This week in Christian History

[burnt]

http://www.christianitytoday.com/ch/thisweekinchristianhistory/

"September 19, 821: Theodulf, poet, scholar, secretary of education, and bishop of Orleans during Charlemagne's reign is buried. He wrote hymns..."

- we have him to thank for this masterpiece often played on Palm Sunday, but always timely in its message! Written almost 1200 years ago, its longevity is a a testament to the depth and power of classical Christian music.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mEMR0SVdv2Q


"September 19, 1955: Mission Aviation pilot Nate Saint spots the Auca villages in the Amazon jungle. . ."

- this introduction proved very fruitful, although his own work there was drastically shortened... http://www.maf.org/nate_saint

Another amazing collage of how our best human efforts at representing our Lord here on earth take some steps that are at times curious, contradictory and seemingly circuitous. More than anything, a testament to the power of the message we bring rather than our human ability.

 

[burnt]

http://www.christianitytoday.com/ch/thisweekinchristianhistory/

"September 25, 1872: Peter Cartwright, an indefatigable Methodist circuit rider, dies at age 97. . . "

His story makes for an interesting read if you are inclined to learn more about early American revivalists. While his sometimes-unconventional methods and words often caused a raised eyebrow, he feared no one and once showed his quick thinking with this incident -

"When Peter Cartwright was put on the spot at a conference of Methodist Bishops, one bishop addressed him in Greek-- hoping to make a fool out of him. Peter answered the bishop in German, which his mother had taught him as a boy. Since the bishop didn't know any German, he had to save face quickly, so he backed out by nodding his head vigorously and saying to those nearby, "He knows it! He knows it!" (Ruckman)

Cartwright demonstrated complete lack of fear and timidity before rulers, generals and commoners in his work as a preacher and politician.

What would be the outcome of such fearlessness in telling the Christian story if practiced today?

 

[burnt]

http://www.christianitytoday.com/ch/thisweekinchristianhistory/

Crusades, uprisings, mystics, councils, Rembrandt dies - Rembrandt dies?

"October 4, 1669: Dutch painter Rembrandt Harmensz van Rijn, known as the "painter of the soul" for his unsurpassed Christian art (including "The Return of the Prodigal Son," c. 1668), dies."

http://www.itinerantpreacher.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/Rembrandt-The-Return-Of-The-Prodigal-Son.jpg (when you click on this link, click on the picture again to enlarge it, allowing for a better study of the myriad of details that Rembrandt poured into it - facial expressions, clothing, the son's worn purse, shoes, the father's hands, etc)

Henri Nouwen's book, "The Return of the Prodigal Son", in which he describes what he learned by spending time in deep contemplation of Rembrandt's painting, is a stirring work that compels us to consider which one of the characters in the painting would best describe our situation in life.

The returned, penitent son? The disgusted older brother, hands folded? The bemused, wealthy onlooker? The sad, perhaps relieved face looking over the father's shoulder? The shadowy, unrecognizable face in the upper corner?

The father?

Nouwen's profound book (highly recommended) brings out the nuances of this well-known story in ways that I never saw before. And he garnered his insights all by sitting for days and studying the artistic work of Rembrandt. The art, the book, the story that Jesus told, all deserve a long look so that their rich meaning is not wasted in our lives.

http://www.esvbible.org/search/luke+15%3A11-32/

 

[burnt]

http://www.christianitytoday.com/ch/thisweekinchristianhistory/

Evangelical explorers, great missionaries, theologians, kings, cathedral builders and children all leave their mark on the history of the Christian faith, some for the better and some less so . . .

The Cologne Cathedral was completed on October 15, 1880, 633 years after it was started! Thousands of craftsmen, tradesmen, laborers put their hand to the massive project for over 6 centuries. Its history presents a terrific analogy for the building of the Kingdom of Heaven.

Those who began the project knew they would not see its completion. Yet they labored, knowing that the thing which they were building was far greater than their own tiny contribution.

Some toiled in the dirt, digging the foundations and laying the huge stones that would support the immense structure that would eventually tower above the ground. Their work is not visible - but was it less important?

Others set the stone in the walls - the impressive arch stones above the doors and windows, allowing entrance and light! And yet others who came later set the stunningly beautiful stained glass windows in their places, while some brave souls climbed high to put the finishing touch on the cloud-scraping spires!

Then, sadly, wartime broke out and others repaired the damage done by the engines of war. The glass was shattered, the spires were rocked but the foundations remained.

Whose work was most "important"?

