Purpose: To begin the work of theological reflection as it pertains to faith, culture and vocation. This reflection creates a greater capacity to both identify God’s involvement in the world and develop an open posture towards God’s involvement and invitation in your life.
Instructions: For this assignment, you will write a 750-1000 word essay that articulates a working theology of vocation. “Theology” simply means the study of the nature of God. Thus, a “theology of vocation” addresses the nature of God as it is connected to vocation. In other words, this assignment should answer the question, “How do you understand God’s involvement in vocation?”
Be sure to reference 3-6 scholarly sources in addition to a biblical commentary.
Part 1
Reflect on one biblical text that deals with “calling” (300-350 words). The reading from Placher identifies eleven prominent “calling” texts that might be helpful, however, you are free to choose other biblical texts that fit the theme of “calling.” You should feel free to consult with your instructor if you have questions about using a different biblical text. After identifying and briefly describing the narrative, reflect upon what the text articulates about the nature of God. What does the text highlight as a concern or desire that God carries? What does the text say about those for whom God cares?
Keep in mind that any single text does not capture the fullness of God’s character, desire or mission. Your reflection should also include a minimum of one biblical commentary source.
Part 2
In this week’s required resource, Dr. Steven Garber states that “vocation is integral, not incidental to the mission of God.” In 450-650 words, reflect on the connection Garber makes between what we believe about God (faith) and vocation. First, highlight the key theological case Dr. Garber makes for vocation. In other words, what connections does he make between how we understand God and vocation?
Secondly, respond to the following prompts:
In what ways have you understood the connection between God and “work”? In what ways do Dr. Garber’s reflections support or critique this understanding?
In what ways have you struggled to see the connection between God and “work”? What factors may contribute to this?
Dr. Garber spends a significant amount of time discussing “the common good.” How do his thoughts on the common good resonate or conflict with how you understand God’s involvement in the world?
Be sure to include the required readings from Drs. Theresa Latini and Jonathan Malesic in your essay. Their work should contribute to your reflections as you begin to develop a working definition of theology.
Part 3
After identifying a biblical text on calling and engaging in theological reflection on vocation, write a succinct, one-sentence theology of vocation. Keep in mind that this is a “working” definition – it is neither comprehensive or a finished product. We will continue to develop this definition in the coming weeks.
Click the “Submit Assignment” link in the upper right corner to upload your assignment.
W1 Assignment 1: A Working Theology of Vocation
W1 Assignment 1: A Working Theology of Vocation
Criteria Ratings Pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeStudent identifies one biblical text on calling and reflects upon the nature and character of God in 300-350 words.
25 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeStudent discusses the connection between God and vocation in 400-650 words and uses course readings and resources to support reflections
40 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeStudent referenced between 3-6 sources in addition to a biblical commentary.
15 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeLimited errors in grammar, spelling, and academic voice.
10 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomePaper is 750-1000 words, is formatted based on APA guidelines, and includes in-text citations and a reference page.
10 pts
Total Points: 100
PreviousNext
The post Purpose: To begin the work of theological reflection as it pertains to faith, cu appeared first on Skilled Papers.
