Writing Guidelines500 600 Words Per Entry And Use A Font ✓ Solved

Write 500-600 words per journal entry. Use a font like Times New Roman, Helvetica, or something similar that is easy to read. Clearly label at the top of the page the number of the journal entry you are writing. Arrange all entries in order for submission. The journal prompts require thoughtfulness and care, representing high-quality writing rather than stream-of-consciousness entries. Consider the following criteria for grading: 1. Writing Quality 2. Critical Engagement 3. Depth 4. Personal Reflection.

The books are: Willard, Dallas. The Divine Conspiracy: Rediscovering our Hidden Life in God. New York: Harper One, 1997. Anderson, Tawa J., W. Michael Clark, and David K. Naugle. An Introduction to Christian Worldview: Pursuing God's Perspective in a Pluralistic World. Downers Grove: Inter Varsity Press 2017.

Journal prompts:

  1. Naugle, Intro to Christian WV, Chapter 4: Discuss the danger of presenting worldviews too rationalistically, and how the narrative framework described in chapter 4 guards against this. Also, what parts of the Christian narrative might contemporary leaders misunderstand or neglect?

  2. Willard, Divine Conspiracy, Chapter 5: Reflect on the outline of the Sermon on the Mount. How does Jesus address the questions regarding the good life and the truly good person?

  3. Naugle, Intro to Christian WV, Chapter 7: Reflect on the 3 Western philosophical alternatives discussed in this chapter. Provide examples from culture or your own life.

  4. Willard, Divine Conspiracy, Chapter 6: Explore how you can "invest your life in what God is doing." What ideas from Willard resonate with you?

  5. Naugle, Intro to Christian WV, Chapter 8: Reflect on 2-3 surprising lessons about Hinduism or Islam.

  6. Willard, Divine Conspiracy, Chapter 7: Reflect on how confidence in God affects interpersonal treatment and leadership style.

  7. Willard, Divine Conspiracy, Chapter 8: Reflect on influences in your life and why American Christians struggle to let Jesus teach them about living.

  8. Willard, Divine Conspiracy, Chapter 9 (the first half): Discuss connections between "Primary Curriculum Objective 1: Enthralling the Mind with God" and leadership. Consider how you can help others love what is lovely.

Paper For Above Instructions

Journal Entry #1

In the realm of worldviews, as discussed in Naugle's chapter on Christian worldview, presenting these concepts too rationalistically can hinder deeper understanding. The authors assert that the danger lies in reducing rich, complex narratives to mere sets of beliefs or arguments devoid of context and relational significance. The narrative framework described in chapter 4 serves as a protective barrier against this simplification, enabling a holistic engagement with the complexities of life through a Christian lens.

For example, contemporary Christian leaders may often overlook the communal and relational aspects of the Christian story in favor of more individualistic interpretations. This neglect leads to a disconnection between the lived experiences of followers and the narrative of faith. By anchoring discussions of worldview in the rich tapestry of stories found in Scripture, leaders can encourage a fuller engagement that embraces both personal transformation and communal identity.

Journal Entry #2

Turning to Willard’s The Divine Conspiracy, chapter 5 invites readers to reflect on the teachings of Jesus within the Sermon on the Mount. The fundamental questions posed—“Which life is the good life?” and “Who is the truly good person?”—are not just theological musings but pivotal inquiries that invite us to examine our values and priorities. Willard emphasizes that Jesus proposes a revolutionary understanding of goodness, rooted in humility, love, and self-sacrifice, contrasting starkly with societal definitions that often equate goodness with achievement or status.

This chapter challenges readers to redefine success and morality according to Christ’s teachings, demanding we consider our actions and motivations in light of the Kingdom of God. In embracing this perspective, one can find that the good life is not measured by societal standards but by a life of authentic love and service to others.

Journal Entry #3

In chapter 7 of Naugle's work, the authors present three Western philosophical alternatives: Naturalism, Postmodernism, and Transcendentalism. Each framework provides different orientations to understanding existence and meaning. For instance, Naturalism emphasizes a scientific worldview, often dismissing spiritual realities. In my own life, I have observed this in academic conversations that prioritize empirical evidence over personal beliefs, generating tension for those who hold Christian perspectives.

