judge.  And every word, every deed will be examined.  The awesomeness of accountability!

I'm reading the book a second time, trying to pick up the finer points in preparation for Wednesday's test.  Why do I have such a hard time capturing what I read and hear?  Where are my powers of concentration and retention?  How will I ever make it through to a degree?  I depend upon God's help as I faithfully do my pat to attend class and study.

(Professor's note:  You seem to have a deep understanding of what you read!)

Aspects of Christian Literature - Chapter 4

6-7-1989

What is world view, and what is my world view?

World view is a set of beliefs that tell a person what to think and how to act in any situation in life.

My own world view is a Christian world view.  To me, being a Christian is to live as Christ would live.  He is my example.  In all relationships I strive for openness and honesty.  I respect the rights of others, but hold to my standards and convictions, which I feel God has instilled in me.  Above all, I love without conditions.  I believe my purpose for being here is to be an instrument of praise to Jesus and His agent of love, His servant, to others.

I try to view all situations through the eyes of Jesus and act accordingly.  I am accountable for my lifeblood.  That's serious.  I think each situation demands my best.  This is not to say I achieve that...but I am always conscious of my weaknesses and struggle to overcome them.  The struggle is between my flesh and my spirit.

I believe God is in ultimate control, and accept whatever happens as ordained by Him for my best.  This means I have to leave a lot of questions with Him over circumstances I do not understand.

I finished reading Till We Have Faces yesterday.  I found that I was intrigued with the story, and kept reading with a desire to learn what truth Orual learned.  I thought I would find the book difficult to read, but I was very interested in it.

Throughout the whole story I kept thinking that the end result would be that Orual would be like the ugly duckling who turned into a beautiful swan. I was looking for the physical transformation.  In reality there was a spiritual transformation instead.  I'm glad CS Lewis did that for it portrays that it truly is the heart that matters, not the face.  Man look on the outward appearance, but God looks on the heart.

It seems I could identify with Orual at times.  When she was so introspective and searching for truth, for example.  The arguments that transpired in her mind in trying to rationalize things sounded so typical of me.  No matter what I decide, I still have doubts and questions.  

I believe Orual was always sincere in her love for Psyche.  But love can become warped and possessive, and destroy the very object of our love.  The pain of realization of what we have done, when it's too late, is very difficult to bear.  One lives with the knowledge it was his own hands that squeezed life out of that dearest to one's heart.  The story of King Midas and his lust for gold is a good example of love getting out of control.  He wouldn't have traded his daughter for all the gold in the world, yet that lust of gold overtook him, and in his own touch he destroyed his ultimate love.

Orual liked the control she had over Psyche.  She would have given her life for Psyche because she loved him so deeply, but when she became obsessed with controlling Psyche, she destroyed his happiness, and created separation between them.

Love...pure love...is giving without expecting anything in return.  It is letting go and allowing the other person to become all he can become without my control, knowing we are each unique and have different paths created just for us.  We grow as we share the different experiences we each have, not in becoming clones of one another.  A possessive kind of love says, "I'm insecure and I need you to survive.  You must nurture my needs."  That is not the obvious, but when one person tries to control another, that is the root of it.

Today in class we started reviewing Part 1 of the book Till We Have Faces.  Even though I have read the book, and did find it interesting, I don't have good recall of the finer details.  In preparation for the test next week, I am reading the book again.  I hope I can absorb more this time.

I have chosen Joyce Landorff as the Christian author to present to the class.  I am using her novel He Began with Eve.  I have checked out several of her other books to get a glimpse into her background and who she is.  Most of her books are non-fictional essays written out of sorrows, from her heart.  She shares the lessons she has learned and the insight she has been given from her sufferings.

He Began with Eve is the story of five women from the Bible, from a third person omniscience perspective.  It is so easy to identify with the main character and feel what she felt.

