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"John Wesley: Holiness of Heart and Life", 2007.
A review and personal reflection of Charles Yrigoyen's book "John Wesley: Holiness of Heart and Life".
1,108 words (approx. 4.4 pages), 1 source, APA, AU$ 46.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews Charles Yrigoyen's book "John Wesley: Holiness of Heart and Life", which is a collection of the essays, sermons and personal thoughts of clergyman John Wesley. The paper explores the concepts, associations and perspectives that Wesley held concerning, not only religion, but also the social issues of the era in which he lived and worked. Further, the paper assesses pivotal developmental strategies presented in the book and focuses on how Wesley developed his sermons to deliver messages that were topical and relevant to his audience. The paper concludes with the author's personal response to the book.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Assessment of the Book
A Personal Response to the Book
From the Paper
"This strategy helps frame issues that Wesley felt were important within a context that was accessible for the general public. Indeed, taking this position helped influence the audience to engage in introspection to see if they were personally guilty of any of the sins that Wesley framed as being the work of the devil. This process not only helps develop the themes that Wesley wanted to illustrate within that sermon but forces the audience to review the lesson and apply it to their own lives. A similar argument can be applied to the sermon about "backsliders" and Wesley's call to persons who consider themselves beyond the reach of God: through framing their decision to avoid their duties to God in both a specific and an ambiguous way, Wesley forces his audience to identify issues that are unique to their own lives and their own decisions concerning the church."
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Biblical Counseling, 2007.
An analysis and evaluation of biblical counseling integration methods within the scope of modern psychology.
2,905 words (approx. 11.6 pages), 11 sources, APA, AU$ 104.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes the various facets of biblical counseling in relation to the modern integration of psychology within a religious construct. The paper points out that, in many cases, there is evidence that the Bible provides moral and ethical foundations that can work with the various aspects of psychological counseling methods. It looks at how, by analyzing some of the biblical counseling terms found within this field, one can provide the psychological aspects of non-religious counseling that correlate with these Bible's analogies and moral lessons. In essence, the paper demonstrates how biblical counseling can work in tandem with modern psychological theories, since they work within the moral and ethical integration of societal values in modern times.
From the Paper
"The Biblical counseling term "Frovnhma" is a central aspect to Biblical counseling theory, especially though the innovations for religious counseling brought forth by Lawrence Crabb. Although Crabb does not portray a uniquely differential perspective for theologically based counseling, he invariably has designed in accordance with Freud's ideas about the unconscious. For Crabb, the Frovnhma is essentially the mind in relation to how God perceives the human will or way of thought. In many ways, there is a decidedly similar aspect of Crabb's theory that correlates with Sigmund Freud's theory of the "unconscious"--a term used for the deeper part of the mind that absorbs all thoughts and experiences."
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Local Performance at a Memorial Service, 2007.
A case study analyzing the music performed at a memorial service.
1,651 words (approx. 6.6 pages), 2 sources, MLA, AU$ 64.95
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Abstract
This paper provides a review and critique of the music presented at a local memorial service held at a Methodist church. The paper presents the case study. It discusses the details of the funeral and a brief history of the deceased and her family. The paper then discusses the hymn that was performed by the choir and harpist. Finally, the paper discusses the appropriateness of the selection and performance of music at this memorial service.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Piece One: The Processional
Piece Two: The Hymn
Piece Three: The Choir
Piece Four: The Harpist
Summary of Musical Performance at the Service
From the Paper
"The performance of this piece did not appear to deviate much from the majority of performances of "Amazing Grace." The musician did not appear to add any personal flourishes or provide a distinctive interpretation. This is quite likely due to the decision to perform a song that has plagued music teachers with beginning students since it was first penned nearly two centuries ago. Because of this, it is possible to appreciate this performance of "Amazing Grace" as a bit of humorous irony within the funeral service. However, others could argue that the decision to perform the piece in such a staid manner reduced the decedent's memory as a music teacher who sought to improve the quality of musical performance among her students."
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Christian Theology and Psychology, 2007.
This paper is a personal critique of the integrated and the un-Christian models of psychology and Christian counseling.