Conversely, Postmodernism’s skepticism towards grand narratives resonates with the current cultural climate where many reject all forms of authority. This has been widely evident in social media dialogues, often misrepresenting or dismissing Christian views under generalized criticisms. Lastly, the allure of Transcendentalism, which seeks truth through personal experience, reflects a yearning for authenticity commonly seen in youth culture today.

Journal Entry #4

Willard, in chapter 6, emphasizes the importance of investing one’s life in God’s work. This concept invites Christians to consider what it looks like to participate actively in their faith journeys. Reflecting on this, I recognize the significance of being intentional about how my time and resources are spent. Willard encourages believers to discern where God is at work in the world and to align their actions accordingly. This chapter has prompted me to evaluate my commitments and seek those areas where I can contribute meaningfully, whether through service in the community or discipleship within my church.

Such investments not only foster personal growth but also echo the call to be witnesses to God’s kingdom in tangible ways. It is a reminder that our faith should translate into action, influencing the world around us.

Journal Entry #5

Naugle’s eighth chapter provides insights into global religious worldviews, focusing particularly on Hinduism and Islam. One surprising lesson I learned is that Hinduism’s concepts of karma and dharma promote a sense of responsibility for one’s actions across lifetimes, a perspective that contrasts deeply with the Christian understanding of grace. Additionally, the intricacies of Islamic beliefs highlight a rich tapestry of history and scholarship that often remains misunderstood in contemporary discourse. Recognizing the depth of beliefs in other faiths fosters respect and empathy, essential in today’s pluralistic society.

Journal Entry #6

Reflecting on chapter 7 of Willard’s text led me to consider the profound impact that confidence in God can have on interpersonal relationships. Trusting in God’s provision encourages us to treat others with dignity and compassion, particularly when faced with conflicts or challenging situations. Furthermore, Willard introduces a leadership paradigm grounded in humility and service, contrasting the prevalent authority-focused models of leadership that often prioritize power over people. This alternative vision of leadership invites us to serve rather than dominate, shaping a more Christ-like approach to influence.

Journal Entry #7

As Willard discusses in chapter 8, the idea of being a disciple of Jesus brings forth the notion of learning through observation and imitation. I’ve been fortunate to have mentors embody the teachings of Christ, yet it’s evident that many American Christians struggle with this relational aspect of discipleship. Factors such as individualism and cultural distractions hinder the willingness to let Jesus guide their lives. This realization has instilled in me the importance of seeking out intentional discipleship relationships that foster accountability and growth.

Journal Entry #8

Finally, in the first half of chapter 9, Willard connects leadership to the objective of enthralling the mind with God, emphasizing that effective leadership must inspire a love for what is pure and lovely. This focus on cultivating a deeper appreciation for God in ourselves and others forms the crux of transformative leadership. I am reminded of the influence of spiritual leaders in my life who encourage me to aspire to higher ideals and values. As I contemplate my role in helping others, I recognize the importance of guiding them towards lasting love for what is righteous and beautiful, reflecting God’s character in our actions.

References

  • Willard, Dallas. The Divine Conspiracy: Rediscovering our Hidden Life in God. New York: Harper One, 1997.

  • Anderson, Tawa J., W. Michael Clark, and David K. Naugle. An Introduction to Christian Worldview: Pursuing God's Perspective in a Pluralistic World. Downers Grove: Inter Varsity Press, 2017.

  • Naugle, David K. Worldview: The History of a Concept. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2002.

  • McGrath, Alister E. The Twilight of Atheism: The Rise and Fall of Disbelief in the Modern World. New York: Doubleday, 2004.

  • Smith, James K. A. Desiring the Kingdom: Worship, Worldview, and Cultural Formation. Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2009.

  • Bartholomew, Craig G., and Michael W. Goheen. The Drama of Scripture: Finding Our Place in the Biblical Story. Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2004.

  • Plantinga, Alvin. Warranted Christian Belief. New York: Oxford University Press, 2000.

  • Ryken, Leland. Words of Delight: A Literary Introduction to the Bible. Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 1987.

  • Wolterstorff, Nicholas. Justice: Rights and Wrongs. Princeton: Princeton University Press, 2008.

  • Beck, David. Christian Worldview: A Global Perspective. Illinois: IVP Academic, 2011.