Category: Religion

Introduction

Paul has made it evident that any association with idols is associated with demons. Nobody can follow Christ and serve devils at the same time. Paul poses two reasons-based queries in the discussed passage. Paul directly inquires whether we desire to arouse the Lords enmity. The Bible is replete with references to God being jealous of His peoples fidelity, and these lines emphasize this idea about the intolerance of Christianity to sins.¹ That attitude is entirely reasonable in the context of a being who is genuinely the omnipotent, omnipresent, and wise Creator of the universe. It allows one to state that Paul wants to warn and remind the Corinthians of Gods wrath and intolerance of human sins. Thesis: The theological claim is that Satan and his demons use three key methods for human destruction, which include ignorance, sexual immorality, and the lack of faith.

Ignorance

It is important to note that knowledge of truth is the only source of power for a human being, which is a prerequisite for building faith. Demons heavily rely on the ignorance of people to deceive them through the obstruction of truth to enable demon worship. Prophets before Jesus were not always individuals of immense physical strengths, political power, or supernatural abilities but people of knowledge and truth. The Son of God himself spread the Word of God, living an earthly life among the poor and vulnerable. This means that Satan needs to make people ignorant as a top priority in order to subjugate humanity. It is written in Pauls letter to the Corinthians:

For I do not want you to be ignorant of the fact, brothers and sisters, that our ancestors were all under the cloud and that they all passed through the sea. They were all baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea. They all ate the same spiritual food and drank the same spiritual drink; for they drank from the spiritual rock that accompanied them, and that rock was Christ. Nevertheless, God was not pleased with most of them; their bodies were scattered in the wilderness. Now these things occurred as examples to keep us from setting our hearts on evil things as they did.²

These Bible lines narrate the people of Israels history to show that truth rests with God only, and it is the most important weapon one can hold against His enemies. It describes the nations route to escape from slavery and the emphasis on the divine assistance they received because otherwise, they would not be able to cope with the hardship they experienced. Remarkably, they could use Gods help because they were delivered from sin, just as Christians do. They were granted the most significant privilege a person could receive: the opportunity to share Christs body and blood.

Paul uses historical narration to illustrate to the Corinthians the profits of being faithful Christians. Even though most of them did not please God, as evidenced by the dispersal of their remains throughout the desert, the apostle tried to spread the faith among them.³ Even though they had all participated in the deliverance, been set free from Egyptian slavery, and received the same blessing and the same spiritual food and drink that God had provided to sustain them, the issue is that most of them did not please God. Despite being freed from Egypts enslavement, not all of them could live according to divine laws.

Immorality

Love is one of the most powerful and best emotions a person can experience, and God gifted humanity with different ways to express it between Him and His children, husband and wife, mother and child, friends, and groups. Pauls warning about idols and sexual immorality demonstrates how Gods gifts can be twisted to corrupt love into demon worship and sexual sin. As stated before, ignorance is a tool of Satan to cause corruption of love between a human being and the Creator. Similarly, sexual immorality is an instrument for twisting Gods gift of expressing love between husband and wife.

Thus, this is why sexual immorality was the sin emphasized by Paul. At that time, their adversaries lured them with ladies, and thousands of them fell victim to these womens traps. They were freed from servitude and were traveling to the promised land. God was directing them, and they felt Gods presence every day, mainly when Moses talked to them to inspire them to continue being obedient to God. Their lifestyles were as sinful as the Egyptians when they were held as enslaved people in Egypt. But once God set them free, God asked them to be holy people who would always represent Gods character and will. They were to serve as lights for Gods kindness and love to all of the world.

However, adversaries dispatched their ladies among them to deal with them as they pleased. Modern civilization is not all that different from the old one, and sexuality is a huge concern. God views sexual immorality as a grave sin, and people should rebuff those pressures. They ought to be watchful to recognize when the temptation is close by and to flee from it, but they did not do it.⁴ They caved up to what they had previously refused.

Women are just as susceptible to sexual temptation as males. Falling is one thing for individuals who do not have a God. But a Christian ought to behave differently. They should see sexual immorality as a snake waiting to pounce. Even Christians sometimes fall prey to temptation. Yet, people possess something that others do not  a Savior who has promised to help them resist temptations and to send us His Holy Spirit. That Christ performs for us and in us what we cannot achieve is terrific news for Christians. God has made this promise, and he keeps every promise he makes.

Faith

Faith is the backbone of the human soul, mental well-being, and psychology. Demons need to corrupt ones faith because such an individual is fearful, and fear is easier to manipulate and control. A person with a strong faith in God has no fear, anxiety, or distress about what is coming ahead of him since he has no doubt in his Creators divine justice and promise. A disbeliever has no hope for tomorrow since the world is chaos for him, and he has fear because he does not know what the future holds. Faith can save people from cruel destiny, and their pious behavior can help them receive pardon and achieve salvation from God.

Though, nothing could protect the sinners from Gods wrath when they disobeyed him, as the excerpt from the Corinthians states. Paul adds that the dead peoples remains were dispersed around the desert.⁵ The apostles words reflect the wisdom that Christians might use to find guidance in their lives. It means that God has compassion and mercy that have freed people from the grip of sin and death, but he cannot tolerate sins, especially when the person sins consciously. In the life of freedom that God has graciously given humans, they should seek ways to please God. Another moral lesson from the Corinthians is that people should be filled with awe and terror of Gods wrath. Thus, Gods immense kindness toward humanity and the redemption he provided for people through his son is not the only thing the faithful should consider.

It is crucial to recognize the first justification Paul offers for retelling the tale of what transpired to the Israelites when they made their way to the Promised Land. Again, the apostle states in verse 6 that these events occurred as examples to dissuade us from putting our hearts on bad things as they did.⁶ Generally, this situation was bizarre and incomprehensible because after being freed from life in servitude, they turned their hearts away from God and His will in favor of sin. Setting the thoughts on heavenly things rather than earthly ones is what God desires of every Christian.

Conclusion

Paul shows that Satan and his demons use three key methods for human destruction, which include ignorance, sexual immorality, and lack of faith. By a miracle, they were guided through the Red Sea, where the pursuing Egyptians perished in the water. They saw it as an ordinary baptism. The manna they consumed was a parable of Christs suffering and death as the True Bread from Heaven, which those who eat will live forever. Christ is the cornerstone upon which the Christian church is erected, and all Christians are refreshed by drinking from the streams that flow from him. It served as a metaphor for the sanctifying powers of the Holy Spirit, which believers receive through Christ.

