Shows
Living TheologyFrom Presence to PlaceFrom Presence to Place explores how worship slowly shifted from God dwelling among His people to God being associated with sacred spaces. In this episode, Brendon Naicker traces how history, tradition, and culture reshaped the church’s understanding of God’s presence—and why recovering this matters today.This is a call to remember that God does not live in buildings.He dwells in His people.#FromPresenceToPlace#ChristianPodcast#Theology#Worship#ChurchHistory#FaithBeyondSunday#brendo...
2026-01-2304 min
Living TheologySo… how’s the new year working out?A new year always arrives with promise—but sooner or later, an honest question surfaces: So… how’s the new year really working out?In this episode, Brendon Naicker reflects on change, isolation, and the deep human need for community. Drawing from Scripture and the life of the Trinity, this reflection explores why transformation rarely happens alone and how God calls us into fellowship in Christ—not as an optional extra, but as part of His design for spiritual growth.This is an invitation to step out of isolation, rediscov...
2026-01-0603 min
Living TheologyEpisode 10 — A Vision for the Future: Raising a Generation for the KingdomIn this final episode of Christian Formation and Homeschooling in a Distracted Age, Brendon Naicker casts a hopeful and compelling vision for what Christian homeschooling networks can accomplish in the United Kingdom. Rather than viewing homeschooling as retreat or reaction, Brendon frames it as intentional discipleship—rooted in Scripture, strengthened through community, and oriented toward raising children who live faithfully for Christ in an age of cultural confusion and digital saturation.He highlights the mission of Solavia.UK as a support network designed to equip and connect families who share this vision, reminding parents th...
2026-01-0302 min
Living TheologyFollowing Jesus, Not Cutting CornersFollowing Jesus, Not Cutting Corners is a reflective Christian podcast with Brendon Naicker, calling believers back to a faith that is rooted, honest, and unhurried. In a culture obsessed with shortcuts and surface-level spirituality, this podcast invites listeners to walk the narrow way—seeking first the Kingdom of God, denying self, taking up the cross daily, and following Christ with endurance and joy.Through Scripture-shaped reflection, pastoral wisdom, and quiet challenge, each episode explores what it means to live a life formed by prayer, the Word of God, Christian fellowship, and readiness for the Lo...
2026-01-0303 min
Living TheologyEpisode 9 — Practical Models for Christian Homeschool NetworksIn this episode of Christian Formation and Homeschooling in a Distracted Age, Brendon Naicker shifts from vision to practicality—exploring real, workable models for building Christian homeschooling networks across the UK. From small co-ops and shared learning hubs, to subject-specific groups and discipleship-focused communities, Brendon outlines how parents can collaborate without replicating the rigidity of institutional schooling.He highlights how Solavia.UK supports families in creating flexible, context-driven structures that prioritise academic excellence, biblical formation, and social community. Whether you are just beginning or already homeschooling, this episode offers tangible next steps for forming ne...
2026-01-0202 min
Living TheologyEpisode 8 - Counter-Cultural Parenting: Forming Identity in ChristIn this episode of Christian Formation and Homeschooling in a Distracted Age, Brendon Naicker explores how homeschooling networks can shape children’s identity in a culture defined by self-expression and shifting values. Brendon contrasts the modern message of “create yourself” with the biblical truth that identity is rooted in Christ, received rather than constructed.He examines how intentional Christian education—supported by community—helps children understand who they are, whose they are, and what they are called to be. With Solavia.UK highlighted as a network designed to reinforce biblical identity and nurture Christ-centred formation...
2025-12-3102 min
Living TheologyEpisode 7 — Legal Freedom and Educational Responsibility in the UKIn this episode of Christian Formation and Homeschooling in a Distracted Age, Brendon Naicker brings clarity to the legal rights and responsibilities surrounding home education in the United Kingdom. He explains how UK law recognises the parent—not the institution—as the primary educator, and highlights the freedoms families have to choose homeschooling without needing permission or to replicate the school system.Brendon also explores the responsibility that accompanies this freedom: providing a suitable and purposeful education rooted in Scripture and discipleship. He shows how homeschooling networks—especially Solavia.UK—offer support, confidence, and shared w...
2025-12-3002 min
Living TheologyEpisode 4 - Community Over Isolation: Why Parents Need Each OtherIn this episode of Christian Formation and Homeschooling in a Distracted Age, Brendon Naicker challenges the common misconception that homeschooling must be an isolated and overwhelming journey. He argues that Christian parents were never called to educate—or disciple—their children alone, and explores how community transforms homeschooling from a solitary struggle into a shared mission.Brendon highlights the biblical foundation for communal formation, showing how the early church model of shared life parallels the potential of modern homeschooling networks. He explains how collaboration eases the burden, strengthens parents, and allows children to flourish soci...
2025-12-2902 min
Living TheologyEpisode 3 — Combating Media Saturation: Raising Discerning ChildrenIn this episode of Christian Formation and Homeschooling in a Distracted Age, Brendon Naicker addresses the immense influence of modern media on children and the urgent need for Christian parents to cultivate discernment in a digital culture.Brendon explores how news cycles, entertainment, and social platforms shape identity and values, often more powerfully than traditional education or even church involvement. He challenges parents to recognise that media is not neutral—it forms beliefs, desires, and worldviews.Rather than responding with fear or withdrawal, Brendon presents networked homeschooling as a me...
2025-12-2703 min
Living TheologyEpisode 2 — From State Curriculum to Christ-Centred FormationIn this episode of Christian Formation and Homeschooling in a Distracted Age, Brendon Naicker examines the crucial difference between simply meeting the requirements of state education and cultivating a Christ-centred worldview through homeschooling networks.Brendon challenges the assumption that education can be neutral, arguing that information alone cannot produce wisdom or discipleship. He unpacks how modern schooling often prioritises achievement, assessment, and employability, while Christian homeschooling offers the opportunity for formation rooted in Scripture, virtue, and Christlikeness.This episode also highlights the role of community through Solavia.UK, a...
2025-12-2403 min
Living TheologyEpisode 6 — The Social Question: Homeschooled Children and Real CommunityIn this episode of Christian Formation and Homeschooling in a Distracted Age, Brendon Naicker addresses one of the most common objections raised against homeschooling: socialisation. He challenges the assumption that healthy social development requires institutional schooling and explores how homeschooling—especially within networks—often provides richer, more meaningful community.Brendon explains how networked homeschooling fosters real social engagement through multi-age friendships, intergenerational community, shared learning hubs, church involvement, and collaborative activities. He highlights how Solavia.UK supports families by creating spaces where children build confidence, relational maturity, and Christ-centred friendships—not isolation.
2025-12-2403 min
Living TheologyEpisode 5 — Academic Excellence in Home EducationIn this episode of Christian Formation and Homeschooling in a Distracted Age, Brendon Naicker confronts the myth that homeschooling compromises academic excellence. He explains how home education—especially within supportive networks—can offer personalised instruction, sustained engagement, and mastery-based learning that often surpasses traditional schooling.Brendon explores the strengths of collaborative homeschooling: shared expertise, resource pooling, learning hubs, and parental partnership. He highlights the role of Solavia.UK in helping families pursue academic rigor without sacrificing discipleship or community.This episode encourages parents to rethink what excellence truly means and...
2025-12-2302 min
Living TheologyEpisode 1 — Why Networked Homeschooling Matters in the UK TodayIn this opening episode of Christian Formation and Homeschooling in a Distracted Age, Brendon Naicker explores why Christian parents across the UK are turning to networked homeschooling as a response to cultural pressures, media influence, and the urgent need for intentional discipleship.Brendon challenges the assumption that education is neutral, revealing how modern news cycles and digital media shape young minds long before Scripture does. He argues that homeschooling networks—not isolated efforts—offer parents the supportive community, shared expertise, and Christ-centred formation needed to raise children rooted in biblical truth.
2025-12-2303 min
Living TheologyChristian Formation and Homeschooling in a Distracted AgeChristian Formation and Homeschooling in a Distracted Age is a thoughtful and compelling podcast for parents who want more than academics for their children—they want discipleship. Hosted by Brendon Naicker, this series explores how Christian families in the UK can navigate modern cultural pressures, digital distraction, and media influence while building strong homeschooling networks rooted in faith, community, and academic excellence.Each episode offers Scripturally-framed insight, practical wisdom, and encouragement for parents seeking to form children who think critically, love deeply, and stand firmly for Christ in a rapidly changing world. Whether you’re a...
2025-12-2206 min
Living TheologyWhy the Virgin Birth Matters: God With Us or Just One of Us?In this episode of Living Theology with Brendon Naicker, we explore the profound significance of the virgin birth and why it stands at the heart of Christian belief. We trace its prophetic roots in Isaiah, consider what it reveals about the identity of Jesus, and examine the serious implications if Christ were not born of a virgin. Far from being a seasonal detail, the virgin birth anchors the doctrines of incarnation, sinlessness, and salvation itself. Join us as we reflect on how this mystery shapes our faith and proclaims that God entered our world not by human effort, but...
2025-12-2002 min
Living TheologyEpisode 2 — Understanding the CrisisSomething is stirring in our city.London is hurting—families broken, youth caught in cycles of violence, neighbourhoods gripped by fear, hope fading in too many streets.But we believe this is not the end of the story.A movement is rising.A community committed to prayer, compassion, presence, and the healing power of Christ.Join us as we launch a new episode of Living Theology with Brendon Naicker:Episode 2 — Understanding the Crisis: Crime, Youth Viol...
2025-11-2703 min
Living TheologyEvangelism After the Robots ArriveIn this episode of Living Theology, Brendon Naicker explores what Christian mission looks like in a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence and growing hostility towards public expressions of faith. As entry-level jobs disappear and believers find themselves silenced or marginalised, Brendon reflects on how God is forming a new kind of missionary—quiet, agile, deeply human, and Spirit-led. Drawing on the biblical theme of exile, he considers how witness now moves through gig work, digital spaces, small communities, and the simple power of Christ-like presence. Even in an age of automation, the gospel remains undiminished. The machine may li...
2025-11-2505 min
Living TheologyWhen the Holy Spirit Meets Artificial IntelligenceIn this episode of Living Theology, Brendon Naicker explores what happens when faith and technology meet in the sanctuary. Can artificial intelligence ever reflect the values of the Church, or does it risk replacing the human and spiritual heart of ministry? Drawing on theology, philosophy, and spiritual formation, Brendon invites us to ask deeper questions about discipleship, attention, and the work of the Holy Spirit in a digital age.With reflections on embodiment, presence, and grace, this episode challenges us to see beyond the algorithms and rediscover the Spirit who cannot be programmed — the li...
2025-11-0505 min
Living TheologyEpisode 10 — The Way ForwardThe digital world isn’t slowing down — but you can.In the final episode of Living Theology, Brendon Naicker offers a practical, grace-filled “Rule of Life” for believers seeking peace in an age of noise.This is your invitation to live slowly, love deeply, and walk wisely.🎧 Listen now: “The Way Forward: A Rule of Life for the Digital Disciple.”#LivingTheology #BrendonNaicker #RuleOfLife #FaithInADigitalWorld #ScreensAndSouls #ChristianPodcast #SpiritualFormation #DigitalDiscipleship #ChristOverCulture #PresenceOverPerformance
2025-11-0503 min
Living TheologyEpisode 9 — Stories of TransformationWhat does transformation look like in the digital age?In Episode 9 of Living Theology, Brendon Naicker shares the true stories of families who traded noise for peace — and found Christ waiting in the stillness.Simple habits. Sacred rhythms. Real redemption.🎧 Listen now: “Stories of Transformation: Families Who Found Peace in a Digital World.”#LivingTheology #BrendonNaicker #FaithInADigitalWorld #ScreensAndSouls #FamilyTransformation #ChristianPodcast #SpiritualFormation #FaithAndFamily #ChristOverCulture #GraceInTheOrdinary
2025-11-0404 min
Living TheologyEpisode 8 — Reclaiming Attention and Presence“Be still, and know that I am God.”In Episode 8 of Living Theology, Brendon Naicker explores how attention and stillness are not luxuries but necessities for the soul.This episode is a gentle call to slow down, breathe, and return to the presence of God — the One who still speaks in the silence.🎧 Listen now: “Reclaiming Attention and Presence: The Spiritual Discipline of Stillness.”#LivingTheology #BrendonNaicker #BeStillAndKnow #FaithInADigitalWorld #ChristianPodcast #ScreensAndSouls #SpiritualFormation #TheologyOfAttention #PresenceOverPerformance #ContemplativeFaith
2025-11-0203 min
Living TheologyEpisode 7 — The Church and Community’s RoleIn a world connected by Wi-Fi but divided by loneliness, the Church must become a village again.In Episode 7 of Living Theology, Brendon Naicker shares how community, hospitality, and shared presence can heal the isolation of the digital age.This is a call to rebuild — not with bricks, but with belonging.🎧 Listen now: “The Church and Community’s Role: Rebuilding a Village of Faith in the Digital Age.”#LivingTheology #BrendonNaicker #FaithInADigitalWorld #ChurchCommunity #ScreensAndSouls #ChristianPodcast #SpiritualFormation #FaithAndFamily #HospitalityOfFaith #RebuildTheVillage
2025-11-0104 min
Living TheologyEpisode 6 - Discipling Digital NativesOur children are fluent in technology — but are they fluent in wisdom?In Episode 6 of Living Theology, Brendon Naicker shares how parents and pastors can disciple “digital natives” in a world shaped by screens.This episode offers a biblical, hopeful vision for raising a generation that uses technology with discernment, grace, and love.🎧 Listen now: “Discipling Digital Natives: Teaching Wisdom, Discernment, and Compassion Online.”#LivingTheology #BrendonNaicker #FaithInADigitalWorld #DigitalDiscipleship #ScreensAndSouls #ChristianParenting #WisdomAndDiscernment #FaithAndFamily #ChristOverCulture #SpiritualFormation
2025-10-3104 min
Living TheologyEpisode 5 — Building a Christ-Centred HomeWhat if your home could become a sanctuary again?In Episode 5 of Living Theology, Brendon Naicker shares how to build a Christ-centred home — one marked by peace, prayer, and presence.Through small, sacred rhythms, our homes can once again reflect the light of God in a noisy world.🎧 Listen now: “Building a Christ-Centered Home: Creating Sacred Rhythms in Family Life.”#LivingTheology #BrendonNaicker #ChristCentredHome #FaithAndFamily #ChristianPodcast #ScreensAndSouls #SpiritualFormation #FamilyDiscipleship #WorshipAtHome #FaithInTheEveryday
2025-10-3004 min
Living TheologyEpisode 4 — Redeeming TechnologyIn Episode 4 of Living Theology, Brendon Naicker shares how believers can redeem their digital tools — using them not for vanity or distraction, but for truth, beauty, and grace.This is not about escaping technology; it’s about reclaiming it under the Lordship of Christ.🎧 Listen now: “Redeeming Technology: Using Tools for Truth, Beauty, and Grace.”#LivingTheology #BrendonNaicker #FaithInADigitalWorld #RedeemingTechnology #ScreensAndSouls #DigitalDiscipleship #FaithOverFear #ChristianPodcast #ChristOverCulture #GraceInTheDigitalAge
2025-10-2904 min
Living Theology“Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.”“Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.”This single declaration from John the Baptist captures the heart of the gospel. From Abraham’s altar to the Passover in Egypt, from Isaiah’s Suffering Servant to the cross of Christ, the image of the Lamb weaves through all of Scripture.In Jesus, the Lamb becomes both sacrifice and sovereign — the one who conquers not by force, but through self-giving love. The Lamb who was slain now reigns upon the throne, and His blood not only redeems humanity but restor...
