The one key idea of this chapter is that we are called into a relationship with Jesus. Ever since the covenant with Abraham, the Jewish people have had a close relationship with God. However, as God started to see that his people had become slaves to sin, he wanted to send a Messiah to save them. Although Jesus, the Messiah, wasn’t a military leader, he did free them from sin and send the Holy Spirit to give his followers courage to preach his message. To fully understand God and the messages he has given us we need to have a relationship with Jesus and a connection with the Holy Spirit.
B) Write about two major ideas you want to remember. Write a short paragraph on each clearly stating the idea and then telling why you want to remember it.
One major idea from this chapter that I would like to remember would be the life of Sister Thea Bowman. This was a woman who was so filled with the Holy Spirit that she wouldn’t let terminal bone cancer stop her from preaching the word of God. Even from a wheelchair Thea was still able to give talks and preach the Gospel. This determination is something that we should all strive for. Thea Bowman is a perfect example of someone who was inspired by the Holy Spirit to live the life that Jesus has told us to live.
Another major idea that I would like to remember is how early Christians wouldn’t renounce their faith even if they received the penalty of death for it. These Christians were so much more stronger in their faith than some of us today. Although people like Pliny The Younger gave Christians the chance to avoid execution, the Holy Spirit gave them so much courage that they didn’t betray Jesus and the Church. As Christians ourselves, we should all strive for having that strong of a relationship and connection with Jesus and the Holy Spirit.
C) One image that captures the chapter for you.
D) One significant question you have from this chapter. It can be intellectual or personal. Just write out the question. Try to answer it if you want.
What would have happened to our understanding of Jesus if Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John had not recorded the events in the Gospels? Would our only source of information been from oral stories, and how reliable would they be?
E) What experiences in your freshman year brought you closer to Jesus? Explain.
During the Freshman retreat in February, I felt that I made a stronger connection with Jesus. This retreat was an opportunity for myself to meet new people and get to know people I already knew a little better. Also this retreat helped me see Jesus’ teachings work through people. These people taught me how to pray in new and different ways. With these new ways of prayer I was able to have a stronger more intimate relationship with Jesus.