Aspects of Christian Literature - Chapter 3

6-2-1989

Today we discussed some TV programs and had a short class.  Since I don't watch TV, I have nothing to add to these discussions.  I have a tendency to feel even more disgust with television when I become more aware of how much it possesses people, their time and their minds.  I am grateful God brought me to the point I can live without it, and has helped my children accept strict regulations regarding TV.  My husband, being an adult, has the freedom to make his own choices.  I believe television is a cause of lack of communication in families and marriages, and is therefore a detriment to the home.  I recognize I have strong feelings in this area, and television arouses my anger.

6-5-1989

Why do bad things happen to good people?  

God is no respecter of persons.  It rains on the just as well as the unjust.  It was not God's desire that bad things happen to anyone.  However, satan messed up the plan of perfection when he enticed man into original sin.  The curses that came with that choice to disobey God will be with this earth until God creates a new heaven and a new earth, and destroys that which satan has marred.

So Christians, being human, will suffer along with mankind.  However, it isn't the circumstances that we should dwell on.  It is our attitude and reaction to the "bad things".  The advantage we have of being a Christian is that Christ is there to see us through whatever hurts us.  He gives us inner strength to go on.  And amazingly He always brings good out of each crisis if we allow Him to.  It isn't always readily seen, or instantaneous...but He does work all things to His good.

Who are we that God should favor us when even His own Son had to suffer far beyond any human suffering.  To dwell on "why it happened to me" is destructive.  It takes a bundle of faith and a willingness to place ourselves completely in God's hands and trust Him and His wisdom.  Our puny minds cannot grasp His ways.  But nothing pleases Him more than simple childlike faith that says, "That's OK.  My Daddy (Heavenly Father) will take care of me."

(Professor made comment, "Good Argument!")

Personal Note:  It has been a stretch since I last blogged due to us transitioning back to the north, with a side journey to Charlotte, NC for a few days.  I hope to start posting more regularly now that we are settled in again in Michigan.  I have written each paragraph in a different font, hope to decipher which is the easiest font to read.  Wish I could get some feedback from those who read this!  

Aspects of Christian Literature - Chapter 2

June 1, 1989

Our journal entry is to reflect on a book we have read or a show we have watched and use the three questions to criticize (critique) the work.  I do not watch television or go to movies so I cannot analyze any shows.  I will say that the lack of Christian morals and influence is a major reason I do not use this form of entertainment.

The only books I have read in the last couple of years are inspirational type books written by Christian authors, such as:   Ann Kiemel Anderson, Dr. James Dobson, Gordon MacDonald, Joyce Landorff, Chuck Swindoll, Dr. Charles Stanley.  I have read many self-help books dealing with psychology and emotions, as this has been one way God has healed me from my depression.  The books have all conformed to the Christian ethics I hold, are exclusively Christian, and represent a clear view of Christianity.

I have nothing against fiction books, but I am at a time in my life where I am intensely searching God's will for me, and stability in my emotions.  I am therefore reading God's Word and other helpful books to fill my mind and meditate upon things of God.  I want to grow wise and mature and that happens as a result of viewing things as God views them.  That's why I am saturating myself with Him.  I do believe Lee College is one place He wants me as I must also grow intellectually.  To do so in a Christian atmosphere is a real blessing.  I believe there is something for me to learn in every classroom, as I feel directed by the Holy Spirit even as I choose my classes.

Aspects of Christian Literature - Chapter 1

In the summer of 1989 (29 years ago) I took a class at Lee College taught by Donna Summerlin, entitled "Aspects of Christian Literature".  For this class we needed to turn in a journal at the end of the class.  It will be interesting for me to post this journal on my blog.  I wonder if any of my thoughts and ideas have changed over the last 29 years.  I will break this down into chapters for each day I journaled.  As you read, keep in mind that this is my personal journal that I turned in for class credit, but I journal very openly and honestly.  It is me.  My thoughts and feelings are emptied onto paper without qualm.  

Wednesday, May 31, 1989
This was our second day of class, Aspects of Christian Literature, taught by Donna Summerlin.  We meet Monday through Friday from 10-11:15 am for five weeks.

Yesterday we received our syllabus (check the spelling on that word - it's used a lot and I need to spell it right!)  Donna reviewed the course objectives and lectured on the conflict of literature.