Footnotes

• 1 Joel B. Green, and Lee Martin McDonald, The World of the New Testament: Cultural, Social, and Historical Contexts (Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2013), n.p. Kindle ed.
• 2 King James Version, 1969/2017, 1 Corinthians 10:1-6.
• 3 Joel B. Green, and Lee Martin McDonald, The World of the New Testament: Cultural, Social, and Historical Contexts (Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2013), n.p. Kindle ed.
• 4. Joel B. Green, and Lee Martin McDonald, The World of the New Testament: Cultural, Social, and Historical Contexts (Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2013), n.p. Kindle ed.
• 5 King James Version, 1969/2017, 1 Corinthians 10:1-6.
• 6 King James Version, 1969/2017, 1 Corinthians 10:1-6.

Throughout the course of history, some individuals have actively engaged in doing things that have made a huge impact to our collective human history. From Jesus Christ to Adolf Hitler, these individuals have inspired the thoughts of many, leaving an indelible mark on the world stage.

Undoubtedly, these individuals have utilized all kinds of means  good or bad  in their pursuit to influence the masses and transform their way of thinking (Farrell, 2001 p. 32). It is the purpose of this essay to critically analyze Sayyid Qutb, Mohammed ibn Abd al Wahhab and John Wesley in the context of reformers, revolutionaries and reactionaries.

Sayyid Qutb represent the most mistaken and evil position. Due to his fundamentalism, Qutb can easily pass as the ideological grandfather of Osama bin Laden and other extremists who surround him (Cline, 2009 p. 1). Indeed, many analysts believe that Qutbs works and teachings as a poet, author and educator helped shape terrorist organizations such as the Taliban and Al Qaeda. These networks have continued to destabilize the world peace to date.

Although Sayyids political views seems rather mature, his philosophy and radicalism is largely responsible for espousing the concept of Jihad and the enactment of Sharia law that is viewed as dictatorial. Indeed, he is to blame for contemporary offensive jihad. He wanted to revolutionalize Islam by incorporating every aspect of life into the religion (Cline, 2009 p. 2).

Each of the three men cherished different hopes for the future. Clearly a fundamentalist, Sayyid Qutb would have cherished to see a world where there were no governments or secular laws since they interfered with the sovereignty of God (Cline, 2009 p. 2). In short, he cherished a world where Sharia law will guide every single aspect of life of Muslims. He was anti-modernist and anti-reformist, and detested democracy despite its mention and practice in the Quranic institution.

Mohammed ibn Abd al Wahhab, considered by many as the chief architect of Wahhabism, would have cherished to purify Islam by leading the Muslim faithful towards the original principles and doctrines of Islam (HIF, n.d. para. 12). He propagated reformist ideas, but disliked Muslims who practiced innovation in Islam. In short, Abd al Wahhab would have cherished to see a Muslim society that is free of corrupt beliefs, and that engages in practices which reflects the true fundamentals of Islam.

John Wesley, a Christian theologian and the founder of the Methodist movement, would have cherished to see a Christian society where all faithful possess Christian perfection, signifying the holiness of both heart and life (Tomkins, 2003 p. 32). He wanted to see a Christian community that held the love of God in high esteem. Wesley would also have cherished a just society judging by the fact that he fought for the rights of gays and prisoners.

Of the three men, only John Wesley contributed to the emergence of democracy. Sayyid Qutb propagated dictatorial orientations, and even advocated for the dissolution of governments (Cline, 2009 p. 1). He was a religious fundamentalist who wanted to tie every single aspect of life of individuals to religion through strict Sharia laws.

Indeed, he was finally executed by the Egyptian government due to his hard-line stance on religious and secular matters, and could not stand the secular lifestyle practiced in western countries. Although Abd al Wahhab was a reformist, his democratic orientation was not any different.

He could not stand the sight of his Muslim brothers who chose to practice an alternative form of Islam known as innovative Islam, preferring to call them infidels (HIF, n.d. para. 15). However, John Wesley clearly contributed to the emergence of democracy. First, he was viewed as controversial when he went public advocating for the rights of gay members of society (Tomkins, 2003 p. 34).

Although homosexual behavior is largely viewed as unchristian, the Anglican cleric went ahead to advocate for their rights in accordance to democratic principles.

He went further to advocate for prison reforms in the United Kingdom. John Wesley was a true champion of the rights and freedoms of the people as he went further to advocate for the rights of abolitionism movements (Tomkins, 2003 p. 39). Contextually, Wesley did not despise sinners or unbelievers the way Qutb and Abd al Wahhab did, but welcomed them into the kingdom of God with open arms.

John Wesleys contribution to democracy was unintended in as far as the available literature seems to suggest. His was a spiritual vocation that was practiced in a democratic and open approach rather than a democratic calling practiced in a spiritual approach. Wesley greatly assisted in the formation and organization of Christian communities in the UK for evangelical and discipleship purposes (Tomkins, 2003 p. 23).

However, according to available literature, the Anglican cleric was a greatly gifted individual who advocated for equal rights of all people, including gays. Democratic principles advocates for the guaranteeing of the rights of majority while ensuring that the rights of the minority are safeguarded (Chalfant, 1997 p. 128). This is what the cleric did albeit unknowingly.

All in all, the three men had their personal and religious convictions, beliefs and philosophies that galvanized them to their followers. The impact of their religious teachings is still felt today, with Jihads and terrorist networks clearly following the teachings of Sayyid Qutb and contemporary Methodists following the teachings and religious doctrines of John Wesley. Wahabism is also a way of life for many Muslims around the world today. However, only John Wesley practiced and contributed to the emergence of democracy.

List of References

Chalfant, J. (1997) Abandonment Theology. Hartline Marketing. Web.

Cline, A. (2009) Sayyid Qutb: Father of Modern Islamic Extremism. Web.

Farrell, W. (2001) The Myth of Male Power. Berkley Trade. Web.

Hidaayah Islamic Foundation. (n.d.) Wahabism Exposed: Sheikh Muhammad ibn Abd al Wahhab. Web.

Tomkins, S. (2003) John Wesley: A Biography. Michigan: WM. B. Eardmans Publishing. Web.

Introduction

There has existed a rift between science and religion since times of antiquity. Whereas some view science as an eye-opener to the existence of several things in the world, others feel that science has rendered God non-existent. In this view, most scientific discoveries have been rendered inconsistent with various religious teachings (Clayton 58). Similarly, the people responsible for such discoveries faced harsh criticism during their times.

