PERSONAL REFLECTION

MY GREEK LEARNING JOURNEY...Cecilia

Reflection 1

It took me almost two years to muster up enough courage to sign up for Greek 1. I was extremely apprehensive, fearful and really scared. To make matters worse, I have heard so many negative comments about the study of Greek that it left me weak in the knees. Nevertheless, after much prayer and seeking the Lord I found to my pleasant surprise that I truly enjoyed attending the weekly classes with Sister Davina who makes Greek so simple for her students! With this experience, I have become more confident in facing new situations in life, with courage.

Reflection 2

Group work is usually not an experience that is devoid of frustrations and conflicts. Working well with people is something that really requires ‘a lot of hard work’. Hard work like being extremely considerate of others, tolerant and adding large doses of patience not to mention LOVE! Well, in my group, the members fortunately are a mature lot, and were very generous with all of the above ingredients. As a result the outcome of my group experience was quite satisfying. I learn not to take group dynamics for granted but to be prepared to give of myself to the group I work with in order to make it succeed!

Reflection 3

In this Greek study, I learn not to procrastinate. I personally find it a ‘challenge and a struggle’ to achieve this each week. Even though I realise that doing the exercises, vocabulary and homework immediately after each lesson has its benefits I still struggle with doing it. Each time I sit down, something would crop up and the struggle repeats itself. Though I still find it a challenge, at least I am aware of my shortcoming and will try harder the next time!

Reflection on CORINTHIANS ADVENTURES

Reflection on CORINTHIANS ADVENTURES

      

The journey through the two weeks of Corinthians has been tremendously overwhelming – not in a bad way, but more like many subtle but impactful revelations all at once. RELOOK, RETHINK and REFOCUS! God has graciously shown me certain aspects of my life that needed a makeover in thought, word or action.

    

     Revisiting issues in Corinthians like church division, love, marriage, freedom, spiritual gifts, the Resurrection of Christ and of the dead has been awesome. Some of these issues are sensitive, while some are those that we shy away from talking about, or worse, sweep under the carpet. Each topic has been helpful in making my learning most meaningful and enjoyable.  

    

     The most important lesson that I learnt from the Corinthians journey can be found in 1 Corinthians 13 - LOVE NEVER FAILS. Without LOVE, everything we do loses its flavour. Love is never easy to adopt in our thoughts, words or actions. We have to consciously build it in until it becomes second nature to us, a lifestyle. Many times I find myself doing things reluctantly or grudgingly. Then the Holy Spirit comes along to prompt me to reflect on my action and I realise that it had been done without much love. This constant reminder has helped me to examine my actions, overcome my negative feelings and be a better person so I can give God the glory through what I do – always with love.

    

     On the topic of MARRIAGE in 1 Corinthian 7 – I am now fully convinced that ‘marriage is forever’ no matter how one tries to find excuses to wrangle one’s way out whenever things do not turn out well. Many couples seem to have the idea that a separation is an option, but it is definitely not the case as outlined by Paul. He commands in verse 10, that husband or wife are “..not (to be) separate from...” each other. I used to think that it is all right for each to go their separate ways instead of to the court to get a formal divorce. Apparently separation is not the answer, for Paul says one has to remain unmarried or be reconciled to the spouse! Therefore, divorce is out of the question. Truly this has helped me to change my perspective of marriage and divorce once and for all. I find the content useful too when I need to share it with others.

     This book on “Marriage & Family” by Wayde and Rosalyn Goodall [1] is highly recommended as it contains all one needs to know about how to make your marriage a success. It is very comprehensive and covers topics like preparing for marriage, adjusting to marriage, relating and succeeding as a family and roles of the husband and wife. Important issues like communication, sexuality and handling tough challenges are also discussed here. In my interaction with the content I found it extremely practical in helping me to refocus and to do my utmost to make my marriage a success.

    

     The class discussion on the resurrection of believers and the resurrection body proved to be very interesting and insightful. Everyone has one view or another of the resurrection and this topic has never stopped fascinating people everywhere. We were very curious as to the form that our bodies will take at the resurrection when Jesus comes again. The analogy of the seed showed that God will give us a radiant body that is suitable for our mode of existence at the future time. This knowledge is sufficient to spur us on to persevere in good works for the Lord and remain faithful to the gospel. I have always wondered what our bodies would look like, but have to leave it to God for only He knows. The present body will be transformed for the future. Suffice to say that it will be a glorious body, like Jesus. The challenge I face here is how to be confident enough to use this knowledge of the resurrection as a channel for evangelism to pre-believers.

