...of faith. As a result there was no detailed structure of worship as seen in the present day Christian worship. However, worship in those days paved way for the current settings of various churches which have greatly evolved over time. Worship was characterized by several aspects such as baptism, organizing prayer meetings and gatherings, rejoicing through songs, listening to the scriptures, collection of charity and using their spiritual gifts among others. Additionally, during those early days of Christianity, Christians often met in church assemblies for the ceremonial get together meal (Lord’s Supper) or for thanksgiving and singing gatherings. This paper critically analyzes the various practices of early church such as the singing of psalms and hymns, gathering in church assemblies, vocal thanksgiving, the Lord’s Supper as well as the practice of baptism. Table of Contents Abstract……………………………………………………………………………………………i Table of Contents………………………………………………………………………………….ii 1. Introduction..................................................................................................................................1 1.1 What is Worship?...........................................................................................................1 1.2 Early Christian Worship………………………………………………………………2 2. Baptism…………………………………………………………………………………………3 3....
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...Catholicism HUM130 October 10th, 2010 Regena Weatherford Christianity VS Catholicism Christianity and Catholicism are two very different religions. Any person who has not studied these religions closely might be tempted to say that they are the same, or at least share most of the same beliefs, but this is simply not true. Take for instance the foundation that these two religions are founded on. Christianity was founded solely upon the Holy Scriptures, whereas Catholicism was based on the doctrines taught by Popes and Bishops. With foundations so different it can only be assumed that the beliefs would be different as well. There are several main differences between Catholicism and Christianity: how they perceive the Bible, Salvation, Baptism, the Holy Trinity and evolution. “The Bible is the sole authority for Christian beliefs and practices. The Catholic Church stresses a balance between Biblical support and the tradition of the Church itself.” (Robinson, June). This difference is based on the foundations of the religion itself. Christians believe that all rules of faith have to come from the Holy Bible, which is the written Word of God. They also believe that the Bible is authoritative and clear, and it can be read and understood by anyone who chooses to read it. In the Catholic faith, knowledge is passed down from Popes and Bishops through the church which is then taught to the people of the religion. There are scriptures with these subjects in them, but they are not accessible...
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...Baptists are one of the largest Christian denominations. As indicated by their name, the primary Baptist distinctive is their practice of "believer's baptism" instead of infant baptism. Baptist churches tend to be evangelical in doctrine and reformed in worship, but beliefs and practices can vary due to the autonomy of individual Baptist churches. Historically, Baptists have played a key role in encouraging religious freedom and separation of church and state. In the United States, the two largest Baptist organizations are the Southern Baptist Churches (SBC) and the American Baptist Churches (ABC). Notable Baptists have included Martin Luther King, Jr., Charles Spurgeon, John Bunyan and Billy Graham. My friend, whom I attended a Baptist...
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...Conclusion 15 Bibliography 16 Thesis Statement The Anabaptists were distinct because of their assertion of the necessity of adult baptism, rejecting the infant baptism practiced by the Roman Catholic Church, and by defining their characteristics in the belief in the separation of church and state, and the concept that the church represents the community of the saved. Introduction Four hundred seventy years ago the Anabaptist movement was launched with the inauguration of believers' baptism and the formation of the first congregation of the Swiss Brethren in Zurich, Switzerland. The movement was formed to give men and women the opportunity to follow the whole Word of God by the virtues thought by Jesus Christ. This movement also gave a significant stance of issues that were pertinent to their beliefs and the local community. In our view of such participation we would call them dominant and forceful especially when it came to the questions on slavery. This was more than just an active voice, they responded to slavery by assisting the escape efforts of slaves. Quaker and Mennonite Christians in the North helped the railroads to become an avenue for freedom. The Anabaptist was also known as the Mennonites, named after Menno Simons (1496-1561). The basic belief of the Anabaptists was in adult baptism, but they also supported the separation of church and state and voluntary church membership. While there is great debate on the direct...
