Week 4-Wednesday

Marxism was a topic I didn't know about until our reading for class and then our in-class conversations. One of the things that struck me as interesting during class today was that we were able to discuss this movement in history without any "theological" language, but this is a good thing because it is refreshing to hear simple conversation among each other. This movement was very interesting in that it created a movement of people in society that Marx believed one could see their economic condition and transform their identity. This is interesting because it seemed as though you were in the lower class or upper class and if you were in the lower class who wanted to transform your identity to be something greater, how would you do that? As we explored in class, one could sell land, machinery, or labor, but this was a time that resources were minimal and everything you had was very valuable. This was certainly a tough time in history. Your success was measured on what you had, what you could provide, and how you could use the resources you owned. 

Week 4-Cobb Chapter 4 (Theological Tools)

As followers of Christ, what are some of the most essential elements that we hold near and dear to our hearts? When we think of our faith in the Lord some of us might think of the cross, the kingdom of God, the Holy Spirit, beautiful music, or maybe we think about literature. But we must ask ourselves this question, what are we most concerned about when he comes to our relationship with God? Are we concerned about the last "Christian" trends, languages, movements? Or are we concerned with proclaiming the Gospel to people, living life with people in community, eating with the homeless, experiencing God with people who don't know God? I think we all are concerned with a little bit of all these things. Even moving into art, music, the Earth, these are all concerns of God and created by God, so I think at some level we should be concerned. Do we concern ourselves with symbols and myths in our lives? I think if we believe in a triune God (not a religion) who is mysterious in his ways and we see symbols every moment of our lives, then yes, we are concerned about those. I'm specifically suggesting that being "concerned" with something is good and creates a balance as we journey with God. 

Week 4-Bevans, Chapter 4 (The Translation Model)

For an individual to contextually translate a manuscript, a passage of Scripture, or any document related to history. We will focus on the Christian supracultural or supracontextual. In this section, Kraft suggests that if anyone does a word-for-word translation they are misunderstanding the nature of the language and Bevans continues to suggest that any translation must understand the meaning of the text, not just the words and grammar, but to capture the entire moment in that context. To have not only a theological approach, but just as important to have an anthropological approach in which a person understands the people, the movements, the languages, the feelings, and the emotion of the text. I think this is so key when a person is doing any type of translation, especially for individuals preaching the gospel to people. We must not simply "proof text," but have a holistic approach to the text. Understand what is going on at that moment in history. We must be sensitive to all cultures, languages, and people involved in our translation so that we don't miss the picture. Lastly, another interesting way we can use this model is by decontextualize the literature and then contextualize the literature again. This approach is suggested to arrive a the supracultural message to bring the entire picture and meaning into focus. I think to decontextualize material could be a good thing, but at the same time we need to be careful that when we contextualize the material back that we don't miss the true meaning because of our influences.

Week 4-Monday:

What is the Emerging Church? The topic of our conversation and it was very interesting to hear other church leaders from the US and the UK express these movements within these church communities. We found through this Emerging Church movement is that people desire to be part of a community that is actively involved in the community (i.e. homeless individuals). It was interesting to hear that people began to desire a space to worship, live life together, eat together, and serve together. The reason why this is interesting is because I thought this was a smaller movement that you only read about and rarely practiced, but I was wrong in assuming that. We see all over the place, bundles of people and communities living life together for the glory of God. We also discussed we should have a holistic kingdom perspective which could be a radical movement of change in order for people to see God in the community with God and for God! My desire is that we would be a movement of people in the name of Jesus without any hesitation.

Week 3-Barker, Chapter 6 (A New World Disorder?)

In a radically-changing culture, we constantly run into one aspect that we can not ignore in order to move forward in society, change. Change is inevitable. Change is going to happen whether we like it or not. We can either accept change and prepare ourselves for the possibilities or we can ignore change, but it is still going to happen. As described here, Barker argues in a world of globalization and Post-Fordism, the New Times are becoming more of an influential aspect in our culture than ever before. We must acknowledge that we are living in the "New Times" and it may be suggested we are moving out of the "New Times," right now as well. Our society is changing rapidly due to the technological advances and is key to our social development. How we interact with people within our culture and outside our culture is determined upon technology. Globalization is the reason why we decide upon so many things in our every day lives. Do we realize this? Do we understand the impact of globalization? Do we have a contextual concept of globalization or do we merely have a Western view of globalization? What is the movement we are moving towards? Are we ready for the change to come?