2025-10-2807 min
Living TheologyEpisode 3 — When Devices Become IdolsWe no longer bow to statues — we bow to screens.In Episode 3 of Living Theology, Brendon Naicker reflects on how convenience has replaced communion, and how Christians can reclaim worship in a culture that prizes control.This is not about abandoning technology — it’s about restoring holiness to our habits.🎧 Listen now: “When Devices Become Idols: Reclaiming Worship in a Culture of Convenience.”#LivingTheology #BrendonNaicker #FaithInADigitalWorld #ModernIdolatry #ReclaimWorship #ChristianPodcast #ScreensAndSouls #FaithOverConvenience #ChristOverCulture
2025-10-2804 min
Living TheologyEpisode 2 — The Theology of AttentionWhat if attention is more than focus — what if it’s love?In Episode 2 of Living Theology, Brendon Naicker explores the sacred art of paying attention — to God, to one another, and to the moment right in front of us.We live in a distracted world, always scrolling, swiping, and hurrying. But God still speaks in whispers.This episode is an invitation to slow down and rediscover that stillness is not emptiness — it’s encounter.🎧 Listen now: “The Theology of Attention: L...
2025-10-2704 min
Living TheologyThe Unrecognised Creator“He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, yet the world did not know Him.” — John 1:10 (ESV)The Creator walked among His creation — and the world failed to see Him.From Abraham’s recognition under the oaks of Mamre, to Simeon and Anna’s joy in the temple, Scripture reveals a tension between divine presence and human blindness.Christ’s words before Pilate still echo today: “My kingdom is not of this world.”In an age of distraction and self-made king...
2025-10-2605 min
Living TheologyEpisode 1 — When the Glow Took OverEpisode 1 — “When the Glow Took Over”There was a time when evenings were filled with laughter — until the glow of screens began to take their place.In this first episode, Brendon Naicker explores how technology is shaping the souls of our children and what it means to raise them to love God more than the glow.This is not about fear or rejection, but redemption and presence — a call for families and churches to reclaim attention, wonder, and worship in a distracted age.#LivingTheology#Brendon...
2025-10-2603 min
Living TheologyGlory SharedGlory is not a distant light to be admired, but a divine fire shared.In Christ, humanity is not only forgiven but transformed — made radiant through the indwelling Spirit.The believer’s journey is a passage “from glory to glory,” where holiness becomes beauty and faith becomes light.“The same glory that shone on Christ’s face now shines within His people.”🎧 Listen to Living Theology with Brendon Naicker — where truth leads to transformation, and theology becomes worship.#LivingTheology #BrendonNaicker #GloryShared #Theolo...
2025-10-2405 min
Living TheologyDoxa and Worship — The Circle of GloryGlory (doxa) and worship are not separate realities — they are the heartbeat of divine life.Glory is the radiance of God turned outward; worship is that radiance turned back toward its source.In Christ, the revelation of glory and the response of worship meet perfectly — the Son manifests the Father’s splendour and returns it in obedient love, completing the eternal circle of glory.The Church, joined to Christ by the Spirit, now lives within this rhythm of revelation and response. Every act of adoration, every life surrendered in faith, become...
2025-10-2306 min
Living TheologyGlory Restored — The Church as the Bride of ChristIn Christ, the story of creation’s lost glory finds its restoration.He, the true Image and new Adam, gathers a Bride — the Church — and clothes her in splendour not her own. Her beauty is not borrowed but bestowed; her light not independent but reflected from the Lamb who loves her.The Church’s glory is therefore cruciform — radiant through sacrifice, adorned through faithfulness, purified through grace. Her splendour is participation, not possession. For as Paul writes, “Christ loved the Church and gave Himself up for her… that He might present her to Himself in...
2025-10-2205 min
Living TheologyThe Derived Glory of WomanIn this episode, we explore one of Scripture’s most beautiful and misunderstood doctrines — that a woman’s glory is derived, not diminished.Drawing from Genesis and Paul’s teaching in 1 Corinthians 11, Brendon Naicker unfolds how glory in Scripture is never self-made but relational — flowing from God, through Christ, into creation.Using the imagery of a mirror turned toward the light, this reflection reveals that true glory is not autonomy but alignment; not independence, but communion.When creation stands rightly before its Creator, it shines.“Her radiance...
2025-10-2106 min
Living TheologyThe Dangerous Theology of Sadhu Sundar SinghMany Christians don’t realise the danger of Sadhu Sundar Singh’s teachings. His theology rejects biblical authority, embraces Hindu mysticism, denies eternal judgment, and replaces the gospel with spiritual deception. This is not Christianity—it’s counterfeit spirituality. The Church must wake up and defend the truth.🎙️ New Episode – Living Theology with Brendon NaickerThe Dangerous Theology of Sadhu Sundar Singh#LivingTheology #ChristianTruth #FalseTeaching #DoctrinalClarity #ProtectTheFlock #BiblicalWarning #SoundDoctrine #SpiritualDeception #ExposingError #ChristianLeadership #Apologetics #ContendForTheFaith #brendonnaicker
2025-10-1609 min
Living TheologyHidden Glory, Revealed Order: A Theological Meditation on Women and Head CoveringsBrendon Naicker traces the forgotten language of the veil — from Genesis to Corinth, from the Church Fathers to the modern age — uncovering how the simple act of covering the head in worship reveals a profound theology of creation, gender, and divine order. Drawing on voices from Augustine and Tertullian to Aquinas, Calvin, Bonhoeffer, and Barth, this reflection shows that the covering is not about fabric but about glory; not about control but about reverence. Through Scripture, history, and prayer, Naicker invites the Church to recover a theology of embodied worship — where the body once again tells the truth of the so...
2025-10-0823 min
Living TheologyIs There Life Beyond the Womb?Life in the womb is only the beginning. This world is only a shadow of the greater reality that awaits. And just as the baby is not abandoned after birth, neither are we. The God who sustains us now will carry us into eternity.So the question is, will we live with faith like the believing baby—trusting in the unseen presence of God? Or will we limit ourselves to what we can only perceive with our senses, missing out on the greater reality beyond?
2025-03-1802 min
Living TheologyGrace Wars: The Ancient Heresy That Never DiedLet me tell you a story—a 1,600-year-old story about a battle that shaped your faith, your church, and maybe even your view of God. It’s a tale of two monks, a British heretic and an African saint, whose clash over grace and free will still rages in your Instagram theology debates and Sunday sermons. Strap in.
2025-03-1204 min
Living TheologyFrom House Churches to Mega ScreensIn this episode of Living Theology, Brendon Naicker reflects on the development of the church from its humble beginnings in house gatherings to today’s large, institutionalised structures. He explores what we’ve gained and what may have been lost along the way in terms of community, mission, and radical love. Tune in for a lighthearted yet thought-provoking discussion on the church’s glow-up.#ChurchHistory #EarlyChurch #Community #Mission #RadicalLove #LivingTheology #ChurchEvolution #FaithJourney #brendonnaicker #theologyschool
2025-03-0905 min
Living TheologyCaste, class, race, the divisions we see in the world todayAs followers of Christ, we are called to be ministers of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18-19). The divisions created by sin—whether caste, race, class, or status—should not exist in the body of Christ. Instead, we are to model the Kingdom of God, where all are valued, and no one is considered lesser. Where the world builds barriers, the Gospel tears them down. Where sin segregates, Christ unites #brendonnaicker #caste #race #criticalracetheory#livingtheology #theologyschool
2025-03-0204 min
Living TheologyFor Those Skipping Church TodayLet us walk the narrow road, the way of the cross, that we may bear fruit that endures. Until next time—keep living the theology.
2025-02-0903 min
Living TheologyCounterculture Christian MinistryHow do we rediscover the church’s countercultural calling? We must return to servanthood. We need to reclaim the radical, servant-hearted ethos of the early church. This means prioritising humility, generosity, and love over power, status, and influence. We must focus on eternity. The church must stop chasing cultural relevance and start focusing on eternal impact. Our mission isn’t to gain worldly power—it’s to proclaim the gospel and make disciples. And we must embrace the margins. Jesus spent His time with the poor, the outcast, and the marginalised. If we want to follow His example, we need to...
2025-02-0504 min
Living TheologyHistory of Christian MinistryThe rise of the internet and social media has revolutionized how we do ministry. Today, a pastor in Kenya can preach to a global audience via YouTube. A small group in Texas can study the Bible with believers in India over Zoom. The possibilities are endless. But with these opportunities come challenges. How do we maintain the relational depth of the early church in a digital world? How do we ensure that our online ministries are grounded in biblical truth and not just driven by trends? The digital age has also given rise to new forms of ministry, like...
2025-02-0505 min
Living TheologyServant LeadershipChristian ministry is the act of serving others in the name of Christ, guided by the Holy Spirit, to fulfill God’s purposes on earth. It involves proclaiming the gospel, nurturing believers, demonstrating Christ-like love, and meeting both spiritual and practical needs. Ministry is not limited to clergy but is the calling of every believer, rooted in the example of Jesus, who came “not to be served but to serve” (Matthew 20:28).
2025-02-0503 min
Living TheologySwindon Church: One Year On – A Call to Authentic Faith, Not Comfortable ChristianitySwindon Church’s homegroup-based vision offers a return to the biblical foundation of church life, emphasising discipleship, fellowship, and authentic faith over cultural or Sunday Christianity. By rejecting passive religious traditions and prioritising daily spiritual growth, this vision encourages deep community, accountability, and mission-driven faith. As society moves further into an era where institutional religion is losing influence, churches like Swindon Church provide a compelling alternative: a vibrant, engaged, and transformative Christian community that reflects the heart of the early church.
2025-02-0303 min
Living Theology《为什么基督徒可能不庆祝农历新年》作者：布伦登·奈克（Brendon Naicker）基督徒可能选择不参加中国新年庆祝活动，因为这个节日与传统的中国宗教习俗和信仰有着深厚的联系。活动中常包括诸如祭祖、向神灵献祭以及驱邪避害等迷信仪式。对基督徒来说，参与这些活动可能与他们的信仰相冲突，因为《圣经》教导要单单敬拜上帝（出埃及记20:3），并避免偶像崇拜。他们可能认为这些行为与他们遵循的圣经原则不一致，而这些原则要求信徒远离与基督信仰相违背的风俗习惯。此外，中国新年非常注重运气、财富和占星等概念，这些与基督徒对上帝主权的信仰通常不相容。像避开厄运或通过仪式寻求繁荣的迷信行为，与基督教教导的依靠上帝的供应和保护（马太福音6:25-34）形成了鲜明对比。通过选择不参与这些习俗，基督徒可以专注于对上帝的引领和供应的信靠，而不是依赖根植于非基督教意识形态的文化习俗。然而，一些基督徒可能仍然参与那些与他们信仰相一致的中国新年活动，例如庆祝家庭团聚、展现好客之道以及建立人际关系。他们可能将这个节日视为一个在社区中彰显基督之爱和恩典的机会，而不是参与宗教或迷信元素。归根结底，基督徒是否参与这一节日通常取决于他们的个人信念以及他们如何在特定的文化环境中荣耀上帝的理解（哥林多前书10:31）。
2025-01-2501 min
Living TheologyTrue Church or Club?A church without sacrificial love, sharing, and giving is no longer a fellowship—it’s a facade. When selfishness reigns, and the world takes precedence over the Kingdom, the church becomes a make-believe institution. Jesus didn’t die for entertainment or double standards. He died to create a holy, unified body. Let’s return to authentic fellowship, where Christ is at the center, not convenience.#TrueChurch #AuthenticFaith #KingdomLiving #ChristCentered #ChurchFellowship #BiblicalChristianity #NoToCarnality #FaithOverEntertainment #SacrificialLove #WalkInLight
2025-01-2002 min
Living TheologyThe Unequal Dispensation of Grace: Why Some Leaders Are Thrown to the WolvesThis podcast examines the Christian community’s contrasting responses to the moral failings of Ravi Zacharias and Steven Lawson. It explores the theological, cultural, and systemic factors that influence how fallen leaders are judged, highlighting issues of cultural bias, tribalism, and the unequal application of justice and grace within the Church.#Theology #ChristianLeadership #RaviZacharias #StevenLawson #GraceAndJustice #CulturalBias #Accountability #Restoration #ChurchLeadership #LivingTheology #brendonnaicker
2025-01-1305 min
Living TheologyThe Church Off Course: Rediscovering Authentic Faith and CommunityHas the church lost its way? In many places, the vibrant, Spirit-led community described in the New Testament has been replaced by shallow connections, performance-driven worship, and consumer-focused programs. It’s time to refocus on God’s design: a body united in Christ, a family rooted in love, and a mission centered on discipleship. Let’s reclaim the sacred, revive authentic community, and return to worship in spirit and truth.#FaithRenewed #AuthenticWorship #ChurchCommunity #LivingTheology #RediscoverChurch #SpiritualGrowth #Discipleship #BiblicalChurch #ChristianFaith #BodyOfChrist #brendonnaicker
2025-01-1206 min
Living TheologyJesus, why do you trust us?An Inquiry into the Church’s Journey. Jesus, why do you choose to entrust us with your mission and purpose despite our weaknesses and failures?
