Chapter 2 Journal: Called to Make a Difference, The World of Jesus

1. What is the one key idea of this chapter?
The main idea of this chapter is called to make a difference. This means we are asked to make a difference. The chapter’s main focus is on the heavy influences on the early church, and how Jesus perceived the world. The early church had many influences. Some of these would include: mystery cults, philosophical, and astrology. The mystery cults consisted of: Cult of Isis, Cult of Demeter, Cult of Dionysus, Cult of Mithras, and Cult of the Emperor. Some influences were philosophical. These would be: the Epicureans, the Cynics, the Stoics, and Magic. This chapter also discusses the major influence of Judaism on Christianity, and also the major Jewish groups of the time. All of these cults, groups, or philosophies made an influence on Christianity, as we called to do in today’s world.

2. 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.
My first idea would be of the world through Jesus’ eyes. I believe this is a very important part of Christianity, and we always have to ask ourselves, “How can I be a better Christian”. I believe one way would be to look at things through Jesus’ eyes. His view would be to open our hearts, minds, and eyes to the reality that surrounds us. Doing this we will come to realize how good the world is and God’s loving grace. When we look art the world in Jesus’ view we initially become more connected with God.

The second idea, and the main idea of the chapter, would be all of the influences on the early Church. The early church encountered many influences, which made the church today. Many influences disagreed with the church, and many tried to end the church. I think this is a key idea because it shows us where the church came from and where it could have gone. These ideas are very interesting and also produce more questions.

3. One image that captures the chapter for you.

Image Source: Big Brothers & Big Sisters of America

4. One significant question you have from this chapter. It can be intellectual or personal.
In today’s society there are many influences. In your personal opinion, which are the worst and which are best?

5. Do one of the "Living the Gospel" questions at the end of the chapter. Write out the question, reflect upon it and write out your answer. In writing, describe in detail one social injustice. Include in your essay something you can do to right this injustice—then do it—or contact someone in authority who has the influence to change this injustice.
In today’s world, I believe a social injustice would be abortion. My source or someone in authority would be my mom, Maureen Zink. She works at Birthright Counseling Services of St. Louis. Birthright is a place that helps women who are considering an abortion or don’t have much money. My mom told me that abortion is a social injustice because it takes away the life of the baby, and that society deceives women making them think abortion is alright and not harmful.


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