Week 3-Barker, Chapter 5 (Biology, Evolution, and Culture)

Science and culture? One may suggest that these topics have nothing to do with each other, however Barker has explored the side of Science and the side of Culture and has found there are many significant attributes within Science that have effects within Culture. Further, Bevans argues the physical, mental, and emotional state of individuals in culture and how that has been affected and ultimately effects not only other individuals, but the movement within a culture, the language, the alienation of other people, and so on. Historically, people have made decisions that seemed correct within a particular culture in that context that and Barker suggests that the development of our brains have actually created a foundation for culture and has evolved greatly. Solutions, conflict, cultural development, expectations, are all resulting from our competitive nature as people looking to change, develop, and create something new within our culture or even to fight for traditional movements and languages. 

Week 3, Response to Todd's Blog:

I agree alongside Todd and Bevans, the models that were briefly described I think would be very helpful depending on the context in which that particular model would be used. Todd is wise to say that depending on the sub-culture, would require a nuanced model, however I wonder if the models that were presented by Bevans are enough to address all areas within our culture and sub-cultures? At the same time, I agree that depending on that sub-culture would require special attention so to be sensitive to all languages and movements within that sub-culture. It is vital that people proclaiming the truth of God to other people, must do their homework on that culture or sub-culture in order to build strong relationships that will continue to develop and grow. Bevans' models are important and useful and we should take into account that these models are being expressed locally and globally teaming with God and accomplishing his dreams. 

Week 3-Cobb, Chapter 3 (Theology and Culture)

When we think about cultural studies with theological reflection, we must note the importance of how complex an issue this may be, but that's what brings questions, more thoughts, and more conversations about theology and culture. When we study culture with a theological perspective we must be sensitive to all cultural elements involved. Cobb notes from Anthony Pinn, "Cultural studies directs us to understand that a fuller appreciation of the vital and complex life of a society requires an examination of the semiotic guerilla tactics of its subcultures..." I couldn't agree more with this thought because as society changes and evolves we must observe the movements that are happening and act accordingly. This even rings true with the theology of culture, the language and the movement of culture could be so radical we must understand what God is doing, what God has prepared and preparing, so followers of Jesus can serve and share God's story. Even with our theological reflection and theology of culture observations, we realize people within our society are pursuing other things for happiness and we need to be aware of that and show people what it means to find happiness in God.

Week 3- Wednesday:

I was really intrigued of the material that was presented from Fuellenbach. I was really encouraged to hear more people who are passionate for Jesus Christ and the kingdom of God being proclaimed. And then I really enjoyed our time talking about missional communities because it is not something you hear or really talk about often, unless you read about it or you someone brings it up during a seminar, class discuss, or simple conversation. This was the thought of the day for me during class, "Do we realize that we are invited to be an agent for the kingdom of God? Some may not realize we have that opportunity to share God’s story with people so they have the opportunity to hear God’s story." We must understand that we do have the opportunity to share God's story of hope!

Week 3-Bevans, Chapter 3 (The Notion and Use of Models)

How can models be of any use to our culture today? Actually, I think they can be very useful if they are used appropriately. I loved Bevans' suggested six model approach, but in particular I was drawn to the transcendental model. This model in focuses on a person's authentic relationship with Christ and how that person expresses their faith in the world. Are we a movement of people in the name of Jesus who are simply authentic people in a sinful and suffering world, who desire to share God's story of hope? This model would be valuable in the lives of individuals who need guidance or encouragement to live an authentic life with Christ. Bevans also notes that models do not bring a solution, but they can serve as an avenue for a person to begin to journey and adventure to bring more questions and maybe questions that bring answers. Do we model a transcendental model, a people of authenticity looking at the whole picture rather than just a piece? How can we implement a model that would bring life for others? 

Week 3, Monday:MLK Day-thoughts and reflections:

"I have a dream that one day every valley shall be exhalted, every hill and mountain shall be made low, the rough places will be made plain, and the crooked places will be made straight, and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together." MLK

What is the true meaning of this day? Is it to honor a man, a movement, an idea, a dream, or is it something more? When we stop and think about this man and what he stood for, what he proclaimed, and what he desired, I rejoice and celebrate with this man as he desired for the glory of the Lord to be revealed. What a thought. In the midst Martin Luther King's inspiration speech, with the pressures of so many people, along with society, it is refreshing to hear such powerful words that are so passionate and full of confidence. And I wonder...what would society be like if he didn't stand up for what he believed to be true? What would our world look like if people didn't stand up for their faith in the Lord? We should desire to proclaim the name of the Lord with boldness and courage, just like Martin Luther King, Jr. And my hope is that you would always stand up for what you believe in, even if you're the only one standing!

Week 2-Response to Ben's post:

Ben brings up an interesting thought, "...but I wonder if it is wise to solely learn about culture from a western perspective." I think since the moment we started school, the western perspective was already ingrained in our lives and as we grow older of course our thoughts, opinions, concerns, and perspectives begin to shift one way or the other. Is it wise? Probably not. I think we should have a holistic and contextual approach to culture. Is there only one western culture? I think that western culture has evolved and taken on new appearances that the western culture is in itself one with many cultures. Also, to comment on Ben's questions regarding language and emotion, I think language and emotion play significant roles in our lives as Christians, especially ones living in western culture and I think our language could ultimately be the deciding factor for those individuals who are seeking for higher truth and meaning in life and the way we express those emotions play just as an important role as language. I think Ben brings up some interesting questions and thoughts for us to explore further. 

