Thrive: Perspectives

In today's episode, we explore The Christian Revolution, a profound shift that redefined the ancient world's understanding of equality, individualism, and human dignity. We'll discuss the ancient world, where natural inequality and rigid caste systems were the norm. We'll uncover how civilizations preserved order through familial loyalty and religious practices, and how the concept of the individual was virtually non-existent.But amidst this backdrop, a revolutionary movement began to take root. We'll discuss how Jesus and the early Christians sowed the seeds of a new identity, where all individuals were invited to become members of a new family the body of Christ, transcending traditional roles and embracing the primacy of individual choice and conscience.We'll also touch on the early church's radical approach to leadership and community, where men, women, slaves, and children were all involved in discussions and decision-making. Discover how the Christian movement preserved these principles and laid the foundation for our modern values of equality, human rights, and justice.

In todays discussion we're tackling a topic that has sparked centuries of discussion, interpretation, and debate—gender roles as presented in the Bible.From the creation story in Genesis to the writings of Paul in the New Testament, the Bible offers a rich tapestry of perspectives on men, women, leadership, and relationships. Some passages have been used to reinforce what might be called - traditional roles, while others challenge this and empower both men and women in unexpected ways. So, what do these texts really say? How have they been interpreted across different cultures and denominations? And what can we learn from them today, in a world where conversations about gender continue to evolve? We'll explore historical contexts, theological viewpoints, and the ways these ancient scriptures shape modern beliefs. This episode is sure to spark thought-provoking conversation.

In today's episode, we're diving into a topic that has shaped societies, relationships, and personal identities for centuries—gender roles. But we're not just looking at culture or tradition; we're exploring these roles through a Christian worldview.In this, the first of a two part series, we ask the questions: What does the Bible say about the roles of men and women? How have interpretations of biblical teachings evolved over time? And what do these perspectives mean for believers today? We'll explore key passages, historical contexts, and theological insights to better understand gender roles from a biblical perspective. Whether you're deeply rooted in faith or simply curious about how religious teachings intersect with modern life, this conversation is for you.

In this episode of Thrive Perspectives we embark on an extraordinary journey to explore one of the most pivotal events in history—the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Was it merely a story passed down through generations, or is there solid evidence to support the claim that Christ rose from the dead? Together, we'll delve into historical documents, eyewitness accounts, and theological perspectives to uncover the truth behind this monumental event. Whether you're a skeptic, a seeker, or a believer, this episode invites you to join the conversation and consider the evidence that has shaped the foundation of Christianity.The Resurrection of the Son of God

Throughout history, laws have shaped societies—not just in governance but in thought, ethics, and identity. One of the most influential legal codes in human history, the Mosaic Law, has often been viewed as a rigid list of rules governing every aspect of life. But is that the whole story?Could it be that the true purpose of these laws wasn't about legalism, but about instilling a worldview? What if it was designed to cultivate a paradigm—a way of thinking—that would shape a people, a culture, and even future generations?In this episode we take a closer look at key passages, historical contexts, and real-world applications that reveal the deeper intent behind the Mosaic Law – moving beyond the letter and stepping into the spirit of the law.

If the Bible is a guide designed to help us navigate life within a values system crafted by a God who created us, loves us and only wants the best for us, then how do we seek wisdom rather than rigidly follow directives, understanding that God's principles are meant to lead us into truth and grace? We'll discuss how, as Christians, we can speak into people's lives with love rather than judgment—focusing on lifting others up and guiding them with the value of love as our foundation. After all, the essence of Biblical ethics is not merely about rules, but about reflecting God's love and purpose in those rules, in all that we do. Join the Thrive Perspectives team as we explore how Biblical principles transcend rigid do's and don'ts, inviting us instead into a dynamic relationship with God's design for a flourishing and purpose-driven life.

So often, we open the pages of Scripture expecting a rulebook, a step-by-step manual for life. But what if that's not what it was ever meant to be? What if approaching the Bible as a list of do's and don'ts, not only misses its heart, but also disconnects us from the virtues and values it's trying to bring to life? You see, this isn't a text about perfection or performance; it's about intention. It's about the heart of humanity and the values and virtues that guide us.In this episode of Thrive Perspectives, we discuss how the Bible invites us into something deeper: not just a morality of action but a transformation of the heart.

