PCU Mission & History PDF

PCU MISSION Philippine Christian University, an institution related to The United Methodist Church and United Church of Christ in the Philippines, commits itself to deliver high quality education imbued with the formation of Christian character, responsive to t...

PCU MISSION Philippine Christian University, an institution related to The United Methodist Church and United Church of Christ in the Philippines, commits itself to deliver high quality education imbued with the formation of Christian character, responsive to the needs of people, and making them responsible leaders and stewards, fostering inter-faith and international goodwill and understanding. PCU VISSION A distinctive Christian University integrating Faith, Character and Service, transforming global learners for enlightenment, leadership and human development in the 21st Century. BRIEF HISTORY OF PCU In 1945, Bishop Edwin F. Lee of the United Methodist Church (UMC) established a Christian School in Manila. On October 6, 1946, the laymen of the Evangelical Association of the Philippines founded a college. The members of the Board of Directors of the newly-created school were Atty. Juan Nabong Sr., Dr. Mateo Occenia, Dr. Emilio Javier, Dr. Mauro Baradi and Mr. Gerardo Armonio. On January 11, 1947, the Articles of Incorporation was registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The original name of the institution was Manila Union College, but this was later changed to Philippine Christian Colleges. In 1967, the Articles of Incorporation was again amended to remove the letter “s” after was established when Dr. Roxy Lefforge, (1948-1952), an American Missionary, was appointed as the school’s first Executive Dean. Dr. Emilio Javier (1952-1958), layman of the UCCP, was elected as its first President. Under his leadership, the institution expanded its ecumenical efforts in education. The Union High School of Manila and the Union Elementary School were founded by the Presbyterian Church in 1919 and 1946 respectively, and became part of Philippine Christian College in 1948. In 1953, the Mary Johnston School of Nursing, founded by the Methodist in 1907, affiliated with PCC, thereby starting the offering of a Nursing degree. Dr. Emilio Javier (1952-1958), layman of the UCCP, was elected as its first President. Under his leadership, the institution expanded its ecumenical efforts in education. The Union High School of Manila and the Union Elementary School were founded by the Presbyterian Church in 1919 and 1946 respectively, and became part of Philippine Christian College in 1948. In 1953, the Mary Johnston School of Nursing, founded by the Methodist in 1907, affiliated with PCC, thereby starting the offering of a Nursing degree. Dr. Juan Nabong Sr., (1958-1969), a Methodist layman, was the second President of Philippine Christian College. During his term, a four-story concrete building was constructed in 1960 beside the UTS building on Taft Avenue. A year later, another two- story building to house the elementary school was constructed on Vasquez St., Malate. The Ellinwood College of Christian Education merged with Philippine Christian College in 1968 and its curricular were integrated with the programs of the College of Education. Dr. Lino Q. Arquiza (1969-1988), a UCCP educator, was the third President of Philippine Christian College. In 1976, PCC acquired its university status and became Philippine Christian University. In 1978, as a result of the cooperative efforts between Philippine Christian University (PCU) and the Union Theological Seminary (UTS), a merger was forged to highlight a significant development in the history of the University. Thus, the Philippine Christian Center for Learning (PCCL) was founded. With this partnership, PCU expanded its offerings in the 97-hectare UTS campus in Dasmarinas, Cavite, 36 kilometers south of Manila. This alliance between PCU and UTS fostered an ecumenical relationship marked by cooperative influence and development. The efforts of this concerted teamwork were manifested in the consortium undertaking of non- protestant schools with Philippine Christian University. In 1972, PCU and De La Salle engaged in a resource-sharing program. Later, in 1975, an Inter-Institutional Consortium (I-IC) was formed to include De La Salle University, St. Paul College Manila, St. Scholastic’s College, Philippine Normal University and Philippine Christian University. The Inter- Institutional Consortium (I-IC) enjoyed the full support of the United Board of Christian Higher Education in Asia. With the demise of Dr. Lino Q. Arquiza, PCU had a succession of two capable church members who served as officers-in-charge of the university. They were Justice Crisolito Pascual (1988) and Dr. Betty I. Molina (1989). In 1990, the Board of Trustees elected Dr. Carlito S. Puno (1990-2000), a