Current Softness on Hard Theology

As most thinking and informed Americans know, there is much heated debate over the cause and solution to modern terrorism. However, what many have not explored is the fact that much of the debate stems from opposing views of “softness” and “hardness” on positions regarding directions for the future of Western Civilization. In addition, there is the question of how the church is contributing to or combating the growing “soft” perspective.

By soft approaches, I refer to the removal of any perceived harsh elements whatever the forum for discussion. Along these lines, several viewpoints merge as representative of the soft perspective: pacifistic or appeasing responses to terrorism rather than strong military responses, rehabilitation of criminals in place of punishment, feminist imagery and rejection of male traits, and the removal of harshness from theological doctrines. Concerning the last point, traditional formulations of the Second Coming of Christ are rejected because the imagery is militaristic and harsh (2 Thess. 1:6-9). Related to this, the classical view of God’s nature as Judge is replaced by a God who would never inflict painful judgment upon individuals. Although such soft approaches have abounded throughout history, there seems to be a resurgence of them in our day with new twists that need to be explored.

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Opportunity Corner - Winter 2007

Doctor of Ministry Modules

February 19-23, 2007
  D829 Contemporary Preaching: Mastering the Issues of Passion, Clarity and Relevance
  D862 Shaping a Ministry to World Cultures
February 26-March 2, 2007
  D503 The Centrality of the Scriptures in Ministry (MP2)
  D828 How to Develop and Utilize Pastoral Mentoring and Discipling Skills

Master's Modules

On Campus
January 9-19, 2007
  PT820 Polishing the Pastor's Preaching
January 9-12, 2007
  PT856 Utilizing Technology in Preaching, Teaching, and Worship
January 16-19, 2007
  PT803 Seminar in Revitalizing the Plateaued Church
  PT824 Children's Ministries in the Church
February 27 - March 2, 2007
  PT858 Conflict Resolution in the Ministry
  MI805 Reaching the Unchurched in the New Church Plant

Internet Courses
Spring 2007 Master's Modules
  BI604 Principles of Bible Interpretation
  BI806 Exposition of Acts
  TH604 Contemporary Theological Issues

Ohio Extension - Master's Modules
February 19-23, 2007
  PT 801 The Art of Discipling - Training Timothys
February 26 - March 2, 2007
  MI802 Chuch Planting Methodology

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