The influence of the Christian story on Western culture is profound and pervasive, even among those who reject its religious aspects. This is because the Christian story has shaped the moral and ethical framework of Western society for centuries. Concepts such as human dignity, justice, compassion, and the sanctity of life are all derived from biblical teaching. Even the very democracy we guard so tightly, is a result of the teachings and actions of the church. Even if individuals do not consciously acknowledge the biblical origins of these values, they have been ingrained in the cultural and societal norms that influence their beliefs and behaviours. Dominion: How the Christian Revolution Remade the World - Book by Tom HollandThe Triumph of Christianity: How the Jesus Movement Became the World's Largest Religion - Book by Rodney StarkInventing the Individual: The Origins of Western Liberalism - Book by Larry Siedentop

God does not change, but his purposes unfold – this is what creates linear history.The Bible does not tell its story the way we tell history. It is theological.When we say that the Bible is 'theological,' we mean that it tells its story in a way that emphasises the significance of events from a religious or spiritual perspective, rather than just presenting historical facts. We must be cautious about defending the Bible according to modern notions of factuality. The Bible gives us facts, but it selects facts according to significance and presents a pattern of events that might clash with what a secular historian might come up with. All records of history do this.The Bible is true in that it highlights what is most important in history for us all.

As Christians, we've been given the greatest story ever told and been invited to be a part of it. But is that how we view, read and apply our reading of the Bible? What difference then does it make to understand the Christian faith as a story? Reading the Bible as a grand narrative or ‘story' rather than merely a system of theological ideas and values is crucial for understanding its overarching message and the continuity of God's plan throughout history.

Every worldview, whether religious, philosophical, or secular, is essentially a narrative or ‘story' that people accept on faith. These stories provide a framework for understanding the world, guiding our reasoning and interpretation of life events. For example, a Christian worldview is based on the biblical story of creation, fall, redemption, and restoration. This story shapes how Christians understand their purpose, morality, and destiny. Similarly, a secular humanist might base their worldview on the narrative of human progress and rationality, believing in the power of science and reason to improve the human condition. These stories, although often unacknowledged, influence our values, decisions, and actions. So how do we go about authenticating the truth of a 'story' or meta-narrative? Ultimately, the authenticity of a meta-narrative can only be validated by living it out.

Faith is a profound trust and confidence in God and His promises. It is the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things not seen, as described in Hebrews 11:1. Faith involves believing in and trusting God's character, His word, and His plan for humanity, even when circumstances are challenging or the future is uncertain. Faith is not merely intellectual assent but is demonstrated through action and obedience to God's commands. Faith is not believing FOR SOMETHING but believing IN SOMEONE – God. We see faith exemplified by the lives of biblical figures such as Abraham, who trusted God's promise of a son despite his old age, and Moses, who led the Israelites out of Egypt by faith. And yet for these and many other ‘heroes' of the faith, they did not see all that God had promised in their lifetime – yet they still trusted God and in His goodness. Faith is foundational to the Christian life. It guides and empowers us to live in accordance with God's will and to trust in His provision and salvation through Jesus Christ.

Given the current state of affairs in the world, it's hard to avoid the conclusion that the Lord may be returning soon. We are surrounded by events and developments that could be interpreted as signs of the end. Across the world we see famines, earthquakes, disasters, troubles, persecutions, wars and rumors of wars as Jesus said himself in Mark 13. But has there ever been a period in the history of the world when this was not the case? Certainly the early 21st century has no monopoly on death, disaster, devastation, and terror. You don't need to know a great deal about history to realize this. The Bible clearly instructs us to be vigilant. However, constantly looking for signs of Jesus' return can often lead to speculation and distraction. So as a Christian, how should we respond to what we see happening in the world, and what should be our focus, even if in fact these are the ‘end times?

In this episode, we explore what it truly means to be a disciple in today's world. From the sacrifices and trials to the immense rewards and spiritual growth, we discuss the real-life implications of living out our faith. This episode challenges us to reflect on the true cost of following Jesus. Matthew 16:24.Then Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me". What does it look like to 'take up our cross' and 'deny ourselves'?

