Read Jones, CHP 3 & Bipolar Faith Please watch the Moltmann talk with Volf listen to the lecture (https://voicethread.com/myvoice/thread/7447621/40090366/41159015) on God & here is the Prezi Define perichoresis and the way this term relates to God’s dynamic relational nature. Give examples of utilizing all 4 sides of the Wesleyan Quadrilateral for learning about God. Finally, use Monica Coleman’s biography as theology as a way to discuss the WQ. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z_XG7NywtjM&t=6s&ab_channel=YaleDivinitySchool
In this assignment, we will first discuss the concept of perichoresis and its relationship to God’s dynamic relational nature. We will then explore how the Wesleyan Quadrilateral can be used to learn about God, incorporating all four sides of this framework. Finally, we will use Monica Coleman’s biography as theology to discuss the Wesleyan Quadrilateral.
Perichoresis is a term often used in Christian theology to describe the mutual indwelling and interpenetration of the three persons of the Trinity – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. It comes from the Greek words “peri” meaning around and “chorein” meaning to make room. Perichoresis refers to the idea that the three persons of the Trinity dwell within one another, without losing their distinct identities. It highlights the dynamic and relational nature of God.
Perichoresis can be understood as a dance or a circular movement, where each person of the Trinity moves in love, harmony, and perfect unity with the others. This concept emphasizes the idea that God is not a static being, but rather a God who is constantly in relationship and communion with Himself.
To illustrate the use of all four sides of the Wesleyan Quadrilateral for learning about God, it is essential to briefly explain this framework. The Wesleyan Quadrilateral consists of four theological sources or lenses through which we can gain knowledge about God: Scripture, Tradition, Reason, and Experience.
Scripture is the foundational source for understanding God in the Christian tradition. It refers to the Bible and is seen as the inspired Word of God. Through studying and interpreting the Scriptures, we can gain insights into God’s nature, character, and teachings.
Tradition encompasses the accumulated wisdom, practices, and beliefs of the Christian community throughout history. It includes the teachings of early Church fathers, creeds, liturgical practices, and theological interpretations handed down through generations. Tradition provides a broader context for interpreting Scripture and understanding the faith.
Reason refers to the use of logic, rationality, and critical thinking in theological reflection. It involves engaging with philosophical arguments, logical reasoning, and intellectual exploration to deepen our understanding of God. Reason serves as an important tool in interpreting Scripture and engaging with theological debates.
Experience refers to personal encounters, faith journeys, and individual experiences of God. It encompasses both the subjective experiences and the communal experiences of the Christian community. Experience allows for a more personal and transformative understanding of God.
When utilizing all four sides of the Wesleyan Quadrilateral, one can gain a comprehensive understanding of God. For example, in learning about God’s nature and character, Scripture can be the primary source for exploring God’s self-revelation. Tradition can provide insights into how Christians throughout history have understood and interpreted God’s nature. Reason can help in discerning logical coherence within theological concepts related to God’s nature, such as the problem of evil. Lastly, Experience can provide personal and communal encounters with God that shape our understanding of His nature and character.
Now, let’s explore how Monica Coleman’s biography as theology can be used to discuss the Wesleyan Quadrilateral. Coleman’s biography, titled “Bipolar Faith,” is a personal memoir that reflects on her experiences with mental illness, racism, and her journey of faith. Through her story, Coleman offers a unique perspective on how her experiences inform her understanding of God and theology.
In the Wesleyan Quadrilateral framework, Coleman’s experiences would fall under the category of Experience. By sharing her personal encounters with God in the midst of her struggles, Coleman offers a lived theology that challenges and expands traditional theological frameworks. Her experiences can be seen as a lens through which we can gain deeper insights into God’s nature and how He works in the lives of individuals.
Using the other three sides of the Wesleyan Quadrilateral, we can engage Scripture to explore passages and themes that resonate with Coleman’s experiences. Tradition can provide a broader context for understanding the intersection of mental health, race, and faith. Reason can help in critically examining the theological implications of Coleman’s experiences and understanding how they fit within the broader theological framework.
Overall, through perichoresis, the Wesleyan Quadrilateral, and the incorporation of experiences like Coleman’s, we can develop a more nuanced understanding of God that encompasses His dynamic relational nature, engages with various theological sources, and acknowledges the transformative power of personal encounters with God.