2025-01-1103 min
Living TheologyThe Historical Roots of Racism in ChristianityThe historical entanglement of Christianity and racism, marked by theological distortions,colonial complicity, and institutional practices, underscores the urgent need for honest reflection and accountability. While the church has often perpetuated racial hierarchies, it hasalso inspired transformative movements for justice and liberation through figures like Martin Luther King Jr., Desmond Tutu, and the development of Black and Liberation Theology. To address its past, the church must commit to repentance and reconciliation, re-evaluate theological teachings, promote inclusive leadership, encourage dialogue, and educate congregations to challenge systemic racism. By embracing its foundational principles of love, justice, and equality...
2025-01-0714 min
Living TheologySlave ReligionAfrican Christianity is at a crossroads. Its history is one of both struggle and triumph, a reminder of the Gospel’s power to transform cultures and communities. But its future depends on how we navigate the challenges of contextual theology, historical baggage, and structural reform.Let this conversation challenge us to think critically about our faith. How do our historical contexts shape the way we live out the Gospel today? What lessons can African Christianity teach the global church about resilience, adaptability, and community? And most importantly, how can we, as believers, embody a fa...
2025-01-0604 min
Living TheologyEmployment Challenges Faced by Black Christian Pastors in the UKMainline churches claim to represent Christ’s love and justice, yet too many continue to perpetuate exclusion, prejudice, and discrimination under the guise of tradition. How long will we remain silent while these institutions fail to live up to the very values they profess? If you’ve ever felt marginalised or belittled within the church, it’s time we demand accountability and challenge the status quo. We need to come together to form an advocacy group that exposes these injustices and pushes for real, meaningful change. It’s time for action! #ChurchReform #MainlineChurches #FaithAndJustice #ReligiousPrejudice #InclusiveChristianity #AdvocacyForChange #ChurchAccountability #BreakingTradition #LoveAndJ...
2025-01-0403 min
Living TheologyThe Holy Door or The Only Door? A Biblical Challenge to Catholic TraditionThe message of the Gospel is clear and timeless: there is only one door to salvation, and that door is Jesus Christ. Any other door, no matter how ornate or well-meaning, cannot lead to eternal life. Let us hold fast to this truth and proclaim it boldly, for it is the power of God unto salvation for everyone who believes.
2024-12-2804 min
Living TheologyTalk is Cheap: When Church Members Contribute Only with WordsThe church is, and always will be, the body of Christ. It is a spiritual community where generosity, hospitality, and shared responsibility are not optional—they are foundational. A church without these qualities may fulfill its legal obligations, but it cannot fulfill its divine calling.So, as we reflect on the state of the church today, let’s ask ourselves: are we building communities that reflect the heart of Christ? Are we giving joyfully, sacrificially, and generously? And are we fostering a culture where every member takes ownership of the gospel mission?
2024-12-2705 min
Living TheologyThe Utopia of Christmas: Redefining the Christian Family in a Fragmented SocietyThe vision of Christmas often conjures an idyllic scene: a warmly lit room, a family seated around a beautifully decorated table, children laughing as a toy train circles the Christmas tree, and the enticing aroma of a feast awaiting the gathering. This Hollywood-inspired tableau paints a picture of unity, joy, and tradition. Yet, for many in our fragmented society, this ideal is unattainable, creating a stark contrast between expectation and reality. The modern family has evolved far beyond the traditional nuclear unit, and the church must grapple with the implications of ministering to this diverse and complex landscape.
2024-12-2605 min
Living TheologyFrom Shepherds to Sovereigns: How Pastors Mistake Ministry for MonarchyIn a world obsessed with power, influence, and legacy, the role of the pastor has been dangerously reimagined. Instead of focusing on servanthood and spiritual discipleship, many leaders are seduced by worldly metrics of success. Drawing from biblical principles and the wisdom of thinkers like A.W. Tozer, who warned, “The church that marries the spirit of the age will find itself a widow in the next,” this paper challenges pastors to reclaim their divine calling. Discover why true ministry is about building God's Kingdom, not personal empires, and how church leadership must resist cultural pressures to remain faithful to t...
2024-12-2306 min
Living TheologyChristian Ministry: A Vocation or a Calling!Christian ministry is not a vocation but a divine calling that demands servanthood, sacrifice, and spiritual authority. The early apostles exemplified a ministry deeply connected to God’s power, a stark contrast to the professionalised practices of many modern clergy. By returning to the apostolic paradigm, ministers and churches can reclaim the transformative essence of their calling, living as agents of God’s grace and truth in a broken world.#brendonnaicker
2024-12-2005 min
Living TheologyAudiobook: Heavenly InboxDear Reader,Embark on this thrilling journey! Allow these letters to speak to your soul, to ignite a fire within you. Be prepared to undergo transformation and embrace a life filled with purpose. Are you ready? Take my hand and immerse yourself in the captivating world of "Heavenly Inbox". Whom having not seen, you love; in whom, though now you see him not, yet believing, you rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory,Blessings,Brendon#brendonnaicker #christianity #heavenlyinbox #evangelism #LettersOfHope #theologyschool #salvation #doctrinesofgrace #ThoughtProvoking
2024-12-1346 minLiving Theology那么，耶稣基督是谁？今天，人们仍然通过“包装”弥赛亚来掩盖自己的真实内心状况，就像耶稣时代的宗教领袖一样。因为承认耶稣是弥赛亚，就会显露出他们是谁！正如耶稣在马太福音23章33节所说：“你们这些蛇类，毒蛇之种啊！怎能逃脱地狱的刑罚呢？”正因如此，在我们的文化中，耶稣基督被极度人性化，呈现为一个软弱而温和的人，他的生命和工作似乎无法严肃地影响或改变历史的进程。这种类型的耶稣基督被许多死气沉沉的教会所传讲，因此既无生命，也无冒犯性——人们喜欢这种耶稣，因为他们仍然可以掌控自己的生活。然而，在马太福音10章22节中，我们读到：“并且你们要为我的名被众人恨恶，惟有忍耐到底的必然得救。”你所分享的信息是否让人恨你？还是你在传讲另一个福音？
2024-12-1105 minLiving TheologyWho (was) Jesus Christ?If you are offended that I posed the question in the past-tense - you can rest assured that what Jesus Christ was He is, and what He is He was. So here is the logic - Colossians chapter 1 verse 16 states, “For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities--all things were created through him and for him”. In addition in Hebrews 13:8 it mentions that, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever”. Therefore there are no impossibilities of time and space for what Jesus Ch...
2024-12-1105 minLiving TheologyPastor, how is your spiritual relationship with Jesus?So much of what has been called a ministry unto Jesus has now become a career obsession to climbing the corporate ladder in the kingdom of “I’m successful-look at me”. I’m ashamed to say I too fell into this trap of this make-believe world of serving self in the name of Christ.The hope of leaving a legacy, or the guidance of building a purpose driven church, or maybe how to live my best life now are all too familiar for building a strategic development for worldly success. Therefore it’s not...
2024-12-1002 minLiving Theology你的属灵生命如何？给教会领袖的一封深思之信我们常常称之为“事奉耶稣”的工作，却变成了追求职业发展的手段----在“看我多成功”的国度中攀登属灵的“事业阶梯”。我羞愧地承认，我也曾掉入过这个陷阱，以事奉基督的名义实则在服侍自己。遗留下遗产、建立一间“目标导向”的教会，或者追求“活出最好的自己”这些理念，听起来是熟悉的成功之道。但在追求这些目标的过程中，我们却失去了真正的呼召。难怪这一代人常问的一个问题是：“你认识耶稣吗？”然而，我恳请你停下来思考。这其实是个错误的问题。真正的问题应该是：“耶稣认识你吗？” 这不是一种随意的、表面的关系。这是上帝在向祂所爱的子民展现祂的爱与恩典。但只要我们仍效法这世界的样式，我们就是与神为敌。在罪中，我们与祂疏远，甚至敌对祂的旨意。我们表面上似乎在服侍祂，但实际上却是迷失的。于是，我们忙于事奉，但在属灵上却失去了方向。心灵麻木、与神隔绝，甚至无法感受到自己的信仰。此时我们该怎么办？许多人转向依赖噱头和娱乐来满足教会董事会和会众的期望。但这难道不像《士师记》中的米迦吗？他为自己创造了与神之间的中保，而不是真正地顺服神。让我们诚实面对：圣洁已不再是许多事工的核心----甚至连牧师也不例外。如今，几乎没有人敢提出那些尖锐的问题。在我人生最黑暗的时期，我渴望有人对我说：“弟兄，你的信仰如何？基督活在你里面吗？你是否在过圣洁的生活，还是在随心所欲地行事？布伦登，你知道如果你继续犯罪、无视神的旨意，耶稣会对你说，‘离开我吧，你这作恶的人！我不认识你！’”所以，今天我来问你----无论你是牧师、长老、执事，还是教会中的任何领袖----你的属灵生命如何？ 耶稣是否真正掌权在你心里？你是否常常浸泡在神的话语中？你是否像对天父、朋友那样与祂亲密交谈？还是你的祷告变得空洞，充满了法利赛人式的机械重复？如果你发现自己的生命光景黯淡，请听从这个呼召：回到神面前！ 真正的得胜始于跪下祷告的时刻。降服于祂，让祂重新掌权在你的生命中。因为神爱你。祂爱你，不是因为你的事工，不是因为你的表现，而是因为你。回来吧。认识祂，并被祂所认识。
2024-12-0702 minLiving TheologyRediscovering Africa’s Ancient Christian RootsIn this episode of Living Theology, Brendon Naicker unpacks the deep and often overlooked history of Christianity in Africa. Far from being introduced by European missionaries, Christianity has ancient roots in Africa, thriving long before colonial times. Join us as we explore how indigenous Christian traditions, from Ethiopian Orthodoxy to African Independent Churches, resisted Western impositions and reshaped the faith on their own terms. Discover how African theologians like John Mbiti and Kwame Bediako have reclaimed this rich heritage, reminding us that Christianity in Africa is vibrant, contextual, and enduring.#AfricanChristianity #LivingTheology #ChurchHistory #EthiopianOrthodoxy...
2024-12-0204 minLiving TheologyThe Sanctity of Life and Assisted DyingA recent bill on assisted dying, introduced by Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, is under consideration in the UK. The bill, which focuses on England and Wales, would allow terminally ill adults to request assistance in dying. The bill is expected to be debated on November 29, with a potential implementation in 2-3 years after further consultations .This podcast examines the ethical, theological, and political challenges posed by assisted dying, including euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide (PAS). It highlights traditional Protestant objections to assisted dying, rooted in the sanctity of life, divine sovereignty, and the redemptive purpose...
2024-11-2303 minLiving TheologyMental Illness and Demonic PossessionThe relationship between mental illness and demonic possession has long been debated in religious and medical circles. This paper investigates New Testament accounts of possession that share characteristics with contemporary understandings of mental illness. It investigates how Jesus' ministry addressed these issues holistically and compares it to modern medical interventions. By examining the relationship between spiritual deliverance and medical treatment, this study emphasises the importance of combining theological insights with scientific advances in addressing human suffering.
#HolisticHealing #BiblicalHealing #MentalIllnessAndFaith #SpiritualDeliverance #MedicalTreatment #TheologyAndMedicine #PharmaceuticalEthics #JesusHealingMinistry #DiscernmentInHealing #FaithAndMentalHealth #NaturalMedicine #PsychiatryAndSpirituality #HealthAndWellbeing #IntegratedCare #PharmaceuticalIndustry #brendonnaicker
2024-11-2104 minLiving TheologyA Christian Perspective on War: Theological Reflections and Ethical ImplicationsWar has historically provoked significant theological and ethical enquiries within Christian traditions. The Christian response to war ranges from pacifism to just war theory, with both perspectives rooted in Scripture and refined through theological contemplation. This paper analyses biblical doctrines, historical progressions, and contemporary applications, emphasising the appropriate Christian response to the prospect of war. We will explore Christian perspectives on war and peace by referencing esteemed scholars and ethical frameworks, while also offering practical guidance for addressing the moral dilemmas associated with conflict.#war #brendonnaicker #warethics #theology
2024-11-2006 minLiving TheologyThe Church and Technological Progress: A Historical Overview Leading to the Era of AIThe Church's relationship with technological innovations has always been characterised by a complex mix of scepticism, cautious acceptance, and occasional outright fear. The relationship, which was visible during revolutionary eras such as the Renaissance, Enlightenment, and Industrial Revolution, demonstrates a long- standing tension between the Church's adherence to theological doctrines and its response to societal change. This article will examine the historical evolution, emphasise the societal benefits derived from numerous breakthroughs, and draw parallels to the current AI revolution, ultimately providing a Christian perspective on using AI to spread the gospel.