2,415 words (approx. 9.7 pages), 5 sources, APA, AU$ 89.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, in the author's experience as a pastoral counselor, the integrated model is the closest to his personal view; whereas, the un-Christian model is the farthest from his perspective. The author points out that the un-Christian model contends that, while biblical concepts may be of some use in therapeutic practice, they should not be allowed to interfere in the basic course of this practice; while, the integrated model sees the role of the pastoral counselor as being one of integrating psychology and the Bible in a harmonious fashion. The paper relates that the strength and effectiveness of the integrated position lies in its recognition of how psychology and theology are not antithetical but, in fact, represent elements of a unified truth. The paper includes quotations.
From the Paper
"In practical terms in regard to my work as a Christian counselor, I would liken my pastoral role - under this integrated approach - as being akin to that of a "general practitioner" in medicine. While general practitioners are qualified to diagnose many medical conditions, there are often situations in which there is something that they may feel goes beyond their own knowledge base or skill set. In these cases, they refer their patient to a specialist. It is worth noting that in making this referral, the general practitioner is not indicating that her or his own knowledge is flawed or that there is some radical epistemological difference between the knowledge base of the specialist and her or his own."
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Sayyid Ahmad Khan, 2007.
A review of the life and contributions of Sayyid Ahmad Khan to Islam.
1,863 words (approx. 7.5 pages), 3 sources, MLA, AU$ 72.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the modernism of Islamist philosopher and religious reformer, Sayyid Ahmad Khan and its place in the religious history of Islam. The paper provides a background of Ahmad Khan's life. It then discusses his contributions to Islam and examines the nature of the modernist reformist ideology of Sayyid Ahmad Khan in the 19th century.
Table of Contents:
Biography
Sayyid Ahmad Khan's Contributions to Islam
From the Paper
"In conclusion, the one Islamic modernist explored in this study reflects the growing sense of secularization of Muslim society in the 19th century. Although the likes of Sayyid Ahmad Khan were not able to create a strong enough educational resistance to religious dominance in their own cultures; he was able to counteract a complete control of the British imperialism that used the ignorance of religious dogma within Indian communities. By invoking greater secular program and institutions to help teach science and technology, Sayyid Ahmad Khan was able to create a foundation for the transformation of Islamic society. By using education as a platform to change the thinking patterns of Muslims bent on orthodox Islam, this teacher helped to implement changes that integrated religion into the new logic and reasoning of western thought."
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Saint Augustine's "Confessions", 2007.
This paper is an analysis of Books 2 and 3 of Saint Augustine's "Confessions", based on their biographical and historical context".
1,815 words (approx. 7.3 pages), 3 sources, MLA, AU$ 71.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that Augustine's autobiography "Confessions" presents his youth in a much more negative light than historical studies justify. The author points out that Augustine's idea was to represent himself in such a negative light that few of his readers could see themselves being greater sinners than Augustine; therefore, if God was willing to save Augustine despite all of his sins, he would surely be willing to save the reader if he or she was truly penitent. The paper states that Augustine addresses the problem of the apparent simplicity of Scripture in comparison to classical philosophy by arguing that Scripture is actually more complex and significant than the works of classical Greece and Rome. The paper includes many quotations.
From the Paper
"Throughout the text Augustine invariably refers to "you" - the addressee of his work - as being God. In this text he focuses on the sins of his youth with such passionate fervor in condemning how he "ran wild with lust that was manifold and rank" that many readers would initially be taken aback. Augustine's concentration upon these lusts and crimes is such as to cause a critical reader to wonder at Augustine's objective here. After all, it is illogical - in a prayer to God - for Augustine to go into such great detail about his lusts and sins since God would, of course, be fully aware of them."
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"Fear and Trembling", 2007.
A discussion and review of Soren Kierkegaard's work "Fear and Trembling".
963 words (approx. 3.9 pages), 1 source, MLA, AU$ 41.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes Soren Kierkegaard's work "Fear and Trembling". It discusses Kierkegaard's main argument that Abraham represents the epitome of this faith because it ends in a return of what was sacrificed. The paper describes the perspective from which Kierkegaard writes and the paradox that he finds and discusses from the Biblical story of Abraham.