Though we are not all "Billy Grahams", we do have an impact, some more visible, some unseen, for better or otherwise, on the building of the Church of God.

None of us is the whole answer. We are only asked to do what we can - what He calls us to do in the work of the Kingdom which will stand long after the Cologne Cathedral has crumbled into dusty oblivion.

http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/292

1 Cor. 3:8 The man who plants and the man who waters have one purpose, and each will be rewarded according to his own labor. 9 For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, God's building. NIV

 

[burnt]

http://www.christianitytoday.com/ch/thisweekinchristianhistory/

October 16, 21, 1555 - An angry, jealous Queen Mary causes much persecution and bloodshed in order to solidify her claim to the throne, nobles and commoners alike died under her executioner's axe. The 17 year old Lady Jane, queen for only 9 days, gives a stirring testimony before bowing onto the beheading block by Bloody Mary's order . . .
http://www.ladyjanegrey.org/

"October 18, 1867: The United States purchases . . ." some cheap real estate but it badly needed some moral guidance and spiritual investment, a need filled by Sheldon Jackson who worked for decades to improve the social and moral fabric of the territory.

Some have tried to date the beginning of the earth -

"October 22, 4004 BC:: According to James Ussher, the well-respected and scholarly Anglican primate of the Irish Church in the early seventeenth century, God created the universe on this date at 9:00 a.m. GMT." - Wow, it would be interesting to see his basis for this conclusion!

. . . and others tried to predict its end -

"October 22, 1844: Between 50,000 and 100,000 followers of Baptist lay preacher William Miller prepared for "The Day of Atonement"—the day Jesus would return. Jesus didn't, and though Miller retained his faith in Christ's imminent return until his death, he blamed human mistakes in Bible chronologies for "The Great Disappointment." . . . Jesus said He will come again, but did not say when . . .

 

[burnt]

http://www.christianitytoday.com/ch/thisweekinchristianhistory/

A president's honest confession - did it mean that he may have understood what Jesus said . . .

October 24, 1260: Another great cathedral is consecrated, what a wonderful work of architecture - http://www.sacred-destinations.com/france/chartres-cathedral

One of many great and fascinating features of this cathedral is the labyrinth which adorns an immense section of floor.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Labyrinth_at_Chartres_Cathedral.JPG

Over the centuries, navigating the Chartres Labyrinth, sometimes on hands and knees, was viewed by some as a means of doing penance or earning forgiveness for their sins. Others make use of it as a meditative walk, meandering their way through the complex and significant design, working toward the center rosette which ultimately represents the Kingdom of Heaven.

While the labyrinth is heavily laden with symbolism, it brings great joy and relief to know that the way into the Kingdom is straight and simple - through the atoning work of Christ on the Cross. Entrance cannot be earned by works or any merit of our own, but only by accepting the gift of Jesus Christ.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aley9_d8vrE

Also this week, October 24, 1648: "The Peace of Westphalia ends central Europe's Thirty Years War", an act which provided a territory that was later a safe haven for my Anabaptist ancestors who fled there to escape the persecution in Switzerland.

"October 26, 899: Alfred the Great, ruler of Wessex, England, from 871, dies. His defeat of the Danes ensured Christianity's survival in England, but he is also known for his ecclesiastical reforms and his desire to revive learning in his country."

"October 25, 1400: English poet Geoffrey Chaucer dies . . ." a commoner with deep insights . . .

October 26, 1950: Mother Theresa establishes a mission . . .

Many interesting snippets of Christian history, any one of which can provide hours of enlightening study on matters which have had a direct or indirect influence on where you and I find ourselves today!

 

[burnt]

http://www.christianitytoday.com/ch/thisweekinchristianhistory/

"October 30, 1451: Christopher Columbus..." is born.

"October 31, 1517: Martin Luther posts his 95 Theses in Wittenberg" -

Almost 600 years ago, Luther nailed his list to the wooden door of Castle Church in Wittenburg as a call to re-examine some church practice and doctrine. While his historic action is considered the catalyst that sparked the Reformation, is the time for personal re-evaluation of one's faith and practice ever past? When is our transformation complete?

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Corinthians+3%3A17-18&version=NASB

"November 1, 1512: After four years of work, Michelangelo Buonarroti..." uncovers a rather large canvas (5800 sq. ft.!)- the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. Interestingly, Michelangelo considered himself a sculptor rather than an artist. This link takes you to a list of his works - http://www.artbible.info/art/topics/sistine-chapel

In a time when illiteracy, among other things, kept people from reading, it was through such works of art as demonstrated above and in the pictures in stained glass windows of churches that people could see and grasp the Gospel message. While the medium, whether spoken, written, musical or painted - carries the message, the Spirit gives it life!