Christian spirituality is deeply relational: Cultivating a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, who invites us into a transformative journey of faith. This relationship is nurtured through prayer, worship, and the study of Scripture, allowing us to grow closer to God and understand His will for our lives. But how are we going in our relationship with God? How do we experience God? Do you find it difficult to pray? Do you wonder if God even hears you? Do you feel like God is ‘out there somewhere' but that you don't really have a ‘relationship' with Him? You're not alone. In fact, this is the experience of many who commit to the way of Jesus. What does it really mean to ‘have a relationship' with God? What are the things that get in the way of cultivating this relationship? In this episode we explore these questions and provide a perspective to encourage you on your lifelong spiritual journey.

Practical application as we consider all the issues, policy and idealogy, when it comes to making a decision on not only how to vote, but how to engage in conversation around these difficult issues.. It's complex, but we must engage.

The church must set the example of unity, respect, and love. Our witness to the gospel depends on it. Our spiritual enemy knows that if he can divide and distract us with bitter conflict over matters like politics, he can hinder our mission to share the gospel. Conversely, if we demonstrate Christian unity, he knows our testimony will be difficult to refute. Know what you believe and why you believe it. Seek to understand where others are coming from (especially if they don't agree with you). “Let love be your highest goal!” (1 Corinthians 14:1 NLT) History has shown us that when the church becomes too entangled with political powerit can lead to corruption and the distortion of the gospel message. We must approach political engagement with humility and discernment, always prioritizing our allegiance to Christ above any political ideology. Strive to be a voice for the voiceless, advocate for policies that reflect our values, and approach political engagement with humility and discernment. By doing so, we can contribute to a society that reflects the love and grace of Jesus Christ, ultimately bringing glory to God.

Demons represent the forces of evil that oppose God's goodness and seek to lead people astray. They are often seen as fallen angels who rebelled against God. The Bible portrays a spectrum of demonic influence, from subtle temptations (footholds that can then become strongholds) to overt possession. Jesus' approach to demons was marked by authority and compassion. He consistently confronted and expelled them, demonstrating His power over evil and His commitment to liberating individuals from spiritual bondage. His interactions emphasized the importance of faith, prayer, and the recognition of God's ultimate authority over all forms of evil. This narrative underscores the Christian belief in the ongoing spiritual battle and the hope of deliverance through Jesus Christ. Therefore put on the full armour of God.

Welcome to this secound episode in a series, where we continue to delve into the enigmatic realm of demons and the demonic as seen in the Bible. We review the numerous accounts of Jesus confronting and casting out demons, shedding light on the spiritual battles detailed in the New Testament and also how these originated and are seen in the Old Testament. In this episode we begin to look at the spectrum of demonic activity and influence - from foothold to stronghold - from oppression to possession.

Welcome to this first episode in a series, where we will delve into the enigmatic realm of demons and the demonic as seen in the Bible. We'll explore the numerous accounts of Jesus confronting and casting out demons, shedding light on the spiritual battles detailed in the New Testament and also how these originated and are seen in the Old Testament. Join us as we seek to understand the historical and theological context of these encounters and what they reveal about the power and authority of Jesus and our faith in Him.

The desire to safeguard what one holds dear is a natural human instinct. It is a human impulse to want to protect what's sacred to you. Christians will encounter ridicule and persecution; Jesus told us as much. While it's valid to feel offended by mockery, it's important to be cautious before claiming to represent divine offence. The Gospels do not depict Jesus as angry or offended towards sinners for their sins; instead, his offence and anger is reserved for those who failed to live up to their professed righteousness. We see through the Gospels that the things that upset Jesus the most were: Hardness of heart (Mark 3:1–5) Selfish ambition (Mark 8:31–38) Spiritual arrogance (Luke 9:51–55) Self-centeredness (Matthew 23:10–12) Hypocrisy and fake religiosity (Luke 11:37–54) Before we take umbrage on behalf of God, it's wise to reflect on the numerous ways we each fall short of God's optimal plan for our lives. This introspection will help us understand and align our actions more closely with the values and teachings of Jesus, the very thing we hold sacred.