Several scientists received a mixed set of reactions for their contributions to science. This paper examines how science and religion influence each other in regards to past scientific discoveries. The scientific and religious contributions of Albert Einstein, Isaac Newton, and Charles Darwin are discussed.

Isaac Newton, Science, and Religion

Isaac Newton remains one of the most important scientists of the 17th century (Clayton 58). He discovered the force of gravity, the laws of motion, and infinitesimal calculus. It is important to note that he regarded himself as a servant of God. Through him, God was manifesting the truths of nature to humankind. Newton considered Gods presence vital in his scientific discoveries. He was considered a Unitarian as far as his Christian life was concerned.

Newton was deeply religious and linked all the discoveries to his Christian religion. Initially, Newton argued that the universe was static. However, the Islamic view is that the world is dynamic. Newtons position about the world has been challenged in subsequent scientific discoveries. In fact, it has been established that the universe is indeed dynamic (Bowler 108).

Newtons work led to cultural scientific enthusiasm as he tried to convince the people about his discoveries. Consequently, some scholars such as Edmund Halley supported Newtons view about God. They both shared the view that no man was close to God. Others still confirmed that Newtons work was all-important for people to understand the universe. The fact that Newton was a religious scientist made it possible for him to make more friends than enemies in his scientific discoveries (Bowler 109).

Most people asserted that no other person could be compared to Newton because his works were already comprehensive enough. Newton argued that God created us people to explore our academic knowledge. In his view, no person was created to be ignorant.

The design of the universe was a clear attestation that God exists. The freedom and wisdom posited by human beings demonstrate how Christianity and science blend with each other. In his discoveries, he asserted that God was in control of all velocities that avoided gravitational collapse. God was existent because no amount of scientific intervention could change these velocities. The fact that Newton wrote many religious books is a clear attestation that he was deeply religious (Clayton 60).

Charles Darwin, Science and Religion

Charles Darwin is famous for two major theories; the Law of Natural Selection and the Origin of Species. He became concerned with how species came into existence after Gods creation. His scientific findings were not readily accepted by those who were deep in religion. He asserted that the universe was undergoing some evolution responsible for the disappearance and emergence of different species (Ruse 77). The fact that Christians believe that God is the genesis of all animal and plant species put Darwins theories on the spot. Christians could not be convinced that evolution was responsible for their existence.

The controversy became rampant in the 19th century and is still present today. Similarly, the law of natural selection was greatly opposed. The law claims that stronger species manage to dominate because they are able to adapt quickly. Theologians who contend that God created human beings in His own likeness were opposed to Darwins scientific theories. Despite this strong opposition from Christians, Darwin was able to convince some atheists about his theories.

It is important to note that Darwin initially wanted to become a clergyman. It is, however, unclear what made him change his mind and become interested in biology. It is presumed that the death of her daughter in 1851, made him develop a critical mind in regards to Gods creation (Ruse 78).

Whereas most atheists claim that Darwins biological theories are to blame for their states, Christians have constantly argued over the validity of these theories. Consequently, it is clear that though Darwin believed in the existence of God, his theories are divisive in the religious context. The fact that his theories have become a symbol of secular and liberalizing values in most religions is evident. Darwins theories are viewed as efforts to nullify Gods creation and existence (Hodge 80).

Albert Einstein, Religion and Science

Einstein was a renowned philosopher, socialist, and Zionist. His opinions found application in every field. Misunderstandings were therefore inevitable. He was clear on how his theory of relativity impacted religion, morality, and ethics. His scientific teachings were not consistent with peoples expectations. However, everybody wanted to be associated with him. A typical incident where he failed to respond to a letter is a good example. In this view, he was considered a communist and later reported to the FBI (Bowler 110).

The belief that God existed was not shared by Einstein. In his famous saying; God does not play dice, Einstein criticized the existence of God. In one of his lectures, he claimed, Subtle is the Lord, but malicious he is not, This response came at a time when a student challenged his work. The fact that the Lord or God was a metaphor for nature made him use the words interchangeably.

He rejected conventional religion when he was a child. Consequently, he did not believe in prayer. However, his mission in life was consistent with most religious ideals. He claimed that a meaningless life was not worth living. He was opposed to the existence of an immortal soul. In his life, Einstein was opposed to the existence of God. However, he advocated for a life full of goodness, truth, and beauty. He supported the idea that there was a religious reason for the existence for science (Bowler 112).

However, he was opposed to the existence of a personal God. In addition, he believed that there existed no rift between religion and science. The most important thing was to understand the religion in question. Lastly, he claimed that various beliefs breed intolerance. This is because people believe that their religions are true. Consequently, they fail to accommodate the interests of others.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the rift that exists between science and religion is debatable. Whereas some scientists were religious, some never gave religion a serious view. Isaac Newton is viewed as a father of both Physics and religion. He applied his religious attributes to understand his discoveries. Consequently, he was able to advance his discoveries with the support of friends. Charles Darwins theories of evolution brought rifts among religious groups. He renounced Christianity for science. Lastly, Albert Einstein states many views about religion. He contends that religion influences scientific findings. However, his position is that no personal God exists.

Works Cited

Bowler, Peter. Reconciling Science and Religion: The Debate in Early-twentieth-century Britain. Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 2001, pp. 107-114.

Clayton, Philip. The Oxford handbook of religion and science. Oxford : Oxford University Press, 2006. Pp. 56-60.

Hodge, Jonathan. The Cambridge Companion to Darwin. Cambridge, UK: Cambridge University Press, 2002, pp. 78-85.

Ruse, Michael. Can a Darwinian be a Christian? The Relationship between Science and Religion. Cambridge, UK: Cambridge University Press, 2001, pp. 75-80.

Radical social changes that occurred in the late eighteenth century played a significant part in creating the American culture as it is known today. Before the American Revolution, several colonies had laws that strictly limited religious freedom and followed the Anglican Church while restraining the rest (Shi, 214). However, after the event, the support for the pro-British belief system dropped rapidly. Instead, Baptists and Methodists had an opportunity to promote their values freely (Shi, 214). They were permitted to contradict others opinions but could not enforce their own. Moreover, the separation of the church from the government led to the elimination of the official financial support of religious communities, further allowing people to freely choose whom they could follow (Shi, 214). Without tax funds, churches could no longer easily impose their views on others, leading to major changes in Americans spiritual beliefs.