From the Paper
"Abraham is the great Christian hero, and yet we are all called to enter into the paradox and the absurd in some way. Resignation develops through strength and spiritual freedom. Resignation brings peace for the person since through it the person is reconciled to existence (Kierkegaard 45). Resignation comes prior to faith, and faith "is not the spontaneous inclination of the heart but the paradox of existence" (47). Kierkegaard demonstrates that faith is not a matter of security but of growth and responsibility. Faith, for Kierkegaard, was a source of wonder and fascination because in response to a minor sacrifice, all that was offered is given back to the believer."
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Christianity and Western Philosophy, 2007.
An analysis of the impact of Christianity on western philosophy from the time of the Roman Empire.
1,085 words (approx. 4.3 pages), 5 sources, APA, AU$ 45.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews the rise of Christianity during the time of the Roman Empire, its contributions to western philosophical thought over the last fifteen hundred years, and some significant philosophical issues of the present day that have been "Christianized" and/or deeply influenced by Christianity. In particular, the paper contends that a case can be made that the works of Thomas Aquinas and Saint Augustine helped popularize Aristotelian and Platonic philosophy and laid the groundwork for the "man-centered" philosophical leanings of the early modern, Renaissance period.
From the Paper
"Similarly, the philosophical rise of Christianity in the first centuries after the death of Christ was helped immeasurably by the fact that its early adherents went to considerable lengths to defend the "logic" of Christianity and to link it to Neo-Platonism. One Christian theologian and philosopher of the late-second and early-third centuries AD, Origen, became especially influential by showing how Christianity had its philosophical antecedents in not only Neo-Platonism but in Greek and Roman Stoicism, as well. In the end, Christianity came into intellectual acceptance in part because its focus upon the existence of a "unified and perfect being" residing at the center of the transcendent world was comprehensible to educated Romans reared on the dictates of Neo-Platonism (McGill 2005). "
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End of Life Issues, 2007.
This paper discusses end of life issues for the family.
1,458 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 6 sources, APA, AU$ 58.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer discusses end of life issues for the family and notes that all nurses are certain to encounter these issues in some form. The writer points out that with a rapidly aging population, it is vital to provide culturally and gender-sensitive end-of-life interventions to enhance patient/family satisfaction and to efficiently allocate resources. The writer maintains that women experience end-of-life problems differently from men and minority cultures encounter very different issues from the white dominant culture. The writer looks at the Calgary Family Assessment Model (CFAM) that allows for a systematic method to complete a comprehensive family assessment as well as the choice of the most effective interventions to ensure family functioning. The writer discusses this topic with regards to communication, roles and influence.
From the Paper
"This dimension includes the family life cycle and the continuity and change related to a chronic illness. Culture and class interact with family development. Family life cycles such as death demand that that the family change and adapt. In terms of developmental assessment, any recent significant events in the family along with impending death need to be discussed. This assessment establishes the family's developmental stage, provides a perspective by which the current stressors can be explored to determine the probable impact on the family and on its future development."
"Within the functional dimension, expressive functioning includes verbal, nonverbal, and emotional communication, roles, influence, beliefs, and alliances or coalitions. Good communication is vital when a patient is dying; in this situation, communication is particularly important for the family members who are subject to extreme stress."
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Hezbollah: Israeli/Arab Enmity, 2007.
This paper examines the history and ideology of Hezbollah.
2,603 words (approx. 10.4 pages), 9 sources, APA, AU$ 95.95
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Abstract
The paper examines Israeli/Arab enmity in the Middle East and the problem of religious extremism. The paper discusses the need for true democratization to emerge in Muslim states and for the replacement of current corrupt political systems controlled by leaders who manipulate their people in order to demonize Israel and maintain their power. The paper maintains that American and Israeli policies have been counterproductive, for they have radicalized millions of Muslims, who have responded with unprecedented support for extremist groups such as Hezbollah and Hamas.
From the Paper
"Examining the history and ideology of Hezbollah indicates that there is much merit to the accusations of the American and Israeli governments that it is a terrorist organization led by religious fanatics intent upon the destruction of Israel. In response, the leaders of Hezbollah and its supporters and sympathizers reject accusations that they are terrorists and religious fanatics, and insist that Hezbollah and similar groups such as Hamas are simply defending the rights of Muslims against American and Israeli aggression."