The question of the purpose of life on earth in light of Near-Death Experiences (NDEs) is indeed profound and thought-provoking. From a Christian perspective, NDEs are seen as affirming several key theological concepts, such as the survival of consciousness after physical death, the existence of a supernatural realm, and the presence of a supreme being of unfathomable love. However, the purpose of life on earth remains significant.

For both Christianity and atheism, with the growing verifiable data gathered from millions of 'near death experiences' (NDE) something fundamental and non-negotiable appears to be at stake. Yet only atheism need fear NDEs. The more evidence that accumulates and the more it is corroborated, the stronger the case that human consciousness survives bodily death, permanently weakening the atheistic position. For Christianity, by contrast, the more evidence that accumulates and the more it is corroborated, the stronger the case for the pillars of the faith. As this evidence becomes more robust with each decade and with each life-saving advance, it may be increasingly difficult to escape the conclusion that some NDEs do indeed reflect reality. If so, thoughtful examination of near-death experiences will deepen, not destabilise, Christian theology.

Near-death experiences (NDEs) are profound experiences that occur to people who are on the brink of death or who have suffered a severe trauma where death is imminent. In many cases, these people are pronounced dead. These experiences often involve a variety of sensory and emotional elements, such as seeing a bright light, feeling a sense of peace and detachment from the body, moving through a tunnel, or having a life review. Some individuals report encounters with deceased loved ones or spiritual beings. Research into NDEs seeks to understand the patterns and themes of these experiences, as well as their long-lasting effects on individuals' attitudes towards life and death. How do these verifiable experiences align with what the Bible teaches and, as a Christian, how and why should we engage with this topic? Books Referenced Life After Life – Raymond Moody https://amzn.asia/d/07ANqwVR After - Bruce Greyson https://amzn.asia/d/07ANqwVR Imagine Heaven - John Burke https://amzn.asia/d/07ANqwVR Heaven is Real – Todd Burpo https://amzn.asia/d/07ANqwVR

Though Christian faith and doctrine often transcend our finite human comprehension, they are not irrational or void of any ‘reason'. Faith provides the foundation for belief, while reason offers a tool for understanding and articulating that belief. Faith is foundational to reason and reason can serve to confirm faith – but faith can not be gained through 'reason'. The tension between faith and reason is not a simple dichotomy but a complex interplay.

There are things that everyone knows about God. These things can be known through 'general revelation' things that everyone can see, feel and experience and do not rely on 'special revelation' such as the Bible. The reality of how we all live and experience our lives reveals God, if we only choose to notice.

If we are to open our minds and hearts to the mystery, awe and wonder of God, how can we know that the path we are on is the 'true' path? How can we discern the truth - not just 'our' truth? More importantly, what is the 'truth' pointing to?

When it comes to knowing, our culture holds us to the “defective default,” a mode of thinking that treats knowledge simply as information. This default mode excludes most of the ways we know in our day-to-day lives. Think about all the important things you know – say about how you feel about your family or loved ones. This knowledge doesn't come from ‘data' or ‘information' but from experience and relationship. If we stay trapped by the cultural norm that knowledge equals information, we exclude things like belief, values, emotion, application, and imagination, in short many of things that it means to be human. How can we be free from the culture trap where we can only ‘know', if it can be reasoned through the application of logic and critical thinking, data and information? We have leaned so heavily on facts, proofs, arguments, presuppositions, on tactics and techniques, that we have forgotten the simple encouragement of Jesus—“Come and you will see” Longing to Know - Esther Lightcap Meek. https://amzn.asia/d/3yal3XW

As we delve deeper into our discussion, we explore the intricate interplay between the brain's hemispheres and their profound impact on our existence. The symbiotic relationship between the methodical, logical left hemisphere and the holistic, intuitive right hemisphere informs our perceptions, influences culture, and deepens spiritual consciousness. The predominance of 'left-brain' oriented thinking in Western society may lead to a diminished richness in life, as it often neglects the subtle yet profound connections that weave through our lives and relationships. To fully embrace the divine, a shift in thought is imperative, moving from a reliance on tangible proof to embracing a sense of wonder and reverence that transcends empirical evidence. In this episode we reference the follwoing books: The Divided Brain and the Search for Meaning Iain McGilchrist The Master & His Emissary Iain McGilchrist The Anxious Generation Jonathan Haidt The Surprising Revival in the Belief of God Justin Brierley

