Dangers? Yes.
As you may have inferred from my last post, this week has consisted almost entirely of writing papers. I smile when I think of the time it took me to write the health care paper (part of my application to Patrick Henry College). It was a 7-page paper, and yet it took me at least a month--maybe more. How did I suddenly learn to write a ten-page theological term paper in three days? One word: deadlines.
Deadlines are an absolute necessity for me. They force me to write when I don't feel like it, and also turn me into a raving lunatic. Well, not quite, but you don't want to hear some of the bizarre things I've said in the midst of a paper-writing brain fog (Erika just gives me this "look" and I know that once again, I am not making any sense and should either go to bed or write some more--and I unfortunately must pick the latter).
But where does the dangerous part come in? It comes from being entirely focused on writing, to the extent that everything else is blocked out. For example, I have a small electric heater in my room (I love it--it keeps me from growing icicles) and every time I would get up from my computer, I would trip over it. Embarrassing. And how did I literally not hear three girls practicing violins just a short distance away?
And I haven't even mentioned my battle scars yet! (Be very alarmed.) Actually, no, I think I will keep the origin of the scar next to my left eye a closely-guarded secret. Just know that my computer monitor has sharp edges, which my mom has threatened to put padding on (to kid-proof my room. When I get older and smarter she will take them off.)
So yesterday was the deadline for both my Theological Term Paper and my Research and Writing Argumentative Essay. <---- That is the stuff of nightmares. No, really. Last night, after submitting both essays, I had horrible nightmares about italics and footnotes. I kept waking up panicking, wondering if I really had ended my paper with the word with. I almost turned on my computer to check, but then decided that even if it were true that I had...
1) Left notes to myself in my essay (Such as "expand more here")
2) Forgotten to italicize book titles in my footnotes
3) Written a paragraph entirely about myself (what?!)
4) Used the word I throughout the essay (a major no-no)
...it was too late to change anything anyhow! Although one of the first things I did this morning was look at my conclusion to see how I ended it. I was paranoid.
A blog reader mentioned that by now I must be a coffee drinker, but I actually am not. I probably would drink coffee if we had it around the house, but maybe I prefer the bleary-eyed, physically-and-mentally-exhausted look! (I don't....)
So...that's the story of my last week. It sounds rather depressing reading about it, so I should add that college life is not all bad! I do enjoy learning (sometimes!) and I have met some awesome classmates from whom I have learned so much. Their diligence and academic achievements constantly push me to keep going and strive for higher goals. (It's hard going from homeschooling with no one in your grade level to classes with so many people who are ridiculously smart....keeps me humble.)
That's it for now! I'll try to post again next week. Possibly.
[Note: I had originally planned to post both papers now, but I've decided to wait until I get grades and comments back. Shouldn't be too long!]
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
An attempt to excuse my lack of blogishness...
Okay, so lately I have been receiving cryptic messages; messages of indeterminable meaning, such as this one:
[D]ear Jessica,
Please blog[.]
Love,
[name removed to protect the guilty]
However, after a serious study of the aforementioned notes, which included outlining them, finding key words and phrases, looking the larger words up in the dictionary, reading backwards, and reading between the lines, I have come to the conclusion that I need to eat chocolate!! No, wait, that was the first hypothesis. The final conclusion was that I needed to go to www.blogger.com, enter some log in information, and click "Create Post."
So, I did.
Now that I am here, all that I can think of is the necessity of doing a bunch of other things...chiefly, writing the two papers that are due on Friday (note: one of them is nearly done, the other is started). Unlike some people who have the luxury of Thanksgiving break, I have four papers due in the next exactly two weeks.
What does this mean? It means that I will be getting very little sleep, writing and revising, and in my spare time, I will be completing all the other college work (reading textbooks, writing discussion board posts, taking exams, etc). And it means that I can't justify sitting here and writing a post about my life. Sorry! I'd love to write a creative update-ish post. Really, I would. That's something that I will try to do after this semester ends (if it ever does).
On a positive note, it also means that I will have four blog posts in the next couple of weeks...and you know how much you love reading my academic writings! (Hint: nod vigorously)
Prayers are greatly appreciated for my sanity and for clearness and cogency in my writing!
[D]ear Jessica,
Please blog[.]
Love,
[name removed to protect the guilty]
However, after a serious study of the aforementioned notes, which included outlining them, finding key words and phrases, looking the larger words up in the dictionary, reading backwards, and reading between the lines, I have come to the conclusion that I need to eat chocolate!! No, wait, that was the first hypothesis. The final conclusion was that I needed to go to www.blogger.com, enter some log in information, and click "Create Post."
So, I did.
Now that I am here, all that I can think of is the necessity of doing a bunch of other things...chiefly, writing the two papers that are due on Friday (note: one of them is nearly done, the other is started). Unlike some people who have the luxury of Thanksgiving break, I have four papers due in the next exactly two weeks.
What does this mean? It means that I will be getting very little sleep, writing and revising, and in my spare time, I will be completing all the other college work (reading textbooks, writing discussion board posts, taking exams, etc). And it means that I can't justify sitting here and writing a post about my life. Sorry! I'd love to write a creative update-ish post. Really, I would. That's something that I will try to do after this semester ends (if it ever does).
On a positive note, it also means that I will have four blog posts in the next couple of weeks...and you know how much you love reading my academic writings! (Hint: nod vigorously)
Prayers are greatly appreciated for my sanity and for clearness and cogency in my writing!
Monday, November 9, 2009
Taking a deep breath...
This is just a quick update to say:
1) I am still alive.
2) I have not forgotten my blog.