    

     In group work, planning the paper and the Uganda skit with my members has been an especially exciting and unforgettable learning experience. I was thrilled to see all my members totally united and pitching in so willingly to take on the various tasks required of us. There was never any question about rights, inconvenience or work allocation. Each one just did the tasks required with promptness, love and joy. Through this group project, I could see the wonderful potential that God has deposited in each one of us. All in all, the effort and time spent walking the Corinthian journey has been more than fruitful and worthwhile – my teachers and fellow course-mates have helped tremendously to make my journey a most memorable one!

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              [1] Wayde I. Goodall and Rosalyn R. Goodall, Marriage & Family: Student Manual, Faith & Action Series, Springfield (MO: Resource and Development Ministries, 2006).

Journey through the Pastoral Epistles

There have been many areas in the Pastoral Epistles that impacted me, but only space here to elaborate on a few. First, I must say that my course-mates are a very interesting bunch, with ages ranging from 25 to 70. Being with the younger people really spurs me on. I cannot help but be super-charged each time we get together for lessons. They are always laughing, so enthusiastic and so positive. Even break time is FUN – the talking, the laughing and the interactions make the time pass so fast, even the many-hour day classes! I truly enjoyed the fellowship with one and all. Bringing the little snacks, drinks, chocolates have been my special way of appreciating each one in the class, including Brother Casey and Sister Davina.

    Without doubt, the members of my group (2) have been such an inspiration to me. With their readiness to help, their positive feedback and support - they have been so encouraging. The GRP assignment was such a delight to work on. Creativity was forthcoming. All chipped in to the task at hand. Although one of the group members had to withdraw early from the course leaving the three of us to manage, the task ahead though challenging, was not as intimidating as we had anticipated. This was because each of us came with different sets of skills, and as we quickly pulled together we were able to continue and complete the assignment with little difficulty.

 Most of the content in the Pastoral Epistles focus on pastoral issues, such as moral character, ethics and sound doctrine for Christian living. I find the lectures on these issues very interesting and meaningful as what is being taught in the Pastoral Epistles are still relevant and applicable to us today. We are exhorted to live holy and godly lives and be mindful of our attitude in the church and society today. For example, on the moral character that is desirable of church leaders - these would inevitably apply to all Christians as well, regardless whether they are holding any office in the church. All in all, these instructions have greatly encouraged and helped me to reflect on my moral character and attitude toward others, especially those I come into contact with daily. And with the help of the Holy Spirit, I am confident that I will be able to ‘guard the deposit’ God has given me. (2 Tim 6:20)

From the readings and research, I was able to recognize the importance of Paul’s instruction on the calling of wives to be subject to their husbands in Titus 2:5. All the while this concept puzzled me and even proved challenging, especially in today’s context. However, from reading the section on this idea (in the book entitled Letters to Paul’s Delegates by Luke, Timothy and Johnson 235), I realized the purpose for this particular piece of instruction to younger women. In the time of the Greco Roman world, the idea of insubordination or instability in the oikos or household was reason enough for any observer to condemn a religious movement,(p235). It was that serious. Therefore any sense of inappropriateness seen in any Christian household would immediately bring disrepute to the church, religion or gospel being preached. Since discovering this gem, my perspective has changed and I am now able to understand the purpose for Paul’s exhortation to women regarding their attitude and behavior toward their husbands – they are subject to them as head of the household.

When I read Paul’s instruction to older women to teach younger women I immediately thought of my own church setting. My church is a small family church and more than half of the younger women have school-going children, while some have teenagers and young adults. Many times, I have encountered these women sharing their struggles and difficulties concerning their children or even with their spouses. What can I do to help these young women and mothers with their problems? Well, as Paul says, be someone who can encourage the younger women in their roles relating to the household, husbands and children. I am challenged to do something - I am determined to put my maturity to good use first, in the church by my good example and to share the moral values learnt with the women.

It has truly been worthwhile - this journey through the Pastoral Epistles. It had been a time of reflection and revision, refreshing. I have learnt much about prayer, thanksgiving, contentment, Christian responsibilities and holy living, just to name a few. Sometimes these things just seem to pass me by without a second thought – but after this course, the impact will surely remain etched in my heart and mind for a long time to come!