Renowned psychiatrist, neurologist and philosopher Iain McGilchrist's exploration of the left and right hemispheres of the brain, argues that the left hemisphere tends to reduce the idea of the divine into a rational, abstract concept, often associated with rules, doctrines, and dogmas. This reductionist view can lead to a mechanistic understanding of the divine, devoid of the richness and depth that spirituality often entails. McGilchrist suggests that when the left hemisphere dominates, it can lead to a shallow, overly structured understanding of God, characterized by rigid beliefs and divisions. This can result in religious fundamentalism or atheism, both of which he sees as products of an imbalanced approach to spirituality. On the other hand, when the right hemisphere is nurtured and valued, individuals can experience a more profound connection with the divine. This connection is characterized by a sense of unity, empathy, and reverence for the mysteries of existence. In this episode we discuss McGilchrist's work and consider the importance of integrating both hemispheres in our understanding of God and spirituality. We discuss how it's important to honour both the rational and the intuitive, recognizing the limitations of language and embracing the richness of lived experience. By doing so, we can cultivate a deeper, more authentic relationship with God, one that transcends the confines of rigid dogma and opens up to the vastness of a relationship with Him. REFERENCES: Iain McGilchrist https://channelmcgilchrist.com/ Oliver Sacks https://www.oliversacks.com/ The Master and His Emissary https://channelmcgilchrist.com/master-and-his-emissary/ How to Change Your Mind [Netflix] https://www.netflix.com/au/title/80229847

By prioritizing face-to-face interaction, promoting authenticity and vulnerability, encouraging mindful use of technology, implementing community building initiatives, cultivating empathy and compassion, and embracing diversity and inclusion, the church can be a powerful antidote to the growing global social isolation. Rather than instrumentalising relationships or taking the easy option of engaging with those with whom we find it easy or convenient to do so, we need to re-elevate the sacredness of every person. It will cost us something. It should cost us something. The question is are we willing to pay the price to be the church God calls us to be, the light in an increasingly dark world.

The way God wants us to live is perhaps never been more polarised against where the world is heading. That distinction is our opportunity, the opportunity for the church, to be the light on the hill. Maybe it's never been as great as it is now.

Amidst the celebration of digital connectivity, concerns about its unintended consequences have emerged and are increasingly acknowledged. We've seen a significant rise in social isolation stemming from excessive screen time and reliance on virtual interactions. Research indicates that despite the illusion of constant connection afforded by social media, rates of loneliness and feelings of disconnection have surged in recent years – to the point that it's a major societal challenge. We increasingly hear warnings about the pervasive nature of technology, its role in fragmenting attention spans, eroding privacy boundaries, and exacerbating feelings of social comparison and inadequacy. There's a massive opportunity for the church to counter this culture and demonstrate a different kind of community. Will we seize this opportunity? What might it cost us?

In an era where technology permeates every aspect of daily life, the discussion around its impact on human relationships and social isolation has become increasingly pertinent. At the heart of this debate lies a paradox: while we are more connected than ever through digital means, many argue that we are simultaneously more disconnected on a personal level. There are undeniable benefits that technology has brought to interpersonal communication. Platforms like social media, messaging apps, and video calls have allowed people to stay connected across vast distances, fostering relationships that might otherwise have been impossible. Furthermore, the accessibility of information and resources online has facilitated the sharing of experiences and knowledge, enriching human interactions in previously unimaginable ways. However, concerns about the darker side of technology's influence emerge. One of the primary issues highlighted is the phenomenon of social isolation stemming from excessive reliance on digital communication. While individuals may have hundreds or even thousands of online "friends" or followers, studies suggest that this virtual connectivity often fails to fulfill the deeper human need for genuine connection and intimacy. Instead, it can lead to feelings of loneliness, alienation, and a sense of inadequacy as people compare their lives to carefully curated online personas. While there is consensus that digital connectivity offers unprecedented opportunities for communication and collaboration, there is also a shared recognition of the importance of nurturing authentic connections offline. Strategies such as setting boundaries around technology use, practicing mindfulness, and prioritizing face-to-face interactions are proposed as ways to mitigate the negative effects of social isolation in an increasingly connected world. As Christians, how can we respond and model authentic, intimate relationship - as we were created to be.

