The Heart of Christianity Adult Sunday School Class "Hearts class" at First United Methodist Church in San Diego, California, United States from Lembi Saarmann for Friday, 28 April 2017

The Heart of Christianity Adult Sunday School Class "Hearts class" at First United Methodist Church in San Diego, California, United States from Lembi Saarmann for Friday, 28 April 2017
Dear Hearts,
Here are some thoughts for our discussion on Sunday. Can't wait to hear your thoughts.
Lembi
Armstrong – Ch 2 – Kenosis - self emptying. Of one’s own will and becoming receptive to God’s will.

• p. 101 - Armstrong says violence was the catalyst if change. Is that always the way?
• p. 103 – Amos was possessed by a power outside himself – how is that different from what the Indians and Chinese experienced? Which pattern most fits us today?

Amos brought a disturbing message.

• p. 103 – Amos says Yahweh is not necessarily on the side of Israel and would use events to punish Israel. Why was this such a shocking message? 
• P. 104 – what did the new religion demand?
• p. 104-105 - Amos was an example of kenosis – the new religion would require “feeling with” others. Do we still have trouble with that today?
• p. 105 – Hosea – also tried to get people to worship only Yahweh – just like Elijah – but for reasons on ethics. Said people followed other gods because they did not know Yahweh. Do we?
• p. 106 – Amos and Hosea both said behavior counts more than rituals. One must examine oneself. Christianity puts emphasis on beliefs – or behavior?
• p. 106-110 – fascinating analysis of J and E and the Pentateuch. 
• p. 110 – Abraham as an example of kenosis when 3 strangers come to his tent. He prostrates himself – personal surrender and practical compassion together. What are the implications of these 2 things for us?
• p. 111 – Sacrifice of Isaac. Armstrong says this is where animal sacrifice officially supplants human sacrifice. But it show a very cruel god. What is your opinion of god in this incident?
• p. 113 – Assyrian empire takes over. Did that mean their god was greater than Yahweh?
• p. 117 – Isaiah said Judah should rely solely on Yahweh. Show humility and surrender like kenosis, but also shows a high national ego. Israel says Yahweh could control other nations too. This was a new concept. 
• p. 117-118 – account of what happened to Judah – it’s not pretty.
• p. 119 – patriotic pride and chauvinistic theology had almost annihilated the nation. What is the cautionary tale for us?

Lembi Saarmann, RN, EdD
Emeritus Faculty
School of Nursing
San Diego State University
Cell: 619-987-1604
Email: Lembis77@gmail.com

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