The essay that I just posted below is the product of a couple late nights and early mornings. It was crammed in between a bunch of other things, and a good deal of it was written in my hotel room in Cincinnati. So...it is what it is. Not the greatest, but it had to be submitted!
The last couple weeks were absolutely insane, but I'm finally caught up and able to take a breath! I may post later about my life, including the conference in Ohio (or not, you know how I am about blogging), especially if I can find videos or pictures.
1) I am still alive.
2) I have not forgotten my blog.
The essay that I just posted below is the product of a couple late nights and early mornings. It was crammed in between a bunch of other things, and a good deal of it was written in my hotel room in Cincinnati. So...it is what it is. Not the greatest, but it had to be submitted!
The last couple weeks were absolutely insane, but I'm finally caught up and able to take a breath! I may post later about my life, including the conference in Ohio (or not, you know how I am about blogging), especially if I can find videos or pictures.
Transcendentalism: Compatible with Christianity?
Transcendentalism, a philosophy that became popular in the 1830s, has permeated thinking and influenced beliefs throughout the world. Transcendentalists believe in the perfectibility of human nature, and believe that they can “transcend” above animalistic inclinations. Rejecting the traditional view of the God of the Bible, transcendentalists believe that God is immanent in everything, and that humans are, as transcendentalist Ralph Waldo Emerson put it, “part or particle of God.” [1] Although transcendentalism may seem to be the antithesis of Christianity, some transcendentalist ideas are in agreement with biblical teachings.
Henry David Thoreau was one of the most prominent transcendentalists. In his book, Walden; Or Life in the Woods, Thoreau emphasized individualism, self-reliance, and a life of simplicity—all fundamental transcendentalist ideas. Thoreau wrote, “Let us settle ourselves, and work and wedge our feet downwards through the mud and slush of opinion…till we come to a hard bottom and rocks in place, which we can call reality, and say, This is, and no mistake….” [2] These words express the heart of the Transcendentalist Movement: an intense longing for truth, reality, and perfection. An analysis of transcendentalism as found in Walden will show that Christianity and transcendentalism share many similar ideas, but are incompatible as a whole.
First, both Christianity and transcendentalism issue a call to simplicity. Thoreau enthusiastically embraces simplistic living, saying “Simplicity, simplicity, simplicity.”[3] He writes that humans are consumed by encumbering details, which should be reduced. To that end, Thoreau promotes eating fewer meals, with fewer courses.[4] Regarding clothing, he writes that too much emphasis is placed upon staying in the current fashion trend. He states that the true purpose of clothing is simply “to retain the vital heat, and…cover nakedness….”[5]; appearance should not be a factor. Thoreau’s view of the importance of simplicity is, in many ways, parallel to biblical teachings. Jesus teaches in the Sermon on the Mount that Christians are not to worry about clothing. In Matthew 6:28a He asks rhetorically, “And why take ye thought for raiment?” Jesus goes on to say that if God provides for the needs of the flowers and the grass, He will provide clothing for mankind as well. Clearly, focusing on and worrying about details is discouraged by both Christian and transcendentalist ideologies.
Another similarity between Christianity and transcendentalism is found in their respective teachings about material goods. Thoreau discusses furniture and other household items, asserting that this “baggage” inhibits freedom and causes people to become anchored to their homes. He views excessive furniture as a trap which hinders man from moving about freely. [6] In the same way, the Bible teaches that Christians are not to emphasize material goods. Matthew 6:19-20 states that we are to lay up treasures, not on earth, but in heaven, where “moth and rust” will not destroy (cf. Matthew 16:26). Christians are not to worry about food or drink, either. Jesus states in Matthew 6:33 that the focus is to be on the kingdom of God, and “all these things”—clothing, food, and drink—will be provided. Similarly, in Matthew 10:9-10, Jesus instructs the disciples about evangelism, telling them not to carry many things, such as money, that seem essential. The disciples were to have faith that God would provide for their needs. It is evident, then, that not having excessive material goods is supported by both biblical and transcendentalist teachings.
A third similarity between Christian and transcendentalist teachings involves justice. Thoreau argues by example that laws should be obeyed only if they are just and conform to natural law. His opinion of this matter is seen in his confrontation with the law that resulted from his refusing to pay taxes to, or “recognize the authority of”, a government that supported slavery. [7]Similarly, the Scripture teaches that God’s law is higher than man’s. Peter states in Acts 5:29b, “We ought to obey God rather than man.” When a conflict exists between God’s commands and the government’s laws, God’s law is to take preeminence.
The final similarity between Christianity and transcendentalism lies in the treatment of individualism, which Thoreau discusses at length in Walden. Thoreau himself was the epitome of nonconformist. He writes, “If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer.” [8] Thoreau opposed keeping traditions, and sought to convey the importance of following one’s own inclinations. Thoreau’s views on individualism can be compared to the teaching of the Bible about the Christian’s conformity to the world. In Romans 12:2, the Bible states that Christians are not to be “conformed to this world”, but rather to seek to do God’s will. Christians are to be in the world, but not of it. Just as Thoreau advocates, Christians are to march to the beat of a different drum than that which the world follows.
On the other hand, Thoreau holds other transcendentalist beliefs that are wholly at odds with Christianity. One of these beliefs is his view of philanthropy and doing good. His neighbors had criticized him, asking what good he was doing for the world. He responds by saying that doing good is “one of the professions which are full”,[9] and adds that philanthropy doesn’t “agree with [his] constitution.” [10] Thoreau also writes that he had attempted to give to the poor, but was turned down and therefore gave it up. However, the Bible is abundantly clear that Christians are to do good deeds and show mercy to the poor. Proverbs 19:17a states: “He that hath pity on the poor lendeth unto the Lord….” The story of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:25-37 further illustrates the importance of performing benevolent acts of kindness. Doing good should be an integral part of the Christian’s life.