The rate of change in society driven by numerous technology factors is significant. With the proliferation of AI converging with other technological advances such as genetic engineering and quantum computing, the speed of change we will see over the next decade is of the scale that most of us won't comprehend. Although there are plenty of reasons to be fearful as the world changes so radically, our Christian worldview isn't changing. It's so important we don't find our self-worth, security and significance in this world. This isn't our destination. Books Mentioned in this PodCast. Life 3.0 - Max Tegmark The Coming Wave - Mustafa Suleyman, Michael Bhaskar Brave New World - Aldous Huxley

How can Christians respond to questions about the historical accuracy and reliability of the Bible in an age of skepticism and scientific discovery? It's probably no surprise that the Bible is the most popular book of all time, with at least 100 million Bibles being sold or gifted every single year. Join us for a great discussion where we are reminded about what the Bible is and is not and how, as Christians, we can have confidence that Scripture is the lamp for our feet and the light for our path. During the PodCast we reference the YouTube Channel - Inspiring Philosophy.

Confidence in Convictions, Humility in Delivery Balancing confidence and humility is indeed a challenge, but it's a key aspect of embodying the paradoxical mindset seen in early Christianity. Seek Understanding Before Being Understood: Approach conversations with a genuine desire to understand others' perspectives. This shows humility and respect, even if you maintain confidence in your own beliefs. Open-mindedness Without Compromising Core Values: Maintain an open mind and a willingness to learn from others. This doesn't mean compromising your core values but being open to different perspectives can foster humility. Embrace Intellectual Humility: Acknowledge that your understanding may not be exhaustive, and there is always room for growth. Intellectual humility allows for a confident yet humble engagement with differing opinions. Choose Words Wisely: Use language that reflects confidence without being dismissive or arrogant. Avoid absolutist statements and express your opinions as beliefs open to discussion. Model Graceful Disagreement: Demonstrate how to disagree gracefully. Disagreements can be respectful and constructive rather than combative. This reflects both confidence in your beliefs and humility in your approach. Share Personal Growth Experiences: Communicate instances where you've grown or changed your perspective. This vulnerability demonstrates humility and a willingness to learn, even when confident in your beliefs. Build Bridges, Not Walls: Focus on building bridges of understanding rather than constructing walls of division. Referenced Resources from this episode: Biblical Critical Theory - Christopher Watkins Bishop Barron

In this episode of Thrive Perspectives we delve into the realm of defending and understanding our faith without losing the essence of belief. In a world often consumed by the demand for empirical evidence, join us as we discuss the importance of apologetics— not as a quest for tangible proof but as a guide to a deeper connection with the divine. We seek to unravel the threads of apologetics, revealing how it serves as a compass in a skeptical world but without losing sight of the spiritual journey. How do we share our faith, or engage in meanignful debate with those who are not yet believers, without trying to explain our faith and God as if from the 'outside'.

Explaining or even trying to understand God and spiritual mysteries or experiences through language faces inherent limitations due to the nature of both language and spirituality. Language is a ‘closed system' and faith, spirituality and the mystery of God is an ‘open system'. Language is bound by the constraints of time and space, whereas faith and spiritual experiences involve a sense of timelessness and connection beyond physical boundaries. Trying to describe such experiences using language is simply not always possible or may distort the true essence of the mystery of God. Metaphors and allegories become important tools for expressing the inexpressible.