For example, some of the traditional religious views suddenly lost their popularity. One of the primary reasons behind this shift is the focus on the personal freedom of Americans. Shi and Mayers (2019) book provides a clear view of these changes through Thomas Jeffersons Religious Liberty Statute, who wrote how civil rights have no dependence on our religious opinions (p. 113). No single religion was placed above others, as people were free to follow any pastor they deemed fit. In conclusion, religious groups that originated from Britain were no longer officially supported, and Americans were allowed to select and openly proclaim their spiritual beliefs without any persecution.

References

Shi, D. E. (2018). America: A narrative history (11^th ed.). New York, NY: W. W. Norton.

Shi, D. E., & Mayer, H. A. (2019). For the record: A documentary history (7^th ed.). New York, NY: W. W. Norton.

James classification of hypotheses as alive or dead and the types of options used in deciding between alternative hypotheses

A hypothesis can be classified as either alive or dead. According to James (1896), a living hypothesis appears as genuine and possible to the person or scenario to which it has been proposed. On the other hand, if a hypothesis is dead, it will not appear as a real possibility to the given contexts. According to James, the ability to declare a supposition as living or dead relies entirely on the experiences that people have encountered before. James argues that there are three options used in deciding between alternative hypotheses. These include the living option where hypotheses are live and hence real, the forced option, which is a dilemma and hypothesis cannot be avoided, and finally the momentous option, which is the unique option.

Why James does not believe it is rational to suspend the belief about the existence of God and religious matters

James points out that religious beliefs and the existence of God cannot be suspended due to various factors. First, religious beliefs are reinforcing societal ethics that act as life-changing assertions for people to be in control of their lives by taking individual responsibilities for their actions. Secondly, they promote social relations for the coexistence of human beings. Thirdly, religion gives direction to human life. Therefore, suspending belief in Gods existence and religious matters may limit pivotal genuine life-changing choices that human beings make (James, 1896).

James response about the practicality of Cliffords claims about what we are permitted to believe

When Clifford argues that one should not believe what he has no evidence of, James points out that any rule of thought that prevents one from appreciating certain truths, which unquestionably exist is irrational (1896). According to James, one cannot test everything including what is insignificant. When Clifford says that one should not believe in God if he or she does not have sufficient reasons for doing so, James argues that, if people do not believe in God for such a reason, they would end up losing every good thing that comes with religion.

Reference

James, W. (1896). The Will to Believe. Yale and Brown Universities: New World.

Interpretation Based On Secondary Sources

Abraham is a man who was patiently waiting for Gods promise. The promise of a son is given in genesis 12 and scholars indicate that he had to wait for 25 years before the promise was fulfilled by God. As argued by Brown, Fitzmyer and Murphy (21), the eighteenth chapter marks the beginning of a climax in Abrahams narrative. Genesis 18: 1-5 is the first section of a broader picture presented in the whole of genesis 18. This first section focuses on Abraham and his encounter with two men while the rest of the chapter focuses Saras place in relation to the promise they had been given by God.

Although verses 1-5 of Genesis 18 seem to focus on Abrahams generosity, they have a connection to the larger text. These verses seem to be mere introductions to the bigger story beginning from verse 9 onwards (Montgomery, 15). However, on further reflection on the text, interpreting them merely as stage setting or introductory verses proves limited. The generosity expressed by Abraham is typical of the hospitality norm that pervaded Middle East societies (Montgomery, 15). Although it was cultural to be hospitable, Abraham seems to go overboard in his welcome. The lavish attitude towards strangers portrays a man who is keen on not just being culturally right but a blessing to others. Scholars suggest that this has some touch of the promise by God that he would be a blessing to the nations.

The men are three which alludes to the trinity (Montgomery, 9). Whether they are all angels or God is represented in the person of one of them is not clear. What is more crucial to note is that Abraham and Sara do not initially connect the presence of the three men with the presence of God. It is only later that they are able to connect the words of the three men with God. This is a pointer to the larger theological fact that our encounter with God happens in the basic mundane things of daily living. It is in our daily events, activities and encounters that we experience or encounter God.

In the context of the promise they had been given by God, they challenge Abraham and Sara faced was how to continue believing and holding to it in their rather ordinary lives (Montgomery, 13). Nothing out of the ordinary was happening yet in the ordinary they had to recognize and acknowledge Gods sustaining presence and unfailing promise.

The final element worthy considering is the identity of the three men. It is only later that they are defined as angels (Brown, Fitzmyer and Murphy, 20). When Abraham sees them, they are ordinary men who in a way needed Abrahams help. This is also a great pointer that others or fellow men are and should be Gods face to us and among us. Fellow men in essence can be rightly referred to as messengers of God.

Personal Interpretation

Following from my lectio divina exercise and the interpretation given above, it is clear that although the reading falls in the larger picture of the promise to Abraham and how it comes to be fulfilled, the Genesis 18: 1-5 has a lot to teach us about encounter with God.

We live in a socio-cultural atmosphere that questions the presence and promises of God. Personally I think Abraham also had such like a struggle. God had promised him a child. God had promised him that he was to be the father of nations, a blessing to many nations. However, the reality he was living was that of ordinariness.

The passage states that he was sitting outside on a hot sunny day. This gives a picture of a very rough day. Many people would not find a hot sunny day comfortable. This statement must have an allusion to conditions of living. It is an indicator to some rough conditions of life occasioned by the weather. This is an indicator that Abraham lived the ordinary conditions of living that were characterized by struggles and hardship. Abraham meets three ordinary men and treats them with reverence and honor. Although Abraham treats the men impeccably, this also was an ordinary happening based on generally accepted cultural norms.

What is critical is the fact that it is from these ordinary happenings that Abraham experiences an encounter with God. It is, therefore, valid to infer that God comes and has always come to his people in the ordinary happenings or order of daily living. However, to experience and discern Gods presence, one needs a given disposition. The approach of Abraham to the ordinary is characterized respect, humility and honor. He approached the men and with his face touching down welcomed them. Such an approach is only possible or enabled by a given disposition. From the foregoing analysis, it would appear valid to conclude that the major theme of Genesis 18: 1-5 is encountering the mystery of Gods presence in the ordinariness of our lives.