Another transcendentalist view that Thoreau details is the concept of human nature. Thoreau considered mankind to be capable of reaching perfection, by use of the mind. He wrote that “the spirit can for the time pervade and control every member and function of the body, and transmute…the grossest sensuality into purity and devotion.” [11] Thoreau also believed that in a society where all men lived as he did, no thievery would exist. [12] This idealistic view, however, is not supported by Scripture, which teaches that man has an innate sin nature; none is righteous. Romans 3:23 states, “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.”
Based upon the above points from a study of Thoreau’s Walden, it is seen that transcendentalism is not compatible with Christianity, but transcendentalist concepts such as living simplistically, not becoming consumed with material wealth, and not mindlessly following every tradition of the world are consistent with biblical teachings.
Henry David Thoreau was one of the most prominent transcendentalists. In his book, Walden; Or Life in the Woods, Thoreau emphasized individualism, self-reliance, and a life of simplicity—all fundamental transcendentalist ideas. Thoreau wrote, “Let us settle ourselves, and work and wedge our feet downwards through the mud and slush of opinion…till we come to a hard bottom and rocks in place, which we can call reality, and say, This is, and no mistake….” [2] These words express the heart of the Transcendentalist Movement: an intense longing for truth, reality, and perfection. An analysis of transcendentalism as found in Walden will show that Christianity and transcendentalism share many similar ideas, but are incompatible as a whole.
First, both Christianity and transcendentalism issue a call to simplicity. Thoreau enthusiastically embraces simplistic living, saying “Simplicity, simplicity, simplicity.”[3] He writes that humans are consumed by encumbering details, which should be reduced. To that end, Thoreau promotes eating fewer meals, with fewer courses.[4] Regarding clothing, he writes that too much emphasis is placed upon staying in the current fashion trend. He states that the true purpose of clothing is simply “to retain the vital heat, and…cover nakedness….”[5]; appearance should not be a factor. Thoreau’s view of the importance of simplicity is, in many ways, parallel to biblical teachings. Jesus teaches in the Sermon on the Mount that Christians are not to worry about clothing. In Matthew 6:28a He asks rhetorically, “And why take ye thought for raiment?” Jesus goes on to say that if God provides for the needs of the flowers and the grass, He will provide clothing for mankind as well. Clearly, focusing on and worrying about details is discouraged by both Christian and transcendentalist ideologies.
Another similarity between Christianity and transcendentalism is found in their respective teachings about material goods. Thoreau discusses furniture and other household items, asserting that this “baggage” inhibits freedom and causes people to become anchored to their homes. He views excessive furniture as a trap which hinders man from moving about freely. [6] In the same way, the Bible teaches that Christians are not to emphasize material goods. Matthew 6:19-20 states that we are to lay up treasures, not on earth, but in heaven, where “moth and rust” will not destroy (cf. Matthew 16:26). Christians are not to worry about food or drink, either. Jesus states in Matthew 6:33 that the focus is to be on the kingdom of God, and “all these things”—clothing, food, and drink—will be provided. Similarly, in Matthew 10:9-10, Jesus instructs the disciples about evangelism, telling them not to carry many things, such as money, that seem essential. The disciples were to have faith that God would provide for their needs. It is evident, then, that not having excessive material goods is supported by both biblical and transcendentalist teachings.
A third similarity between Christian and transcendentalist teachings involves justice. Thoreau argues by example that laws should be obeyed only if they are just and conform to natural law. His opinion of this matter is seen in his confrontation with the law that resulted from his refusing to pay taxes to, or “recognize the authority of”, a government that supported slavery. [7]Similarly, the Scripture teaches that God’s law is higher than man’s. Peter states in Acts 5:29b, “We ought to obey God rather than man.” When a conflict exists between God’s commands and the government’s laws, God’s law is to take preeminence.
The final similarity between Christianity and transcendentalism lies in the treatment of individualism, which Thoreau discusses at length in Walden. Thoreau himself was the epitome of nonconformist. He writes, “If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer.” [8] Thoreau opposed keeping traditions, and sought to convey the importance of following one’s own inclinations. Thoreau’s views on individualism can be compared to the teaching of the Bible about the Christian’s conformity to the world. In Romans 12:2, the Bible states that Christians are not to be “conformed to this world”, but rather to seek to do God’s will. Christians are to be in the world, but not of it. Just as Thoreau advocates, Christians are to march to the beat of a different drum than that which the world follows.
On the other hand, Thoreau holds other transcendentalist beliefs that are wholly at odds with Christianity. One of these beliefs is his view of philanthropy and doing good. His neighbors had criticized him, asking what good he was doing for the world. He responds by saying that doing good is “one of the professions which are full”,[9] and adds that philanthropy doesn’t “agree with [his] constitution.” [10] Thoreau also writes that he had attempted to give to the poor, but was turned down and therefore gave it up. However, the Bible is abundantly clear that Christians are to do good deeds and show mercy to the poor. Proverbs 19:17a states: “He that hath pity on the poor lendeth unto the Lord….” The story of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:25-37 further illustrates the importance of performing benevolent acts of kindness. Doing good should be an integral part of the Christian’s life.
Another transcendentalist view that Thoreau details is the concept of human nature. Thoreau considered mankind to be capable of reaching perfection, by use of the mind. He wrote that “the spirit can for the time pervade and control every member and function of the body, and transmute…the grossest sensuality into purity and devotion.” [11] Thoreau also believed that in a society where all men lived as he did, no thievery would exist. [12] This idealistic view, however, is not supported by Scripture, which teaches that man has an innate sin nature; none is righteous. Romans 3:23 states, “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.”