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...Liberty University “Infant Baptism” A research paper submitted to Professor Seth Johnson In Partial Fulfillment of the requirements For THEO 350-D07 Liberty University Online By Jeffrey Robinson L21932989 Lynchburg, Virginia April 24, 2012 I did not come to the saving knowledge of the Lord until I was twenty-four years old. By this time I had two small children that were four years old and two months old. My wife was born and raised in the church. She wanted to get the children baptized. I did not know what that meant. So being the inquisitive new covert that I was, I went to the pastor and asked what the meaning of the infant baptism was. He explained that it was just an outward sign that I was going to raise my children in the church and the ways of Christ. I thought that was a great idea. Until this class, I did not know that there was any other reason than the one explained to me by my pastor nineteen years ago. The topic just never came up. Since I believe that this is the true reason I had my children baptized, this paper will try to argue that infant baptism is not for salvation purposes. I believe in true faith. I also believe that baptism can be an empty ritual. Through research and prayer, God has been teaching me about the church and the communal nature of faith. I have learned that a person’s view of the meaning of the sacraments, the Church, covenant theology, individualism, and God’s grace have a great deal to do with...
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...Alyandry vielma Islam and Christianity Many say that Islam and Christianity are similar, by making the assumption that they worship the same God. These two religions may have similar things, but it does not mean that because some beliefs might be similar that they are the same. Islam and Christianity differ in many areas like, their source of authority, the nature of God, and their essential practices. There are many areas in which they differ, but the ones mentioned are the basic structure of each religion. Since they are more different then they are similar, this would be the best way of knowing their differences. There are many things by which authority is needed. We also are subject to authority in all things. Christianity and Islam are more different then similar in the source of authority. In Christianity, the founder is Jesus, human and divine. Christianity follows the bible, which is the collection of sacred writings of the religion and includes the Old and New Testament. Under Christianity there are the Catholics and the Eastern Orthodox Christianity. Catholics follow the pope, which differs from the Eastern Orthodox as mentioned in The Council of Constantinople “And in the Spirit, the holy, the lordly and life-giving one, proceeding forth from the father, the one who spoke through the prophets.” On the other hand the Eastern Orthodox follows Christ, and does not accept of what the Council of Constantinople states, saying in the 3rd Council of Toledo, “Directs...
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...Dear Charles, Here's a possible rewrite of your thesis: "This paper will examine Augustine's teachings about 'conferred faith' upon infant during baptism. My claim is that Paul misrepresented Paul's teachings on the family's effect upon the holiness of the child." You'll find the "claim" in chapters 1-14 of Turabian's Manual, which is something that our rubric doesn't bring up, but I think it's a good technique. I notice that you have Greek written in Times New Roman font. I have seen other students do this. I have never been able to figure out how this is done. I notice that when I try to add a letter than it comes out in Latin script. These are quotations that you've pasted. This is amazing. I don't know how they do this! Let me know if you can help me! The only defect in this paper that I want to point out is that much of your paper is not really about Augustine's teaching on infant baptism. All subsequent developments of his teachings really have nothing to do with what happened in Augustine's head. Let's take Pannenberg as an example. He may have followers up there in Lutheran country where you minister. His ideas are influenced by Augustine, but Augustine was not a Lutheran. Some seem to think he was a Lutheran or a Calvinist, but they deceive themselves. You must, of course, take Paul into account because Augustine worked with Paul's writings. Paul was a source that Augustine used—or better, abused or misused, as you and argue. Students find it impossible to focus on one...
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...methodism Methodism Emilio R. Valdez University of Phoenix World Religious Traditions II REL/134 Dr. Russ Paden March 21, 2010 Methodism Methodism is a branch of Christianity under the banner of Protestant faith. This branch has roots that trace backto John Wesley. According to About.com (2011), “While studying at Oxford, Wesley, his brother Charles, and several other students formed a group devoted to study, prayer and helping the underprivileged. They were labeled "Methodist" by their fellow students because of the way they used "rule" and "method" to go about their religious affairs.” (Methodist Church History, para.). Methodism took shape in the context of the beginnings of modern industrialization, urbanization, and the Enlightenment emphasis on experience as the most secure path to knowledge. In addition to their roots in Anglicanism, the most direct influence on John Wesley and Methodism was pietism, specifically, the German pietists known as Moravians. (Patheos, Inc., 2008 - 2011). Origin The Methodist movement traces itself to its origins in 1739. (About.com, 2011). John Wesley was an ordained minister of the Church of England. Upon interaction with the Moravian societies, John Wesley was heavily influenced on his views. “This was not Wesley’s conversion; but it was deeply moving emotional experience that gave him assurance that Christ was his Savior. It is significant than Wesley based his assurance of salvation on his experience rather...
