The New Testament is a fascinating account of mankind's encounter with God revealed through Jesus. Regardless of one’s religious convictions, it is clear, even from a quick read of the New Testament, Jesus had a profound impact upon the earliest Christian communities and it would therefore be naive to argue that this historical figure did not help shape the thinking and living of the early Christian communities. Perhaps the best appeal would be the raising of the eyebrows of the ‘New Testament Adventures’ is the word, ‘Adventures’. Because of it is filled with God-inspired lessons on Christ-like living and the corporate nature of the believers’ community, the implications of a detailed journey are far-reaching, wide-ranging and beneficial in the walk with God.
In the past, prior to the class, I was very much accustomed to reading the Bible just as it is and like a ‘story book’. However, as the days went by, it was obvious how much was missed with this view, for it goes far beyond being a story. The module flowed with the introduction of canonization and genres, the Hasmonean Dynasty, the Gospels and the books of the New Testament. Thanks to Rev Casey and Ps Jadene, both never failing to captivate us with their awesome pictures and lively explanations.
Through the introduction on the canon and genre, it was an interesting walk through the roots, criteria and the language. Even while problems and disagreements did exist, there was remarkable agreement, as a whole, concerning the selection and composition of the New Testament (NT) canon. What has struck me about the selection is the purpose and process aspect. The process in achieving the purpose of revealing the inspired word of God is amazing. Its application in present day cannot be overly-emphasized. Having a purpose in life gives meaning to it and to achieve it requires an integrated, balanced, total system managing people and the process. It is a continuous effort of encouraging people and enhancing the processes on the importance and achievement of the purpose respectively. Many have ignored this vital and attempted to ‘run before they can walk’ and even take shortcuts thereafter failing miserably more often than not. Are we able to humble ourselves to start from the basics like infants and learn from others or are we too eager to leap to the highest pedestal?
The study and group presentation of the Hasmonean Dynasty was an interesting twist. Most if not the majority of the class were flabbergasted as to the relevance of a fight for Jewish independence in a New Testament foundation class. However, through the lesson, group discussions and presentations, the deeper meaning of the subject unexpectedly surfaced along the way. Mattathias, the aged head of a distinguished priestly family, realized that the decrees by the Greek rulers, if unchecked, would mean the extirpation of the Jewish faith. Displaying the fidelity to law and faith in God, he thus initiated the armed struggle against the pagan authors of the oppression and their Jewish collaborators. However, the history of the Hasmonean Dynasty is a classic case of one of the great tragic families starting off so illustriously and ending so disastrously, bringing the Jewish people to ruin. Brothers were fighting with each other as to who should be king. There were also misplaced alliances with politics rather than the spiritual goals which started the dynasty.
Relating to today’s context, a good start should always accompanied with a good finish in whatever we do. Family feuds such as with the Hasmoneans can be found in the family of God. Arguments, discontentment with one another in church especially within the elders, deacons and church leaders should be resolved or minimised. Here, I'm reminded that at times, I'm guilty of such and prayer should have been the first action. Unity is paramount for ‘unity we stand, divided we fall’.
Through the history we learn that effective leadership is a vital role that requires the blending of vision, motivational, and management skills to inspire and unite a team towards achieving some common task. Even with a short time of acquaintance, our group benefited from the unity lesson as we openly shared individual struggles in preparing for the presentation. Due to time constraints and work commitments, the group focussed on individual strengths rather than weaknesses culminating into a presentation containing the best of everyone. It was truly a satisfying end made possible by God. The community lunch during the Saturday class was a good the initiative by our lecturer, Rev Casey, in emphasizing the importance of community living and working together. His intent was clear - no-one is going to be alone!
With the Gospels, the class was introduced to the realities of human nature. While the Gospels present the free gift of God’s love, grace and mercy, many still scorn at it with unbelief and self-interest. Change is not entertained as it seems to cost too much and deem unnecessary. As such, many fall short the glory and promises of God. Are we too proud with egos too big to receive a gift from God? Self- interest can never overshadow the love of God.
Servanthood was introduced to us through Jesus’ example revealing a wonderful lifestyle filled with blessings and opportunities to see lives changed as never seen before. At no time did Christ proclaim himself better than anyone else, although on every occasion the heart of Christ showed others what is meant to truly 'love'. No one could deny that the servanthood of Jesus because they saw it every day. Having tried it and still striving in it, I realized my life is much more meaningful and with purpose giving myself to the service of the Lord without looking back. And I truly experienced the abundant life God has for me. Living out our perception of how Christ lived, as a servant to others, is the ultimate example after which we ought to fashion our lives. When we figure out what it means to lead by serving, this is when we truly understand what servanthood was meant to be.
The lessons on the Pauline letters discusses the way the followers of Christ should seek to fulfil the word of God, and how they must live the words of Christ not in their minds but also their hearts to fully receive salvation from the Lord. From here we were reminded that we must endeavor to do what has been learned from the Bible and let it not remain as head knowledge for the Great Commission is at hand. Since I began my training in Bible College, it has been a constant reminder through fellow students, lecturers and the Word that the training does not stop in the mind but continues with a follow through in action.
The class has been refreshing and brought me into a better light of understanding the New Testament. It has spurred me on to research for an even deeper experience as I continue my journey.
I'm Full.... Burp! Sorry.... :/