"November 2, 1533: Harried by Catholic authorities, John Calvin flees Paris..." - while mighty with the pen, he had to hide under a farmer's hoe to escape...

"November 4, 1740: English clergyman Augustus Toplady, author of the hymn "Rock of Ages," is born."

As we grapple with the changes that we see both in history and in the present, it gives great comfort to know that our "Rock of Ages" is always faithful! Hymn on Organ - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wddgXalmDUY

Lyrics - http://www.hymns.me.uk/rock-of-ages-favorite-hymn.htm

 

[TexasBred]

http://www.christianitytoday.com/ch/thisweekinchristianhistory/

A president's honest confession - did it mean that he may have understood what Jesus said . . .

October 24, 1260: Another great cathedral is consecrated, what a wonderful work of architecture - http://www.sacred-destinations.com/france/chartres-cathedral

One of many great and fascinating features of this cathedral is the labyrinth which adorns an immense section of floor.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Labyrinth_at_Chartres_Cathedral.JPG

Over the centuries, navigating the Chartres Labyrinth, sometimes on hands and knees, was viewed by some as a means of doing penance or earning forgiveness for their sins.

Penance isn't about the forgiveness of sins. It's about changing who we are. The forgiveness of sins isn't the problem. We suffer from the results of sins, and we need to have those changed for our own good. That's where penance comes in; it helps to transform us, not earn forgiveness.Others make use of it as a meditative walk, meandering their way through the complex and significant design, working toward the center rosette which ultimately represents the Kingdom of Heaven.

While the labyrinth is heavily laden with symbolism, it brings great joy and relief to know that the way into the Kingdom is straight and simple - through the atoning work of Christ on the Cross. Entrance cannot be earned by works or any merit of our own, but only by accepting the gift of Jesus Christ.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aley9_d8vrE

Also this week, October 24, 1648: "The Peace of Westphalia ends central Europe's Thirty Years War", an act which provided a territory that was later a safe haven for my Anabaptist ancestors who fled there to escape the persecution in Switzerland.

"October 26, 899: Alfred the Great, ruler of Wessex, England, from 871, dies. His defeat of the Danes ensured Christianity's survival in England, but he is also known for his ecclesiastical reforms and his desire to revive learning in his country."

"October 25, 1400: English poet Geoffrey Chaucer dies . . ." a commoner with deep insights . . .

October 26, 1950: Mother Theresa establishes a mission . . .

Many interesting snippets of Christian history, any one of which can provide hours of enlightening study on matters which have had a direct or indirect influence on where you and I find ourselves today!

 

[burnt]

TexasBred, thank you for clearing that up. I didn't mean that the two terms were interchangeable, but it certainly read like that, the way I had written it. Thank you for your input.

 

[burnt]

http://www.christianitytoday.com/ch/thisweekinchristianhistory/

Dates of passing - "November 6, 1935: American revivalist Billy Sunday" dies; - "November 7, 739 (traditional date): Willibrord, a missionary monk...dies..." - two men of plain beginnings become highly influential kingdom builders.

Billy left baseball to preach to thousands and Willibrord's ministry in Europe resulted in profound, long-term impact toward its "Christianization".

Willibrord wanted to see believers move beyond a verbal confession of faith to a life that reflected the presence of the Savior, laying aside "idolatrous practices" and "pagan rituals". What can we learn from this humble, devoted man?

"November 7, 1918: Evangelist William ("Billy") Franklin Graham, Jr., is born in Charlotte, North Carolina..."

"November 10, 1483: German reformer Martin Luther is born in Eisleben, Germany." - another man whose work had a deep impact of the course of Christianity.

"November 10, 1908: Gideons International ... places its first Bible in ... the Superior Hotel in Iron Mountains, Montana..."

"November 11, 1855: Danish Christian philosopher Síren Kierkegaard... dies at age 42. Trying to "reintroduce Christianity to Christendom," he believed that Christianity was far more radical and difficult than did his Danish contemporaries."

What did Kierkegaard see in the teaching of Christ that many others (both then and now) miss? Matthew 7:14 - "But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it." (NLT)

And another Dane - "November 12, 1035: Canute the Great, Danish king since 1016, dies at age 41" I wonder if Big Muddy rancher has any more Canute connection stories for us. Seems that some Canute offspring once "ranched" in south-eastern Saskatchewan!