Works Cited

Brown Raymond Edward, Fitzmyer A. Joseph, Murphy, Roland, Edmund. The New Jerome biblical commentary. 3rd Ed. New York: Prentice Hall, 1999

Catholic Online Bible. New Jerusalem bible. Retrieved from https://www.catholic.org/bible/

Montgomery M. Robert. An introduction to source analysis of the Pentateuch. Montreal: Abingdon Press, 2008

Introduction

Religion is an integral part of human life, and it has a long history dating back to the time of primitive people, explaining some phenomena by supernatural forces. It is a system of beliefs, faith in a higher power, rituals, and norm, which can differ depending on religion. Moreover, religions can additionally include traditions and activities bringing people together. Societies should maintain religious and cultural traditions, but they should be open to criticisms and different views.

Views on Religion

The readings provide insight into how religions can be both constructive and destructive, which is the religious framework must be open to different views on it. Researching these aspects of religions shows that they have created artificial boundaries for human development and self-expression and that there is no higher power (Rushdie). It is formulated by the fact that human beings are interested in questions about how they appeared and when they will disappear, however, religion gives vague answers. At the same time, alternative points of view include the idea that religion is not a prison for a person as it does not limit one from choice. An example of destructive side of religion mentioned in the work Imagine There Is No Heaven is actions of religious fanatics, namely suicide bombers. The criticism of this point of view lies in the fact that a murder committed under the influence of religion is an incorrect interpretation of its norms.

Criticism

It is evident that religious beliefs must be criticized to ensure that they only benefit society instead of being a cause of division and hate. Some critical views of religion emphasize the negative impact of tradition on society. For example, in the work Lottery, the author uses the symbol of the black box to show the destructive contribution of traditions to modern society (Jackson 7). Thus, such an important holiday as Christmas has become a reason for people to eat and drink a lot and look for gifts at a discount. The main idea is that despite the beauty and purity of the original traditions, over time, they began to be perceived incorrectly and lost their true form. In other words, the author warns the reader about the danger of blindly following traditions without considering their true nature.

Importance for Society

Societies should maintain religious traditions to survive because they still carry important values within them. First, it is worth noting that the example of suicide bombers is not accurate enough because, as already indicated, it formulates an incorrect interpretation of the norms (Zogry 45). In other words, every religion primarily calls for humanism, honesty, love, and well-being (Krausz 26). However, in some religions, there may be additional narratives stating that it is necessary to fight and defend the honor of the faith in a time of war (Smith 54). In both cases, religions provide a strong basis to call for positive action, which is why they need to be maintained in society. In addition, religion itself does not call for murder because all religions can be interpreted in different lights creating diverse views. Open criticism of various religious views is vital to keep the harmful aspects of religion in check while capitalizing on and benefiting from its positive elements.

Conclusion

Finally, religious traditions should be kept because they have a positive influence from an aesthetic point of view. It includes a rich history, the study of which contributes to some important discoveries and developments. In addition, icons, frescoes, and various musical and visual objects of religion are valuable art objects. Thus, following the basic rules of religion for the well-being of mankind and its study articulates a positive factor and should be maintained.

Works Cited

Jackson, Shirley. The Lottery. The Creative Company, 2008.

Krausz, Michael. Rightness and Reasons: Interpretation in Cultural Practices. Cornell University Press, 2019.

Rushdie, Salman. Imagine Theres No Heaven.

Smith, Christian. Religion: What It Is, How It Works, and Why It Matters. Princeton University Press, 2019.

Zogry, Michael. Native Foodways: Indigenous North American Religious Traditions and Foods. State University of New York Press, 2021.

Chan Master Lin-chi I-hsuan Hui-chao was a notable figure in the Buddhist religion, he founded one of the most famous schools that became a leading one among all Japanese schools. Moreover, he formed a new the Rinzai School of Buddhism. One of the best translations of this teaching is made by Burton Watson.

In his book, we can find the most detailed description of Lin-chis teaching, its principles and sermons. In this paper, I am going to discus some of Lin-chis principles and practices, such as the role of the hit and shout in Lin-chis style of teaching, Lin-chis exhortations not to be swayed by the environment, Lin-chis statement that doubt is the Buddha devil and such famous expression as True Man with no rank and the one who has nothing to do or who just acts ordinary.

So, the first issue under discussion is Lin-chis explanation of the True Man with no rank. The teacher assumes:

O Followers of the Way, you have not yet attained the view whereby all kalpas are reduced to Emptiness. When this is not realized, there are all such hindrances. It is not so with the true man who has insight into Reality. He gives himself up to all manner of situations in which he finds himself in obedience to his past karma.

He appears in whatever garments re ready for him to put on. As it is desired of him either to move or to sit quietly, he moves or sits. He has not a thought of running after Buddhahood. He is free from such pinings. Why is it so with him? Says an ancient sage, When the Buddha is sought after, he is the cause of transmigration. (Watson 75).

The True Man or, in other words, a Real Person is someone who understands and, which is more important, follows the Way to enlightenment that is called Tao. This is the one who has a Buddha nature in all his/her actions and desires. It is a genenal concept of the book and teacher, who mentions it only ones, refers to it constantly when he speaks about brightness without fixed shape or form (Watson 24).

Lin-chi sees True Man with no rank is all his listeners. He encourages them to turn and experience this man (Watson 25) to feel a true enlightenment which will help them to overcome the barriers to the realm of Emptiness.

Thus, they will become persons with nothing to do. The concept does not mean that the person should be idle or not perform any daily activities and only pursue some goal. It means that the person will only accept the daily experience and will not be misled by the surroundings. In addition, the person who has nothing to do should just act ordinary. Lin-chi taught emptiness and an absolute freedom.

On the way to enlightenment, one can meet some environment and be misled by it. The teacher emphasized that no matter what environment one can meet, a person can be free to do as he pleased (Watson 33). One should not be swayed by the environment and not to be led astray by other people in using the teaching of Dharma, If you want to use this thing, then use it and have no doubts or hesitations! (Watson 23).

Thus, one must just act ordinary and not to be affected by the outside environment and try to do something special. Thus, the concepts the True Man, the one who has nothing to do and the one who just acts ordinary describe a person who has no obsession, self confident and has true understanding of the Way to enlightenment.

Furthermore, Lin-chi explained the concept Buddha devil, Someone asked, What is the Buddha devil? The Master said, If you have doubts in your mind for an instant, thats the Buddha devil. (Watson 33). Everyone who seeks Buddha is seized by Buddha devil just like the one who seeks knowledge is seized by doubts. Again, the one who is not affected by other people and environment and has no doubts in teaching and not preoccupied with the externals of the religion, will follow the true Way to brightness.

