Our Truth

ENTRY I:  SPIRITUAL FORMATION BASED UPON THE STUDYING OF

Ecologies of Faith in a Digital Age

Lowe and Lowe highlight an often overlooked aspect of online learning: the intricate interplay between the virtual classroom and the student’s broader ecosystem. This “bidirectional influence” recognizes that learning is not confined to the digital space but is deeply intertwined with the learner’s relationships, experiences, and contexts. As a Master of Biblical Studies student, I know this concept has profound implications for my spiritual growth and future ministry.

The authors emphasize that our various social connections – family, church, and workplace – inevitably shape our engagement with online learning. Conversely, the knowledge and interactions within the online classroom can ripple outwards, influencing those within our sphere of influence. This dynamic exchange recognizes that learning is not a solitary pursuit but a communal endeavor embedded within a web of relationships.

A powerful example is the student caring for an aging parent. Their personal experience becomes a lens through which they engage with course material on ministering to older people. This deepens their understanding and enriches their classmates’ learning experience, fostering empathy and prompting prayerful support. Looking back on caring for my aging mother, I realize how valuable a course on ministering to older adults would have been. As Lowe and Lowe suggest, personal experience becomes a lens for engaging with such material. I wish I had that knowledge then. It would have deepened my understanding and equipped me to serve my mother’s needs better. Sharing my experiences would have also enriched the learning of others, fostering empathy and support. This reflection highlights the connection between personal experiences and academic pursuits, especially in ministry. Such “bidirectional influence” underscores the value of incorporating personal experiences into learning, recognizing that knowledge integrated with lived reality leads to more profound growth.

This interconnectedness challenges the notion of compartmentalized learning. Spiritual development, for instance, is not solely confined to designated courses or religious settings. It can occur within the online classroom, through interactions with fellow students, or even in seemingly secular spaces like the workplace. Recognizing this fluidity allows for a more holistic approach to spiritual formation, acknowledging that God works through all aspects of our lives.

By expanding on this concept, Lowe and Lowe draw a compelling parallel between social networks and natural ecosystems. They argue that social interconnections function like an ecosystem’s “interrelated and interdependent” components. Just as plants and animals within an ecosystem rely on each other for survival and growth, individuals within a social network impact and are impacted by those around them. This interchange manifested through social interaction and influence, is crucial for continued personal development.

The authors use the analogy of a plant growing multidimensionally within its environment. As environmental factors can positively or negatively affect a plant’s growth, our social interactions can shape us in various ways. Furthermore, like a plant contributing nutrients to the soil and oxygen to the air, we also contribute to our social ecosystem through forgiveness, encouragement, and kindness. This reciprocal exchange fosters growth and transformation within the entire network.

This ecological model has profound implications for understanding spiritual formation. If human growth and development mirror patterns in the natural world, spiritual growth likely follows similar principles. Our spiritual development is not solely an individual pursuit but also deeply intertwined with our relationships and interactions within our social ecosystem.

As I embark on my ministry journey, these concepts have several practical implications:

1. Embracing the Whole Person: I must recognize that my future ministry will involve individuals with complex lives and diverse experiences. Their learning, like mine, will be shaped by their unique ecosystems. This necessitates a pastoral approach that acknowledges the whole person, not just their intellectual engagement with biblical content.

2. Fostering Authentic Community: It is crucial to create physical or virtual spaces where individuals feel safe to share their experiences and struggles. This vulnerability fosters deeper connection, mutual learning, and spiritual growth within the community.

3. Integrating Learning and Life: Encouraging the application of biblical principles to everyday life bridges the gap between academic study and lived experience. This could involve facilitating discussions on how Scripture intersects with current events, family dynamics, or workplace challenges.

4. Recognizing Bidirectional Influence: I must be mindful that my interactions with others, both within and outside of formal ministry settings, have the potential to shape their spiritual journeys. This awareness underscores the importance of embodying Christ-like character in all aspects of life.

5. Embracing Lifelong Learning: Acknowledging the interconnectedness of learning and life fosters a posture of continuous growth. It encourages me to seek learning opportunities in diverse settings, recognizing that God can speak through various experiences and relationships.

6. Nurturing the Social Ecosystem: I must intentionally foster healthy relationships and positive interactions within my sphere of influence. This includes promoting forgiveness, offering encouragement, and modeling Christ-like love in all my interactions.

In conclusion, Lowe and Lowe’s insights on bidirectional influence and the ecological model of social networks provide a valuable framework for understanding spiritual growth and its interconnectedness with our broader ecosystems. As I continue my studies and prepare for ministry, I am committed to embracing this holistic perspective, fostering learning environments that honor the whole person and recognize the transformative power of shared experience. By acknowledging the intricate interplay between the online classroom, personal contexts, and spiritual formation, I can contribute to a more vibrant and impactful learning experience for myself and those I serve.

PART II

My early journey through Liberty University has been a profound experience of spiritual warfare. As Benjamin K. Forrest aptly states in his recommendation of Romans 8, I’ve come to understand the enemy is relentless in his attempts to hinder our progress and derail us from fulfilling God’s calling. I’ve felt this opposition acutely – attacks on my children, crippling self-doubt, the constant struggle with time management, and the persistent tug-of-war with my flesh. But amidst these trials, and before my recent enrollment, The entire book of Romans has become a source of strength and a shield against the enemy’s schemes.

Romans 8 then unveils the life-giving power of the Holy Spirit. Walking in step with the Spirit frees us from the law of sin and death, empowering us to overcome the flesh and its tendencies towards fear, inadequacy, and procrastination. It’s a constant battle, but the Spirit provides the strength to persevere, even when assignments pile up and exhaustion sets in.

The passage reminds us of our glorious inheritance as children of God. We are co-heirs with Christ, led by the Spirit, and destined for unimaginable glory. This truth shifts my perspective when the challenges of seminary seem overwhelming. I am not alone in this journey; I have a Heavenly Father who loves me, guides me, and provides for my every need.

Romans 8 doesn’t shy away from the reality of suffering. It acknowledges the groans of creation and the struggles we face as believers. But it also points to the hope of future glory, reminding us that our trials are temporary and pale compared to the eternal reward that awaits us. This perspective helps me endure difficult seasons, knowing my efforts are not in vain.

Finally, Romans 8 culminates in a triumphant declaration of God’s unwavering love and sovereign control. Nothing can separate us from His love – not tribulation, distress, persecution, famine, nakedness, danger, or sword. Not even our doubts or fears. This truth is an impenetrable shield against the enemy’s attacks. When I feel overwhelmed, I cling to the promise that God is for me, and if He is for me, who can be against me?

For those facing spiritual oppression, whether in seminary or any other area of life, Romans 8 offers a powerful weapon against the enemy’s lies. It reminds us of our identity in Christ, the power of the Holy Spirit, and the unwavering love of our Heavenly Father. By meditating on these truths and applying them to our lives, we can find strength, peace, and confidence to overcome obstacles and fulfill God’s calling.

Remember, the enemy is a liar; he comes to steal your joy, peace, and faith above all else. But we have been given the victory through Christ Jesus. Stand firm in His truth, and you will overcome!