#theological insights

[ominouspositivity-or-else]

*The Eucharist is the body of Christ under the appearances of bread and wine.

**God is bound to these sacraments, meaning he always gives grace through them when they are done, but he is not bound by these sacraments, meaning that God can do literally whatever he wants and can of course go around them and provide grace in other ways.

***7 sacraments, listed: Baptism, Confirmation, Holy Eucharist, Confession, Anointing of the Sick, Holy Orders, and Matrimony.

Feel free to add nuance in the tags or talk about why you find the teachings strange! Let me know if there's anything utterly baffling that I didn't include!!!

Also please remember to be respectful!!! Not everyone knows theology like you might!!!

[kingoftheu]

Do NOT be fooled. The TRUE Pope remains alive. Tawadros II endures. Patriots are in control.

The Chalcedonian Heresy will be dealt with shortly.

[makewetalknow]

Revealed: We Existed in Heaven as Celestial Beings Before We were Born into this World

Did you know that, before our earthly birth, some of us existed in the heavenly realm as celestial beings? For those who are unfamiliar, celestial beings are non-physical entities that exist in the heavenly realm in luminous, energy-based forms. The Bible does not explicitly address this element; however, it is referenced in specific passages. The powers that be and the church have kept you from…

[fandfnews]

Wikipedia Co-Founder Larry Sanger Shares Journey from Atheism to Christianity

In a candid interview, Larry Sanger, co-founder of Wikipedia and a lifelong skeptic, revealed his transformative journey from atheism to Christianity—a shift rooted in intellectual rigor, personal relationships, and a deep dive into scripture. Sanger, who holds a PhD in philosophy, spent 35 years questioning faith before embracing Christianity in his 50s. His story challenges stereotypes about…

[bvthomas]

Iniquity and Sin: Understanding the Mystery of Iniquity and Its Spiritual Consequences

  Introduction The terms “sin” and “iniquity” are often used interchangeably in everyday language, but the Bible distinguishes between these two concepts in profound ways. While both represent forms of moral wrongdoing, “iniquity” goes deeper, pointing to a premeditated, entrenched evil that flows from a rebellious heart. Understanding the differences between sin and iniquity is crucial for…

[pastordin]

Job: Suffering and Faith through Canon Sense

Job: Suffering and Faith through Canon Sense | Pastor Aamir and Carissa Din Home | Media | Contact Job: Suffering and Faith through Canon Sense “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me.” — Psalm 28:7 (NIV) Introduction The Book of Job occupies a profound place within the wisdom literature of the Bible, grappling with the enduring questions of human…

[mindfulldsliving]

The Importance of Humility in Overcoming Conceit

In our journey towards spiritual fulfillment, understanding the balance between conceit and humility is crucial. Each of these qualities plays a significant role in shaping not only our personal growth but also our relationships and worldview.

Overcoming Conceit: A Guide to Spiritual Discipline Ecclesiastes 1:13; 1 Corinthians 8:1; Romans 12:16; Genesis 8:21 In a world where self-promotion often takes center stage, the challenge of balancing humility with conceit is more pressing than ever. We often find ourselves grappling with the idea of how to acknowledge our own achievements without slipping into vanity. Biblically speaking,…

[tmarshconnors]

"You don't have to give up your intellect to trust the Bible. You have to give up your pride."

Robert Charles Sproul was an American Reformed theologian and ordained pastor in the Presbyterian Church in America. He was the founder and chairman of Ligonier Ministries and could be heard daily on the Renewing Your Mind radio broadcast in the United States and internationally.

Theologian and Author: R.C. Sproul was a prominent Reformed theologian and author known for his extensive work in Christian theology. He authored numerous books on theology, biblical interpretation, and Christian living, including notable works such as "The Holiness of God" and "Chosen by God."

Founder of Ligonier Ministries: Sproul founded Ligonier Ministries in 1971, a Christian educational organization dedicated to teaching the Reformed faith through resources such as books, conferences, and broadcasts. The ministry is named after Ligonier Valley, where it was initially established.

Teaching Pastor: He served as the teaching pastor at St. Andrew’s Chapel in Sanford, Florida, where he was influential in shaping the church’s theological direction and providing teaching and preaching that emphasized Reformed theology.

Popular Speaker and Teacher: R.C. Sproul was known for his engaging teaching style and was a frequent speaker at conferences and seminars. His teaching reached a wide audience through radio programs, such as "Renewing Your Mind," and his teaching series were widely distributed.

Reformed Theology Advocate: Sproul was a staunch advocate of Reformed theology, emphasizing doctrines such as the sovereignty of God, the authority of Scripture, and the importance of understanding and teaching core Christian doctrines. His work contributed significantly to the spread of Reformed thought in contemporary evangelicalism.

[lostinthelibrarysworld]

This is for ally smart Christian followers and likes. Can someone tell me just what makes the song Reckless Love non biblical? Or at least non theological.