How do we ensure that we prioritise unity within the church in a culture where people have such strong opinions? Focus on Core Beliefs By focusing on shared beliefs in the core teachings of Christianity, we can find common ground despite differences in peripheral opinions. Biblical Principles Reflect on passages that emphasise love, humility, and forgiveness as principles to guide interactions with others who hold different opinions. Respectful Dialogue Engage in respectful and open dialogue. This involves actively listening to others, expressing opinions with humility, and being open to different perspectives. Constructive conversations can contribute to a culture of understanding. Cultural Sensitivity Recognise and respect cultural differences understanding that people may have diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Seek to foster empathy and unity. Ultimately, we should seek to nurture an environment where love, understanding, and shared faith outweigh differences in opinion.

Just some of the listener questions we endeavour to discuss in this episode: What do you mean when you say God grasps us, rather than us trying to hold on to God? Especially when I feel like I'm only just holding on. I've been discouraged watching others who I thought had a strong faith in God de-church or deconstruct. Did God get it wrong and not show up? Where does it leave them - they seem happy / fulfilled in their decision. How much can you doubt God and still be saved? Surely doubt and faith are pulling in different directions? I even feel angry with God for allowing me to go round in circles of doubt.

Relationship with God: Prayer should be seen as a means of developing and deepening our personal relationship with God. It allows us to communicate with God, express our thoughts, emotions, and desires, and seek intimacy with the divine. Submission and Alignment: Prayer can be an act of surrender and submission to God's will. It is an acknowledgment that God's plan is perfect and that we are seeking to align our own desires and intentions with God's perfect purpose. Seeking Guidance: We turn to prayer when seeking guidance, wisdom, or discernment in making important decisions. Through prayer, God can provide insights and direction in our lives. Intercession: Prayer also plays a role in interceding for others. We can pray on behalf of those who are suffering, in need, or facing challenges. God can respond to these intercessory prayers by providing comfort, healing, or assistance to those in need. Gratitude and Thanksgiving: Prayer is an opportunity to express gratitude and thanksgiving to God for the blessings and provisions in our lives. Personal Transformation: We should view prayer as a means of personal transformation. Through prayer, we can seek forgiveness, experience spiritual growth, and cultivate virtues such as patience, humility, and love. Partnership with God: While God has a perfect plan, we should see prayer as a way to partner with God in the realisation of His plan. God invites our cooperation and participation in His work on Earth.

In a Christian worldview, prosperity should be seen as a multifaceted concept that extends beyond mere financial wealth. True prosperity, in the Christian view, includes a deep and abiding relationship with God. It involves a sense of spiritual fulfillment, peace, and a strong faith in God. It's about seeking first the Kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33). Prosperity in a Christian worldview involves healthy and loving relationships with family, friends, and the broader community. It is about practicing the love and compassion taught by Jesus, which is often summarized as loving one's neighbour as oneself (Matthew 22:39). Christians are encouraged to be generous and to share their resources with those in need. Prosperity is often connected to the idea of giving to others and helping those who are less fortunate. The Bible teaches the value of contentment, which means being satisfied with what one has rather than constantly pursuing material wealth. The Apostle Paul said, "I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances" (Philippians 4:11). Humility is a significant aspect of Christian prosperity. It involves recognizing one's dependence on God and not becoming prideful or self-centered. Christians will find prosperity in serving others and living out their God-given purpose. This includes using one's talents and resources to make a positive impact on the world. Prosperity in the Christian worldview is closely linked to the concept of stewardship, which means responsible management of the resources and talents that God has entrusted to each of us. As Christians we believe in the hope of eternal life with God. This hope can bring a sense of enduring prosperity, even in the face of temporal challenges.

What is God's purpose for my life? What informs my values and beliefs? Consult Scripture. What passions and talents has God given you? Allow time to reflect and discern. Be open to change. Learn from your experiences. Accept that you might not always have clarity. If you continue to seek God and live in relationship with Him, then nothing - no wrong decision you make - can thwart the purpose of God for your life.

Is faith a 2nd rate kind of knowledge? Or even just blind belief? How do we find God in the ordinary? What do we do in the dry periods where it seems that God is distant? There's an opportunity for us to 'reach' for God, when we perhaps feel that He's not 'reaching' into our lives. In fact He's never distant. He's constant, and we can learn to recognise God at work, in our 'every-day'.