Methodist layman, as the fourth President. Dr. Puno provided a new vision and creative leadership. PCU became an active participant in the globalization of education. Under his leadership, the University pursued an effective expansion through off-campus projects and overseas institutional articulations. The year 2000 resulted in significant changes for the University. Dr. Oscar S. Suarez, a Princeton- educated UCCP pastor, was elected fifth President. His term was marked with concerns in vision formation, planning and implementation policies. He organized a number of programs in the areas of curriculum, organization and faculty and student development. As a result of these valuable inputs in education management, a more responsive PCU Vision-Mission Statement was delineated: the CHED’s grant of PCU Autonomy Status realized; and the CHED-preferred vertical articulation of the graduate programs implemented. Pursuant to the Interim Rules of Procedure Governing Intra-Corporate Controversies, the Philippine Christian University was place under Receivership on September 23, 2008 that would last until a Management Committee was duly constituted. After three months, the Regional Trial Court “Order” NCJR, Branch 24, Manila dated November 21, 2008 created and appointed a three-member Management Committee namely: Atty. Felix D. Carao, Jr., Chairman, Justice Wenceslao 1. Agnir, Jr. (Ret) and Dr. Quintin S. Doromal (deceased), as members respectively. The Management Committee has assumed the responsibility of the PCU Office of the President and the Board of Trustees, specifically to preserve the University’s assets and properties. In November, 2013, the Management Committee set the proper timeframe for transition from court administration of PCU affairs to full normalization when it had succeeded to convince the court to terminate the pending case of Nakpil, et. al vs. Suarez, et al paving the way for the reconstitution of the PCU Board of Trustees and the election of Atty. Felix D. Carao, Jr. as the sixth President for a term of one (1) year and his subsequent investiture on December 16, 2013 at the United Methodist Central Church. However, the governance of PCU was again put to test due Atty. Carao’s death on April 17, 2014. This prompted the BOT’s decision to designate Vice Chairman and Corporate Secretary Judge Edwin G. Larida, Jr. as Officer-in-Charge, Office of the President. In June 2014, the PCU Board of Trustees elected Junifen F. Gauuan, Ph. D. a Methodist Layman, scholar in development management and administration, and former President of Aldersgate College, as the seventh President of Philippine Christian University, culminating in the Investiture Ceremony held on June 05, 2014 at the Central United Methodist Church, Kalaw St., Manila. This was a very timely corporate decision by the reconstituted PCU Board of Trustees headed by Atty. Perfecto R. Yasay, Jr., Chairman, ending the University’s struggle with the effects of the Intra- Corporate Controversy. In May 2017, PCU was granted Autonomous Status by the Commission of Higher Education (CHED). THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH The history of Methodism and the United Methodist Church is intertwined and spans several centuries: In the heart of 18th-century England, amidst the rigid structures of the Church of England, a spark of spiritual revival ignited. Two brothers, John and Charles Wesley, along with their friend George Whitefield, sought to reform the church from within. Their emphasis on personal piety, methodical study, and fervent social action attracted a diverse following, earning them the moniker "Methodists" as a tongue-in-cheek jab at their structured approach to faith. What began as a small group of Oxford students evolved into a widespread movement that swept across Britain and reached the shores of the American colonies. John Wesley, a tireless evangelist and organizer, traveled extensively, preaching in fields and marketplaces, reaching the hearts of the marginalized and the working class. His brother Charles, a gifted hymn writer, penned thousands of songs that expressed the emotional depth and joy of their faith, becoming anthems for the growing Methodist community. As Methodism's influence grew, tensions with the established Church of England increased. Following John Wesley's death in 1791, the movement gradually separated from the Anglican Church and became an independent denomination. This allowed Methodists to develop their own unique identity and practices, including their emphasis on lay leadership, small group meetings for spiritual growth, and a commitment to social justice. In the United States, Methodism experienced a dramatic surge in popularity throughout the 19th century. Circuit riders, itinerant preachers who traveled on horseback, brought the gospel to frontier communities, establishing new churches