November 12, 1660: John Bunyan is arrested for unlicensed preaching and sentenced to prison. While incarcerated, he penned Pilgrim's Progress". Again, another man whose vision and influence far exceeded his uncomfortable, personal circumstances.

 

[Big Muddy rancher]

I could tell about the time he turned his cattle into some hay stacks my Dad had bought from another fellow, or about the neighbors laying up in the rocks waiting to shoot him for leaving a gate open. :lol: :lol:

 

[burnt]

I could tell about the time he turned his cattle into some hay stacks my Dad had bought from another fellow, or about the neighbors laying up in the rocks waiting to shoot him for leaving a gate open. :lol: :lol:

So your dad would say that your local Canute wasn't really into building churches and monasteries like his ancestor? Around what year did that take place?

 

[Big Muddy rancher]

I could tell about the time he turned his cattle into some hay stacks my Dad had bought from another fellow, or about the neighbors laying up in the rocks waiting to shoot him for leaving a gate open. :lol: :lol:

So your dad would say that your local Canute wasn't really into building churches and monasteries like his ancestor? Around what year did that take place?

Around 1950.

He also plowed fire guards for his place but did it out in our pasture. They has sure eroded.

A old fellow was in here on time to buy a bull and got to telling us about working for him when he was a kid. After working the winter Canute got to figuring what was broke ect and docked the young guys wages. The kid threw Canutes boots in the water trough and took his good lariat. Also drove a hfr. home that was at another fellows place that he stopped for lunch on his way home. Guess he got payed in full after all.

 

[TexasBred]

"November 11, 1855: Danish Christian philosopher Síren Kierkegaard... dies at age 42. Trying to "reintroduce Christianity to Christendom," he believed that Christianity was far more radical and difficult than did his Danish contemporaries."

What did Kierkegaard see in the teaching of Christ that many others (both then and now) miss? Matthew 7:14 - "But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it." (NLT)

Seems a lot of folks tend to overlook this verse or just speed read right thru it. Isnt' faith a life long journey?

 

[burnt]

http://www.christianitytoday.com/ch/thisweekinchristianhistory/

It has been a full year since the first posting of "This Week in Christian History" and I am thinking that after this length of time that if people are interested in reading it, they will know by now where to look for the link, which updates itself weekly.

I hope it has been beneficial and I have enjoyed the very worthwhile contributions made by those who responded. I have learned much. So, thank you for your feedback!

Also, if someone wants to continue it, they may feel free to do so. I would be delighted, in fact!

"November 15, 1917: Oswald Chambers dies while serving as chaplain to British troops in Egypt during World War I. His widow, Gertrude, spent the rest of her life compiling his notes, lectures, and sermons into books, including the bestselling My Utmost for His Highest."

The above book is posted as a very challenging daily devotional at the link below, which also updates daily. Today's reading touches on the last comment made by TexasBred on last week's posting.

http://www.oswaldchambers.co.uk/Readings.php

 

[Big Muddy rancher]

I for one have enjoyed reading your excerpts, Without you posting I will probably forget to go read it.

I have even forwarded it on to my niece the minister.

 

[per]

I'm not sure how long Martin has be posting his passage of the day but I have to say 52 postings in a fertile mission field is just getting started Burnt. It was a good idea when you started and it continues to be. No point stopping now.

 

[hillsdown]

I do enjoy reading each week as well .

This has no bearing on you Burnt but maybe some insight to others that read these posts all the time.

I have the sweetest Jehovah witness couple that come to our place every month, they are retired dairy farmers. If it is nice we sit on the deck if not I invite them in. We discuss farming , dairy, and other things and then they hand me their pamphlets and we say our good byes and best wishes. I read the pamphlets as promised, as one can never learn or have too much information. I actually look forward to their visits each month and the few times I have been on the run feel sad that I missed them.

Keep posting and we will keep reading ..

 

[MsSage]

PLease keep posting them....I for one will not rememebr to check the link but am reminded every week when you post.
Thank you

 

[TexasBred]

PLease keep posting them....I for one will not rememebr to check the link but am reminded every week when you post.
Thank you

I look forward to it every week. Although I am Catholic and find Christianity Today sometimes tends to speak of Catholic beliefs,traditiions and history in a negative way or perhaps they just don't completely understand them, I see these rare occasions as opportunities to expand or explain, and hopefully always do it in a spirit of love.

Please keep posting Burnt......TB