Welcome again. thank you for visiting my blog.

I have just completed the course on the study of Romans.
It has been a most memorable experience - learning how to show genuine love to all.
It is the beginning of a wonderful journey.
You are most welcome to join me by responding to my blog.

Reflection on ROMANS Learning Experience

 

               “Why are you here to study the Book of Romans?” This pertinent question at the presentation on the outset begged for an appropriate personal response. It was a timely reminder to search my heart - besides it being one of the requirements of the course, as everyone knows. I asked myself for not only the purpose but my expectation of the course. To my surprise I found that truly, if I was able to meet God through this study, to discover what He wants to teach me, wouldn’t it be so wonderful? So, as the course began to unfold, God was faithful to answer my prayer. Importantly, He gave me the confidence of the assurance of His love in Rom 8:31-39, in that nothing will be able to separate me from His love, even if I were to go through trial or tribulation. For me, it added a new dimension of God’s love, for when I am assured of God’s love, only then will I not be afraid for He will be there for me through trials, and His strength and grace will be sufficient for me.

     Without a doubt, throughout the lectures, there were indeed instances of useful learning points or gems to take away as well. I especially found Structural Diagramming and the Online Study Tools extremely useful to help me grasp and understand the content of Romans better. Knowing the verbs and conditionals helped me to be better able to determine the key ideas of the chapter and verse at hand. It also helped me to better structure the outline of Bible verses for sharing or teaching later, in my ministry. For as I prepare, I am able to check the meaning of actual words in Greek as they appear in the verses just by using the Online tool for word study. These tools I feel are pertinent in the study of the Bible. I was also reminded of the danger of ‘exegetical fallacy’ where we use our modern day mind to interpret the Bible without thoroughly examining the historical context and setting, word and origin. Now I am greatly challenged to exercise caution, to examine passages of Scripture painstakingly, using all these tools before coming to any conclusion, even to the extent of retranslating the verses in my own words.

     In my interaction with the varied materials sourced for the study of Romans, this particular article caught my attetntion. It is entitled “Interpretation” taken from A Journal of Bible and Theology, October, 2003, written by Michael Barram. He pointed out a pertinent idea from v 19 – that of ‘feeding our enemies’ and ‘not avenging yourselves’ and ‘bless those who persecute’ in v14. The writer questions the implication of this command in today’s world, fraught with global terrorism and political upheaval, which he says that Paul cannot possibly understand! The writer feels that it is too ‘idealistic’ – what more after 9/11, it is totally impossible! Well, this statement gave me much to reflect on as I continue to grapple with the concepts and commands in the study of Romans. As such, I am continually being challenged. Even as I disagree with the writer’s view, I am sure that to forgive and love our enemies is possible only with the help of the Holy Spirit.

     Another area that seems to trouble me still is from Rom 12:1-21. I used to take Paul’s exhortations for Christian living ever so lightly. True, I can say that I did my best to love my brothers and sisters in the body of Christ and in the larger community - that was all. Now I begin to question my attitude towards them, and more significantly, have I done enough within my capability? Have I been unkind, selfish, putting my interest above theirs, and only being interested when there is a benefit in it. With excuses like time, family, work, commitments, I must confess that I have fallen short! It only leaves me to repent and to ask God how I can show genuine and sincere love to all to apply well the exhortations of Paul in daily life, toward family, friends, colleagues, course-mates and strangers too. Romans has changed the perspective of my past response and attitude to fellow Christians to a more positive one.

     Right from the start of the course, emphasis was put on collaboration and community – so the need to form groups. I was full of anticipation regarding this. However, to my pleasant surprise, my group comprised the most hardworking and ‘gung-ho’ go-getters I have ever met. At the word ‘Go’ they sped off, like the bullet train of Japan - scanning materials for reading; sending email after email, and even posting on the social forum before the first lesson! Wow! I have never worked with such a great bunch of positive and enthusiastic students before. I am truly blessed by the good interaction, warmth and support, consideration and genuine love shown within the group. Indeed this is true love in action! Working in groups is a good opportunity for me to learn to put Romans 12 into practice. All said and done, I have thoroughly enjoyed the course with Rev Casey. Thank you and God bless.