and nurturing a vibrant Methodist culture. However, the issue of slavery created a deep rift within the American Methodist Church, leading to a painful split in 1844 into northern and southern branches. The 20th century saw efforts to heal the divisions within Methodism, culminating in the reunification of three major branches in 1939 to form The Methodist Church. This newly united denomination continued to expand its influence, embracing ecumenical dialogue and social activism. In 1968, The Methodist Church and the Evangelical United Brethren Church, a denomination with German roots, merged to create the United Methodist Church (UMC), a global denomination with millions of members worldwide. Today, the UMC remains a major force in global Christianity, known for its commitment to social justice, evangelism, and spiritual formation. 18th Century:  Origins: Methodism began as a revival movement within the Church of England in the 18th century, led by John and Charles Wesley. They emphasized personal piety, social justice, and methodical study and devotion.  Growth: The movement rapidly gained popularity due to its emphasis on personal experience with God and its focus on reaching the marginalized. It spread throughout the British Isles and into the American colonies. 19th Century:  Formalization: After John Wesley's death, Methodism separated from the Church of England and became an independent denomination.  Expansion: Methodism continued to grow rapidly in the United States, fueled by circuit riders who traveled to preach and establish new churches.  Divisions: The Methodist Episcopal Church in the U.S. experienced divisions over issues like slavery and the role of bishops, leading to the formation of separate denominations. 20th Century:  Reunification: In 1939, three major Methodist branches in the U.S. reunited to form The Methodist Church.  Further Mergers: In 1968, The Methodist Church and the Evangelical United Brethren Church merged to form the United Methodist Church (UMC). 21st Century:   Global Presence: The UMC is now a global denomination with millions of members worldwide. Key Theological Emphases:  Prevenient Grace: God's grace is available to all people, enabling them to respond to God's call.  Justification by Faith: Salvation is a gift received through faith in Jesus Christ.  Sanctification: Believers are called to grow in holiness and love through the power of the Holy Spirit.  Social Holiness: Faith should lead to action for justice and compassion in the world. John Wesley (1703-1791) was an English cleric, theologian, and evangelist who, along with his brother Charles Wesley, founded the Methodist movement within the Church of England. This movement later became the foundation for the Methodist denomination. Family:  Born into a religious family in Epworth, England, John was the 15th child of Samuel Wesley, an Anglican rector, and Susanna Wesley, a devout and well-educated woman.  His upbringing instilled in him a strong sense of discipline, intellectual curiosity, and religious devotion.  His brother Charles, a gifted hymn writer, became an essential figure in the Methodist movement, composing thousands of hymns that are still sung today. Education:  John received a classical education at Charterhouse School and Christ Church, Oxford.  At Oxford, he formed the "Holy Club," a group of students who met regularly for prayer, Bible study, and charitable work. They were mockingly nicknamed "Methodists" for their methodical approach to religious practice.  In 1726, he was elected a Fellow of Lincoln College, Oxford, and ordained as an Anglican priest in 1728. Religious Experience:  Wesley's religious journey was marked by a deep longing for assurance of salvation and a desire to experience the love of God in a personal way.  He embarked on a missionary trip to Georgia in 1735, but it proved to be a difficult and ultimately unsuccessful experience.  Upon his return to England, he encountered a group of Moravian Christians who emphasized the importance of personal faith and the experience of the "new birth."  On May 24, 1738, at a meeting on Aldersgate Street in London, Wesley experienced a profound conversion experience, later describing his heart as being "strangely warmed." This event marked a turning point in his life and ministry.  Wesley's emphasis on personal experience, evangelism, and social action transformed the religious landscape of 18th-century England and led to the establishment of Methodism as a distinct movement within the Church of England. John Wesley's life and ministry continue to inspire and influence Christians around the world. His legacy is evident in the Methodist denominations and the broader evangelical tradition that he helped to shape. THE UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST IN THE PHILIPPINES The United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP) has a rich and complex history rooted in the arrival of American missionaries in the early 20th century. Early 20th Century:  Missionary Influence: Various American Protestant denominations, including Presbyterians, Congregationalists, Methodists, Disciples of Christ, and Evangelical United Brethren, established missions in the Philippines. These missions brought not only Christianity but also education and social services to the country.  