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...the ‘fullest expression of the Reformation’ because they try to eliminate anything between their monotheistic God and the followers of their religion. The reformation references to the beginning of the Protestant branch of Christianity. In the 16th century, reformers challenged traditional Catholic practices that, from their perception, severed the people from God because of the interceding tradition and hierarchies. The reformation ideologies believe that the holy book, not tradition, should guide the religion. Quakers believe in the practices introduced in the reformation in addition to something they call the Inner Light. The direction of Quakerism relies heavily upon Christ-within the followers. In fact, quakers have even abandoned baptism and...
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...in holiness, and worthy of all possible honor confidence and love; that in the unity of the Godhead there are three persons, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost; equal in every divine perfection, and executing distinct but harmonious offices in the great work of redemption. III. THE FALL OF MAN. We believe the Scriptures teach that Man was created in holiness, under the law of his Maker; but by voluntary transgressions fell from that holy and happy state; in consequence of which all mankind are now sinners, not by constraint but choice; being by nature utterly void of that holiness required by the law of God, positively inclined to evil; and therefore under just condemnation to eternal ruin, without defense or excuse. IV. THE WAY OF SALVATION. We believe that the Scriptures teach that the salvation of sinners is wholly of grace; through the mediatorial offices of the Son of God; who by the appointment of the Father, freely took upon him our nature, yet...
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...“The River” By Flannery O’Conner Analysis The Bible has and always will have the uncanny ability to express meanings and truths in personal and powerful ways. Magnificent stories that carry themes and lessons that are seen by some, but lost to others. In the short story “The River” by Mary Flannery O’Conner a similar approach was used. O’Conner uses the powerful symbolism and brilliant metaphor of The River to craft a story that dives deeply into the themes of Faith and Salvation that express her personal convictions on the secular and Christian world views. This is especially true in Harry’s baptism scene as well as the final scene that take place at the river. In the story “The River” Harry’s Parents seem to show little or no interest in him. Their life is consumed with entertainment and the social life. Harry is either left alone to fend for himself or stuck with baby sitters for long periods of time. On one particular occasion Harry ends up going to a religious gathering at a river with one of his babysitters Mrs. Connin. There he is taken into the water and baptized by bevel the preacher. He is told how much he “Counts” and is loved in the eyes of God. Upon returning home, Harry finds that his parents are having another party. Disappointed, he realizes that living with his parent’s is hopeless and he never will matter to them. Harry then decides to take matters into his own hands. He reflects on how wonderful it was at the river the day before. He leaves the...
