Chapter 3 Journal
1) What is the one key idea of this chapter. pay attention to the title of the chapter!
The one key idea of this chapter is that we are called to be like Jesus. In this chapter we discussed Jesus' life and mission according to Matthew. We studied his teachings and values, such as the Beatitudes, the infancy and temptation narratives, and the judgement of nations. We learned that Jesus' values were countercultural, and that we must strive to live these values, as hard as they may be to live. We Christians must live like Jesus to receive our eternal reward in heaven.
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.
One key idea I'd like to remember in this chapter is the Temptation Narrative. When we are not true to the realationship between us and God, temptation and sin enter our world. Sin is simply a turning away from the beings Gid created us to be and a refusal to participate in the divine nature.
The temptation narrative is about Jesus being tested by the devil in the desert. The narrative reminds Matthew's audience if their ancestors in the desert. They realized that trusting God was the only way they would complete their journey. The same story can be applied to us. Jesus trusted the Father and denied Satan. Jesus continued afterwards to fight in the battle of good against evil. We may find ourselves in the "desert", or alone, hungry, isolated, and tempted to sin. We must realize where we are and solve the problem. This is a very vulnerable situation to be in. I want to remember this because it could be a very beneficial passage to know. Wherever I may be, highschool, college, etc., I hope I'll be able to fight off temptation and get on with my life.
A second major idea I'd like to remember would be the Beatitudes. This simple and very deep list contains the secrets to happiness in this life. All of the Blessed groups are promised present and future happiness. The Beatitudes show that true happiness is found in God, not in material goods. They can be used as an ethical guide for the life of a Christian. They tell us that we must not only obey the laws, but we must have loving relationships. These blessings challenge us Christians to go deeper than the surface, and transform any legal way of thinking towarad towards a more radical understanding of the purpose of our lives and actions. For this to happen, we must internalize Jesus' principles in our hearts and attitudes.
3) One image that captures the chapter for you.
4)One significant question you have from this chapter. It can be intellectual or personal.
My question deals with the temptation narrative. Certain parts of the Bible are completely factual and others just have a theological meaning. I would like to know if Jesus really didn't eat for forty days in the desert, and did the devil really appear to him, or was it all for a theological interpretation.
5)Nominate an organization that is living the Gospel today. Give its link and tell how it is living the Gospel.
Across America, over 1,350 United Ways improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of their communities. The United Way is a non-profit oranization improving local communities step by step.To achieve measurable, lasting change, United Ways identify and build on community strengths and assets, help individuals and groups with specific community interests find ways to contribute their time and talents, support direct-service programs and community-change efforts, and advocate for public policy changes.United Ways work with schools, government agencies, businesses, organized labor, financial institutions, community development corporations, voluntary and neighborhood associations, the faith community, and others. Their main goals include helping children and youth succeed, strengthening and supporting families, improving access to health care, and promoting independence and economic self-sufficiency.You can access their site here