The teaching of Lin-chi included not only lectures and sermons, but hits and shouts. The teacher could shout at his pupils, hit them with stick or even leave them for a long time without warning. It is what Lich-chi called to act with the whole essence. He believed that only such tactic can bring his pupils to enlightenment.

So, the teaching of Lin-chi is the oldest and the most authentic voice that has come down to us from the early traditions of Chinese Chan or Zen (Watson 4). He had his own interpretation of the Dharma teaching and explanation of the concepts of belief and way to enlightenment.

Ten-Foot-Square Hut Discussion

Kamo no Comei was a very famous Japanese poet. His poetical education permitted him to take a governmental post. However, later he became a Buddhist monk and spent his life like a hermit living in a small hub. Usually, monks who turned their backs on society went to monasteries and Kamo was the first who isolated himself in the forest.

The author described his experience and his hut in the essay called An Account of My Hut where he described all the advantages of leaving in tranquility and isolation from the society. In his essay, he describes his hub and historical events that made him live in isolation and his Buddhist practices.

So, the historical events that made poet turn his back to society were related to the battle between two ruling clans Taira and Minamoto. Those events resulted in the fires of the capital (Lawall 215) and big destructions. The author compares this period with the arrival of the mappo which is associated in the Buddhist philosophy with the end of time and end of dharma. According to the author, the world became pessimistic and it entered in its final era and there is no any hope to rebuild the world.

The author describes his final dwelling as a place for his Buddhist practices and a perfect place for isolation: Knowing myself and the world, I have no ambitions and do not mix in the world. I seek only tranquility; I rejoice in the absence of grief (Addiss and Watson 49).

He admired nature and practiced self-reflection. His hut was small, ten feet square with roughly roof and, Along the west wall he built a shelf for holy water and installed an image of the Buddha. The light of the setting sun shines between its eyebrows& (Addiss and Watson 40).

As it has already been mention, the authors dwelling was his place for solitude and Buddhism practices. But, according to the Buddhism teaching, one should not be obsessed with any form of mental gasping. Chomei loved his dwelling and described it with admiration:

Outside the hut is a fenced garden to the north and a rock pool to the south with a bamboo pipe draining water. The woods are close, providing plenty of brush-wood, and only to the west is a clearing beyond vines and overgrown valleys. (Addiss and Watson 58).

It may seem to be contradictory to the ideals of Buddhism. However, the poet has his solution to this problem. He went to awakening practicing nembutsu that means buddha in mind. The main means of this practice is the meditation. Nembutsu is interpreted in the Buddhism practice as a living incarnation of Amida, you come to a shrine of the god Hachiman.

The object of worship is a statue of the Buddha Amida& All I could do was call upon my tongue to utter two or three recitations of Amida Buddhas name (Addiss and Watson 78, 89). This is how the author found a solution to the problem of his grasping. These days, it is a common spiritual practice in Buddhism and it is accepted in monasteries.

So, Kamo no Chomei lived in times when Japan survived chaotic and era. He became a witness of historical events that made him turn his back to society and live in isolation in a lonely hub. The descriptions of this hub and the authors life in it became one of the most famous masterpieces of the world literature.

Works Cited

Addiss, Stephen, and Burton Watson. Four Huts: Asian Writings on the Simple Life. Boston and London: Shambhala, 2002.

Lawall, Sarah. Reading World Literature: Theory, History, Practice. Austine: University of Texas Press, 2010.

Watson, Burton. The Zen teachings of Master Lin-chi: a Translation of the Lin-chi lu. New York: Columbia University Press, 1999.

As far as the idea of chosen people is concerned, people have welcomed it with mixed reactions over years following the suspicions as to whether the whole notion holds or it is a mere fabrication by some cultures to enhance their esteem or rather to satisfy their grandiosities.

Whenever one utters the words chosen people, the first group that clicks into the minds of many is the Jews. According to Scader, there is a significant change concerning the issue of who really fits in the category of the chosen people with some groups or individuals justifying the case based on the superiority factor (432).

Therefore, whether the perspective has changed or not, the idea of chosen people still holds in the contemporary society. Biblically, the theme of chosen people stands out in both the Old and the New Testament extending further to the contemporary society despite the evident changes in meaning as the paper points out.

Chosen people in the Old Testament

The Old Testament successfully presents the theme of chosen people through the way God refers to the Israelites as his chosen nation. For instance, during the call of Moses, God tells him to tell the children of Israel I am the Lord; I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians&I will take you as my people, and I will be your God (NIV, Ex. 6.6-7).

Despite the many nations existing then with some even better than Israel, God isolates the Israelites from them informing them how he views them as a priests kingdom and a holy nation.

Addressing further the theme, God bestows up on the Israelites some obligations and conditions as emphasized by Amos when he tells the Israelites that, You only have I singled out of all the families of the earth: therefore will I visit upon you all your iniquities (Am. 3.2).

God highlights the conditions for his chosen people through the Ten Commandments and every time they would violate them, he would neglect them to the level of taking them into captivity. If they were not his chosen people, he would not expose them to the punishment. The choosing of Moses too contributes towards the theme of chosen people.

There are still other incidences in the Old Testament when God chooses some people like Moses from their simplicity elevating them into greatness.

To restore His relationship with the Israelites for instance, God singles out Moses elevating him above all the respected people in Israel at the time of their captivity in Egypt. There is a debate concerning the criterion God uses in choosing Moses, considering his admittance as a stutterer.

However, other out-spoken people are available but God considers not the speech but the speaker and thus appoints Moses as he is, bestowing upon him the responsibility of freeing the Israelites from the hands of the wicked Egyptians. The account of David further develops the theme under study.

God chooses David, as young as he is, as the king of Israel succeeding King Saul. When the prophet of God goes to the house of Jesse to anoint the new king, no one expects David to qualify as a candidate as the case turns out. David grows up as a chosen one of God considering the events surrounding his life. At a tender age, he kills Goliath, the Palestinian giant, with a sling to the surprise of many.

The fact that a simple boy, using a sling, can kill a feared soldier killing enemy soldiers in their thousands is clear evidence that God favors and chooses him as vessel through which God can reveal his mighty wonders. The many times that Israel forces emerges winners in battles even when their enemies outnumber them elevates them as the chosen people of God. The story of Noah and his children in the ark develops the theme of chosen people.

In the times of Noah, when God is about to destroy the world with water, he chooses Noah to build the ark which is the only transition to the new world. Noah faces many challenges when building the ark ranging from ridicules to people despising him. Still in the same story, God further chooses the family of Noah saving it from the floods.

