[2024.10.27] Sermon Notes

# Sermon Notes (2024.10.27) **Date:** 2024.10.27 **Scripture Reading:** John 1:43-51 — - In early draft of the Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson wrote “sacred and undeniable” to describe certain rights but later revised it to “self-evident.” shift from a theological toward rationalism. - keeping the ethical conclusion of Christianity but scrubbing away of God and theology foundation - Friedrich Nietzsche argued in *beyond good and evil* that if belief in the Christian God is abandoned, then Christian values would also need to be re-evaluated. - In `Unable to find ultimate truth in zen Buddhist, I turned to Jesus` article, the author used unanswered questions as a shield to seek the truth. - In `Not God's Type` by Holly Ordway, she realizes that she misunderstood faith. Faith is meant to be discussed, challenged, and investigated. - Vladimir Soloviof said snarkily that modern ethics is like this: man comes from apes so this we ought to love one another. - C.S. Lewis, in *The Abolition of Man*, noted, “To see through all things is the same as not to see at all.” He warns that constant skepticism can lead to a loss of genuine vision. Faith and reason need balance; if everything is reduced to mere analysis, we miss out on experiencing truth in its fullest sense. - The saying “It’s not the destination but the journey” suggests that process is more important than outcome. However, without a destination, the journey itself can become aimless. In Christian teaching, both journey (sanctification) and destination (union with Christ) are essential. - Jesus is presented as the ultimate answer to humanity’s existential questions. He doesn’t merely offer teachings but embodies the very path to salvation and truth. - Following Jesus is a transformative, imitative journey. Mimetic learning. In the Gospels, Jesus often calls people to "Follow me" (Mark 1:17), emphasizing imitation rather than mere instruction. - His favorite term for himself, “Son of Man,” comes from Daniel 7, which signifies a divine figure who would be exalted and given authority. Jesus used this title around 77 times, highlighting his role as the messianic figure who bridges heaven and earth. - Jesus’ teaching on “ascending and descending” refers back to Jacob’s vision in Genesis 28:12, where God reveals the connection between heaven and earth. Through Jesus, God continues this revelation, meeting us where we are and guiding us in a personal relationship. # Characteristics of Following Jesus 1. **Curiosity** – A genuine interest and desire to know Jesus. 2. **Personal Connection** – Understanding Jesus as a living presence in one’s life. 3. **Belief** – Trusting in Jesus as the source of truth. Jesus leaves no option of halfway follower: - Instead of “I will show you the truth,” He says, “I am the truth” (John 14:6). - Rather than “I will show you the way,” He declares, “I am the way.” - if you want to be my follower, deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow me. — ## Teaching Faith Through Science in the Classroom ### Learning About God in Creation - Romans 1:20 speaks to how God’s invisible attributes are revealed in creation, suggesting that studying the natural world deepens understanding of the divine. For instance: #### Light as a Powerful Metaphor - **Jesus** calls himself the “light of the world” (John 8:12), guiding us from darkness to understanding. - God’s command **“Let there be light”** (Genesis 1:3) marks the beginning of creation, symbolizing enlightenment and clarity. - As believers, we are called to reflect this light to the world (Matthew 5:14-16).