The first novel we will read for class is Til We Have Faces by C.S. Lewis.  I have read the first chapter and realize I will have to really concentrate when I read.  It deals with mythology, so the names of people and places are different.

I did not realize that literature meant fiction.  I had heard we would read some of C.S. Lewis' works, but I was guessing he was a theologian, and the "articles" would be spiritual enrichment, non-fiction type.  So now to find out who C.S. Lewis is, a name I've heard often, but never knew who he was/is.

Today we reviewed our notes from yesterday, and discussed the purpose of Christian literature and what it is.  The question was raised, should we read literature that is not necessarily Christian.  This is an area I'll have to open up to and allow God to show me His response.  I do not wish to close my mind, nor do I wish to flirt with the world.

Since my fall and clinical depression over two years ago, I have ceased watching television completely, and dropped all subscriptions to non-Christian magazines.  I listen to Christian radio stations.  It isn't that I became a saint, but rather that I am on an all-out obsession with seeking and doing my Father's will.  I want as little of satan's input as possible because he deceived me in a big time way, and I hate him and all that he represents.  I don't want to touch anything that's been touched by him, influenced by him.

It all starts in the mind.  Whatever controls the mind, controls the body.  I must fill my mind with "things from above" to be totally equipped to resist satan.  He is so sly.  He is undermining the Christian community, and I think it is basically unaware.  (Prof. Summerlin noted "very true" on my paper)

I went to Israel with the Lee group in March.  The one lesson that stands out above all others is the choice to isolate or assimilate.  Throughout Bible history whenever God's people assimilated, they created destruction for themselves.  They settled for less than God's best.  They paid the price of mixing in with the world.  God calls for us to be holy, to be set apart, to be isolated so that His character can be seen in us, and we can be effective for Him.

This is a fine line to understand.  I do not mean we are to be sheltered, for we are to be "in" the world, but not "of" the world.  To be truly effective for Him, we must touch the world, the people.  But we need to have the mind of Christ, the love of Christ, and the steadfastness of Christ.  It's my guess most Christians spend hours watching TV, listening to non-Christian radio, and reading non-Christian literature and other printed material.  Perhaps they spend a few minutes in God's Word, though I doubt most do.  My question is, with that kind of input diet, how can Christ be represented?  How can His influence be felt if we are in the same mold as the world?  We must march to a different drumbeat.

Fearing I may be too narrow minded, I am asking God to keep me open to His truths, and keep me teachable.  I want to experience all that He has for me.  But I don't want to assimilate or compromise.  When I started to pull away from television, the question I asked each time I sat down to watch was, "Would I be comfortable watching this program if Jesus were here beside me, or would I be embarrassed?"  I usually became uncomfortable enough to turn the TV off, for I knew that Jesus truly was present.  I approach my reading material the same way..."Could I read this aloud to Jesus and not be ashamed?"  There are too many good books to read to waste my time on questionable material.  I am here for one purpose - to glorify God.  My inner person is the root of who I am, and I must discipline the inner me if I want the beauty of Jesus to be seen in me.

General Psychology

In the spring of 1989 I took a class in General Psychology at Lee College.  It was taught by Dr. Paul Conn, president of the college.  I think that was the one class he continued to teach after becoming president.  Dr. Conn was quite in tune with the students, and he made the class very interesting.  

It was during this spring semester. my second semester at Lee College, that I also joined the study tour group going to Israel for two weeks.  After these two classes my mind was made up, at the age of 39, that I wanted to pursue a college degree.  I regretted not getting a degree after high school, but at that time I could not see how it would benefit me...one who only aspired to be a secretary.  

I went one year to Olivet Nazarene College back in 1968, as requested by my parents, and decided it was not the route for me.  Also, I did not find Mr. Right on the college campus...which may be more the reason I wanted to attend college in the first place!  It was a good year over all, but I did not excel in the grades, and was not inspired to continue.

After my clinical depression in my 30's (see previous blog posts), I did not feel adequate to obtain employment.  A return to college seemed like the place to get my life refocused.  I started out slow, not knowing if I would be able to fit in with the academic world.  However, even in the registration line I began to make friends with other older/non-traditional students returning to school.  Many of them were seeking a mid-life career change, or following God's call on their lives to prepare for His service in some type of ministry.  That helped me feel like maybe there was a divine purpose in  my going back to college.

