Reflection Paper

Three of the most challenging things I discovered this semester include:

Most books written in the New Testament do not have known authors, instead the author attached to most books stem from tradition

Within each book, the reader is given a picture of Jesus. Sometimes these pictures can contradict each other.

Understanding the history and context is incredibly important when interpreting scripture

I would describe Jesus as a selfless man who knew no sin. His ministry on earth ended in his crucifixion so that who ever believed in him would not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3:16)

The essence of the teachings of Jesus center around salvation, judgement, wisdom, and faith. Jesus’s ministry demonstrates passion, love, and forgiveness.

Later in Act, we read: “And the Lord added to the church daily.”

To be saved means to be forgiven of personal sin. One is saved through acceptance (accepting the gift of Jesus’s death and resurrection) and obedience (through baptism). However, the way someone becomes saved is a debated topic.

For me, the Bible is a collection of stories and parables which uncover the life, ministry, and characteristics of Jesus and the Father. I grew up in a Christian home and became exposed to the Bible at a young age. However, it wasn 't until I reached adolescence that I began to become familiar with specific aspects in the Bible. College classes and daily devotions have helped me understand the Bible better today than I did

The New Testament is comprised of stories related to Jesus’s ministry, his disciples and their roles within the Jesus movement. The New Testament is comprised of 27 books. The first four books are considered to be the “gospels” written by Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.

My favorite New Testament character is Paul, particularly because of his known ministry. Paul wrote several letters, which were incorporated into the New Testament. I appreciate Paul’s theology and I value the way Paul portray Jesus.

If I had to pick my least favorite character, it would be Judas. Not only does Judas betray Jesus but once he feels the shame and guilt of what he’s done, Judas commits suicide. It’s not because Judas commits suicide that he’s my least favorite character, but because part of me wishes Judas would have overcome his guilt and shame in a different way. I imagine Judas playing a big role in the Jesus movement had he not ended his own life.

One of my favorite stories in the New Testament is the woman at the well. This story portrays Jesus’s love for the sinner and in particular highlights he’s character. Jesus went against culture by talking to the woman at the well. Jesus used this woman to further his kingdom. After her conversation with Jesus she went out into town to spread the good