"As is the case with most controversies, the truth is somewhere in the middle, for the philosophical observation that one man's terrorist is another man's freedom fighter certainly applies in the context of current Middle East unrest. According to Military.com (2006) Hezbollah's emergence in the aftermath of the Israeli occupation of Beirut and southern Lebanon in 1982 reflects these diametrically opposed perceptions, for it was due to the determination of Shi'ite Muslims to resist the Israeli presence and support Palestinians in their fight for statehood."
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Religion and Culture, 2007.
This paper looks at beliefs regarding the structure of organized religion.
750 words (approx. 3.0 pages), 4 sources, MLA, AU$ 32.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer discusses the understanding that organized religion is mandatory in the lives of some individuals, while it is cast aside by others. The writer notes that within her own personal experience in relation to the larger social order, these practices are both acceptable, depending on the individual. The writer maintains that the acceptance of this belief is due to a background in which hypocrisy has been seen in religion, as events over the last several decades have demonstrated that organized religion is not always about God, but about wealth. The writer concludes that due to culture, gender or the structure of organized religion, the true basis of religion is consistently ignored and this creates issues in theology that are detrimental to the beauty of faith.
From the Paper
"This knowledge has affected how I envision a divine ministry because it forces me to question the truthfulness of those that represent the church. Additionally, these experiences have led me to believe that my personal connection to God is more devout that many ministers or supposed faithful. This is because when representatives of the church seek to gain prosperity from innocent believers who are struggling in this world, they are overlooking the real core of religion. Religion must be about a personal relationship with God, not about ensuring that the poor remain so throughout their lives in the name of God."
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Kosher Food, 2007.
An analysis of the Jewish dietary laws pertaining to food preparation and consumption.
1,889 words (approx. 7.6 pages), 7 sources, MLA, AU$ 73.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes kosher food and Jewish dietary laws. It looks at the various types of kosher food, the Jewish laws pertaining to kosher food, and the selection and preparation of kosher foods. The paper begins by defining what makes food kosher or not. It looks at the differences between meats, dairy products and canned goods. The paper also describes the prevalence of kosher food consumption in the United States.
Table of Contents:
What Is Kosher
The Rules Regarding Kashrut
Laws Concerning Meat and Dairy Products
Canned Foods: Are They Kosher
The Packaging of Kosher Foods
From the Paper
"Is it important to consider the packaging of kosher foods? Yes. If restrictions are used in canning these foods and in the food additives that are used, should not the packaging be kosher? It is important to understand that the printing inks and other types of packaging may have materials that are not kosher. "Many components of inks, coatings, adhesives, and packaging materials may be animal-based (glycerols, stearates, peptones, etc.), and several, such as caseins and lactic acids, are dairy in nature" (Lustig 140). If these materials come in contact with the food, then the item is no longer kosher. It is important for these inks to be certified as kosher."
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Justice and Religious Traditions, 2007.
This paper discusses how organized religion is not the steward of justice for all, but it does offer inspiration.
1,653 words (approx. 6.6 pages), 3 sources, MLA, AU$ 64.95
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Abstract
This paper refers to writings by Khaled Abou El Fadl, Rene Trujillo and Martin Luther King Jr., which refer to concepts of justice that connect to religious traditions. The paper shows how in the 21st century, organized religions cannot be hoped to produce a steward of justice for all. The paper explains, however, that religious traditions and concepts can inspire attempts to discuss what a government should be, what laws are meant to put in place, what they should seek to avoid and how they can be viewed differently across different cultures.
Outline:
Introduction
Islam and Democracy
Rene Trujillo - Human Rights & the 'Age of Discovery'
Martin Luther King, Jr. - Letter from Birmingham Jail
Concluding Discussion
From the Paper
"Khaled About El Fadl writes like an ambassador between Muslim history and tradition addressing justice and a contemporary world that needs to understand more of this 'foreign' tradition. (2004) His chapter opens by describing how, centuries ago, a Muslim jurist would point out that there were three kinds of political systems in the natural or primitive state of nature, a place of anarchy and the abuse of power. A second system would involve custom by which tribal elders told what should be upheld or obeyed as would work as long as an elder had sufficient power, or a prince or king who might direct others by decree. A third development has been the caliphate of Shari'ah law, a body of Muslim religious law based on the Qur'an and the example of the Prophet. (2004: 130-131) A conservative Muslim jurist of today may still argue that Shari'ah fulfills all criteria of justice and legitimacy, laying out the duties of governors and the governed, the law taking the lead ahead of the arbitrary authority of one human being over another. (2004: 131)"
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Gay Rights and Civil Rights, 2007.