Reflection on BI learning experience

     It was the most shocking experience of my life when I stepped into the BI class on the first day – it suddenly dawned on me that I was the “most mature” student in the class, and I do mean, “most mature” in every sense of the word! At that moment I was totally intimidated! Would I be able to cope? How about IT? How about group work?...on and on my mind went into a whirl! It was very daunting! And true enough, even at the first lesson, I had problems logging onto the eduencounter site set up for the class, when everyone else found it a breeze! Anyway, I decided to face up to the challenge ahead.  With some help from the other more IT- savy students, like Alvin, I got through my first day with much relief! It’s a boon for having helpful course-mates! Well, I suppose studying at a mature age can pose many different challenges, but I learn that if one were to press on with determination, and not allow small setbacks to get in the way, then learning God’s Word really becomes a joy, at any age – sixteen, or sixty!         

     To more serious thoughts - the passage for our study in this Bible Interpretation Module, 1 Thessalonians 4:3-8 proved to be very exciting and aptly chosen. I feel that it is a topic well chosen as parts of the passage are thought-provoking, and calls for much debate. It forces me to dig deep into the meaning of many significant words and phrases. During the process of working on EGP1 through to EGP3, my group members and I discovered new meanings and understanding of the words that we would normally interpret at face value like “control your own body”, ‘sexual immorality’ and others. Little did I realise that after checking and further examination of the work of various commentators, there was even some contention among these well-known scholars, especially to the real meaning of what Paul meant by to ‘control your own body’. It was really an eye-opener – something I had never thought of before. Thanks to the search on the ‘literary context’ in EGP2, I realised what he meant to say. This simple exercise, although demanding, taught me never to take God’s word literally without checking the meaning and usage in context. 

     In the same vein, the lesson on historical context proved very useful. The research and reading of the book by Williams uncovered the fact that sexual immorality was the ‘cultural norm’ of the Greco Roman period of that time, and marriage was for producing legal heirs while mistresses was for pleasure! Hence I can now understand the fear and anxiety that Paul showed each time he wrote to the new converts in the different churches. He was afraid that they could easily fall back to the immoral way of life that was so prevalent in their society at that time. This understanding changed my perspective of why Paul always included the exhortation to the churches to be “holy” and to be “pure”. The importance of historical context cannot be dismissed, and the Bible cannot be interpreted with our modern 21^st century mind! That aside, I now have a clearer understanding of this. And the significance of theological implications cannot be taken lightly either. I realise that this is a very important aspect of Bible Interpretation as well. This has helped me to learn to compare our cultural context with that of Paul’s time, then proceed to explore further the local church setting, the problems that are relevant and how to apply possible solutions to the problems. My perspective of just looking at one aspect has changed. Now with the integrated approach, interpretation is more complete and meaningful. 

     When attempting to apply what I have learnt in Paul’s message to the modern day context in the small city of Singapore, I find that the state of morality in today’s society is no different from the time of Paul. The world view and practices of so called sexual morality leaves much to be desired. Premarital sex, adultery, prostitution and homosexuality have been degraded to almost an everyday piece of news that would no longer cause anyone to bat an eyelid. These issues are becoming so rampant even in other parts of the world, so much so that even ‘gay marriages’ have been legalised in a particular state in the USA. This has challenged me to look at specific issues in my church and to see if there is anything further that can be done, especially in the area of divorce among brothers and sisters that I know, to help them to take God’s word for marriage seriously and to work towards reconciliation. Another issue is the one on premarital sex, for our church has quite a large number of youths, and it would be worthwhile for the youth ministers to examine if there is any further need for talks that are suitable to drive home the message of purity, holiness and abstinence before marriage.   

     The topics in this module proved to be very comprehensive and I learnt so much by way of how to do a proper and complete exegesis. This would prove very useful in my future modules at AGBC. (Assembly of God bible College). Not only that, it will benefit me greatly as I continue to study God’s word at both study and personal level. It will also be of great help to me during my small group meetings as we meet to deliberate the Word, and during ministry trips too, when I deliver the Word to those I minister to in the various places that I visit. Being able to interact with my course-mates and group members also brought new insights, especially in their understanding, their effort and willingness to assist at all times, and the resourcefulness in the group assignments. I have thoroughly enjoyed the module, the lectures, the interactions, the reflection and the purposeful assignments, albeit a bit stretched for time. Thank you Rev Casey. God bless.

Happy to add new posts whenever possible telling you all about my journey with AGBC, my encounters, my experiences, and my spiritual walk.
Hope this would encourage you in your journey too.

In His Abundant strength and grace
Dunamis