Based upon the above points from a study of Thoreau’s Walden, it is seen that transcendentalism is not compatible with Christianity, but transcendentalist concepts such as living simplistically, not becoming consumed with material wealth, and not mindlessly following every tradition of the world are consistent with biblical teachings.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Pestilent Fellows: A Comparison between Socrates and the Apostle Paul
This is an essay I wrote last week for my History of Western Civilizations course. I'll publish it here in an attempt to bore all of you to tears. :)
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Pestilent Fellows: A Comparison between Socrates and the Apostle Paul
On the surface, Socrates and the Apostle Paul might seem to stand in stark contrast to one another. The two men were born in different countries and were separated by many years[1]. However, a closer study reveals that the lives of Socrates and the Apostle Paul contained some marked parallels. Both men greatly influenced their communities, and ultimately, the world. Each had a revolutionary message for which he was ultimately executed. Yet the two men had radically different worldviews and promoted dissimilar ideas. Consequently, Socrates and the Apostle Paul are best viewed as two radically different men whose lives contained similar events and themes.
The first similarity in the lives of Socrates and the Apostle Paul lies in their relationships with their fellow citizens. Both men promoted new and unpopular ideologies. Their beliefs were revolutionary, and because of this, both were regarded as troublemakers. Paul was referred to as “that pestilent fellow”[2] (Acts 24:24), and wherever he traveled he was harassed and arrested. Socrates was also quite unpopular. He quoted the Athenians as saying of him, “That man Socrates is a pestilential fellow who corrupts the young.” [3] Socrates also called himself a “gadfly,”[4] stinging the Athenians out of their oblivion and into the realization of truth.
A second similar theme in the lives of Socrates and the Apostle Paul is in relation to their life-changing experiences. Socrates and Paul were both changed by a supernatural event. In Socrates’ case, it was an oracle. An acquaintance of his, Chaerephon, went to the oracle at Delphi and asked whether Socrates was the wisest man alive. The oracle replied in the affirmative, whereupon Socrates made it his life mission to discover whether there truly were no men wiser than he. Similarly, the Apostle Paul’s life was changed drastically while he was on the road to Damascus to persecute Christians. Jesus appeared to him and he was converted to Christianity. After this event, Paul began his life’s mission: preaching the Gospel throughout the world.
The third parallel found in the lives of Socrates and the Apostle Paul is that both gave a speech to the men of Athens. Both men reasoned with the Athenians and attempted to convince them to adopt different beliefs. Socrates addressed the group at his trial, reasoning with them that he was innocent of the charges they brought against him. Likewise, the Apostle Paul spoke to the men of Athens when he was questioned about his beliefs.
The fourth comparable event in the lives of Socrates and the Apostle Paul is that they were both put on trial and condemned to death for their beliefs. Socrates was on trial for impiety. His accusers asserted that he was corrupting the Athenian youth, promoting false teachings, and making “the worse argument the stronger.”[5] The Apostle Paul was arrested by the Jews and was on trial many times. His accusers cried, “…This is the man, that teacheth all men everywhere against the people, and the law, and this place….” (Acts 21:28) In the cases of both men, these public outcries resulted in their indictment. Consequently, both were convicted and executed by their respective governments.
The fifth similarity is that neither Socrates nor the Apostle Paul was afraid of death or tried to avoid it. Socrates’ friend and follower, Crito, tried to convince him to escape his prison cell, but Socrates argued that it would not be right to do so. Additionally, Socrates was of the belief that death could be beneficial, and not some evil to be avoided at all costs. At the end of his trial, Socrates stated, “What has happened to me may well be a good thing, and those of us who believe death to be an evil are certainly mistaken.”[6] Resisting the urge to flee even when it was possible, he drank the poison without complaint. Similarly, the Apostle Paul knew beforehand that he would be put to death upon going to Jerusalem, but he did not attempt to hide from this fate. His friends tried to convince him to stay away from Jerusalem to no avail. The Apostle Paul knew that it was God’s will, and therefore had no qualms about dying. He said: “…I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the Lord Jesus” (Acts 21:13).
But even with all of these similarities in life experiences, Socrates and the Apostle Paul were vastly different men. The two espoused contrasting worldviews, and consequently taught dissimilar concepts. A close look at these differences reveals that the majority of them are related to the men’s ideologies.
The first difference is in the life missions of the two men. Socrates’ mission was to determine whether he was the wisest man alive, as well as to question and cast doubt upon the established beliefs of the Athenians. The Apostle Paul’s mission, on the other hand, was to teach the Gospel and bring souls throughout the world to Christ. Socrates stirred up much hatred by telling people that they were not as wise as they thought, while Paul brought wrath down upon himself by contradicting religious laws and traditions. The Apostle Paul’s belief, for example, in the resurrection of Jesus Christ angered many Jews. Clearly, the two men had very different goals in life.
A second difference is in the teaching strategies assumed by Socrates and the Apostle Paul. Socrates interrogated his listeners, probing deeply into their beliefs in a manner that was both disconcerting and uncomfortable. He rarely gave answers to the questions he asked, because none satisfied him. His questions served to confuse people. Socrates said that his great wisdom was not in knowing things, but in realizing that he did not know. The Apostle Paul, on the other hand, taught rather than questioned. He preached stirring sermons expounding on the truth God had given him. His messages generally took a historical approach, starting with Creation, and then showing how God had worked throughout history. Then the Apostle Paul would present the Gospel message and exhort his audience to believe in Jesus Christ. His sermons, rather than asking questions, answered them.