Whenever God intends to destroy the world or people, he chooses others as Noah based on their righteousness, a prerequisite of being a chosen one of God.

The fact that most people think that the Jews represent Israel is a serious misconception since the nation of Israel had twelve tribes at the time when God chose them.

The Jews are only a representative of a single tribe: the tribe of Judah. The first covenant that qualifies the children of Israel as the chosen people of God is the one between the biblical patriarch Abraham and God. God promises Abraham that his descendants will be great and will conquer the world. Behind the promises comes the condition that the Jews should remain faithful to God.

There arises a quite interesting question at this point, as to whether the Jews will permanently enjoy the status as chosen people. There are times when the Israelites disappoint God who as a result turns his back against them resulting into their captivity in and by other nations.

Upon realizing their falling into problems because of their bad relationship with God, they repent to God who delivers them from the hands of their enemies since he has chosen them as his children. However, the theme is not restricted to the Israelites only. Jonah is a non-Israelite and a chosen of God.

There are instances when God shows favor to people of other nations who are not Israelites (Nitzan 202). For instance, in the case of Jonah, God chooses the people of Nineveh and wants to spare them from destruction following their wickedness.

God has a clear purpose in saving these people considering his insistence that Jonah should go and announce his wrath over them. Jonah instead escapes in a ship where the people throw him out following threats of the ship sinking. Revealing how much he has chosen to save them, God miraculously prepares a fish that swallows Jonah only to vomit him in Nineveh where he does as per Gods instructions.

The people of Nineveh confess, after which God spares them, a clear indication that he knows that they change upon hearing prophesy of their doom. In a related case, when God is about to destroy the immoral cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, he chooses the family of Lot to spare them from the destruction.

He indeed sends angels to the city to warn Lot, a sign of his concern for the people. In Lots requests to God, he enquires whether God will still destroy the city if fifty people turn out righteous, but God responds that he cannot. As the events unfold, it is only Lot and his wife who God saves from the doom. The New Testament too has a good deal of instances that contribute significantly towards the theme of chosen people.

Chosen people in the New Testament

The New Testament too allocates a good share of episodes that purely point out the issue of chosen people. Christ the son of God is to be born in the chosen tribe of Judah, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Despite the many women in Israel, God miraculously sends his spirit to one to conceive and bear the child.

Christ is born to a virgin named Mary, betrothed to a man from the lineage of David (Core 45). In the announcement of the birth of Jesus by the angel Gabriel, the angel tells Mary, Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you&Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God.

You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus (Lk. 1.26-30). The Virgin Mary and her cousin Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist are considered the people to whom God manifests his favor. They are holy people but not prominent in the society though God chooses them. Jesus disciples are no more than a chosen people.

Jesus chooses the twelve disciples among the countless men and women and uses them as his representatives in spreading the gospel after his ascension to heaven. In the book of John, Jesus tells them you did not choose me, I have chosen you (Jn. 15.12). He goes further to distinguish between being chosen and being called by saying that many are called but few are chosen (Matt. 20.16).

Therefore, the chosen twelve have to leave their families and be with Jesus always whenever he is in his mission. The sons of Zebedee change their professions upon their choice to follow their chooser: they no longer fishers of fish but of men. God, upon choosing Paul develops further the theme in the New Testament.

There are instances in the New Testament where God chooses people like Saul regardless of their character to serve him. For instance, he chooses Saul, the persecutor of Christians, to become a very important figure and vessel in the spreading of the Christian faith.

When God chooses him, he changes his name to Paul to indicate the difference that exists between a man chosen of people and the one chosen of God. Paul meets the amazing miracle on his way to Damascus; a journey aimed at laying ambush on a group of believers.

According to Fisher, a conversion came as a surprise to many who knew him and in fact, he faced rejection from the Christians who thought he was spying them to carry out his plan (102). God sees the potential in Paul upon whose conversion will boost Christianity largely. However, there is a notable change in the meaning of chosen people especially in the contemporary society.

Changes in the Meaning

Although what the paper has exposed so far restricts the choosing to a group of people or an individual, as then interpreted, the meaning of chosen people is significantly different nowadays.

The phrase includes all people considering what God say through Jeremiah. I knew you before I formed you in your mothers womb. Before you were born, I set you apart and appointed you as my prophet to the nations (Jer. 1.15).

The words reveal that all people are chosen since the choosing happens before one is born. Considering the earlier expositions, the choosing happens only people have grown up, which is not the case. It includes the gentiles and the Jews as well as the born and the unborn. However, there is an ongoing dispute concerning the understanding of chosen people.

Disputed understanding

In the contemporary society, many people define the phrase chosen people differently following the fact no one wants to be left out from the category. Paul in his epistles indicates that by repentance, gentiles become spiritual Jews, truth altered by many, who attach spirituality to the phrase despising its relevance to the traditional Israeli tribes as the chosen nation.

As far as Christianity is concerned, this is the biblical truth since God Himself emphasizes this by sending Jesus to save the world and not only the Israelites.

Some nations equate their prosperity and ability to conquer others as a sign of favor by God (Brown 345) declaring themselves chosen based possessions rather than their characters content. With a close examination of the rates of immorality that goes on in some of the nations, it turns out clear that they are flourishing like those nations that worship idols did in the bible.

For instance, Egypt and Babylon are more civilized and powerful than Israel yet revelations declare Israel the chosen nation meaning that being chosen has nothing to do with flourishing politically, economically or otherwise.

Conclusion

The idea of the biblical Chosen people should not be trivialized since both theologians and historians have proved it. It also gives explanations as to why those individuals who live righteously tend to receive more natural gifts than others do, who lead wicked lives. No matter what, ones tribe may become Gods chosen through repentance reigning with Christ eternally in the kingdom of heaven. However, for one to be a partisan, he/she must consider his/her character composition rather than material possessions.

Works Cited

Brown, Davis. Gods Chosen People. Masses and Mainstream 1.3 (1948): 257363.

Core, Catherine. A Voyage through the New Testament. New Jersey: Prentice Hall, 2007.

Fisher, Paul. The chosen of God: Minnesota History. Minnesota: Minnesota Historical Society, 1998.

Nitzan, Bilhah. The concept of the Covenant. Tel Aviv: Tel-Aviv University Press, 2000.

Scader, Jo-Mari. Patronage between God, Israel and the Nations. London: Oxford publishers, 2007.

The New International Version Bible: Containing the Old and New Testaments with Apocrypha. Oxford: Oxford UP, 2009. Print.

