“For Such A Time As This”
MY SUMMER EXPERIENCE AT OXFORD UNIVERSITY, ENGLAND
“Since the 12th century (1167), Oxford University has been a profound influence upon the Christian Church. Existing as a center of spiritual and academic renewal, this renowned university has produced many of the greatest and most influential leaders of the Christian Church over the centuries.
During my summer experience in Oxford, England, I was taught by leading scholars from America as well as Oxford. I, along with 25 of my peers, experienced the flavor of English life with tea and biscuits, full English breakfasts, worship in historic chapels, and enjoyed tours of historic churches that have influenced Christianity. As I toured historic sites throughout Oxford, and elsewhere, I experienced the richness of our Christian heritage and particular influences upon our Pentecostal and Charismatic heritage.
I gained insights into the challenges of proclaiming a Christian worldview and practicing biblical principles in a society and culture being shaped less and less by historical, socio-theological influences. I also gained a greater appreciation for the successes and failures of the church in history and the obstacles it faced in maintaining its viability, relevance, and effectiveness in ministry. The courses I took were designed to both confront and challenge the present mindset of the church while inspiring us leaders to retool ministry, adjust our philosophy, and augment our strategies where necessary, in order to be more effective in serving our present generation and doing ministry in “such a time as this.”
During my stay at Keble College, Oxford University, I participated in four classes, earning myself 12 units worth of credit towards my Masters of Divinity at the KIng’s College and Seminary. The following are the classes that I took, on the campus of Keble College, Oxford University, England:
- Encountering God in your Walk: Intimacy with the Infinite
- Encountering God Through Witnessing: The Discipline of Discipleship
- Encountering God Through the Word: The Power of Preaching the Word
- Encountering God Though Worship: Corporate practice of the Presence of God.
I am so glad to be back home with my family and friends. I hope your summer was as awsome as mine! May God bless each of you as we rap up Summer 2009 and head into the Fall months together.
Pastor Matthew