Perhaps these differences in teaching strategies are best shown by comparing Socrates’ discussion with Euthrypho to the Apostle Paul’s sermon on Mars Hill in Athens. Socrates’ conversation with Euthrypho centers on the proper definition of piety. Socrates desires to know what exactly is meant by “piety,” but each time Euthrypho finds an answer, Socrates shows him that it cannot be right. The discussion ends with Euthrypho’s leaving, and the question remains unanswered. The Apostle Paul’s sermon to the Athenians on Mars Hill contrasts greatly with Socrates’ approach. The men of Athens had asked the Apostle Paul to explain his beliefs, and he responds by explaining, not questioning. He tells them that they are too superstitious, and then explains to them about the “God who made the world and all things therein” (Acts 17: 24). The difference between the two men’s teaching styles can be summed up by saying that Socrates asked questions, but the Apostle Paul answered questions.
The final difference between the Apostle Paul and Socrates is in the changes the two men brought to their respective societies. Although Socrates’ challenges to Athenian traditions were ultimately beneficial, in the meantime, they brought doubt, questions, and confusion. The Apostle Paul, on the other hand, brought understanding, new hope, and answers from God. At his death, Socrates left behind some followers who would continue to influence world history, but the Apostle Paul left behind likely thousands of lives changed by the Gospel, and many churches that he had helped to plant.
It is evident that Socrates and the Apostle Paul, although very different men, shared similar experiences. The Apostle Paul’s life showed evidence of the workings of God, whereas Socrates’ life was filled with questions left unanswered. Socrates floundered in the dark while the Apostle Paul was guided by the light of the Holy Spirit. But both men made lasting positive contributions to the world. Each gave his life for a greater cause and should therefore be respected.
[1] Academic American Encyclopedia, (Danbury, Connecticut: Grolier Incorporated, 1993), svv. “Socrates,” “Paul, Saint.”
[2] All Scripture references are taken from the King James Version of the Bible.
[3] Plato, The Trial and Death of Socrates Third Ed., eds. G. M. A. Grube and John M. Cooper (Indianapolis: Hackett Publishing Company, 2000), 26.
[4] Ibid, 33.
[5] Ibid, 22.
[6] Ibid, 41.
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Pestilent Fellows: A Comparison between Socrates and the Apostle Paul
On the surface, Socrates and the Apostle Paul might seem to stand in stark contrast to one another. The two men were born in different countries and were separated by many years[1]. However, a closer study reveals that the lives of Socrates and the Apostle Paul contained some marked parallels. Both men greatly influenced their communities, and ultimately, the world. Each had a revolutionary message for which he was ultimately executed. Yet the two men had radically different worldviews and promoted dissimilar ideas. Consequently, Socrates and the Apostle Paul are best viewed as two radically different men whose lives contained similar events and themes.
The first similarity in the lives of Socrates and the Apostle Paul lies in their relationships with their fellow citizens. Both men promoted new and unpopular ideologies. Their beliefs were revolutionary, and because of this, both were regarded as troublemakers. Paul was referred to as “that pestilent fellow”[2] (Acts 24:24), and wherever he traveled he was harassed and arrested. Socrates was also quite unpopular. He quoted the Athenians as saying of him, “That man Socrates is a pestilential fellow who corrupts the young.” [3] Socrates also called himself a “gadfly,”[4] stinging the Athenians out of their oblivion and into the realization of truth.
A second similar theme in the lives of Socrates and the Apostle Paul is in relation to their life-changing experiences. Socrates and Paul were both changed by a supernatural event. In Socrates’ case, it was an oracle. An acquaintance of his, Chaerephon, went to the oracle at Delphi and asked whether Socrates was the wisest man alive. The oracle replied in the affirmative, whereupon Socrates made it his life mission to discover whether there truly were no men wiser than he. Similarly, the Apostle Paul’s life was changed drastically while he was on the road to Damascus to persecute Christians. Jesus appeared to him and he was converted to Christianity. After this event, Paul began his life’s mission: preaching the Gospel throughout the world.
The third parallel found in the lives of Socrates and the Apostle Paul is that both gave a speech to the men of Athens. Both men reasoned with the Athenians and attempted to convince them to adopt different beliefs. Socrates addressed the group at his trial, reasoning with them that he was innocent of the charges they brought against him. Likewise, the Apostle Paul spoke to the men of Athens when he was questioned about his beliefs.
The fourth comparable event in the lives of Socrates and the Apostle Paul is that they were both put on trial and condemned to death for their beliefs. Socrates was on trial for impiety. His accusers asserted that he was corrupting the Athenian youth, promoting false teachings, and making “the worse argument the stronger.”[5] The Apostle Paul was arrested by the Jews and was on trial many times. His accusers cried, “…This is the man, that teacheth all men everywhere against the people, and the law, and this place….” (Acts 21:28) In the cases of both men, these public outcries resulted in their indictment. Consequently, both were convicted and executed by their respective governments.
The fifth similarity is that neither Socrates nor the Apostle Paul was afraid of death or tried to avoid it. Socrates’ friend and follower, Crito, tried to convince him to escape his prison cell, but Socrates argued that it would not be right to do so. Additionally, Socrates was of the belief that death could be beneficial, and not some evil to be avoided at all costs. At the end of his trial, Socrates stated, “What has happened to me may well be a good thing, and those of us who believe death to be an evil are certainly mistaken.”[6] Resisting the urge to flee even when it was possible, he drank the poison without complaint. Similarly, the Apostle Paul knew beforehand that he would be put to death upon going to Jerusalem, but he did not attempt to hide from this fate. His friends tried to convince him to stay away from Jerusalem to no avail. The Apostle Paul knew that it was God’s will, and therefore had no qualms about dying. He said: “…I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the Lord Jesus” (Acts 21:13).