Feeling like God is distant or not present in your life at times is a common experience for many people, including those who have a strong faith. But God isn't ‘out-there-somewhere'. God is all around us, much like the air that we breathe, which we don't notice, because it's always there! Faith is not solely based on feelings. It's about trust and commitment, about making a decision about what you will build your life on, even in times of doubt. Many people find that their faith grows stronger and deeper through these periods of challenge and uncertainty, but that doesn't make it easy. Recognising that God is not something or somebody we can ‘control' but is far outside our ability to comprehend. God is much bigger, in every way, than we imagine. Relationship with God is not like any human relationship. God's focus with us is on growth, not comfort, but that's hard to accept when we just want God to ‘show-up' and make us feel ‘something'.

How do we KNOW? For many outside a faith context, things can only be known and are only considered real, if we can identify empirical evidence of their existence. This perspective asserts that only those things that can be observed, measured, and tested through the senses or empirical methods are worthy of consideration as real. Our need to 'be in control' - the god complex - make this and attractive perpective to our human nature. However, this presupposition is flawed. Human perception and interpretation of reality are subjective and influenced by various factors, including cultural biases, individual experiences, and cognitive limitations. Concepts like love, justice, and consciousness, for example, cannot be empirically quantified, but they are considered integral aspects of human experience and reality. From a Christian worldview perspective, the existence of God is understood and affirmed through various philosophical, theological, experiential, and scriptural arguments. Belief in the existence of God is fundamentally a matter of faith, but that does not necessarily mean ‘blind faith'. There is a ‘reasonable-ness' to the foundation of our faith and our knowledge of God. The unique characteristic of the Christian worldview, includes belief in the supernatural, the importance of faith, historical events, personal experiences, and non-empirical dimensions of reality. While empirical evidence is valuable in certain contexts, it does not have the exclusive rights to knowledge and truth.

Engaging with people from different religious backgrounds requires understanding, respect, and effective communication. Using common "bridges" can help facilitate meaningful conversations and build connections. Although we know that Jesus is the only way to true reconciliation with God and freedom in Him, it's important that we find areas of shared ‘truth' to build bridges where we can share our experience of God and His incredible gift of salvation through Christ.

Within a Christian worldview, there is an ongoing tension between the need for doctrines to provide a solid theological foundation and the recognition that many aspects of God and divine truth are mysterious and unknowable. To strike a balance: 1. Humility: Christians should approach their doctrinal beliefs with humility, acknowledging the limitations of human understanding and being open to the mystery of God's nature. 2. Faith and Trust: Emphasise the importance of faith and trust in God's character and promises, even in the face of unresolved mysteries and paradoxes. 3. Pursuit of Truth: Seek to understand and articulate doctrinal beliefs while being aware of the complexity of divine truths and avoiding dogmatism or rigidity. 4. Embrace Mystery: Embrace the mystery as an essential part of the divine reality and be open to encountering God in ways that go beyond rational comprehension. Doctrine provides a framework for understanding essential theological truths within a Christian worldview, but it must be acknowledged that many aspects of God and divine truth transcend human understanding. Embracing both doctrine and mystery with humility and faith allows for a richer and more profound Christian spirituality.

Jesus IS the answer: Salvation and Forgiveness Love and Compassion Hope and Purpose Healing and Restoration Justice and Redemption

According to the Bible, all human beings are considered to have a sinful nature due to the fall of humanity in the Garden of Eden. This means that everyone is capable of both good and bad actions. Romans 3:23 states, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." From this perspective, no one is inherently a "good guy" in an absolute sense. And moreover, we are equally capable of being the “bad guy”. Nevertheless, the Bible also offers the message of redemption and the potential for transformation. It teaches that through repentance, forgiveness, and faith in God's grace, individuals can experience reconciliation and be empowered to live in alignment with God's standards of righteousness. Ultimately, the biblical perspective recognises the fallen nature of all of humanity, our propensity to be “bad” along with the gift of redemption, and the importance of aligning one's actions and attitudes with God's teachings to pursue righteousness. It offers a framework for understanding judgment in light of God's character and commands rather than solely relying on our own flawed human evaluation where we see the "good guys" versus "bad guys."