POSSIBLE INFLUENCE OF GENETIC FACTORS ON SIN, SANCTIFICATION, AND THEOLOGY by Burton Webb and Keith Drury

An Abstract:
"Emerging evidence in both the scientific and medical literature seems to indicate that several addictive behaviors some Wesleyans traditionally have recognized as sinful may be linked to mutations in specific genetic sequences. Although this does not necessarily indicate a cause-effect relationship, it does raise interesting questions regarding the nature and inheritance patterns of these behaviors. Genetic predispositions toward alcoholism, smoking, drug abuse, and gambling have all been suggested. Schizophrenics are more likely to commit petty crimes and assault than the general population. Some research supporting a genetic link for homosexuality has been in the literature in the last several years. This paper will explore the theological implications of this genetic research by raising important questions for Wesleyan theologians to consider: To what extent is an individual culpable for sin influenced by genetic factors? Should genetic predispositions change the church’s view of sin? If we learn to manipulate genes, will "genetic sanctification" be possible?

For the full paper click here: http://didache.nts.edu/index.php?option=com_docman&task=doc_view&gid=771&Itemid=

Neo-Fundamentalism and The Modern Inerrancy Debate

Hi People,

Here are two great articles i recommend to read!

Neo-Fundamentalist
http://www.crivoice.org/neofundamentalism.html

The Modern Inerrancy Debate
http://www.crivoice.org/inerrant.html

Let me know your thoughts...

Scriptural Innerancy: an open letter by C.S Cowels from PLNU

This is an amazing piece of work and a MUST read, for too long our peopl have misunderstood the churches position. I belive this letter helps point us in the right direction!
See Link Below!!!

http://www.naznet.com/inerrant.htm

What is the best theory of Atonement for Nazarenes, and does it even matter?

Anyone want to step up to the plate and give their personal views that we can discuss? and does it even really matter how we view the atonement?
I will post several views another time.
Peace

Is the Church of the Nazarene in danger of losing its 'Wesleyanism'?

I for one love the 'Big Tent' image thatn is often portrayed in the church of the Nazarene. We have a more inclusive approach to church and ministry. This is evident in how the church of the Nazarene came to be over 100 years ago (only just). But in recent times i have been having more and more conversations with church people, and hearing some interesting views on our district assembly floors, that leads me to think something is missing.

So, Are we (Australian nazarene church) in danger of losing our 'Wesleyanism' when it comes to our understanding on issues such as Bibilcal Innereancy, the Atonement, Sin, Baptism just to name a few?
With the ever increase of people from other denominations joining the CotN(which is a great thing, not a bad thing and i welcome it) we increasingly have people 'objecting' or 'misunderstanding' our churches view and stance on MANY issues which can and does divide communties of faith and puts pastors and preachers in difficult positions.

Do we, the Australian church of the Nazarene, need to educate our people about our 'Wesleyan 'views of scripture, missions and the world?

The CotN position on Scripture:
We believe in the plenary inspiration of the Holy Scriptures, by which we understand the sixty-six books of the Old and New Testaments given by Divine inspiration, inerrantly revealing the will of God concerning us in all things necessary to our salvation, so that whatever is not contained therein is not to be enjoined as an article of faith."

What are your thoughts? Are we in danger? Have we come across this in our ministry? What are the ways forward? Do we as pastors need to be 're-deucated'?
Many have 'dissagreed' with our Theological college, however, we are in desperate need (in my opinion) of some deep discussions with our people and the support and teaching from our college (which they are more than happy to help with if we pick up the phone) in our Local churches if we are to remain 'Wesleyan' at the Local church level.
Peace