[hellolatashiam]

Creations Cry: Suffer Patiently

Explore the profound depths of suffering and patience through the lens of Romans 8:18-30, discovering the joy and hope that await us beyond our present trials. #HopeInSuffering #SpiritualPatience

In the valleys of our human experience, where suffering shadows our days, the soul clings to the fragile threads of hope and patience. Romans 8:18-30 serves as a beacon for those of us enduring the night of pain, promising that the weight of our current afflictions pales in comparison to the glory that will be revealed in us. Today we will seeks to explore this promise, providing context and…

[great-book-review]

"Christianity 2.0" by John Dorsey: A Spiritual Odyssey of Modern Faith

Summary: John Dorsey's "Christianity 2.0" is a thought-provoking exploration of how religion is changing in the contemporary world. We'll go over the main ideas and components of the book in this in-depth assessment, covering everything from its theological depth and reader effect to its historical background and visionary concepts.

Historical Odyssey: Dorsey sets out on an engrossing historical investigation that establishes the framework for his innovative take on contemporary Christianity. He gives readers a thorough picture of how the Christian religion has evolved throughout time. The story is enhanced by this historical background, which also makes it more understandable for people who are not familiar with Christian history.

Challenging Conventions: One of the most remarkable aspects of "Christianity 2.0" is Dorsey's audacious challenge to conventional Christian beliefs. He highlights the dynamic nature of faith and encourages readers to question traditional dogmas. In my capacity as a critic, I was much moved by Dorsey's bravery in challenging readers to reconsider their religious beliefs in light of recent social shifts.

Introducing "Christianity 2.0": In essence, Dorsey's story revolves around his notion of "Christianity 2.0." This phrase captures his idea of a more progressive, flexible, and inclusive religion. As a critical reviewer, I thought Dorsey's forward-thinking strategy was both welcome and relevant. His plea for a faith that honors social justice, diversity, and modern ideals is an important addition to the continuing discussion about faith in the modern world.

Theological Depth and Reader-Friendly Approach: Dorsey masterfully balances theological depth with a reader-friendly writing style. He ensures that readers of different backgrounds may understand his tale by condensing difficult concepts into language that is simple to understand. His incisive writing inspires readers to participate in insightful conversations about the direction of Christianity.

Addressing Controversies and Divisions: The book doesn't shy away from addressing controversial topics and divisions within Christianity. It acknowledges that these challenges are integral to the faith's evolution. As a critic as much as a reader, I value Dorsey's open examination of these challenging topics. His readiness to address these concerns head-on encourages a greater comprehension of the intricacies of the Christian faith.

Practical Guidance for a Modern Faith Journey: While "Christianity 2.0" is dedicated to the history and philosophical aspects of Christianity, it also offers realistic insight for Catholics who seek a more inclusive and dynamic spiritual path. Dorsey demonstrates concepts that seek to stimulate an active, meaningful dialogue between the reader and his faith.

Conclusion: In conclusion, John Dorsey's "Christianity 2.0" offers a thoughtful and provocative analysis of faith, history, and spirituality. The book invites readers to question conventional narratives, embrace diversity, and envision a more adaptable form of Christianity. Its historical context enriches the reading experience, making it accessible even for those less familiar with Christian history and doctrine.

Rating: I rate "Christianity 2.0" 4 out of 5 stars. I deduct one star due to occasional theological complexity that may challenge readers with limited prior knowledge of Christian history. However, these moments should not deter potential readers from engaging with this enlightening book.

[bvthomas]

                                                      GOD “Exploring the Divine: The Essence of God” Introduction: In the vast expanse of human history and thought, few questions have stirred as much contemplation, debate, and yearning as those concerning the Divine. What is God? Does God exist? And if so, what is the nature of this supreme being who eludes easy definition and comprehension?…

[mindfulldsliving]

Understanding the Apostasy: Christian History, Divine Authority, and the Need for Restoration

Dispensations: The Pattern of Apostasy and Restoration What happened to the early Christian church after the apostles were gone? For Latter-day Saints, the concept of apostasy explains much about how divine authority was lost and why restoration was essential. This wasn’t merely about social or political changes; it was about the gradual erosion of core doctrines, priesthood power, and true…

[cryptotheism]

Do you think sitting on Martin Luther's shitter gives one better theological insights? With how long he spent on it some must have rubbed off

New Protestantism theory: The toilet controlled him

[francesderwent]

thinking about snarky cultural/theological commentary and. the thing about snark is this: it’s easy, and it’s instant gratification. it’s easy because you’re playing to a likeminded audience. you get the way they think, you know the sort of things they find ridiculous, and so you know what’s going to play well with them. it’s not that hard to come up with a zinger that’s going to earn you applause from your own side. it’s also pretty easy to make another human being who’s not on your side look stupid, because we’re stupid creatures and we all have plenty of exploitable weak spots. it’s preaching to the choir, and it’s preaching meanly to the choir. and then, your snark bears all its fruit right away. you get the glowing feeling of having scored points against the enemy while being patted on the back by your friends for being so brave. if you succeeded in being snarky, you get the rewards of snark that very instant.