Week 2-Barker, Chapter 3 & 4 (Questions of Culture and Ideology, Culture, Meaning, Knowledge: The Linguistic Turn in Cultural Studies)

Are we simply a culture that is comprised of "ego weakness and the Authoritarian Personality"? Adorno suggests that we are merely a culture that has been manipulated into the capitalistic approaches by corporations with strong political influence. He suggests that we are a culture that has participated in the illusions that have been fed to us. That instead of being a society trying to be more diversified, unique, or different, we have merely bought into these influences and conformed to those influences. Instead we see a movement of the creative realm, in which people are now realizing they can create art, fashion, etc., for the sake of people. Because people are creative and understand how people will react to certain influences and thoughts, and understanding that in more of a practical way.

What is language if it has no meaning? Some have suggested that cultural language has no meaning, but others would argue the opposite. Barker suggests that language constructs meaning. It structures which meanings can or cannot be deployed under determinate circumstances by speaking subjects. It seems that cultural language has been influenced by the meaning placed upon it. "The unconscious is a place of meaningful activity that works 'like a language'." Barker also suggests, "At the same time, language itself is dependent on the functioning of the brain." We tell ourselves that things are meant to mean something in a specific manner, but we place what has been translated in our language to be the meaning in which we process. So then what does it mean that our culture is based upon the meaning of our language? Have we misinterpreted language in such a way that we have lost meaning in our culture? This was an in-depth approach to cultural studies and thinking through language and meaning has become difficult to comprehend in context of our culture today. 

Week 2-Cobb, Chapter 2 (Cultural Studies)

Do we live in a "hyperreality-driven" culture? Cobb gave several inclinations that we live in a culture that thrive off of aesthetically satisfying materials. One of the examples that we can all relate to are movies. Movies give us a sense of a new reality in which we can live another person's life. I would have to agree with Cobb and Jane Addams who argues that we actually live our lives in drama that is being performed as an art for us. We tend to live our lives in such a way that you have to ask yourself, "Am I living my life or someone else's life?" We are attracted to symbols, colors, music, art, dramas, and romance, but I wonder what we desire most out of life? Is it that we look at the elite of our culture today and strive to be more like them or are we satisfied in what God has blessed us with and take advantage of those opportunities? Another interesting thought that ties into this conversation is this idea of hegemony. "...the process of negotiation through which the oppressed are presented with the ideas around which they are expected to organize their lives..." This certainly rings true today in our Western culture. There seems to be this added expectation to live your life and if were to journey outside those expectations, you may be alienated altogether. So then, what expectations should we seek to fulfill? God's expectations or culture's society? Maybe we seek to fulfill both expectations to a certain degree. 

Week 2-Bevans-Ch. 2:

What are some of the key issues when doing contextual theology? The question that arose from this chapter. Bevans had some great insight when we focus in on the "contextualization" of theology. When he recommended if one were to do a theological reflection of a particular culture within it's context he turned to Krikor Haleblian, as he suggested "the believing community in each culture must take ultimate responsibility for contextualizing the gospel, but there is a place and a need for professionals..." I couldn't agree more. We have such a narrow lens to look through when contextualizing culture and theology. And when we study cultures outside our "natural environment" we have perspectives and opinions that may be completely incorrect, however as Bevans suggested, with good research and study within the context of a particular culture and understanding a culture's language and movements, we may have the opportunity to evaluate further. Also, I pose this question, how much have we mixed Christianity and culture together to the point that we have lost the true identity of Christ and the Scriptures? 

Week 2-Wednesday

"Jesus was looked upon as a Rabbi/Revolutionary!" -Professor Bolger. This was probably the coolest part of the class today as Professor Bolger expressed during our conversation by looking at the various ways others have viewed culture and how Jesus would view culture. Jesus did some pretty counter-cultural radical things during his life by simply telling his enemies he loves them and I ask this question, "Are we willing to do radical things for the sake of the movement of Christ and the kingdom of God?" Culture as we have expressed during the quarter thus far is very complex, but I wonder what our culture would look like by simply telling our enemies we love them?

Week 2- Monday

What is culture? The question presented by Professor Bolger. An interesting questions because you can talk about culture and describe culture, but you would still have many other ways of looking at culture. It was interesting to hear the other groups' responses how they viewed culture. Some it was more of a materialistic point of view, others more cognitive views, and others in between. I enjoyed reading and hearing more of the research that has been done and how others have defined culture. It was certainly an intriguing class. I think the idea of culture brings more questions and more thoughts that I'll be exploring throughout the quarter. 