2024-11-2006 minLiving TheologyUnderstanding Human Identity in an AI WorldThe amalgamation of AI and other sophisticated technologies necessitates a redefined comprehension of human identity, one that recognises the influence of technology while maintaining awareness of divine intent. By utilising these instruments with intention and spirituality, Christians can traverse the modern era in a way that conforms to divine purposes, encouraging both human and spiritual development.
2024-11-1303 minLiving Theology结论：拥抱基督徒生命的丰盛结论：拥抱基督徒生命的丰盛在我们完成对基督信仰关键方面的探索时，尤其要强调社区和门徒训练的重要性。加入教会不仅仅是参加聚会；它是融入一个属灵的家庭，在那里你可以成长、服事，并在信仰中得到滋养。教会的角色教会在信徒的生命中扮演着至关重要的角色。它是一个接受纯正教导、参与有意义的敬拜、并与其他信徒建立团契的地方。《希伯来书》10:25勉励我们：“不可停止聚会，好像那些停止惯了的人，倒要彼此劝勉；既知道那日子临近，就更当如此。”成为教会群体中的积极成员可以巩固你的信仰，提供属灵上的监督，并给予服事和属灵成长的机会。门徒训练的重要性门徒训练是基督徒生命中至关重要的部分。它包括接受他人的带领并带领他人，学习和教导信仰的真理，并在属灵成熟中成长。耶稣在大使命中命令我们“去使万民作我的门徒”（马太福音28:19）。这是一个终身的学习旅程，运用圣经原则，并帮助他人同样去实践。通过门徒训练，你可以加深对神话语的理解，发展属灵的恩赐，并增强与基督同行的力量。在基督已完成的救赎中安息基督徒的生命并不在于靠自己努力奋斗或受一时的情感驱使，而在于安息在基督已完成的救赎中。耶稣在十字架上宣告：“成了”（约翰福音19:30），表明救赎工作已然完成。我们的角色是相信这一成就，并凭信心活出我们的信仰，确信我们的得救不是靠行为，而是神的恩典。《以弗所书》2:8-9提醒我们：“你们得救是本乎恩，也因着信；这并不是出于自己，乃是神所赐的；也不是出于行为，免得有人自夸。”被圣灵引导和赋能圣灵是我们的帮助者、引导者和力量的源泉。作为信徒，我们被召去过着被圣灵引导和赋能的生活。《加拉太书》5:16鼓励我们：“我说，你们当顺着圣灵而行，就不放纵肉体的情欲了。”圣灵帮助我们理解神的话语，使我们知罪，并赋予我们过公义生活的力量。依靠圣灵，我们可以经历基督徒生命的丰盛，充满爱、喜乐、和平，以及所有圣灵的果子（加拉太书5:22-23）。行动的呼召鉴于这些真理，我鼓励你迈出属灵旅程的下一步。如果你还不是教会的一员，寻找一个本地教会，在那里你可以归属并成长。参与门徒训练，既接受指导也给予指导，以促进属灵上的成熟。记住，你的信仰不在于感觉或行为，而在于安息在基督已完成的救赎中，并被圣灵引导。满怀信心地拥抱这段旅程，确信神的恩典足够，他的灵与每一步同在。当你融入教会生活并委身于门徒训练，你将发现为神的荣耀而活的生命所具有的丰盛和深度。信靠他的应许，依赖他的力量，行在他爱的丰盛与恩典中。
2024-11-0303 minLiving Theology第十五章：理解罪与堕落在基督信仰中的意义第十五章：理解罪与堕落在基督信仰中的意义犯罪后会发生什么？即使成为基督徒，犯罪仍然是一个现实，因为信徒仍在与罪性斗争。然而，圣经为应对罪提供了安慰和指导。忏悔与宽恕当信徒犯罪时，他们应向上帝承认自己的罪，上帝会信实地赦免并洁净他们的一切不义。 • “我们若认自己的罪，神是信实的，是公义的，必要赦免我们的罪，洗净我们一切的不义。”（约翰一书1:9） • “遮掩自己罪过的，必不亨通；承认离弃罪过的，必蒙怜恤。”（箴言28:13）悔改真正的悔改意味着内心的转变和远离罪恶，努力过讨上帝喜悦的生活。 • “所以，你们当悔改归正，使你们的罪得以涂抹，这样，那安舒的日子就必从主面前来到。”（使徒行传3:19） • “因为依着神的意思忧愁，就生出没有后悔的悔改，以致得救；但世俗的忧愁是叫人死。”（哥林多后书7:10）宽恕的确据信徒可以确信，上帝会通过耶稣基督赦免他们的罪。 • “如今，那些在基督耶稣里的就不定罪了。”（罗马书8:1） • “东离西有多远，他叫我们的过犯离我们也有多远。”（诗篇103:12）如果堕落会发生什么？堕落（即背道）的概念使人对得救和信仰的持久性产生深切关注。以下是一些关键点：圣徒的坚忍圣经教导，真正的信徒会在信仰中持守到底。这一教义被称为圣徒的坚忍。 • “我又赐给他们永生，他们永不灭亡，谁也不能从我手里把他们夺去。我的父把羊赐给我，他比万有都大，谁也不能从我父手里把他们夺去。”（约翰福音10:28-29） • “我深信那在你们心里动了善工的，必成全这工，直到耶稣基督的日子。”（腓立比书1:6）真信心的表现真信徒的生命会显出真信心的表现，通过持续的悔改、圣洁的成长和圣灵的果子。 • “所以，凭着他们的果子就可以认出他们来。”（马太福音7:20） • “圣灵所结的果子，就是仁爱、喜乐、和平、忍耐、恩慈、良善、信实、温柔、节制；这样的事没有律法禁止。”（加拉太书5:22-23）警戒避免堕落圣经包含对堕落的警戒，以鼓励信徒保持忠诚并警醒于与基督同行。 • “论到那些已经蒙了光照、尝过天恩的滋味、又于圣灵有分，并尝过神善道的滋味、觉悟来世权能的人，若是离弃道理，就不能叫他们重新懊悔了；因为他们把神的儿子重钉十字架，明明地羞辱他。”（希伯来书6:4-6） • “所以，自己以为站得稳的，须要谨慎，免得跌倒。”（哥林多前书10:12）恢复若信徒跌倒或退步，通过悔改和寻求神的恩典可以得到恢复。 • “我的弟兄们，你们中间若有人迷失真道，有人使他回转，这人该知道，叫一个罪人从迷路上转回，便是救一个灵魂不死，并且遮盖许多的罪。”（雅各书5:19-20） • “弟兄们，若有人偶然被过犯所胜，你们属灵的人就当用温柔的心把他挽回过来；又当自己小心，恐怕也被引诱。”（加拉太书6:1）确据与鼓励对于那些担心自己属灵状态的人，抓住上帝的应许并通过圣经和祷告寻求安慰是至关重要的。神的信实上帝对他的应许是信实的，不会抛弃他的子民。 • “我们纵然失信，他仍是可信的，因为他不能背乎自己。”（提摩太后书2:13）寻求神通过祷告、研读圣经和与其他信徒的团契不断寻求上帝，以巩固信仰和委身。 • “你们寻求我，若专心寻求我，就必寻见。”（耶利米书29:13） • “你们不可停止聚会，好像那些停止惯了的人，倒要彼此劝勉；既知道那日子临近，就更当如此。”（希伯来书10:25）结论罪和堕落是严肃的问题，但圣经通过忏悔、悔改和对耶稣基督的信心提供了恢复的道路。真正的信徒得蒙上帝的信实保障，能持守信仰。不断成长、警醒和依靠神的恩典，对维持与上帝坚固持久的关系至关重要。若跌倒，记住神的恩典足够，通过悔改和寻求他的宽恕，总能获得恢复。抓住上帝的应许，持守信仰，信徒便能体验到神的爱与恩典的丰盛。
2024-11-0304 minLiving Theology第十四章：耶稣门徒的理解与应用第十四章：耶稣门徒的理解与应用大诫命大诫命是耶稣教导的核心，强调了爱在信徒生活中的首要地位。大诫命出现在《马太福音》、《马可福音》和《路加福音》中，涵盖了律法和先知的精髓，指出爱神和爱邻舍是基督徒生活的核心。“耶稣对他说：‘你要尽心、尽性、尽意爱主你的神。这是诫命中的第一，且是最大的。其次也相仿，就是要爱人如己。这两条诫命是律法和先知一切道理的总纲。’”（马太福音 22:37-40）“‘你要尽心、尽性、尽意、尽力爱主你的神。其次是说：要爱人如己。再没有比这两条诫命更大的了。’”（马可福音 12:30-31）大诫命的组成• 爱神：信徒被呼召以全心、全性、全意和全力爱神。这种完全的奉献是一种整体的对神的承诺，涵盖了情感、灵性、智力和体力上的奉献。“你要尽心、尽性、尽力爱耶和华你的神。”（申命记 6:5）这一诫命要求信徒将与神的关系置于首位，追求深入认识神，真诚地敬拜祂，并完全遵从祂的命令。这是一种与造物主亲密的个人关系，带有敬畏、崇拜和顺服的标志。• 爱邻舍：爱邻舍如同自己，意味着真诚地关心、同情和善待他人。它包括以自己希望被对待的方式去尊重和对待他人。“不可报仇，也不可埋怨你本国的子民，却要爱人如己。我是耶和华。”（利未记 19:18）这一诫命超越了宽容或被动的善意；它要求在怜悯、公义和慈爱的行动中积极投入。它挑战信徒超越自我需求和利益，即使在不便或付出代价时，也要伸出爱的手。对耶稣门徒的应用• 个人虔诚：鼓励信徒通过常常祷告、研读圣经和敬拜来优先考虑他们与神的个人关系。这些操练滋养了对神更深的爱，使信徒的心对齐神的旨意。• 顺服：按照神的诫命和教导生活是对祂的爱的一种表达。对神话语的顺服反映了对祂权威的承认，以及在生活的各个方面荣耀祂的渴望。• 服务他人：参与善行、公义和慈爱是对爱邻舍的具体表现。信徒被召去无私地服务他人，尊重和体恤他们，为他们的福祉代求。• 社区参与：参与教会和地方社区的生活提供了集体展示神爱的机会。通过在教会内服务和参与社区活动，信徒可以体现基督的爱，促进团结和互助的精神。大使命大使命是耶稣给祂门徒的命令，要求他们传扬福音，使万民成为门徒。这一命令强调了基督信仰的全球性和宣教使命，呼召信徒积极参与福音传播和门徒造就。“耶稣进前来，对他们说：‘天上地下所有的权柄都赐给我了。所以你们要去，使万民作我的门徒，奉父、子、圣灵的名给他们施洗，凡我所吩咐你们的，都教训他们遵守，我就常与你们同在，直到世界的末了。’”（马太福音 28:18-20）大使命的组成• 去：耶稣命令祂的门徒走向世界，意味着一种主动性和走出舒适区的意愿。这涉及跨越文化、地域和社会的界限去分享福音。“但圣灵降临在你们身上，你们就必得着能力；并要在耶路撒冷、犹太全地和撒玛利亚，直到地极，作我的见证。”（使徒行传 1:8）这一诫命挑战信徒积极投入他们的使命，寻找机会向他人见证耶稣基督的爱和救恩。• 使人成为门徒：大使命的核心是使人成为门徒，这不仅仅是传福音而已。它需要教导、造就和扶持新信徒，使他们在信仰中成长并顺服基督。“你在许多见证人面前所听见的，要交托那忠心能教导别人的人。”（提摩太后书 2:2）门徒训练是一个持续的过程，帮助他人理解并实践圣经真理，促进灵命的成熟，鼓励建立深厚持久的与耶稣的关系。• 施洗：洗礼是一种重要的公开信仰宣告，象征信徒与基督的死、埋葬和复活的认同。它代表着在基督里的新生命和进入基督徒群体。“岂不知我们这受洗归入基督耶稣的人，是受洗归入他的死吗？所以我们借着洗礼归入死，和他一同埋葬，原是叫我们一举一动有新生的样式，像基督借着父的荣耀从死里复活一样。”（罗马书 6:3-4）• 教导：教导新信徒遵守基督的诫命对他们的属灵成长和成熟至关重要。这包括传授圣经知识、智慧和实用的经文应用。“我们传扬他，是用诸般的智慧，劝戒各人，教导各人，要把各人在基督里完完全全地引到神面前。”（歌罗西书 1:28）对耶稣门徒的应用• 传福音：信徒被呼召向他人分享福音，无论在本地还是全球范围内。这可以包括个人对话、支持宣教工作，并使用各种媒体传播信息。有效的传福音需要敏锐、尊重，并对被接触者有真诚的爱。• 门徒训练：在他人属灵成长中的投资是大使命的重要部分。这包括造就新信徒，带领查经班，并提供持续的支持和指导。门徒训练培养了一群装备完善的信徒，使他们在信仰中成长，并能继续带领他人成为门徒。• 洗礼：鼓励并参与新信徒的洗礼是他们信仰的公开见证。洗礼仪式提供了一个机会，让教会社区庆祝并支持新成员，陪伴他们在属灵旅程中迈出这重要一步。• 教导：持续的学习和教导神的话语对于基督徒群体的健康和成长至关重要。信徒应积极参与终身学习，勤勉地研读圣经，帮助他人理解并应用圣经教义。结论大诫命和大使命是基督信仰和实践的根基。大诫命呼召信徒全心爱神，并无私地爱他人，构成了基督徒伦理和人际关系的基础。大使命则赋予信徒传播福音、使人成为门徒并教导顺服基督诫命的责任。这两条命令共同塑造了基督徒生活的使命和目标，引导信徒在个人虔诚、社区参与和全球宣教中践行信仰。跟随耶稣意味着拥抱这些命令，积极参与神在世上的救赎工作。通过爱神和爱人，并使万民成为门徒，信徒履行他们的神圣召唤，为神的国度的扩展作出贡献。