But even with all of these similarities in life experiences, Socrates and the Apostle Paul were vastly different men. The two espoused contrasting worldviews, and consequently taught dissimilar concepts. A close look at these differences reveals that the majority of them are related to the men’s ideologies.
The first difference is in the life missions of the two men. Socrates’ mission was to determine whether he was the wisest man alive, as well as to question and cast doubt upon the established beliefs of the Athenians. The Apostle Paul’s mission, on the other hand, was to teach the Gospel and bring souls throughout the world to Christ. Socrates stirred up much hatred by telling people that they were not as wise as they thought, while Paul brought wrath down upon himself by contradicting religious laws and traditions. The Apostle Paul’s belief, for example, in the resurrection of Jesus Christ angered many Jews. Clearly, the two men had very different goals in life.
A second difference is in the teaching strategies assumed by Socrates and the Apostle Paul. Socrates interrogated his listeners, probing deeply into their beliefs in a manner that was both disconcerting and uncomfortable. He rarely gave answers to the questions he asked, because none satisfied him. His questions served to confuse people. Socrates said that his great wisdom was not in knowing things, but in realizing that he did not know. The Apostle Paul, on the other hand, taught rather than questioned. He preached stirring sermons expounding on the truth God had given him. His messages generally took a historical approach, starting with Creation, and then showing how God had worked throughout history. Then the Apostle Paul would present the Gospel message and exhort his audience to believe in Jesus Christ. His sermons, rather than asking questions, answered them.
Perhaps these differences in teaching strategies are best shown by comparing Socrates’ discussion with Euthrypho to the Apostle Paul’s sermon on Mars Hill in Athens. Socrates’ conversation with Euthrypho centers on the proper definition of piety. Socrates desires to know what exactly is meant by “piety,” but each time Euthrypho finds an answer, Socrates shows him that it cannot be right. The discussion ends with Euthrypho’s leaving, and the question remains unanswered. The Apostle Paul’s sermon to the Athenians on Mars Hill contrasts greatly with Socrates’ approach. The men of Athens had asked the Apostle Paul to explain his beliefs, and he responds by explaining, not questioning. He tells them that they are too superstitious, and then explains to them about the “God who made the world and all things therein” (Acts 17: 24). The difference between the two men’s teaching styles can be summed up by saying that Socrates asked questions, but the Apostle Paul answered questions.
The final difference between the Apostle Paul and Socrates is in the changes the two men brought to their respective societies. Although Socrates’ challenges to Athenian traditions were ultimately beneficial, in the meantime, they brought doubt, questions, and confusion. The Apostle Paul, on the other hand, brought understanding, new hope, and answers from God. At his death, Socrates left behind some followers who would continue to influence world history, but the Apostle Paul left behind likely thousands of lives changed by the Gospel, and many churches that he had helped to plant.
It is evident that Socrates and the Apostle Paul, although very different men, shared similar experiences. The Apostle Paul’s life showed evidence of the workings of God, whereas Socrates’ life was filled with questions left unanswered. Socrates floundered in the dark while the Apostle Paul was guided by the light of the Holy Spirit. But both men made lasting positive contributions to the world. Each gave his life for a greater cause and should therefore be respected.
[1] Academic American Encyclopedia, (Danbury, Connecticut: Grolier Incorporated, 1993), svv. “Socrates,” “Paul, Saint.”
[2] All Scripture references are taken from the King James Version of the Bible.
[3] Plato, The Trial and Death of Socrates Third Ed., eds. G. M. A. Grube and John M. Cooper (Indianapolis: Hackett Publishing Company, 2000), 26.
[4] Ibid, 33.
[5] Ibid, 22.
[6] Ibid, 41.
Friday, September 25, 2009
To Be One
I recently had the privilege of viewing a newly released Christian film titled To Be One. It was inspiring, encouraging, and very well done, and I would recommend it without reservation, especially to those who are interested in alternatives to dating.To Be One is, first and foremost, a Christian documentary with an exceptional purpose: to showcase a new vision for how couples journey from first glance to marriage. It follows the true stories of three couples (Jeff & Ashley Baird, Timothy & Brittany Lindvall, and Max & Jenny Parish) from the time they meet, all the way to the altar. These three couples practiced what I would consider courtship, although the term was not overly prominent in the film.
The 85-minute documentary was directed and produced by Peter Telian, a homeschool graduate. It consists mainly of interviews between the happy couples and their parents, as well as an insightful commentary by Norm Wakefield from Elijah Ministries. Also, the film--and this is my favorite part!--includes footage from all three of the weddings.
Something that I appreciated was the diversity of the couples and their experiences. Each had such a unique story. They showed that God's methods of bringing two people together cannot be reduced to a strategy or formula. So, in that sense, each couple's experience was dissimilar. But there was some common ground: in each story, I saw a strong sense of faith that God was working everything out for good, and that they could trust Him to help them make the correct decision.
Three major themes that I saw in To Be One: purity, respect for authority, and accountability. The film emphasized the importance of saving oneself for one's future spouse. Although not specifically enumerated, each couple apparently had standards set for physical touch before the wedding day, and they all saved the first kiss for the ceremony.
Accountability and respect for authority were also central. Each couple asked for and received counsel from their parents as to how to proceed with the relationship. They realized that emotions can override reason, and wisely sought the Lord for guidance and received their parents' blessing before becoming engaged.