Filipinization: As the Filipino people embraced Christianity, they began to assert their leadership within the churches. This led to the gradual "Filipinization" of these denominations, with Filipino pastors and leaders taking on more prominent roles. Mid-20th Century:  Formation of the UCCP: In 1948, after years of discussions and negotiations, five Protestant denominations merged to form the UCCP. This historic union aimed to create a united and stronger church that could better serve the needs of the Filipino people.  Social Action and Advocacy: The UCCP quickly became known for its strong commitment to social justice and advocacy. It played a significant role in various social movements, including the fight against the Marcos dictatorship and the struggle for agrarian reform. Late 20th and Early 21st Century:  Continued Growth: The UCCP continued to grow and expand its reach throughout the Philippines. It established numerous congregations, schools, hospitals, and social service agencies.  Theological Development: The UCCP developed its own distinct theological identity, drawing from the diverse traditions of its founding denominations. It emphasized the importance of contextualizing the Christian faith in the Filipino context and addressing the social and political realities of the country. The UCCP's history is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the Filipino people. It is a story of how different Christian traditions came together to form a unique and dynamic church that has played a significant role in the social, political, and spiritual life of the Philippines. The five denominations that merged to form the United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP) in 1948 are: 1. The Evangelical Church of the Philippines: This was the result of an earlier merger in 1929 between Presbyterian, Congregational, United Brethren, and several independent congregations. 2. The Philippine Methodist Church: This denomination was established by American Methodist missionaries in the early 20th century. 3. The Disciples of Christ: This denomination also had American roots and focused on Christian unity and baptism by immersion. 4. The United Evangelical Church: This was another earlier union of churches, including the United Brethren and several independent congregations.  5. Several Independent Congregations: These were congregations that had not previously affiliated with a particular denomination. This union was a significant event in Philippine Protestantism, bringing together different traditions and creating a unified and influential church that continues to play a vital role in the country today. Some key figures played significant roles in the process:  Bishop Proculo A. Rodriguez: He was the first General Superintendent of the UCCP and played a crucial role in uniting the different denominations.  Rev. Cipriano Navarro: He was a key figure in the formation of the Philippine Methodist Church, one of the founding denominations of the UCCP.  Dr. Gumersindo Garcia: He was a prominent theologian and educator who contributed to the theological development of the UCCP.  Other Leaders: Numerous other pastors, theologians, and lay leaders from the different denominations worked tirelessly to bring about the union and shape the identity of the UCCP. It's important to recognize that the UCCP was not founded by a single individual but by the collective efforts of many dedicated leaders who shared a vision of a united and stronger church that could better serve the Filipino people. Reflections: 1. Both the United Methodist Church (UMC) and the United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP) were formed through the unification of different denominations. Reflecting on their histories, what factors contributed to the success of these unions, and what challenges did they face in bringing together diverse traditions and beliefs? 2. The UMC and the UCCP have both been active in social justice advocacy and played significant roles in various historical movements. How did their unique historical contexts and theological understandings shape their engagement with social issues, and what lessons can be learned from their experiences for contemporary churches seeking to address similar challenges? THE CONCEPTS OF RELIGION The basic concepts of religion vary across different traditions, but there are some common elements that can be identified: 1. Belief in a higher power or reality: This could be a single god (monotheism), multiple gods (polytheism), a universal spirit or energy (pantheism), or simply a transcendent reality beyond human understanding. 