A Better Way: Lauren Brooks

Lauren Brooks

A better way

9-15-2008

The idea that stuck out most to me after our discussion of early Christianity was the ideas of Paul and the way in which he preached the gospel to many different peoples. Dr. Redick discussed the main example of taking Christianity to the Greeks. I wrongly assumed that Paul would have “bashed” the gods and goddesses and the immorality of the peoples. I figured that this is where the “tradition” of assimilation into the “right” culture or “right” way began. I think back to some of our darker times in history and the destruction of the Native Americans really stands out in my mind; it’s so unfortunate that some people thought their culture had to die in order for them to be saved. However, I should have known that this was not the case. Paul did what we should have done long ago and what we should be doing today. He took Jesus and placed it into the void with the

I just finished reading a wonderful book on Christianity that had a similar story. Blue Like Jazz recounts the tale of a missionary living with some indigenous peoples in South America for a year until he even brought up Christ and when he did he incorporated Christ into their myths and teachings of some higher being in the forest, unfortunately a young boy thought Jesus was in the forest and ran into the forest before he could be stopped. The missionary was disappointed because he thought the boy would be back later having not found Jesus and not understanding what he was trying to say. Much to his surprise the boy returned a couple of days later, saying that he met Jesus in the forest and he became saved.

Wow! This is what I wish I could remind all Christians, two things. Number one is that a relationship with God is a personal one and one that can not be judged by another person. The second is that to believe in God does not mean you have to reject cultural beliefs or ideals, because again that goes back to the first point of a personal relationship. However, I do know that accountability between all peoples is important, but there is a fine distinction between accountability and judgment.

These ideas and teachings of Paul remind me of how much information there is in the Bible and how much of it I don’t know! I really want to learn more and more about Paul and all of his work with the church; I am sure this semester will make for many revelations in my spiritual life. I say bring it!