Week 1- Response to Harmony's blog:

What a great thought. God is the author of our lives, the Creator of the created and the reality that we live in is the reality created by God. She has an interesting thought when describing the "reality" that we all live in. A reality in which we are heavily influenced and impacted, which I agree is difficult to acknowledge. I think we are all on a journey of life and the life we live provides so many questions and those questions leading to more questions in hope of finding an answer. I think her thoughts on "reconsidering" everything is a good thing. If we don't invite change and challenge into our lives, it will simply hit us in the face and run right over us. I think she brings up a good question at the end from Bevans' text (God speaking to God's creation in different ways due to culture and time), is God unchanging? Maybe as we all journey through life we will come to the realization that God has always been preparing us for more and maybe it is us who need to realize God created culture that has the potential to change because God is the one who makes change.

Week 1- Cobb, Chapter 1 (Popular Culture):

Images, language, symbols, these are all contributors to our Western civilization currently and has actually been on the rise in recent years, but as Cobb suggested, Walt Disney, was the frontrunner in the imagination of one's status or perspective in life during The Depression. What is it that we are attracted to in our culture? Sure, we see things that catch our eye, something that may look appetizing to fill our stomachs, and the list goes on, but what is that we strive after to simply live life? He suggested culture as a way of life. He suggests that, "Each culture in the world are self-contained, coherent, homogenous, functioning organisms driven by its own peculiar genius." I would disagree that culture is simply an organism just functioning or self-contained. I don't think we just function, I think we (culture) adapt, change, multiply, reinvent, and live. Yes we live in a culture that exists, but do we want to just function driven by intelligence? Do we have a choice? Can we live in a culture or as Cobb describes "functioning in culture," with images that warrant our decision-making?

Week 1- Bevans, Chapter 1 (Contextual Theology)

An interesting read, until I found myself confused at the very end of the chapter as he writes, "Christian theologians need to do theology contextually because God is present and acts contextually." God acts contextually? I'm not sure if he was referring and describing that God acts in the context of people's cultures or God only acts in specifics contexts, but I am confused. However, I enjoyed his bold statement in the beginning as basically rebuked "theology" all together and helped the audience understand what it means to contextualize theologies, thoughts, and opinions about texts, criticisms, and the Scriptures. His argument in which the methods of Christianity in our Western Culture to others around the world may be viewed in their context as secular, religious, and even mythological is an interesting argument. Never would I have thought the Eucharist and the Incarnation of God be perceived other than images of God, the Father, the God who pursues our lives. Certainly a new challenge in my thought process. 

Week 1- Barker, Chapter 1 (introduction to cultural studies):

Cultural studies is at the forefront of our existence. Many academic scholars and researchers have found that cultural studies is greater than a group of people in a particular environment, but that cultural studies includes language, interpretation, structuralism, post modern thoughts, and my favorite of cultural studies: deconstructionism. To have a firm grasp on culture, I think one must deconstruct theories of the past and have a holistic epistemological approach. Barker, I believe, explains in depth the heart of cultural studies, that being language. The source of structuralism, relationships, decision-making, our foundation is at the heart of our language. The language of the past and the language of the future will need to be critically analyzed and thought through to bring, as described by Barker, an ethnography as the description for which we base our examination of culture.  

Week 1 Wednesday

I thought the most intriguing part of the class was when we began to discuss McGavrn's culture observations, questions, and concerns. I thought it was certainly intriguing to hear and listen how much the impact of the Western culture had with these "mission stations," and then the people who came to know Jesus would leave everything they had ever known. Part of me understands what it means to leave everything for Jesus, however on the other hand I'm curious as to why the "mission stations" didn't encourage them to build relationships in their tribes and share God's story within the context of their culture. I think the thought of one view=one civilization as we discussed in class at times feels very accurate in our culture today. Trends, language, personalities, etc all have huge implications on them and it certainly does within the church. We must move towards more of a holistic view of spirituality within our culture than ever-before. 

Week 1 Monday

During our first class, I didn't know what to expect honestly. I knew about our professor and I knew his desire to equip people about culture, the missional church, and emerging churches, but wasn't really sure what to expect. However, after listening to Dr. Bolger's thoughts and some of his experiences I am totally stoked to hear more about society, different cultures, tendencies, and much more. One of the things that was surprising about class was the comparison about emerging churches vs. missional churches and how vastly different they are and how we need to look upon them carefully, critically, and analytically. Another aspect of the class that really caught my ear was asking the question(s) within the context of our culture and how shocking more questions, thoughts, and even concerns may arise. We need to understand what culture we live in and we must figure out how do we live within the culture as people pursuing Jesus. 

this is my first post in a long time.

welcome back.