on the other hand, seeking to share the truth you possess in a mode in which it could actually be received—that is, says St Thomas, according to the mode of the recipient—that’s hard, and it’s so far from being instantly gratifying that you may never see the fruits of it in this life. not only are you not thinking about your likeminded audience, you’re not even going to trot out the truth simply in the way you understand it and call it your best effort. rather, you have to try to get inside your interlocutor’s frame of mind and understand how the truth you know is going to fulfill their own priorities and longings. you have to understand them so well that you see the truth of their position, even if that truth is buried very very deep, and then see how that truth connects them to the truth you see. you have to be insightful, and compassionate, and so, so patient. you don’t get to score any points, with anybody. your interlocutor might still get annoyed with you and turn around and make you look stupid. but you can’t just say “I’m going to speak the truth and I don’t care who hears and how they take it”—you have to care how they take it, because the truth is relational, it’s given and received, not just spouted into a void. and frankly you have to care how they take it because you have to care about their salvation.

don’t get me wrong, there are times in every person’s life when they will be called to stand up and be counted, to put fumbling words to what they hold most dear even if they can’t make everyone understand. but I don’t know that it’s a virtue to be always focused on being seen saying the truth, with no consideration given to who hears you and what they’ll hear in it—and it’s certainly not a virtue to be always focused on being seen saying the truth in a mean and funny way. “instruct the ignorant” is a spiritual work of mercy. but instruct the ignorant does not mean “instruct the ignorant while making the knowledgeable laugh and/or high five.”

[monstrousgourmandizingcats]

Gotta say, thank you very much for sharing your insights into the 2025 conclave. I love reading them; your takes and bringing into focus people largely overlooked by English speaking media.

I'd love to know where you look for information and (you've probably answered this before but I'll ask anyway) was there anything that you think may have happened prior to the 2013 conclave that influenced appointing Francis as Pope?

Once again thank you for sharing your takes, I'm looking forward to your posts!

Hello!

So to answer your second question first: yes, I know a fair amount about the dynamics leading up to the conclave that elected Francis twelve years ago, although a lot of it is stuff I've actually learned fairly recently. While official balloting counts of papal conclaves do not exist, unofficial counts do tend to emerge afterwards, and from the ones for 2013 we see the future Pope Francis (i.e. Jorge Mario Bergoglio) initially positioned as one of three softcore/mainstream conservative vote-getters, along with Canada's Marc Ouellet and Italy's Angelo Scola. Bergoglio then cannibalizes the votes of moderate cardinals Sean Patrick O'Malley (USA) and Odilo Scherer (Brazil), and finally picks up more and more of Ouellet's supporters until he defeats Scola after five ballots.

This is in part speculative, but the conventional wisdom/widespread educated guess is that Bergoglio started as a Latin American regional favorite who then gradually became the "anyone but Scola" candidate because of how the math shook out. It should be remembered that the 2013 conclave, unlike this year's, was, or at least seemed, fairly ideologically homogeneous; everyone in it had been appointed by John Paul II or Benedict XVI (themselves very similar to each other in most ways), and there was not a clear "progressive" option. What happened with Pope Francis as time went on was that it turned out that the Latin American cultural and theological environment that he came up in, when "scaled up" to the global Church, looked very different from Euro "conservative Catholicism". What we got from that was twelve years of a Pope who didn't actually make any major changes to Catholic doctrine and who had plenty of "hot mic" moments about women or gays of the sort one would expect from an elderly Peronist living and working in Italy, but who was enormously more concerned with what kind of place the Church was--how welcoming it was--for people who just "weren't like" the Central European and Northern Italian aristocrats and academics around John Paul and Benedict.

Also, people forget this today, but as Archbishop of Buenos Aires, Bergoglio came across as much more doctrinaire and conservative, especially on issues related to sex, than he did as Pope. You can still find lots of LGBT South Americans, including LGBT South American Catholics, who have a very different and much less positive opinion of Francis than do similar people from other parts of the world. Suddenly having to deal with a worldwide constituency genuinely changed his way of looking at some things. The same might happen with a successor who isn't as good on these issues (then again it might not). With Cardinal Ambongo (papabile, deeply homophobic but otherwise Francis-aligned Archbishop of Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of Congo) in particular there are reasons to believe that if he became Pope it'd be politically and logistically very difficult for him to reverse Francis's more pro-LGBT decisions, even though he might want to.

The Latin American cardinals of twelve years ago, who weren't well-understood in the West and who ended up producing, arguably even imposing, a Pope who reigned the way Francis did, are today the African and Asian cardinals who don't like gay people very much and often aren't crazy about women either, but who over the past week have mostly been interested in talking about climate change, decentralizing Church governance structures, and fighting terrorism through interreligious dialogue.

As to where I look for information: I first found these sources by Googling the cardinals' names and reading anything that didn't look like generic Global North boilerplate, but some that I've found that way are ACI Africa, 9News Nigeria, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Kaniva Tonga News, Radio New Zealand, the Papua New Guinea Post-Courier, and the Straits Times out of Singapore.

I hope some of this helps/is of interest to you!