Discussion Board Forum 1 Instructions Upon Completing Module

Discussion Board Forum 1 Instructionsupon Completing Moduleweek 1s R

Upon completing Module/Week 1’s Reading & Study items, you will be well-equipped to respond with a thread and at least 2 replies by objectively applying critical thinking strategies and articulating the importance of knowing what you believe and why you believe it. (Syllabus MLOs: A, C, D and Module/Week 1 LOs 1, 2). Discussion Board Forum 1 will have 2 parts: a thread in response to the instructor’s prompt and replies to at least 2 other classmates’ threads. Review the Discussion Board Forum 1 – Thread Grading Rubric and the Discussion Board Forum 1 – Replies Grading Rubric for a list of criteria and the breakdown of points for each part of these assignments.

To complete Discussion Board Forum 1, adhere to the following: General Instructions: 1. Submit your discussion board thread directly into the forum. Do not attach your submissions as documents. 2. First person (e.g., “I” or “we”) is allowed in all posts. 3. See the Student Expectations for guidelines on proper netiquette. 4. All threads in response to the instructor’s prompt must be 100–200 words (50–100 words per question). This parameter helps to promote writing that is thorough, yet concise enough to permit other classmates to read all the submissions. (Note: Submissions fewer than 75 words will receive no credit.) 5. All threads must be supported with Scripture, course content, or research. Quotations or the use of ideas addressed in course content or found in research must be properly cited using current APA, MLA, or Turabian formatting (whichever corresponds to your degree program). All content used in your forum that is not considered “common knowledge” must be cited. Do not plagiarize. 6. Your replies to at least 2 other classmates’ threads must be 50–100 words each. (Note: Submissions fewer than 25 words will receive no credit.) 7. Title the subject line of the replies “Reply to John Smith,” “Reply to Jane Doe,” etc., so that it will be clear to whom you are responding. 8. Each reply must contain: · At least 2 positive comments or observations about the post. · At least 1 suggestion on how your classmate could have improved his or her post or ask him or her a question to think about which specifically relates to the thread prompt questions. Note that “I like what you said,” “That’s a good comment,” and “I disagree with your comment” in and of themselves do not count as complete replies. Instead, state why you liked or disliked the comment, add additional thoughts or ideas to the original comment, or provide alternative thoughts or ideas when you disagree.

Sample Paper For Above instruction

Understanding the importance of knowing what we believe and why is fundamental to authentic faith and effective evangelism. Personal conviction forms the bedrock of a credible Christian testimony and enables believers to share their faith confidently. As Romans 10:14 emphasizes, the necessity of proclamation is rooted in knowing and believing the gospel. Without this foundation, the message of Christ lacks the authenticity required to inspire faith in others. Therefore, cultivating a solid understanding of one’s beliefs is essential for both personal growth and effective witnessing.

From a theological perspective, belief in the Trinity and the divine inspiration of Scripture are central tenets of Christian faith. Believing in one God who exists in three persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—distinguishes Christianity from other monotheistic religions. The Bible, considered the inspired Word of God, provides the narrative of divine interaction with humanity, informing believers' worldview. As Hindson, Etzel, and Gutierrez (2016) affirm, the Bible is the authoritative truth by which Christians navigate life. Personal faith in Jesus Christ, as the incarnate Son of God who died and rose again, forms the basis for salvation and eternal life (John 3:16).

Understanding why we believe these doctrines arises from both divine revelation and personal experience. Belief in God's creation of the universe underscores the sovereignty of God, emphasizing His omnipotence and omnipresence. This belief is reinforced through Scripture, prayer, and personal encounters with God's Spirit. The conviction that the Bible is unique as God's Word sustains trust amidst challenging passages that may seem difficult or confusing. Faith must be rooted in a sincere relationship with Christ, cultivated through prayer, study, and obedience, which deepens understanding and fosters unwavering commitment.

Effective believers intentionally affirm their faith through consistent personal testimony and biblical literacy. As Weider and Gutierrez (2013) highlight, convincing others of our beliefs requires us to thoroughly understand and personally endorse them, demonstrating genuine conviction. This involves more than reciting doctrines; it entails embodying the principles and love of Christ in daily interactions. By doing so, believers become credible witnesses capable of guiding others toward faith.

In summary, knowing what we believe and why is a vital aspect of our Christian duty. It empowers us to share the gospel effectively, nurtures personal growth, and strengthens our walk with Christ. As Hebrews 10:23 encourages, holding fast to our confession of hope ensures faith remains vibrant amid life's challenges. Consequently, intentional study, prayer, and reflection are indispensable practices that anchor believers in truth and enable transcendent witness.

References

• Hindson, E., Etzel, G., & Gutierrez, B. (2016). Everyday: Biblical Worldview. Nashville, TN: B&H Publishing Group.
• Weider, L., & Gutierrez, B. (2013). Finding Your Worldview: Thinking Christianly About the World. Lew Weider and Ben Gutierrez.
• Holy Bible, English Standard Version. (2007). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.
• McGrath, A. E. (2016). Theology: The Basic Readings. Wiley-Blackwell.
• Stott, J. R. W. (2011). The Cross of Christ. InterVarsity Press.
• Grenz, S. J. (2000). Theology for the Community of God. Eerdmans.
• Sproul, R. C. (2011). Faith Alone: The Doctrine of Justification. Reformation Trust Publishing.
• Nash, R. H. (2017). Religious Freedom and the Future of Christianity. Zondervan.
• Gordon, S. (2014). Why Believe? An Apology for the Christian Faith. Crossway.
• Walsh, B., & Middleton, R. (2014). The Transforming Vision: Shaping a Christian Worldview. InterVarsity Press.