Format Your Paper In A Microsoft Word Document
Format Your Paper In A Microsoft Word Document Using Current Apa Mla
Format your paper in a Microsoft Word document using current APA, MLA, or Turabian style (whichever corresponds to your degree program). Review the Application Paper Grading Rubric to see the specific grading criteria by which you will be evaluated before submitting your paper. Structure your paper in the following format (See the “Application Paper Template” document): I. Introduction (1 paragraph introducing the 2 topics/doctrines that you will address) II. Part One (first topic: approximately 1 page) a. Theological Definition b. Biblical Foundation c. Practical Application III. Part Two (second topic: approximately 1 page) a. Theological Definition b. Biblical Foundation c. Practical Application IV. Conclusion (1 paragraph summarizing your areas of progression in Christian thought)
Paper For Above instruction
This paper is designed to explore two significant doctrines within Christian theology, providing a comprehensive understanding through a theological and biblical lens, and examining how these doctrines can be practically applied within a Christian life. The goal is to deepen personal understanding and articulate how engagement with these doctrines influences spiritual growth and community involvement.
The introduction will set the stage by briefly outlining the two doctrines chosen for discussion. The first part of the paper will focus on one doctrine, providing its theological definition, biblical foundation, and practical application. Similarly, the second part will analyze the second doctrine following the same structure. Finally, the conclusion will reflect on personal progression in Christian thought, highlighting insights gained and areas of further growth.
Part One: The Doctrine of Salvation
Theologically, salvation is defined as the deliverance from sin and its consequences, granted by God's grace through faith in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9). Biblically, salvation is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, exemplified in passages such as Romans 10:9, which emphasizes the importance of confessing Jesus as Lord for salvation. Practically, this doctrine impacts believers’ daily lives by emphasizing reliance on God's grace, encouraging personal evangelism, and fostering a life of righteousness and service motivated by gratitude.
The biblical foundation underscores the necessity of faith and divine grace for salvation, illustrating that human effort alone cannot achieve redemption. This understanding shapes how Christians approach their relationship with God, emphasizing trust in divine sovereignty and grace (John 3:16). Practical application involves committed participation in church communities, evangelism efforts, and personal spiritual disciplines such as prayer and Bible study to nurture salvation's ongoing impact.
Part Two: The Doctrine of Sanctification
Sanctification is the process of becoming holy, set apart for God's purposes. Theologically, it involves both positional sanctification at conversion and progressive sanctification throughout a believer's life (1 Thessalonians 4:3). Biblically, sanctification is rooted in Scripture that calls believers to pursue holiness, as seen in 1 Peter 1:15-16, which commands believers to be holy as God is holy. Practical application of sanctification encourages believers to cultivate spiritual disciplines like prayer, worship, and service, which facilitate growth in Christ-likeness.
The biblical foundation highlights that sanctification is a transformative process empowered by the Holy Spirit. It emphasizes ongoing growth in virtue and spiritual maturity. Practically, believers are encouraged to reflect Christ in their actions, reject sinful behaviors, and develop virtues like patience, humility, and love. This process fosters community building within the church and personal spiritual vitality, demonstrating the tangible benefits of sanctification in everyday life.
Conclusion
Through studying these doctrines, I have experienced significant growth in my understanding of the Christian journey from salvation to sanctification. Recognizing the biblical basis and practical implications of these doctrines has deepened my appreciation for God's grace and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. Moving forward, I am committed to active participation in spiritual disciplines and community outreach, seeking continual growth in Christ and preparation for eternal fellowship with God.
References
Bailey, R. (2015). The Doctrine of Salvation: A Biblical Analysis. Westminster John Knox Press.
Grudem, W. (1994). Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine. InterVarsity Press.
Keller, T. (2013). Jesus the King: Understanding the Life and Death of Jesus. Zondervan.
MacArthur, J. (2011). Saved by Grace. Thomas Nelson.
Packer, J. I. (1993). Knowing God. Paternoster Press.
Piper, J. (2011). Desiring God: Meditations of a Christian Hedonist. Multnomah.
Stott, J. R. W. (2006). The Cross of Christ. InterVarsity Press.
Ware, B. A. (2005). The Grace of God. Crossway.
Wilkins, M. J. (2004). The Message of the Old Testament. Crossway.
Zondervan. (2017). NIV Study Bible. Zondervan.