Class 9 Reflection Topic

In chapter 30, McLaren contrasts "organized religion" with "religion organizing for the common good." Do you think religious groups can be vital centers of organizing for the common good? Why/How? Why not? (300-500 words)

Class 7 Reflection Topic

In chapter 22, McLaren argues that we can overcome our violent and warring ways by acknowledging our predisposition to be "fighters" and directing this tendency toward justice. Do you think this is a reasonable argument? Why or why not? (300-500 words)

Class 6 Reflection Topic

On page 128, McLaren compares the reframing of Jesus's narative to King's "beloved community" (for more on the beloved community see http://www.religion-online.org/showarticle.asp?title=1603). What are your thoughts on this comparison? Do you think McLaren's reframed narrative could have public impact the way King's did - change policy/law, practice, culture, etc. for society at large? (300-500 words)

Class 5 Reflection Topic

Based on our reading and discussion to this point, what questions do you have for McLaren? Describe why you think these questions are important. (300-500 words)

Class 4 Reflection Topic

How might McLaren's argument be extended to other faith traditions? Does the fact that he nests his argument in the person of Jesus make working with other faith traditions impossible (or highly unlikely)? If not, why? If so, how can this be remedied? (300-500 words)

Class 3 Reflection Topic

(From Terry's closing comments)

Concept 1: "Action is a representation of belief"
Concept 2: "An us vs. them mentality is perpetuated through religious perspectives"

Question: What religious actions (or practices) perpetuate the "us vs. them" perspective?
(300-500 words)

Class 2 Reflection Topic

Considering the reading from the last class, what do you think about the "possibility of a new Evangelical movement in the U.S.?" Do you think there is such a movement? If so, is it Evangelical after all? Finally, if you think there is such a movement afoot, how do you imagine they might organize themselves to create change? (300-500 words)