To Be One also notes the parallel between the marriage of a man and woman and the relationship that we Christians have with Jesus Christ. The husband is a picture of Christ, and the wife is a picture of the church, the Bride of Christ. The film was a good reminder of that.
In closing, let me encourage each of you to get a copy of To Be One. The soundtrack is beautiful, the testimonies are inspiring, and the message is uplifting. Please, check out the film's website and facebook page, view the promotional video below, and watch the film! I feel confident that you will be blessed by it.
And once again, I return to the blogosphere...
Yes, I realize that it has only been 15 days since my last blog post. In case you are worried about my mental health, let me assure you that I do not plan to continue blogging with this alarming frequency. And no, I have not kicked that procrastination habit yet.
(Actually, I have a procrastination pamphlet from my Research and Writing class that states: "This handout will help you understand why you procrastinate and offer strategies and [sic] to combat this common writer's ailment."* I think this pamphlet would be very informative, but I haven't found the time to read it.... Just kidding, I have read it, and it could possibly help someone. Just not a chronic procrastinator like me.)
I do have a reason--a very good reason, in fact--for this blog post. And it's not to complain about my procrastination habits. Not entirely, anyway.
You see, one of my friends told me about a Christian documentary that was released recently. She sent me the link to the movie's site where there is this lovely offer stating that I would get the movie for free if I promised to review it on my "well visited, updated blog." I worried that my blog would not be deemed updated enough, but to my surprise and excitement, it was!! I received it on Saturday, watched it last night with my dad and sister, and will now attempt to write an informative, accurate, interesting, descriptive, and captivating assessment of it for you all.
So, let's dive in....
On second thought, I've decided to place the actual review in a second blog post. This will aid in linking. Plus, anyone who is interested in a review of the movie will not necessarily wish to read all of my ramblings above! Read the review here.
In case it's not apparent, I've revamped a lot of my blog. Feedback appreciated!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Source: http://www.unc.edu//depts/wcweb/handouts/procrastination.html (accessed Sept. 21st, 2009)
(Actually, I have a procrastination pamphlet from my Research and Writing class that states: "This handout will help you understand why you procrastinate and offer strategies and [sic] to combat this common writer's ailment."* I think this pamphlet would be very informative, but I haven't found the time to read it.... Just kidding, I have read it, and it could possibly help someone. Just not a chronic procrastinator like me.)
I do have a reason--a very good reason, in fact--for this blog post. And it's not to complain about my procrastination habits. Not entirely, anyway.
You see, one of my friends told me about a Christian documentary that was released recently. She sent me the link to the movie's site where there is this lovely offer stating that I would get the movie for free if I promised to review it on my "well visited, updated blog." I worried that my blog would not be deemed updated enough, but to my surprise and excitement, it was!! I received it on Saturday, watched it last night with my dad and sister, and will now attempt to write an informative, accurate, interesting, descriptive, and captivating assessment of it for you all.
So, let's dive in....
On second thought, I've decided to place the actual review in a second blog post. This will aid in linking. Plus, anyone who is interested in a review of the movie will not necessarily wish to read all of my ramblings above! Read the review here.
In case it's not apparent, I've revamped a lot of my blog. Feedback appreciated!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Source: http://www.unc.edu//depts/wcweb/handouts/procrastination.html (accessed Sept. 21st, 2009)
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Hey look! I still remember how to blog!
No, your eyes do not deceive you. This is, indeed and truly, a new blog post!
I am back by popular demand (okay, two people, but they sure are demanding!).
I was planning on having a blog post done over the weekend, but something got in the way. A little something called a Research and Writing assignment, worth 10% of my final grade, due by Sunday at midnight. It took so much more time than I thought it would, and this means that during the time I planned on blogging, I was sweating buckets (figuratively speaking, I assure you) and typing madly while watching the clock tick ever closer to the deadline.
But now I have finished that (not saying how many minutes to spare...), and I am here.
And...I have nothing to say. At least, nothing educational, intellectual, or mind-stimulating.
But because I don't want to let down the poor souls who sit on my blog all day, hitting refresh, I will attempt to write something substantial.
Something substantial...think, Jessica. There must be something to say.
****
And now it is Wednesday night, and I am sitting here watching my cursor blink, realizing that I really need to get this thing posted! Especially because my sister, Erika, decided that an update from me was so unlikely that she took it upon herself to hack in here and give you all brief run-down of my life (see below).
Her summary of my days is unfortunately pretty accurate. College has taken over my life!!!
I have learned that college is more difficult than high school (at least to me) and that I must spend much more time doing it than I had ever imagined. I cannot allow myself to fall behind even one day, because it is so hard to get back on track.
The first week of college was a nightmare; I was overwhelmed. But things are going much better now (Yet again, God's grace was sufficient!), and I am finding my classes to be manageable, interesting, and even sometime humorous.
Before I fall asleep on this keyboard, I should defend myself in regards to the cricket comment. (By the way, thanks, Erika, for not mentioning the watermelons growing on trees thing....) I haven't done biology in quite some time, never really cared about it, and probably would have realized that crickets are not vertebrates if I had simply thought about it before speaking. (Who, me? Think before speaking?!)
Jennifer wanted an update on my life, so I suppose I should mention more than just college. I have started taking piano lessons again (today), and have been learning to play the organ over the summer. I finished working for the Board of Elections (at least on a full time basis) on August 21st, so as to have time for college. The primary election is coming up next Tuesday, and I will be working that. It should be an interesting day. Local politics...never stops, and I try to keep up, going to meetings and volunteering and such. AWANA starts next Monday, and I'll be helping with that. Erika and I would both like to try for the Citation Award (Bible memorization is a good idea in general, plus I can get a nice scholarship from PHC if I get the award), so we are starting on some of the books. How is that for an overview, Jenn? Happy now? :) I'm sure I'm missing stuff, though.