2. Sacred texts or scriptures: Many religions have holy books or texts that are believed to be divinely inspired or contain teachings that guide believers in their faith. 3. Rituals and practices: These are actions or ceremonies that have religious significance and are often performed in a communal setting. They can include prayer, worship, sacraments, meditation, pilgrimage, and festivals. 4. Moral and ethical codes: Religions often provide a set of moral guidelines that govern how believers should live their lives, including principles like compassion, honesty, justice, and selflessness. 5. Community: Religion often brings people together into a community of shared beliefs, values, and practices. This sense of belonging can provide a sense of purpose, meaning, and support for individuals. 6. The afterlife or the transcendent: Many religions offer a belief in an afterlife or a spiritual realm beyond the physical world. This can provide hope, comfort, and meaning in the face of death and suffering. These basic concepts of religion offer a framework for understanding the diverse ways that people express their faith and connect with the divine. While these concepts may be interpreted and practiced differently across different religions, they provide a common thread that connects people of faith throughout the world. WORLD RELIGION The major religions of the world can be broadly categorized into five groups: Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Judaism. Each of these religions has unique beliefs, practices, and traditions that distinguish them from one another. 1. Christianity: It is the world's largest religion, with over 2.4 billion followers. Christians believe in one God who exists in three persons: Father, Son (Jesus Christ), and Holy Spirit. Their central text is the Bible, which contains the Old and New Testaments. Christians believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God who died on the cross to redeem humanity from sin. They practice sacraments like baptism and communion and emphasize love, forgiveness, and salvation through faith in Jesus. Reference: The Holy Bible 2. Islam: With 1.8 billion followers, it is the second-largest religion. Muslims believe in one God (Allah) and consider Muhammad to be the last prophet in a line of prophets including Abraham, Moses, and Jesus. Their holy book is the Quran, which contains revelations believed to be from Allah. Muslims practice five pillars of Islam: declaration of faith, prayer, giving to charity, fasting during Ramadan, and pilgrimage to Mecca. They also follow Sharia law, a set of Islamic guidelines based on the Quran and Hadith (sayings of Muhammad). o Reference: The Quran 3. Hinduism: Hinduism is the world's third-largest religion, with over 1.2 billion followers, mostly in India. It is a diverse and complex religion with no single founder or central authority. Hindus believe in a supreme being (Brahman) who manifests in various forms and goddesses. Their sacred texts include the Vedas, Upanishads, and Bhagavad Gita. Hinduism emphasizes the cycle of reincarnation (samsara), karma (the law of cause and effect), and the pursuit of liberation (moksha) from the cycle of rebirth. o Reference: The Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita 4. Buddhism: Founded by Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha) in ancient India, Buddhism has over 535 million followers worldwide. Buddhists do not believe in a creator god but focus on the teachings of the Buddha, who emphasized the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path as a way to overcome suffering and achieve enlightenment (nirvana). Meditation and mindfulness are central to Buddhist practice. o Reference: The Tripitaka (Pali Canon) 5. Judaism: Judaism is the oldest of the Abrahamic religions, with around 15 million followers worldwide. Jews believe in one God and consider themselves to be the chosen people of God. Their sacred text is the Torah (the first five books of the Bible), which contains the teachings and laws given by God to Moses. Judaism emphasizes ethical living, social justice, and the importance of community and family. o Reference: The Torah Key Differences: Religion God(s) Founder/Prophet Holy Book(s) Key Beliefs  Salvation through One God in three Christianity Jesus Christ Bible Jesus Christ, love, persons (Trinity) forgiveness Five Pillars of Islam, Islam One God (Allah) Muhammad Quran submission to Allah's will One supreme being Vedas, Reincarnation, karma, Hinduism (Brahman) with many No single founder Upanishads, liberation (moksha) forms and goddesses Bhagavad Gita No creator god; focus Four Noble Truths, on the teachings of the Siddhartha Tripitaka (Pali Eightfold Path, Buddhism Buddha (Siddhartha Gautama Canon) enlightenment Gautama) (nirvana) Covenant with God, Torah (first five Judaism One God (Yahweh) Abraham, Moses ethical living, social books of Bible) justice Reflections: 1. In what ways do the diverse beliefs and practices of different religions ultimately point towards a shared human quest for meaning, purpose, and connection to something greater than ourselves? 