Matt's Short Term Missions Paper

Thoughts on the Short Term Missions Paper Matt distributed by email:

Distorting Scripture...

OK... I don't want this blog to die out so I'm going to keep posting for a little while in hopes that it doesn't. If it does... whatev... God's will is God's will, so no big deal. But I enjoy it and get a lot of encouragement and helpful knowledge from you guys.

Anyway... here's the question. What are the most mis-used or mis-taught passages in the Bible? Give specific examples if you can and how you have heard them mis-used.

Gender Roles

What is the place of men and women as they relate to one another in Scripture and the Christian life? Do we have the same roles but simply different anatomical make-up? Do we have distinct roles? If so, what are they? What about women's roles in the church? In a marriage? In a family w/ children?

Miracles/Spiritual Gifts

Anybody still out there???

I had a good conversation on this yesterday and wanted to know what everyone thought. What is your view on miracles today? Do they still exist and occur? Are the cessationists right when they say the need for miracles ceased after the apostles died?

**** To preface I believe we need to define miracle as a definate break in natural law. By miracle we don't mean, "I prayed for a parking spot and one opened up! It's a miracle!" Nor do we mean the miracle of childbirth, or God taking away cancer.****

Also... what are your views on the charasmatic gifts such as tongues, prophecy, etc.? Do they still exist or did they cease?

BOOKS: Jesus

What are your favorite books on Jesus and why? Why should someone read the book you're suggesting? This is a very broad topic, I know, but hopefully it will open up for some good suggestions and discussions.

BOOKS: Apologetics

I'm liking the books theme... so here's what let's do: suggested books by subject/topic. Anyone can post a subject/topic at any time. Then those of us who have read something of interest in that area suggest the books we think are worth a read.

If you haven't read a book in that area don't feel obligated to post. If you've only heard of good books, feel free to bring them up. If you've read plenty suggest multiple books. And if you wouldn't mind write a brief explanation of the books you explain so someone isn't just choosing a book blindly. Think in terms of why the rest of us would want to read a certain book.

FIRST UP: Apologetics. GO!

Books...Again.

So I was thinking we have a post on favorite books (that I think we need to rehit, I wish there was a way to move it up some).

However, I was wondering what everyone is reading now. Maybe it can help start some conversations on where our thoughts are coming from. I'd like to know both Biblical and extra-Biblical writings that you are in right now (just finished, or are up soon.)