2024-11-0306 minLiving Theology第13章：与基督的合一第13章：与基督的合一与基督的合一是基督教神学中的一个基础概念，描述了信徒与耶稣基督之间深厚的关系。这种合一包含神秘的、属灵的和法律的多重维度，表明通过信心，信徒与基督密切相连，分享祂的生命、死亡、复活和未来的荣耀。以下是对这种合一的深入探讨及其意义。救恩中的合一新约中频繁使用“在基督里”、“与基督一起”和“通过基督”等词语来描述信徒与耶稣的关系。这种合一是救恩和基督徒生活的核心。“你们要常在我里面，我也常在你们里面。枝子若不常在葡萄树上，自己就不能结果子；你们若不常在我里面，也是这样。我是葡萄树，你们是枝子；常在我里面的，我也常在他里面，这人就多结果子，因为离了我，你们就不能做什么。”（约翰福音15:4-5）“我已经与基督同钉十字架，现在活着的不再是我，乃是基督在我里面活着；并且我如今在肉身活着，是因信神的儿子而活，他爱我，为我舍己。”（加拉太书2:20）这种合一意味着信徒与基督紧密相连，从祂那里汲取生命和养分，就像枝子连接在葡萄树上。与基督合一的维度神秘的合一：这种合一的层面强调了超越人类理解的深刻属灵联系，反映了信徒与耶稣之间神秘而亲密的关系。“这奥秘是极大的，但我是指着基督和教会说的。”（以弗所书5:32）神秘的合一突出基督与祂的追随者之间深不可测的联系，是一种超越物质领域的联结。属灵的合一：通过圣灵，信徒与基督在属灵上合一，带来新生命、转变和成圣。“但与主联合的，便是与主成为一灵。”（哥林多前书6:17）“如果神的灵住在你们心里，你们就不属肉体，乃属圣灵了。人若没有基督的灵，就不是属基督的。基督若在你们心里，身体就因罪而死，心灵却因义而活。”（罗马书8:9-10）属灵的合一意味着信徒被圣灵充满，过一种反映基督义与品格的生活。法律的合一：这种层面指的是信徒在基督里的称义。通过信心，信徒在法律上与基督的义合一，意味着祂的义和牺牲之死归算在他们身上。“神使那无罪的，替我们成为罪，好叫我们在他里面成为神的义。”（哥林多后书5:21）“如今却蒙神的恩典，因基督耶稣的救赎，就白白地称义。神设立耶稣作挽回祭，是凭着耶稣的血，借着人的信，要显明神的义。”（罗马书3:24-25）法律的合一保证信徒的罪得赦免，他们因基督的赎罪工作在神面前被称为义。与基督合一的意义新的身份：信徒在基督里获得新的身份，不再由过去的罪定义，而是由他们在基督里的新生命定义。“若有人在基督里，他就是新造的人，旧事已过，都变成新的了。”（哥林多后书5:17）这种新的身份改变了信徒对自我和生活意义的看法，根植于他们与基督的关系。成圣：与基督合一意味着持续的改变。通过圣灵的工作，信徒在圣洁中成长，更加像基督。“我深信，那在你们心里动了善工的，必成全这工，直到耶稣基督的日子。”（腓立比书1:6）“因为他预先所知道的人，就预先定下效法他儿子的模样，使他儿子在许多弟兄中作长子。”（罗马书8:29）成圣是信徒逐渐在生活中反映基督品格的过程。得救的确据：这种合一使信徒对他们的救恩有确据，因为他们与基督的关系确保了他们在神面前被接纳。“我赐给他们永生，他们永不灭亡，谁也不能从我手里把他们夺去。那赐给我的父比万有都大，谁也不能从我父手里把他们夺去。”（约翰福音10:28-29）救恩的确据使信徒在与神的永恒关系中有信心和安全感。服事的力量：与基督的合一装备信徒去服事和事工。他们有能力在基督里活出信仰并服事他人。“我靠着那加给我力量的，凡事都能做。”（腓立比书4:13）“我们原是他的工作，在基督耶稣里造成的，为要叫我们行善，就是神所预备叫我们行的。”（以弗所书2:10）服事的力量意味着信徒被基督装备和赋能，以完成神为他们预备的善工。荣耀的盼望：与基督的合一带来未来荣耀的盼望。信徒确信他们的复活和与基督的永生。“神愿意叫他们知道，这奥秘在外邦人中有何等丰盛的荣耀，就是基督在你们心里成了有荣耀的盼望。”（歌罗西书1:27）“因为主必亲自从天降临，有呼叫的声音和天使长的声音，又有神的号吹响。那在基督里死了的人必先复活。以后我们这活着还存留的人必和他们一同被提到云里，在空中与主相遇。这样，我们就要和主永远同在。”（帖撒罗尼迦前书4:16-17）荣耀的盼望使信徒确信他们的最终命运和与基督的永生。结论与基督的合一是一个多层面的教义，包含信徒在耶稣里的神秘、属灵和法律的连接。这种合一带来新的身份、持续的成圣、救恩的确据、服事的力量和永恒荣耀的盼望。根植于圣经，这种深刻的关系强调了基督在信徒生命各个方面的中心性。理解并拥抱这种合一对于在信仰中成长和体验基督徒生活的丰盛至关重要。
2024-11-0305 minLiving Theology第12章：什么是祷告？如何祷告？为什么祷告重要？第12章：什么是祷告？如何祷告？为什么祷告重要？什么是祷告？祷告在基督教信仰中是一种与神交流的重要方式，包含赞美、认罪、感恩和祈求等多种形式。通过祷告，信徒表达自己的思想、情感和渴望，寻求神的指引、帮助和同在。“应当一无挂虑，只要凡事借着祷告、祈求和感谢，将你们所要的告诉神。神所赐出人意外的平安，必在基督耶稣里保守你们的心怀意念。”（腓立比书4:6-7）“要常常喜乐，不住地祷告，凡事谢恩，因为这是神在基督耶稣里向你们所定的旨意。”（帖撒罗尼迦前书5:16-18）祷告是一种全面的实践，涉及承认神的主权、寻求祂的赦免、表达感恩、并将我们和他人的需求带到祂面前。如何祷告赞美：赞美是称颂神的圣洁、慈爱、大能和智慧，是对神至高价值和威严的承认与宣告。“耶和华本为大，且该大受赞美；其大无法测度。”（诗篇145:3）赞美使我们将焦点从自己转向神，提醒我们祂的伟大以及我们对祂的依赖。认罪：认罪是向神承认我们的罪过和不足，寻求祂的赦免和洁净，是保持与神正确关系的重要部分。“我们若认自己的罪，神是信实的，是公义的，必要赦免我们的罪，洗净我们一切的不义。”（约翰一书1:9）通过认罪，我们承认自己的过失，并接受神的恩典，恢复我们与祂的团契。感恩：感恩是为神的祝福、供应和已答应的祷告表达感谢，承认神在我们生命中的良善和信实。“要恒切祷告，在此警醒感恩。”（歌罗西书4:2）一颗感恩的心识别神过去的信实，并培养对祂未来供应的信任。祈求：祈求是将我们的需求带到神面前，祈求祂在我们生活和他人生活中的帮助、引导和干预。“我劝你，第一要为万人恳求、祷告、代求、祝谢。”（提摩太前书2:1）祈求是一种谦卑的表现，承认我们的需要和神的供应能力。祷告的模式----主祷文耶稣提供了一个祷告的模式，即主祷文，涵盖了以上元素。“所以，你们祷告要这样说：‘我们在天上的父，愿人都尊你的名为圣。愿你的国降临，愿你的旨意行在地上如同行在天上。我们日用的饮食今日赐给我们，免我们的债，如同我们免了人的债。不叫我们遇见试探，救我们脱离凶恶。’”（马太福音6:9-13）主祷文作为一个全面的指南，包含了赞美、顺服神的旨意、祈求供应、赦免和保护。为什么要祷告？与神相交：祷告促进与神的个人关系，使信徒得以亲近祂，感受祂的同在，是发展与神亲密关系的途径。“你们亲近神，神就必亲近你们。”（雅各书4:8）通过祷告，我们培养与神更深的连接，感受到祂的同在和引导。对神的依赖：祷告承认我们对神在一切事上的依赖，提醒我们祂是我们供应、力量和指引的源头。“你要专心仰赖耶和华，不可倚靠自己的聪明；在你一切所行的事上都要认定祂，祂必指引你的路。”（箴言3:5-6）通过祷告转向神，我们肯定了对祂智慧和供应的信赖，而非依赖自己。与神的旨意对齐：通过祷告，信徒寻求理解并与神的旨意一致，放下自己的愿望，接受祂的计划。“我们若照祂的旨意求什么，祂就听我们，这是我们向祂所存坦然无惧的心。”（约翰一书5:14）祷告帮助我们辨识神的旨意，使我们的心与祂的目的对齐，确保我们的愿望和行动反映祂的旨意。平安与安慰：祷告提供平安和安慰，尤其是在焦虑、不确定和困扰时，使我们体验到超越理解的神的平安。“应当一无挂虑，只要凡事借着祷告、祈求和感谢，将你们所要的告诉神。神所赐出人意外的平安，必在基督耶稣里保守你们的心怀意念。”（腓立比书4:
2024-11-0305 minLiving Theology第11章：我必须做什么才能得救？——根据圣经教义第11章：我必须做什么才能得救？——根据圣经教义救恩是基督教神学的核心，代表通过信靠耶稣基督从罪恶及其后果中得释放。本章探讨圣经对救恩的理解以及走向确据的步骤。悔改并信靠耶稣基督悔改：悔改意味着对罪的深深痛悔、转离罪恶，并承诺顺服基督。这不仅仅是对过错的惋惜，而是发自内心的改变，带来生命的转变。 • 《使徒行传》2:38：在五旬节的讲道后，彼得劝勉众人悔改，并奉耶稣基督的名受洗以赦免罪。这里的悔改表明从叛逆神的生活彻底转向顺服和遵从祂的生活。 • 《哥林多后书》7:10：保罗区分了“出于神的忧愁”和“出于世俗的忧愁”。前者带来悔改，导致得救并无悔意，而后者导致死亡。真正的悔改表现在对神和他人的态度和行为的真挚改变。信靠耶稣基督：信心是救恩的核心——信靠耶稣基督独自承担了我们的罪并赐予永生。信心既包括对耶稣身份（神的儿子）的信，也包括对祂为救赎我们而受死和复活的信靠。 • 《约翰福音》3:16：这节著名经文概括了救赎信心的要义。信靠耶稣基督意味着相信神因爱世人差遣独生子来，使信祂的人不至灭亡，反得永生。 • 《罗马书》10:9-10：保罗列出了救恩所需的信仰告白。它包括心里相信耶稣的赎罪之工，并口里承认耶稣是主，承认祂在自己生命中的权柄。理解救恩是因信得救的恩典恩典独具：救恩不是我们通过努力或善行能赚取或配得的，它完全是神出于对罪人之爱和怜悯而赐下的礼物。 • 《以弗所书》2:8-9：这些经文强调救恩是借着信心、通过恩典赐下，而非靠行为。这一点至关重要，因为它表明救恩是神的无偿恩赐，而非我们能凭自身成就的。信心独具：信心是我们接受神的恩典的途径。不是信加上行为，而是单单信靠耶稣基督在十字架上的成就。这样的信心是对基督救赎之工的信靠，为罪得赦并与神和好。 • 《罗马书》3:28：保罗明确指出，我们是因信称义，而不依赖律法的行为。这进一步表明我们在神面前的地位完全是基于对耶稣基督的信靠，而非依赖我们自身的道德或宗教努力。接受救恩的确据圣灵的内在见证：圣灵在保证信徒的救恩上发挥关键作用。祂与我们的心同证我们是神的儿女，提供了深刻的信念和对神关系的确信。 • 《罗马书》8:16：这节经文强调了确据的个人和亲密性。圣灵在我们内心见证我们是神的儿女，巩固我们在基督里的身份和安全感。生命的改变：真正的信心带来生命的转变，以圣灵的果子和不断的圣洁成长为标志。这种转变是圣灵在信徒心中工作的证据。 • 《加拉太书》5:22-23：圣灵的果子——仁爱、喜乐、和平、忍耐、恩慈、良善、信实、温柔、节制——是显示真实信仰和在基督里生活的标志。这些品质随着信徒与神关系的成长逐渐显现。 • 《哥林多后书》5:17：保罗描述了归信基督者所发生的深刻变化。成为基督徒的人是新造的人，旧有的罪恶生活模式消失，新的神圣渴望和态度取而代之。圣徒的持守真正的信徒在神保守的恩典中得以在救恩中安稳。他们继续信靠基督并活在顺服中，由圣灵支持。 • 《腓立比书》1:6：保罗确信神必成全祂在信徒中开始的善工。这一持守的确据建立在神的主权和对祂子民的承诺上。 • 《约翰福音》10:28-29：耶稣向祂的追随者保证永恒的安全。没有人能将他们从祂的手或父的手中夺去，这表明他们救恩的确定性和神所提供的保护。我如何知道自己得救？单单信靠基督：得救的确据始于对耶稣基督作为主和救主的真诚信靠，完全依赖祂的牺牲为自己的罪得赦，并被神接纳。圣灵工作的证据：寻找圣灵在心中的内在见证，确认你作为神儿女的身份并巩固你与祂的关系。圣灵的果子：检视生命中灵性果子的存在与增长。这些品质——仁爱、喜乐、和平、忍耐、恩慈、良善、信实、温柔、节制——是圣灵在你生命中转化工作的证据。对神和他人的爱：对神的真实爱和对他人日益增长的爱是被神的恩典转变了的心的自然结果，也是信心的标志。 • 《约翰一书》4:7-8：约翰强调了认识神与爱人的联系。真爱的表现是我们在基督里的新生命以及与祂的关系。信心中的持守：在试炼和挑战中的信仰忍耐是真门徒的标志。它展示了对神的力量的依靠以及在困难中对耶稣的承诺。与圣经一致：定期用圣经教导来检视你的信仰和经历。圣经是理解和确认我们信仰的最高权威和指导。结论圣经教导确认救恩是神的礼物，通过悔改和单单信靠耶稣基督而获得。救恩的确据来自圣灵的内在见证、以圣灵的果子为标志的转变的生命，以及信徒信心的持守。这一观点强调了神的恩典是救恩的根基，凸显了信心与圣灵在信徒确据与成圣历程中的重要角色。
2024-11-0305 minLiving Theology第10章：天堂与地狱——其真实存在性与永恒归宿的标准第10章：天堂与地狱——其真实存在性与永恒归宿的标准在基督教神学中，天堂和地狱被认为是真实的、人类灵魂死后的永恒归宿。这种对天堂和地狱的信仰根植于耶稣和使徒在圣经中的教导。以下是对这些概念的解释、进入其中的标准，以及基督教神学不支持二元论的澄清。天堂天堂的性质：天堂被描述为神的居所，是充满永恒喜乐、和平并与神相交的地方。在那里没有痛苦、罪恶或死亡，信徒将在神的临在中完全满足。“我父的家里有许多住处，若是没有，我就早已告诉你们了。我去是为你们预备地方去。我若去为你们预备了地方，就必再来接你们到我那里去，我在那里，叫你们也在那里。”（约翰福音14:2-3）“我听见有大声音从宝座出来说：‘看哪，神的帐幕在人间。他要与人同住，他们要作他的子民；神要亲自与他们同在，作他们的神。神要擦去他们一切的眼泪，不再有死亡，也不再有悲哀、哭号、疼痛，因为以前的事都过去了。’”（启示录21:3-4）地狱地狱的性质：地狱被描述为一个与神永远隔绝的地方，充满痛苦与悔恨。它是对罪的审判和惩罚之地。“王又要向左边的说：‘你们这被咒诅的人，离开我，进入那为魔鬼和他的使者所预备的永火里去！’”（马太福音25:41）“他们要受刑罚，就是永远沉沦，离开主的面和他权能的荣光。”（帖撒罗尼迦后书1:9）永恒归宿的标准对耶稣基督的信仰：根据基督教信仰，进入天堂的主要标准是对耶稣基督作为主和救主的信仰。这信仰包括对罪的悔改和对耶稣在十字架上代赎的信靠。“神爱世人，甚至将他的独生子赐给他们，叫一切信他的，不至灭亡，反得永生。”（约翰福音3:16）“你若口里认耶稣为主，心里信神叫他从死里复活，就必得救。因为人心里相信就可以称义，口里承认就可以得救。”（罗马书10:9-10）拒绝基督：相反，拒绝基督及他所提供的救恩将导致与神的永远隔绝，即圣经所描述的地狱。“信他的人不被定罪，不信的人罪已经定了，因为他不信神独生子的名。”（约翰福音3:18）“这些人要往永刑里去，那些义人要往永生里去。”（马太福音25:46）基督教神学中没有二元论二元论的定义：二元论认为两种基本的、对立的力量（如善与恶）同等强大且永恒。基督教对二元论的拒绝：基督教拒绝二元论，坚信神是全能的创造者和万物的维持者。邪恶，包括撒旦和地狱，都是被造的现实，并非与神对等的永恒存在。神的主权确保邪恶最终服从神的旨意，终将被战胜。“我是耶和华，在我以外并没有别神。我必坚固你，虽然你不认识我，使人从日出之地到日落之处都知道，除我以外没有别神。我是耶和华，在我以外并没有别神。我造光，又造黑暗，我降平安，又降灾祸，造作这一切的是我耶和华。”（以赛亚书45:5-7）“那迷惑他们的魔鬼被扔在硫磺火湖里，就是兽和假先知所在的地方。他们必昼夜受痛苦，直到永永远远。”（启示录20:10）结论在基督教神学中，天堂和地狱是真实且永恒的归宿，进入天堂的标准是对耶稣基督的信仰和对罪的悔改。相反，拒绝基督将导致永远与神隔绝于地狱。基督教拒绝二元论，肯定神对所有创造物的最终主权，包括最终战胜邪恶。这一神学框架强调了与耶稣基督建立关系对于与神共享永恒生命的必要性。