This paper compares and contrasts gay rights with civil rights.
880 words (approx. 3.5 pages), 1 source, MLA, AU$ 38.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer discusses whether homosexuals should receive rights guaranteed in the Bill of Rights. The writer questions whether gays should receive rights compared to civil rights. The writer argues that while it is true that gays and minorities are often mistreated, the difference is in the ability to make a decision. The writer maintains that gay rights are different than civil rights because homosexuals make the decision to be gays and even the Bible shows that it is wrong, but African-Americans are born "black" and the Bill of Rights guarantee rights to "all men". The writer then points out that the Civil Rights Act was passed to guarantee that all African-Americans be treated equally with other Americans. The writer argues that comparing gay rights with civil rights shows that gays make a decision to date or love another person of the same sex, while African-Americans are born with their skin color and they should be given the same rights as any American.
From the Paper
"Before determining whether gays should have rights it is important to look at the definition of homosexuals. The definition of homosexuals will show that it is defined as a sexual orientation with romantic love and sexual desire of the same sex or gender. When a person falls in love with another person, a decision must be made to love the person. Homosexuality is a decision. The gay person decides to fall in love with another person of his or her same gender. This is the same as if a person decides to never date a person or if a person decides to fall in love with another person of a difference sex. Since it is a decision, people should not receive certain rights because they make a decision. Many homosexuals and minorities are rejected jobs and other freedoms so many people believe they should have rights as guaranteed by the Bill of Rights. However, it is important to remember that homosexuals decide whether they want to have a love life with a member of the same sex."
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The Falun Gong of China, 2007.
This paper discusses the puzzle of the complex role of the Falun Gong religious movement in contemporary China.
3,595 words (approx. 14.4 pages), 10 sources, MLA, AU$ 121.95
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Abstract
This paper explores the rise of Falun Gong, its history, fundamental principles and practices and its situation with respect to older Chinese religious traditions, such as Taoism and Buddhism. The author points out that the Falun Gong, which is little over a decade old, was founded in 1992 by Li Hongzhi, a minor provincial bureaucrat who began practicing a variation of traditional Chinese qigong exercises in the 1980s and rapidly rose to prominence. The paper concludes that, although it appears clear that religious violence in the form of martyrdom is a component of the Falun Gong movement's protests against the Chinese government, the nature of the Falun Gong's political threat is more ambiguous.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
The Rise of Falun Gong
Spirituality and Religious Synthesis in Falun Gong
Religious Violence and Nonviolence: The Problem of Falun Gong
Conclusion
From the Paper
"By 1996 Li's books, spreading these ideas about the powers that Falun Gong offered its adherents, were selling millions of copies in China. This year also marked the beginning of the Chinese state crackdown on Falun Gong - and all qigong movements - with the banning of Li's works and tight controls on public displays of qigong. In 1998 Li emigrated to the United States in order to practise his system more freely. A year later, President Jiang Zemin outlaws Falun Gong and orders it "smashed" in China."
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William Paley, 2007.
A review of William Paley's arguments of the divine design of the Universe.
867 words (approx. 3.5 pages), 4 sources, MLA, AU$ 37.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at William Paley's conception that the design and purpose of the universe is such that it is impossible for anything other than an omniscient designer to be responsible for its formulation. Specifically, the paper argues that Paley's theory about a divine creator falters for the reason that the teleological arguments upon which it is based depends upon a number of assumptions that are both un-provable and arbitrary.
From the Paper
"In closing, it seems clear that Paley's argument is fraught with difficulty. Not least of all, he rests it upon a number of complacent, subjective and anthropomorphic assumptions that are ultimately un-provable and therefore unsatisfactory as defenses for intelligent design. Not to be overlooked, Cline argues that Paley simply "takes it for granted" that human beings can actually divine that there is a purpose to the universe; such a view is problematic inasmuch as we really have no way of knowing what purposes were in the "mind" of the "creator" who brought the universe into being (assuming such a thing happened) whereas we are all aware that watch-makers who put watches together are clearly guided by the design purpose of building a watch. In the final analysis, Mr. Paley's work is a noble effort, but it cannot be supported after a careful review."
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