Wow...this post is confusing and sadly lacking on so many levels. Maybe tomorrow I will read it and edit it, but for now...I'm going to hit "Publish Post" and hope that it will suffice.
I am back by popular demand (okay, two people, but they sure are demanding!).
I was planning on having a blog post done over the weekend, but something got in the way. A little something called a Research and Writing assignment, worth 10% of my final grade, due by Sunday at midnight. It took so much more time than I thought it would, and this means that during the time I planned on blogging, I was sweating buckets (figuratively speaking, I assure you) and typing madly while watching the clock tick ever closer to the deadline.
But now I have finished that (not saying how many minutes to spare...), and I am here.
And...I have nothing to say. At least, nothing educational, intellectual, or mind-stimulating.
But because I don't want to let down the poor souls who sit on my blog all day, hitting refresh, I will attempt to write something substantial.
Something substantial...think, Jessica. There must be something to say.
****
And now it is Wednesday night, and I am sitting here watching my cursor blink, realizing that I really need to get this thing posted! Especially because my sister, Erika, decided that an update from me was so unlikely that she took it upon herself to hack in here and give you all brief run-down of my life (see below).
Her summary of my days is unfortunately pretty accurate. College has taken over my life!!!
I have learned that college is more difficult than high school (at least to me) and that I must spend much more time doing it than I had ever imagined. I cannot allow myself to fall behind even one day, because it is so hard to get back on track.
The first week of college was a nightmare; I was overwhelmed. But things are going much better now (Yet again, God's grace was sufficient!), and I am finding my classes to be manageable, interesting, and even sometime humorous.
Before I fall asleep on this keyboard, I should defend myself in regards to the cricket comment. (By the way, thanks, Erika, for not mentioning the watermelons growing on trees thing....) I haven't done biology in quite some time, never really cared about it, and probably would have realized that crickets are not vertebrates if I had simply thought about it before speaking. (Who, me? Think before speaking?!)
Jennifer wanted an update on my life, so I suppose I should mention more than just college. I have started taking piano lessons again (today), and have been learning to play the organ over the summer. I finished working for the Board of Elections (at least on a full time basis) on August 21st, so as to have time for college. The primary election is coming up next Tuesday, and I will be working that. It should be an interesting day. Local politics...never stops, and I try to keep up, going to meetings and volunteering and such. AWANA starts next Monday, and I'll be helping with that. Erika and I would both like to try for the Citation Award (Bible memorization is a good idea in general, plus I can get a nice scholarship from PHC if I get the award), so we are starting on some of the books. How is that for an overview, Jenn? Happy now? :) I'm sure I'm missing stuff, though.
Wow...this post is confusing and sadly lacking on so many levels. Maybe tomorrow I will read it and edit it, but for now...I'm going to hit "Publish Post" and hope that it will suffice.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Hi Everyone!!
Yes!! A new post!! But not by Jessica. After several tries, I have managed to heroically hack into Jessica's blog to give her reader(s) an exciting, heart-warming, awwww-producing update. Basically, I have 15 minutes before she gets back from choir practice, so we'll do this quickly.
1. Jessica has started college.
2. She is currently working on college-related items, such as classes.
3. Her time can basically be summed up in two areas: college, and thinking/talking/writing/dreaming about college.
4. However, she still finds time to keep her social life a couple rungs above "hermit crab" level, so it surprises me how long she has not talked to you. I mean, I just sit down and words pour forth.
5. Maybe she's wanting to post something a above the random, exciting, hart-warming, awwww-producing update that I'm giving.
But, I do want to share with you a funny story about Jessica. So, she and I were talking about crickets this afternoon, as I was sitting at the table doing lesson 11.5 in my math. She was going to run downstairs and look up crickets in the encyclopedia, but she wasn't sure what (besides "cricket") she should look under. She wanted a general, biological classification name, something that would make Mr. ACE Biology dude proud of her. She said (and I am not kidding): "Crickets are vertebrates, right?"
I guess it's been a while since ninth-grade biology...
Okay. That was it. I need to go do chemistry and practice my "Who? Me? Hack into what blog?" look! Catch you all later!
-- Erika, who is Jessica's coolest sister. Undoubtedly.
1. Jessica has started college.
2. She is currently working on college-related items, such as classes.
3. Her time can basically be summed up in two areas: college, and thinking/talking/writing/dreaming about college.
4. However, she still finds time to keep her social life a couple rungs above "hermit crab" level, so it surprises me how long she has not talked to you. I mean, I just sit down and words pour forth.
5. Maybe she's wanting to post something a above the random, exciting, hart-warming, awwww-producing update that I'm giving.
But, I do want to share with you a funny story about Jessica. So, she and I were talking about crickets this afternoon, as I was sitting at the table doing lesson 11.5 in my math. She was going to run downstairs and look up crickets in the encyclopedia, but she wasn't sure what (besides "cricket") she should look under. She wanted a general, biological classification name, something that would make Mr. ACE Biology dude proud of her. She said (and I am not kidding): "Crickets are vertebrates, right?"
I guess it's been a while since ninth-grade biology...
Okay. That was it. I need to go do chemistry and practice my "Who? Me? Hack into what blog?" look! Catch you all later!
-- Erika, who is Jessica's coolest sister. Undoubtedly.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Commercial break!!
I'm on summer break (although it doesn't feel like a break when you're working full time!) so I haven't been writing papers or doing much theorizing. So this is just a fun post with some of my favorite youtube music clips. Enjoy.
A New Hallelujah
A New Hallelujah
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