2024-11-0303 minLiving Theology第9章：救恩拯救我们脱离什么？第9章：救恩拯救我们脱离什么？神的愤怒救恩使我们免于神对罪的公义愤怒。神的圣洁与公正要求对罪进行惩罚。“所以我们既因他的血称义，愈发要因他免去神的愤怒。”（罗马书5:9）“信子的人有永生；不顺从子的，必不得见生命；神的愤怒常在他身上。”（约翰福音3:36）罪及其权势救恩使我们脱离罪的权势，使我们能够通过圣灵过义的生活。“我们知道，旧人和他同钉十字架，是叫罪的身体灭绝，不再作罪的奴仆。因为已经死了的人是脱离了罪。”（罗马书6:6-7）“基督释放了我们，叫我们得以自由；所以要站立得稳，不再被奴役的轭挟制。”（加拉太书5:1）永恒的死亡救恩拯救我们脱离永恒的死亡，并赐予我们与神的永恒生命。“神爱世人，甚至将他的独生子赐给他们，叫一切信他的，不致灭亡，反得永生。”（约翰福音3:16）“他要擦去他们眼中的每一滴眼泪，死亡也不再有；也不再有悲哀、哭泣、疼痛，因为以前的事都过去了。”（启示录21:4）结论救恩是神使信徒脱离罪、罪的后果以及与他永远分离的过程。人类需要救恩，因为罪的普遍性引起了神的愤怒，奴役了个人，并导致属灵的和永恒的死亡。救恩，如圣经所启示的，是通过对耶稣基督的信心所赐的恩典，耶稣为罪承担了惩罚，并赐予那些信靠他的人永生。这一全面的拯救包括称义、成圣和最终的得荣耀，反映了神救赎计划的完整性。
2024-11-0201 minLiving Theology第8章：什么是救恩？人类为何需要拯救？第8章：什么是救恩？人类为何需要拯救？救恩是基督教神学的核心主题，指通过信仰耶稣基督从罪及其后果中得以拯救。救恩被理解为神从始至终的恩典之工。以下是对救恩的含义、人类为何需要救恩以及我们被拯救脱离了什么的探讨，并辅以圣经和其他神学证据。什么是救恩？基督教神学中的救恩包含几个方面：• 称义：在神面前被宣告为义。• 成圣：逐渐被塑造成圣洁的过程。• 得荣耀：信徒在永生中的最终状态。“你若口里认耶稣为主，心里信神叫他从死里复活，就必得救。因为人心里相信，就可以称义；口里承认，就可以得救。”（罗马书10:9-10）“你们得救是本乎恩，也因着信。这并不是出于自己，乃是神所赐的；也不是出于行为，免得有人自夸。”（以弗所书2:8-9）救恩是神的恩赐，通过信仰耶稣基督而得，并非凭借人的努力。人类为何需要拯救？败坏与罪：由于始祖的堕落（创世记3章），所有人类都生在罪中。这一概念被称为“全然败坏”，即罪影响了人类的每个部分，使人类无法自救。“因为世人都犯了罪，亏缺了神的荣耀。”（罗马书3:23）“这就如罪是从一人入了世界，死又是从罪来的，于是死就临到众人，因为众人都犯了罪。”（罗马书5:12）与神的隔离：罪导致人类与神分离，带来属灵的死亡和永远与神的隔绝。“但你们的罪孽使你们与神隔绝，你们的罪恶使他掩面不听你们。”（以赛亚书59:2）“因为罪的工价乃是死，惟有神的恩赐，在我们的主基督耶稣里乃是永生。”（罗马书6:23）通过以上的教导，我们看到救恩是神的恩典所赐，使人脱离罪的束缚，恢复与神的关系，并进入永生的应许。
2024-11-0201 minLiving Theology第7章：从圣经的角度理解人性第7章：从圣经的角度理解人性对人性的理解深深植根于圣经的教义，强调人类的尊严与堕落。这种观点由创造、堕落、救赎和复兴的教义所塑造，反映了宗教改革中的重要神学原则。创造：按神的形象受造（Imago Dei） • 尊严和目的：人类按神的形象（Imago Dei）受造，因此具有内在的尊严、价值和目的。“神说：‘我们要照着我们的形象，按着我们的样式造人，使他们管理海里的鱼、空中的鸟、地上的牲畜和全地，并地上所爬的一切昆虫。’神就照着自己的形象造人，乃是照着他的形象造男造女。”（创世记1:26-27）这意味着人类具有反映神性格的属性，如理性、道德、创造力和关系性。人类还被赋予管理和看顾受造物的责任。堕落：罪与败坏亚当和夏娃的堕落将罪与腐败带入人类的本性中。“全然败坏”的教义意味着人性的每一方面都被罪污染，人类无法自救。“如经上所记：‘没有义人，连一个也没有。没有明白的，没有寻求神的。都是偏离正路，一同变为无用。没有行善的，连一个也没有。’”（罗马书3:10-12）“这就如罪是从一人入了世界，死又是从罪来的，于是死就临到众人，因为众人都犯了罪。”（罗马书5:12）全然败坏并不意味着人类已经坏到极致，而是指罪影响了人类的各个方面：思想、意志、情感和身体。救赎：恩典与救恩圣经强调神在救恩过程中的主权。人类完全依赖神的恩典而得救，救赎通过耶稣基督的赎罪工作得以成就。“你们得救是本乎恩，也因着信。这并不是出于自己，乃是神所赐的；也不是出于行为，免得有人自夸。”（以弗所书2:8-9）“因为他预知的人，就预定他们效法他儿子的模样，使他儿子在许多弟兄中作长子。所预定的人又召他们来；所召来的人又称他们为义；所称为义的人又叫他们得荣耀。”（罗马书8:29-30）这救恩不是基于人的努力，而是神的主动和怜悯的结果。复兴：在基督里成为新造 • 成圣与得荣耀：信徒在圣灵的工作下逐渐成圣（即被塑造为圣洁），并最终在新造之中得荣耀。“若有人在基督里，他就是新造的人，旧事已过，都变成新的了。”（哥林多后书5:17）“我深信那在你们心里动了善工的，必成全这工，直到耶稣基督的日子。”（腓立比书1:6）在这种复兴的状态中，人类将完全反映神的形象，脱离罪及其影响，与神完美相交。结论圣经对人性的看法揭示了一个复杂的存在：按神的形象受造，陷入罪中，通过基督的恩典得救，最终被恢复到荣耀的状态。这一理解强调人类的深刻尊严和价值，他们对救恩对神的完全依赖，以及神恩典在他们生命中的转变力量。这些教义强调了神的主权以及基督在整个人类故事中的核心地位。
2024-11-0203 minLiving Theology第6章：教会是什么？第6章：教会是什么？教会的概念在基督教中居于核心地位，既代表信徒的实体聚会，也象征因信仰耶稣基督而联合的属灵团体。人们在教会中聚集、讲道、歌唱，反映出基督教崇拜和团契的多面性。以下是关于教会的概念以及聚会、讲道和歌唱的圣经基础的探讨：教会：一个属灵的团体• 定义：教会一词来自希腊词“ekklesia”，意为“聚集”或“会众”。在基督教神学中，教会既指全球的耶稣基督信徒团体，也指地方性会众或集会。• 目的：• 敬拜：教会聚集以敬拜神，通过祷告、歌唱和圣礼表达敬畏、崇拜和感恩之情。• 团契：信徒聚在一起，建立关系，彼此支持，鼓励信仰之旅。• 教导：在教会中讲道和教导，提供属灵的引导，教授圣经真理并应用于日常生活。• 使命：教会蒙召分享救恩的信息，从事服务性行为，并履行“大使命”----使万民作门徒。聚会、讲道和歌唱的圣经支持• 聚会“又要彼此相顾，激发爱心，勉励行善。你们不可停止聚会，好像那些停止惯了的人，倒要彼此劝勉，既知道那日子临近，就更当如此。”（希伯来书10:24-25）“因为无论在哪里，有两三个人奉我的名聚会，那里就有我在他们中间。”（马太福音18:20）• 讲道和教导“务要传道，无论得时不得时，总要预备；用百般的忍耐，各样的教训，责备人，警戒人，劝勉人。”（提摩太后书4:2）“七日的第一日，我们聚会擘饼的时候，保罗因为要次日起行，就与他们讲论，直讲到半夜。”（使徒行传20:7）• 歌唱和敬拜“当用诗章、颂词、灵歌彼此对说，口唱心和的赞美主。”（以弗所书5:19）“当用各样的智慧，把基督的道理丰丰富富地存在心里，用诗章、颂词、灵歌彼此教导，互相劝戒，心被恩感歌颂神。”（歌罗西书3:16）结论教会是信徒的属灵之家，为敬拜、团契、教导和使命提供场所。聚集在一起使基督徒能够彼此支持和鼓励，讲解圣经真理，通过歌唱和敬拜表达对上帝的忠诚。这些实践植根于圣经原则，反映了基督徒团体和信仰的基本要素。
2024-11-0202 minLiving Theology第5章：耶稣基督复活的真实性第5章：耶稣基督复活的真实性耶稣基督的复活是基督教的根本宣称，其真实性得到多方面证据的支持。以下是提供复活有力证明的主要论点和来源：福音书的历史可靠性马太福音、马可福音、路加福音和约翰福音详细记载了复活的事件。许多学者认为这些文本具有历史可靠性，主要基于以下几点： • 成文年代较早：大多数学者认为福音书写成于耶稣去世的几十年内，与事件时间相距不远，保证了目击者证词的可靠传递。 • 一致性：尽管在次要细节上有所差异，四本福音书中复活叙事的核心内容是一致的，这表明是对同一事件的独立记录。目击者证词新约中包含了许多目击者与复活的耶稣相遇的记载： • 哥林多前书15:3-8：保罗列出了一些见到复活之耶稣的个人和群体，包括彼得、众使徒、一次超过500名弟兄、雅各和保罗本人。这封信是最早的基督教著作之一，写于公元55年左右，距离复活仅约25年。 • 福音书记录：抹大拉的马利亚、墓前的其他妇女、使徒们和其他门徒都报告说看见并与复活的耶稣互动（如马太福音28章，马可福音16章，路加福音24章，约翰福音20-21章）。空墓空墓是关键的证据之一： • 多重证据：空墓在四本福音书中都有提到，这表明关于墓穴确实是空的有着强烈的传统支持。 • 妇女为见证人：福音书记载妇女是最先发现空墓的人。在当时的文化背景下，妇女的证词不被高度重视，这使得福音书作者不太可能捏造这样的故事，除非它是真的。 • 反驳的论证：早期的犹太争论通过声称门徒偷走了耶稣的尸体（马太福音28:11-15），间接承认了墓穴确实是空的。门徒的转变门徒从胆怯的逃避者转变为勇敢的复活见证人，这种戏剧性的变化支持了他们见证的真实性： • 行为改变：在耶稣受难后，门徒灰心失望并隐藏起来（约翰福音20:19）。在复活显现后，他们变成了勇敢的见证人，愿意面对迫害和殉道。 • 基督教的传播：早期基督教会的迅速增长，尽管遭到严重迫害，若没有门徒对复活的真诚信仰，是难以解释的。保罗的转变保罗（原名扫罗），曾是一位热衷于迫害基督徒的人，在与复活的耶稣相遇后，成为了一位忠诚的使徒： • 激进的转变：保罗在他的书信和《使徒行传》中都详细记录了自己的转变。他从迫害者到主要宣教士的转变，表明他经历了一次深刻的体验。 • 目击者声明：保罗声称自己见到了复活的耶稣，这段经历他在哥林多前书15:8和加拉太书1:11-17中描述过。空墓与复活在早期宣讲中的地位复活是《使徒行传》中记录的早期基督教宣讲的核心主题： • 使徒行传2:22-32：彼得在五旬节的讲道中重点讲述了耶稣的复活，称之为使徒们所见证的事件。 • 使徒行传4:10：使徒们始终宣讲复活是他们信仰和信息的基础。结论耶稣基督复活的真实性得到多方面证据的支持：福音书叙述的历史可靠性、大量的目击者证词、空墓、门徒的转变、保罗的激烈转变以及复活在早期基督教宣讲中的核心地位。这些要素共同提供了复活作为一项历史事件的强有力和令人信服的证明。
2024-11-0203 minLiving Theology第4章：耶稣的宣称及其有效性的证明第4章：耶稣的宣称及其有效性的证明拿撒勒人耶稣在其事工中提出了一些重大的主张，这些主张是基督教信仰的基础。这些宣称涉及他的身份、权柄和使命。以下我们将探讨这些宣称，并提供支持其有效性的证据。宣称为神耶稣宣称自己是神，是神的儿子。 • 圣经依据： • 约翰福音10:30：“我与父原为一。” • 约翰福音14:9：“人看见了我，就是看见了父。” • 马可福音14:61-62：在审判中，当被问及是否为弥赛亚、神的儿子时，耶稣回答道：“我是。” • 验证： • 预言的实现：耶稣实现了许多关于弥赛亚的旧约预言，例如以赛亚书7:14（童女生子）、弥迦书5:2（伯利恒出生）和以赛亚书53章（受苦的仆人）。 • 早期基督教著作：早期基督教的文本和信条（如腓立比书2:6-11）确认了耶稣的神性。宣称有权赦罪耶稣宣称拥有赦免罪过的权柄，这是神的特权。 • 圣经依据： • 马可福音2:5-7：耶稣赦免了一位瘫子的罪，引发围观者的质疑：“除了神以外，谁能赦罪呢？” • 路加福音7:48-49：耶稣对一个有罪的女子说：“你的罪赦了。” • 验证： • 奇迹作为标记：耶稣在赦免罪时经常行神迹，提供了他权柄的实证。例如，在马可福音第2章，耶稣在赦免瘫子的罪后治愈了他，以显示他的权柄（马可福音2:10-12）。宣称自己是弥赛亚耶稣宣称自己是希伯来经文中预言的那位受膏者弥赛亚。 • 圣经依据： • 约翰福音4:25-26：耶稣在井边向撒玛利亚妇人明确表示自己是弥赛亚。 • 马太福音16:16-17：彼得宣称耶稣为弥赛亚，耶稣认可了这个启示。 • 验证： • 荣耀的进入：耶稣骑驴进入耶路撒冷（马太福音21:1-11），实现了撒迦利亚书9:9的弥赛亚预言。 • 复活：复活被视为耶稣弥赛亚身份的终极验证，证实了他战胜死亡的能力和他神圣的使命。宣称是道路、真理、生命耶稣宣称自己是通向神的唯一道路。 • 圣经依据： • 约翰福音14:6：“我就是道路、真理、生命，若不借着我，没有人能到父那里去。” • 验证： • 生命的转变：耶稣追随者的深刻转变，许多人在面对迫害和殉道时依然坚定，证明了他教义的真实性和力量。 • 教义的一致性：耶稣的教导始终指向他在救赎中的独特角色，并得到他的行动和新约叙事的连续性支持。宣称行神迹耶稣宣称行神迹以表明他的神圣权柄和怜悯。 • 圣经依据： • 不同的经文：医治（马可福音5:21-43）、控制自然（马太福音14:22-33）、驱邪（路加福音8:26-39）和使死人复活（约翰福音11:1-44）。 • 验证： • 目击者证词：福音书包含了许多人目击的神迹事迹，其中包括怀疑者和反对者。 • 外部来源：如约瑟夫等非基督教来源也提到耶稣为“行奇事的人”（《犹太古史》18.63-64）。耶稣有效性的证明福音书的历史可靠性由于成文时间早、内部一致性和外部来源的佐证，许多学者认为福音书是可靠的历史文献。 • 文本日期：福音书在耶稣生平的数十年内写成，保留了准确的口述传统。 • 考古佐证：考古发现如彼拉多石碑和该亚法骨箱，支持了福音书叙述的历史背景。目击者证词新约作者，特别是使徒，声称是耶稣生平、受难和复活的目击者（如约翰一书1:1-3，彼得后书1:16-18）。他们愿意为见证遭受苦难甚至殉道，增加了其说法的可信度。对历史的影响尽管遭受严酷迫害，早期基督教会迅速发展；耶稣教义对伦理、法律和社会的持久影响，间接地证明了他信息的深刻真实和变革力量。结论耶稣关于其神性、赦罪权、弥赛亚身份和通向神的独特道路的宣称，通过圣经证据、预言实现、非基督教来源的佐证以及对其追随者和历史的深远影响得到支持。这些要素共同验证了耶稣宣称的真实性，并强调了他在历史上的重要地位。