It was my second semester at Lee College in which I took General Psychology and the Study Tour of Israel (I do not recall the exact name of the class).  The desire to know the Bible in more depth was planted in me while in Israel.  I knew if I intended to seek a degree, I would need to take a foreign language class.  Since I did not think I would use German, French or Spanish, I chose to study New Testament Greek as my foreign language.  I knew it would open the Bible to me in ways nothing else could.  

New Testament Greek met five days a week for two semesters for the first year.  Since it was a class required by ministerial students, there were several in the class, many for their second time.  The class started out with 24 students, 21 of which were male.  By the end of that first year, only 11 students remained.  The top three of us were highly competitive with each other, and I think Dr. Bowdle enjoyed our camaraderie.  I personally think he rooted for me...the only female.  He did say that females are stronger in language arts and typically should do better.  I also think he enjoyed my system for memorizing Greek vocabulary.  There are three noun genders in Greek...masculine, feminine, and neuter.  So it seemed natural for me to put masculine nouns on blue 3x5 cards; feminine nouns on pink 3x5 cards; and neuter nouns on yellow 3x5 cards.  Not only was it colorful, it was a devise for helping me associate the gender of each  noun...very necessary in the study of Greek.  (I still have those original cards...29 years later.)  

However, this post is about the other class that helped me determine that I wanted to get a college degree.  So, kudos to Dr. Conn for creating the spark in me to pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology.  If any academic class could be considered fun, this was it for me.  It was the beginning of a new journey for me to better understand what the human psyche was all about.

Depression - Part 4

How Do You Overcome Depression?

         Overcoming depression must be a choice the depressed person makes.  No one will be able to help you out of depression without your willingness to confront the illness and determine you want to get well and move forward with your life. 

A thorough physical checkup is the place to start on your road to happiness.  Medication will be needed if the serotonin in the brain has been depleted.  Often it is necessary to seek professional counseling to get to the root of the depression.  However, there are several guidelines that we all need to learn to live by to have a happier life.  These guidelines are:

·       Commit each day to glorifying Christ and meditating on God’s Word.

·       Get rid of grudges daily, otherwise they fester and begin to control you through anger.

·       Become more intimate with your family members.

·       Have fun with Christian friends.

·       Learn to enjoy your daily routine, or change it so you can enjoy it.

·       Get in the habit of doing special things for other people.  You will feel better, and you will have made their day.

·       Change your self-talk.  Learn to be your own best friend and quit being critical about yourself.

·       Develop a good plan to live life by, and include fun activities.

·       Remember no one is perfect.  Learn to accept that you will make mistakes.

·       Avoid the sin trap and guilt trip.  Make your relationship with Jesus Christ your number one priority.

In Summary

               My mother suffered various bouts with cancer and other illness through the years, but she had never experienced depression.  After talking with her during my parents’ visit, I decided I needed outside help to discover what was wrong inside me. 

I first went to a regular physician who diagnosed me as being clinically depressed and started me on antidepressants.  This helped me to start getting the sleep I needed and accomplish what I needed to during the day.  I tried to turn my life around and get moving forward again, but the heavy cloud still hung over me a year later.  That is when I decided I needed psychotherapy to get at the root of the depression. 

Today I feel very good about myself for being strong enough to seek the professional help I needed to get my life focused again.  I choose to love life and be all that I can be through Jesus Christ.  It is my desire to help others make that same choice by sharing what I have learned about the illness called depression.

­­Resources

• ·       Minirth, Frank B., M.D., and Meier, Paul D., M.D., Happiness Is a Choice, Baker Book House, Grand Rapids, MI.
• ·       Conway, Jim and Sally, Women in Mid-Life Crisis, Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, IL.
• ·       Littauer, Florence, Blow Away the Dark Clouds, Harvest House Publishers, Eugene, OR.
• ·       Smith, Harold Ivan, Life Changing Answers to Depression, Harvest House Publishers, Eugene, OR.