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...CATECHISM OF THE CATHOLIC CHURCH Table of Contents PROLOGUE I. The life of man - to know and love God nn. 1-3 II. Handing on the Faith: Catechesis nn. 4-10 III. The Aim and Intended Readership of the Catechism nn. 11-12 IV. Structure of this Catechism nn. 13-17 V. Practical Directions for Using this Catechism nn. 18-22 VI. Necessary Adaptations nn. 23-25 PART ONE: THE PROFESSION OF FAITH SECTION ONE "I BELIEVE" - "WE BELIEVE" n. 26 CHAPTER ONE MAN'S CAPACITY FOR GOD nn. 27-49 I. The Desire for God nn. 27-30 II. Ways of Coming to Know God nn. 31-35 III. The Knowledge of God According to the Church nn. 36-38 IV. How Can We Speak about God? nn.39-43 IN BRIEF nn. 44-49 CHAPTER TWO GOD COMES TO MEET MAN n. 50 Article 1 THE REVELATION OF GOD I. God Reveals His "Plan of Loving Goodness" nn. 51-53 II. The Stages of Revelation nn. 54-64 III. Christ Jesus -- "Mediator and Fullness of All Revelation" nn. 6567 IN BRIEF nn. 68-73 Article 2 THE TRANSMISSION OF DIVINE REVELATION n. 74 I. The Apostolic Tradition nn.75-79 II. The Relationship Between Tradition and Sacred Scripture nn. 80-83 III. The Interpretation of the Heritage of Faith nn. 84-95 IN BRIEF nn. 96-100 Article 3 SACRED SCRIPTURE I. Christ - The Unique Word of Sacred Scripture nn. 101-104 II. Inspiration and Truth of Sacred Scripture nn. 105-108 III. The Holy Spirit, Interpreter of Scripture nn. 109-119 IV. The Canon of Scripture nn. 120-130 V. Sacred Scripture in the Life of the Church nn. 131-133 IN BRIEF nn...
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...The Baptism Debate The baptism debate remains central among Christians all over the world. It is one of the aspects that is considered to be a tenet in the Christina faith yet remains controversial in terms of significance. There are those who are of the view that baptism is only meant for infants. This is seen as a way of ushering them into the kingdom of God and the Christina faith. For others however, the baptism for infants is symbolic and there is need for a person to undergo a second baptism as an adult. The second baptism is said to signify the aspect of being born again and washing off the sinful nature. This debate has been raging for many yeas causing confusion in the Christian circles. This discussion seeks to examine both sides of the debate and ascertain the Biblical position on the issue. The Concept of Baptism Perhaps before looking at the concept of infant baptism versus adult baptism, it may be crucial to look at the entire concept as a whole. Baptism as concept is an act of cleansing that is done for purposes of washing off one’s sinful nature. It was therefore done symbolically to signify that one’s past has been washed off. One was therefore considered a new creature after going through baptism . The New Testament has covered quite extensively the issue of baptism. It begins with the Jesus Christ the Son of God. He approached John the Baptist and requested that he (John) should baptize Him. When Jesus was baptized, the heavens opened and God the father...
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... Schreiner and Wright set out to dispel the practice of paedobaptisim in the Reformed tradition. In order to accomplish this, they enlist the help of ten scholars to investigate baptism from a scriptural, historical and theological perspective. What results is a book that fairly documents the biblical background, fairly quotes the Reformation fathers Calvin, Marcel, and Murray and ends with a chapter on practical application of baptism in the modern church. SUMMARY Schreiner and Wright open their book by stating, “Baptism … is the initiation rite into the Christian church. Those who label it minor are imposing their own categories onto the Scriptures instead of listening to the Scriptures…. Baptism is important precisely because it is tied to the gospel, to the saving work that Christ accomplished in his death and resurrection.”[1] What the authors do is to survey both the scriptures and church history in their inquiry into the paedobaptistism (infant baptism) and credobaptism (“baptism should be reserved for believers in the Lord Jesus Christ”[2]) debate. The particular form of paedobaptism that the authors are seeking to correct is “…primarily in the Reformed tradition, who baptize infants not because they believe that baptism regenerates … but because they believe that baptism brings the child into the covenant community.”[3] All the authors are both razor sharp in their focus, and fair in their treatment of paedobaptist positions. Each chapter is thoroughly...
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...How are they alike? This includes as such the Lord’s Prayer; we both have scriptures we read from the Bible even though the Catholics have a couple extra books within the Bible. Even the basic of how God is the creator of Heaven and Earth, life, and Jesus Christ is God’s son. We are different, but then again we are so much alike. The rituals of Catholics are different. The Baptist Church does not have rituals, but we do have our own thing that is different from the Catholic Church. A few more examples of how Catholic Christians, use salvation as a process. This begins at conversion and continues on through the life of the believer. It ends in the last salvation, when the believer is raised from the dead and enters heaven. Baptists believe salvation occurs in an instant and that once this takes place, the believer is saved for all...
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