Introduction

The United States is a liberal society, which means there is a legal separation of state from religious institutions. The fundamental notion of religious freedom emphasizes peoples right to worship any faith and not favor any religion. Nonetheless, there is a rising dispute on the nations future in religion as a crucial component of a healthy society. This report examines facts to identify which religious groups are expanding and which are shrinking. The purpose of this study is to identify the influence of the dynamics of the religious landscapes in 2007 and 2014 and to understand the disparities between the trends of different beliefs. The trends show that Methodists, Baptists, Presbyterians, and Congregationalists have the most divergent viewpoints. Despite the arguments, there is a strong pluralist attitude that different religious factions should be permitted to keep and grow their religion and beliefs within the community.

The Success and Failure of American Religion

In the contemporary religious landscape of the United States, the Methodists and Baptists have an increasing number of adherents. Methodists and Baptists are both Christian denominations with several overlapping beliefs and teachings. Methodists and Baptists share a faith in God, the Bible, and the deeds and teachings of Jesus, whom they recognize as the Christ and savior of humanity (Finke and Stark 82). In essence, both beliefs hold baptism and fellowship to be foundational sacraments.

Baptists and Methodists

Perspectives on Methodist Ideologies

The United Methodist Church (UMC) is a prominent branch of Methodism that believes people must form personal relationships with God. Its primary progenitor, the Methodist Episcopal Church, took over as the leader in 19th-century evangelical Christianity (Leone 77). In 1968, the Methodist Church and the Evangelical United Brethren Church formed the current organization. By the 19th century, there were 450,000 followers of the Wesleyan Methodist Church (Leone 81). The churchs expansion was most significant in industrial districts, where the Methodist religion assisted male and female laborers in enduring financial pain and alleviating poverty. Since the Methodist faith pushed them to live frugally, believers economic standing tended to improve. As a result, Wesleyan Methodism became a middle-class religion that emphasizes the individual is making a connection with God.

Baptists Ideologies

From the Baptists perspective, adhering to the notion of the perseverance of saints predominates. Baptists believe that if a person is saved, one cannot fall from grace, which directly opposes Methodist beliefs (Leone 181). Methodists believe that salvation is a personal decision and that one might lose salvation by falling from grace by disobeying God. Observations indicate that Baptists are generally more stringent and fundamentalist. The Bible is the only source of faith in such beliefs, and Baptists regard it as infallible. The opinions of Methodists are broader and less rigid. Some individuals may be fundamentalists, while others view the world as liberal. Baptist churches regard the Bibles reasoning, practice, and direct knowledge as their religions foundations.

Trends in Modern-Day Churches

Today, there is evidence of increased belief in God as a supreme being, which is mainly in line with the Methodist views. For instance, trends show that in 2015, eight in ten churches in the UCC had weekly devotional participation of 1100, an uptick of 15.1% within a decade (The UCC Center for Analytics 8). However, there has been a change in worship emphasizing the personal connection with God rather than the priest. Trends show that the fraction of churches with more prominent weekly attendance figures continuously declines (The UCC Center for Analytics 8). The increased uptake of believers in a personal relationship with God opened the space for people from different personalities in the Methodist community.

Presbyterians and Congregationalists Religious Denominations

The idea of a personal relationship with God was not popular among the Presbyterians and Congregationalists. In 1801, Presbyterians and Congregationalists attempted to build a solid foothold with their adherents by creating division along a north-south axis. These prominent religions limited the time other religions may utilize public speech domains. However, both faiths destabilized each others popularity and weakened their respective positions in their respective fields. The American Revolution involving the enormous regional followings diminished the Episcopalians and Presbyterians population due to organizational issues (Finke and Stark 75). The Presbyterians emphasis on scripture and the sovereignty of God gave in to the Methodists unique connection to believers.

Congregationalist Philosophy

In Congregationalism, the concept stresses the right and obligation of each community to choose its affairs. The philosophical premise is that adherents need not submit their judgments to a superior human authority, removing bishops and presbyteries. Each church is considered to be free and independent. Congregationalists have historically opposed the endorsement of religion and advocated for civil and religious freedomthe focus on congregational freedoms of conscience. Many adherents of Congregationalism have adopted doctrinal and societal liberalism and participated in the ecumenical movement (Finke and Stark 89). However, as seen by the 2007 and 2014 trends, most Christians drifted toward the Methodist and Baptist interpretations of Christianity, making Congregationalists extremes unpopular.

The 2007 and 2014 Spiritual Landscapes

The changes in the religious landscapes of 2007 and 2014 may be attributed to the advent of female leadership in churches and the expansion of the Methodists and Baptists ideological foundations. Figure 2 demonstrates that the proportion of active female Ordained Ministers has climbed dramatically over the last decade, from 31.9 percent in 2005 to 49.0 percent in 2015 (The UCC Center for Analytics 8). The trends show that in 2015, almost 38.1% of all church pastors, including lead pastors, were women, compared to 30.2% ten years prior (The UCC Center for Analytics 8). In 2010, over fifty percent of co-pastors and temporary supply pastors were women, while two-thirds of associate pastors were female.

The trends show an increase in feministic ideologies that shaped the church. According to the research, roughly one-third of UCC members have a Baptist Christian worldview. Studies revealed a rise in the proportion of UCC followers who belonged to smaller churches, with 34,1% of all members attending (The UCC Center for Analytics 8). The analysis recognizes that the tendency will continue in the following years.

Conclusion

Today, the Methodist and Baptist religious perspectives have prevailed, with increasing followers. The winners philosophy has a growing membership because the beliefs make it much easier for talented clergy members to join the church. In most cases, the views of religion in these churches aligned with the open American mindset. In the American religious system, any leader supported by the local populace is encouraged to establish new ideas in free-market competition. In American today, accommodating regulations means that the local community can participate in religious activities opening up the space for thinkers.

Works Cited

Eskridge, Larry. One Way: Billy Graham, the Jesus Generation, and the Idea of an Evangelical Youth Culture.Church History, 1998, 83-106.

Finke, Roger, and Rodney Stark. The Churching of America, 1776-2005: Winners and Losers in Our Religious Economy. Rutgers University Press, 2011.

Leone, Mark P. The Problem: Religion within the World of Slaves. Current Anthropology, 2020, 76-288.

The UCC Center for Analytics. The United Church of Christ: A Statistical Profile with Reflection/Discussion Questions for Church Leaders Research from the UCC Center for Analytics. The UCC Center for Analytics, 2016.