2024-11-0204 minLiving Theology第3章：耶稣基督存在的证据第3章：耶稣基督存在的证据耶稣基督的存在有历史、文本和考古证据的支持。学者们普遍同意拿撒勒人耶稣是一个历史人物，尽管对他的生平和意义的解释各不相同。以下是支持耶稣存在的主要证据：圣经记载关于耶稣生平和教义的主要来源来自新约，特别是《马太福音》、《马可福音》、《路加福音》和《约翰福音》。尽管这些文本是宗教文献，但它们也是在耶稣生平数十年内写成的历史性来源。 • 历史背景：福音书中包含了与1世纪犹太地区已知历史一致的地点、文化习俗和政治情况的详细描述。 • 多重见证：福音书由不同作者在不同时间写成，为耶稣生平提供了独立的见证。非基督教来源几部古代非基督教文献提到耶稣，为他的存在提供了外部佐证。 • 约瑟夫（37-100年）：犹太历史学家约瑟夫在其著作《犹太古史》中两次提到耶稣。其中一个段落，称为“弗拉维乌斯见证”，描述耶稣为智者和行奇事者。尽管部分学者质疑该段落的部分真实性，但普遍认为其中包含了对耶稣的核心真实描述。 • 来源：约瑟夫，《犹太古史》18.63-64。 • 塔西佗（56-120年）：罗马历史学家塔西佗在其著作《编年史》中提到耶稣，写于大约公元116年。他提到耶稣在提比略皇帝统治期间被本丢·彼拉多处死，为耶稣的事迹提供了一个重要的罗马视角。 • 来源：塔西佗，《编年史》15.44。 • 小普林尼（61-113年）：小普林尼在给图拉真皇帝的信中描述了早期基督徒的礼拜仪式，并提到他们所崇拜的基督。 • 来源：小普林尼，《书信集》10.96-97。考古证据尽管关于耶稣的直接考古证据稀少，但一些发现印证了新约叙述的历史背景。 • 彼拉多石碑：在凯撒利亚马里提马发现的铭文，确认了本丢·彼拉多的存在，即下令处死耶稣的罗马总督。 • 验证：铭文写道「犹太总督本丢·彼拉多」，直接将耶稣故事中的关键人物与历史记录联系起来。 • 该亚法骨箱：该亚法（耶稣审判中的大祭司）的骨箱已被发现，验证了新约的记载。 • 验证：骨箱的铭文表明其属于该亚法，为他的存在提供了考古证据。学术共识大多数历史学家和古代学者都认同耶稣的历史存在。例如，著名的新约学者、不可知论者巴特·D·厄尔曼基于现有证据论证了耶稣的历史性。 • 书籍和文章： • 巴特·D·厄尔曼，《耶稣存在吗？关于拿撒勒人耶稣的历史性辩论》：厄尔曼提供了关于耶稣历史存在的证据和学术辩论的全面概述。 • 约翰·P·梅尔，《边缘的犹太人：重新思考历史中的耶稣》：梅尔的多卷本作品是关于耶稣历史证据的详细学术研究。结论支持耶稣基督存在的证据包括圣经记载、非基督教历史来源、考古发现以及现代学术的共识。虽然对耶稣的生平和意义的解读各有不同，但多种来源和证据的汇合有力地支持了拿撒勒人耶稣的历史真实性。正如福音书所言：「道成了肉身，住在我们中间，充充满满地有恩典，有真理。我们也见过他的荣光，正是父独生子的荣光」（约翰福音1:14），为耶稣生平和教义的持久影响提供了强有力的见证。
2024-11-0203 minLiving Theology第2章：基督教的独特之处基督教虽然与其他主要宗教有一些相似之处，但其独特的信仰和特征使其与众不同。本章将重点介绍这些差异，聚焦于基督教在神学、历史和教义上的关键特质，探讨其独特的定义。神的本质：三位一体基督教最显著的特征之一是三位一体的教义。基督徒相信独一的上帝以三个位格存在：圣父、圣子和圣灵。这个概念深刻地影响了基督教对神性和人类关系的理解。与基督教不同，犹太教和伊斯兰教强调神的绝对独一性，而不涉及三位一体的区分。耶稣基督的身份基督教的核心是对耶稣基督的信仰，认为他是道成肉身的神子。基督徒相信耶稣是完全的神与完全的人，这一信仰被称为「两性一位」（hypostatic union）。这一观点与其他信仰形成鲜明对比： 犹太教认为耶稣是一位重要的历史人物，但不是弥赛亚或神。 伊斯兰教承认耶稣是一位先知，但不认为他是神之子，并否认他的受难与复活。 印度教和佛教可能尊敬耶稣为智慧的导师或觉悟者，但不接受他为唯一的神性化身。复活耶稣的复活是基督教的根本事件，被视为耶稣神性和信徒永生的确据。这一信仰在其他主要宗教中无可比拟。伊斯兰教否认耶稣的受难与复活，认为他被神带上天堂。其他宗教要么不强调复活，要么对死后生命有不同的理解。因信称义基督教教导，救恩是神的恩赐，通过对耶稣基督的信心而获得，而非靠人类的努力或行为：「你们得救是本乎恩，也因着信；这并不是出于自己，乃是神所赐的；也不是出于行为，免得有人自夸」（以弗所书2:8-9）。这一概念不同于其他宗教系统： 犹太教强调与神的立约关系，守律法（托拉）至关重要。 伊斯兰教强调顺服安拉的旨意，并遵循五功为得救的关键。 印度教涉及因果报应与轮回，一个人的行为会影响其来世。 佛教注重通过八正道实现觉悟，脱离轮回。恩典的概念基督教关于恩典——即神的无偿恩惠——的观念极为深刻。恩典是基督徒生活的根基，强调人类无法通过自身行为获得救恩，而是因神的爱白白赐予：「唯有基督在我们还作罪人的时候为我们死，神的爱就在此向我们显明了」（罗马书5:8）。这与许多其他宗教中的「功德」体系形成对比，在那些信仰中，信徒通过行为和灵性实践寻求恩宠或觉悟。道成肉身基督教独特地主张神在耶稣基督里成为人：「道成了肉身，住在我们中间，充充满满地有恩典，有真理。我们也见过他的荣光，正是父独生子的荣光」（约翰福音1:14）。这种道成肉身意味着神进入人类历史，与人同住，经历人类的痛苦，并最终为人类提供了与他和好的道路。这种神的个人性和关系性特质使基督教不同于其他信仰，在其他信仰中，神往往被视为遥远或仅部分参与人类体验。圣经的角色基督徒认为，圣经由旧约和新约组成，是神默示和权威性的圣言。它在创造、堕落、救赎与复和这一贯穿始终的叙事中独具特色。尽管其他宗教也有其经典，但圣经的完整叙事及其关于耶稣实现旧约预言的主张尤为突出：「圣经都是神所默示的，于教训、督责、使人归正、教导人学义都是有益的」（提摩太后书3:16）。耶稣的伦理教导耶稣的伦理教导，尤其是登山宝训，强调爱、宽恕和谦卑。这些教导不仅挑战了社会规范，也挑战了宗教律法主义。耶稣说：「要爱你们的仇敌，为那逼迫你们的祷告」（马太福音5:44），这是基督教伦理独特且具有挑战性的方面。结论基督教在关于神的本质、耶稣基督的身份与工作、救恩的途径、恩典的观念以及耶稣的伦理教导方面独树一帜。这些差异构成了基督教世界观的基础，塑造了其神学、实践及信徒的生活。虽然尊重其他宗教传统的价值和见解，基督教却提供了一个独特且引人注目的叙事，核心是通过耶稣基督与神建立个人关系。
2024-11-0204 minLiving Theology1. 第一章：基督教的基础第一章：基督教的基础基督教是世界主要宗教之一，其起源可以追溯到公元一世纪拿撒勒人耶稣的教导和非凡的事迹。基督徒相信耶稣由童贞女所生，是上帝的儿子道成肉身，既完全神圣又完全人性。耶稣行了许多奇迹，包括治愈病人、使死人复活、平静风暴，显示出他的神圣权威和怜悯之心。基督教诞生于充满犹太宗教传统的环境中，迅速发展为一种独特的信仰，拥有自己的信条、实践和文本，深刻地影响了西方文明并传播至全球。犹太历史学家弗拉维奥·约瑟夫（非基督徒）也记载了耶稣，称他为一位有智慧的人，行了惊人之事，被称为基督，这为耶稣的历史存在提供了外部确认。基督教的基础可以通过其核心信仰、耶稣的生平与教义、早期教会的角色以及其神圣文本的发展来理解。核心信仰基督教的核心信仰是关于独一的上帝存在于三位一体中：圣父、圣子（耶稣基督）和圣灵。三位一体的教义是基督教独有的，强调上帝三个位格之间的关系与统一。基督徒相信耶稣基督是道成肉身的上帝之子，完全神圣且完全人性，来到世上通过他的死亡与复活为人类提供救赎。救赎的概念至关重要，强调通过耶稣在十字架上的牺牲性死亡与随后的复活，信徒可以获得罪的赦免和与上帝的永生。这种救赎被视为恩典的礼物，而非通过人类努力获得，而是通过对耶稣基督的信仰接受的。信仰的核心是爱上帝和爱邻如己的诫命，概括了耶稣的伦理教义。耶稣的生平与教义拿撒勒人耶稣是基督教的基石。耶稣约公元前4年生于伯利恒，在拿撒勒长大，大约在30岁时开始他的公共传道。耶稣的教义、比喻和奇迹吸引了大批人群，引发了敬仰与争议。他传讲天国，强调悔改、宽恕与爱。他的激进教义挑战了当时的宗教权威与规范。约公元30年，罗马总督本丢·彼拉多下令将耶稣钉死在十字架上，基督徒视此为神圣预言的实现以及人类救赎的途径。基督徒相信耶稣在被钉死三天后复活，这一事件即复活节，证实了他的神圣本质与使命。早期教会在耶稣复活和升天之后，他的门徒，尤其是使徒彼得和保罗，开始传播他的教导。早期的基督教社群最初由犹太信徒组成，但很快扩展到包括外邦人（非犹太人）。这种扩展主要得益于保罗的传教之旅及其写给各地早期基督教社群的书信（使徒书信），这些书信构成了《新约》的一大部分。早期教会面临来自犹太当局和罗马帝国的迫害，尽管如此，基督教迅速发展，吸引了来自不同背景的信徒。早期基督徒的共同生活，以共享资源、敬拜和擘饼（主的晚餐）为特征，使其与其他宗教团体区分开来。神圣文本基督教的神圣文本是《圣经》，包括《旧约》和《新约》。《旧约》是与犹太教共有的经文，包括律法书、历史书、智慧文学和先知书，这些文本为基督教理解上帝与人类的关系以及弥赛亚的期盼奠定了基础。《新约》写于公元一世纪，包括四部福音书（《马太福音》、《马可福音》、《路加福音》和《约翰福音》），记录了耶稣的生平、教义、死亡与复活。此外，还包括《使徒行传》，详细描述了早期教会的历史，使徒书信提供神学见解和实践指导，以及《启示录》，一部启示文学的书籍。结论基督教的基础深深植根于耶稣的生平和教义、早期教会的信仰和实践，以及传达其教义和故事的神圣文本。数世纪以来，基督教发展出多种传统、教派和神学解释，但在关于耶稣基督及其救赎信息的核心信仰上依然保持一致。从罗马帝国一角的卑微起点，基督教成长为全球性信仰，深刻地影响了无数人并在许多方面塑造了人类历史。
2024-11-0203 minLiving Theology基督教对救恩的独特理解基督教在世界宗教中独树一帜，因为它认为救恩是上帝的礼物，而不是人们通过行善得到的。与要求严格遵守规则或行为以获得精神回报的信仰不同，基督教更注重上帝的恩典和慈爱。救恩是来自上帝的礼物基督徒相信，救恩完全来自上帝的恩典。它不是基于人的行为，而是免费的礼物。圣经在《以弗所书》2:8-9中说：“你们得救是本乎恩，也因着信，这并不是出于自己，乃是神所赐的；也不是出于行为，免得有人自夸。”人类对救恩的需要圣经说所有人都犯了罪，无法自救。《罗马书》3:10-12提醒我们：“没有义人，连一个也没有……没有明白的，没寻求神的。”这显示了人类需要上帝的帮助来获得救恩。上帝恩典的作用救恩从上帝开始并完成。通过信靠祂的恩典并跟随祂，信徒的生命会被改变。《哥林多后书》5:17说：“若有人在基督里，他就是新造的人，旧事已过，都变成新的了。”救恩中的目的和确信在这种救恩观念中，基督徒找到了生活的目标和信心。他们相信自己被召唤在一切事上爱上帝并事奉祂，正如《哥林多前书》10:31教导的：“所以，你们或吃或喝，无论做什么，都要为荣耀神而行。”上帝的主权选择最终，基督教认为接受救恩是上帝在人的心中动工的结果，而不是人的努力。《罗马书》9:16说：“这不在乎那定意的，也不在乎那奔跑的，只在乎那发怜悯的神。”基督教通过上帝恩典的救恩信息带来希望、确信和目标，引导信徒过一个荣耀上帝的生活。
2024-11-0201 min
Living TheologyThe Opposite of ModestyThe opposite of modesty, from a Christian perspective, can be defined as behaviours and attitudes that violate the principles and teachings of Scripture about modesty.
2024-10-1704 min
Living TheologyEducating and Discipling ModestyIt is impossible to overstate the significance of the role families and churches play in educating and discipling individuals in matters of modesty. Their input is crucial for the following reasons:
Values and beliefs are typically instilled in children by their families and communities through religious institutions. Understanding one's value, respecting oneself and others, and seeking God's glory are the roots of true modesty. Families and churches lay the groundwork for individuals to form a positive view of modesty by teaching these values from an early age.
2024-10-1721 min
Living TheologyPractical Guidelines for Dressing Modestly"Modesty is not about hiding ourselves, but about revealing our true beauty in a way that uplifts and inspires others."
- C.S. Lewis
Choosing clothing and accessories with modesty in mind is an effective way to express one's unique sense of style without compromising one's self-respect. The relevance of incorporating modesty into clothing is discussed below.
2024-10-1715 min
Living TheologyModesty as an Expression of Christian IdentityDressing modestly is a protest of the dominant culture of materialism and consumerism, which values external beauty and wealth above all else. Christians show the world that their value does not come from their possessions or their physical appearance, but rather from their inner qualities and their relationship with God by dressing modestly.
2024-10-1713 min
Living TheologyThe Dangers of Provocative Poses and Emphasis on Certain Body PartsPopular culture and the media often romanticise the physical form, reducing people to their outward appearance. When people are portrayed in sexually suggestive ways, with an exclusive focus on their physical attributes rather than their inherent worth and value as human beings, this reinforces the objectification of those depicted.
2024-10-1715 min
Living TheologyUnderstanding Modesty in DressingModesty is not just about how you look on the outside or adhering to a rigid wardrobe. It requires more than just external conformity and instead a change of heart. Genuine modesty springs from a heartfelt desire to be humble before God and serve others. To seek to please and glorify Him in all that we do, including how we dress, is an expression of a renewed mind and a transformed heart.
2024-10-1712 min
Living TheologyThe Biblical Foundation of Modesty The importance of treating one's body with reverence as a temple of the Holy Spirit has been emphasised, and the virtue of modesty has been highlighted. The Christian perspective on clothing modesty can be better understood with the aid of these elements.
2024-10-1713 min
Living TheologyHistory of ModestyIn recent years, modesty has been a topic that many Christian churches and pastors have taught on. Modesty is a sign of humility, respect, and honouring God with our bodies, and while the exact norms and cultural circumstances may change, the emphasis remains on the importance of modesty. These are just a few instances; the topic of modesty has been the subject of many discussions, teachings, and debates within the church for centuries. It has changed and been shaped by historical context and theological principles over the centuries. The doctrines and writings of the church's past shed light on...
2024-10-1701 min
Living TheologyWhat is Modesty? "Modesty is the beauty of women, and the ornament of men." - Tertullian The word "modesty" comes from the Latin word "modestus," which means "moderate, restrained, or decent." The Latin word originates with the word "moderare," which means "to regulate, control, or measure."
2024-10-1603 min
Living TheologyDressing ModestlyWhen it comes down to it, the church's exhortation to humility is not meant to enforce strict standards or to create barriers to inclusion. Instead, it's meant to inspire a spirit of respect, selflessness, and sensitivity at our communal gatherings for worship and fellowship. Modesty, when exercised with kindness and love, creates a space where all people are treated with dignity and where they can all experience God's presence and grow spiritually.
2024-10-1504 minLiving TheologyUnderstanding the Trinity and Why Illustrations Fall ShortThe Trinity is the Christian belief that God is one in essence but exists in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. While many analogies, like the shamrock or water, attempt to explain the Trinity, they often lead to misunderstandings like partialism or modalism. These fall short because God’s nature is infinitely complex and cannot be fully captured by finite illustrations. A better approach is recognising the relational and dynamic nature of the Trinity through metaphors like the divine dance, emphasising unity and distinctiveness. #Trinity #ChristianTheology #God #FatherSonHolySpirit #DivineMystery #Faith #ChristianBeliefs #Perichoresis #brendonnaicker #theologyschool #swindonchurch #swindon
2024-09-1604 min
Living TheologyWelcome to Bible Reading 2024JOIN THIS TRANSFORMATIVE EXPERIENCE WITH BRENDON NAICKER’S PERSONALISED DISCIPLESHIP 2024 BIBLE
READING PROGRAM.
This year-long journey guarantees your unwavering commitment to engaging with the Bible through reading or listening.
Brendon's guidance provides you with daily motivation, creative strategies, and a strong sense of accountability, turning this into more than just a resolution-it becomes a fulfilling, consistent practice that shapes your spiritual journey.
2023-12-2711h 12
Living TheologyTheodicy: The problem of Evil pt2Why does an all-knowing God allow the innocent to suffer? Let's seek answers together. #BiblicalTruths #ExploringTheology #SeekingAnswers #FaithJourney #WednesdayClass #DeepDive #Naicker #brendonnaicker #theologyschool #londoncitychurch #joburgchurch #biblicalstudies #biblicalteaching
2023-10-0641 min
Living TheologyPastor, how is your spiritual life?During the darkest period of my life I had no one to say “Brother, how is your faith? Is Christ alive in your life? Are you lawless and doing your own thing? Brendon do you know that if you are carrying on in your sin and ignore God’s will - Jesus will say to you, ‘depart from me you lawless one - I don’t know you!’”.
2021-02-1703 min