2. How can understanding and appreciating the diversity of religious beliefs and practices help us foster a more inclusive and compassionate society, while also challenging us to examine our own assumptions and biases? HISTORY OF CHRISTIANITY Brief History of Christianity: Christianity began in the 1st century AD as a Jewish sect in Judea, a Roman province in the Middle East. It is based on the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth, whom Christians believe to be the Son of God and the Messiah prophesied in the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament). Early Christianity:  Jesus' teachings and ministry attracted a following among Jews and Gentiles alike.  After his crucifixion and resurrection, his disciples (apostles) spread the message of Christianity throughout the Roman Empire.  Despite initial persecution, Christianity gained popularity due to its inclusive message and emphasis on love, compassion, and salvation. Spread and Growth:  By the 4th century, Christianity became the official religion of the Roman Empire under Emperor Constantine.  It continued to spread throughout Europe and the Middle East, eventually becoming the dominant religion in the Western world.  In the Middle Ages, Christianity played a central role in European society and culture. Reformation and Divisions:  In the 16th century, the Protestant Reformation led to a split within Christianity, resulting in the formation of various Protestant denominations.  The Catholic Church underwent its own reforms during the Counter-Reformation. Modern Christianity:  Today, Christianity is the world's largest religion with over 2.4 billion followers.  It is diverse, with various denominations and traditions, including Catholicism, Protestantism, and Eastern Orthodoxy.  Christianity continues to play a significant role in global affairs and culture, influencing art, literature, music, and social movements. UNDERSTANDING OF GOD Understanding of God, a fundamental pillar of Christian theology, explores the existence, nature, and attributes of God. It seeks to understand who God is, how God relates to the world, and what qualities define the divine being. Existence of God: Christianity affirms the existence of one God, who is eternal, self-existent, and the creator of all things. This belief is rooted in both scripture (e.g., Genesis 1:1, "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth") and natural theology, which argues that the complexity and order of the universe point to a divine creator. Different philosophical arguments have been proposed to support God's existence, such as the cosmological argument (the universe must have a cause), the teleological argument (the design of the universe implies a designer), and the ontological argument (the very concept of God implies God's existence). However, ultimately, Christian faith rests on the revelation of God in scripture and the person of Jesus Christ.  Genesis 1:1: "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth." This verse declares God as the ultimate creator and origin of all things. It establishes God's existence as foundational to the universe and everything within it.  Exodus 3:14: "God said to Moses, 'I AM WHO I AM.' And he said, 'Say this to the people of Israel, 'I AM has sent me to you.'' This verse reveals God's self-existent and eternal nature. God is not dependent on anything else for existence but simply is. The name "I AM" emphasizes God's unchanging and ever-present being. Nature of God: Christians believe that God is a spirit (John 4:24), not limited by physical form or constraints. God is also described as a Trinity, consisting of three distinct persons: the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit. These three persons are co-equal and co-eternal, sharing the same divine essence while also being distinct in their roles and relationships. The doctrine of the Trinity is a complex and mysterious concept, but it is central to Christian understanding of God. It emphasizes the relational nature of God, the diversity within the Godhead, and the love that flows between the three persons.  Matthew 28:19: "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." This verse reflects the Trinitarian nature of God, revealing three distinct persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, who are united in essence and purpose.  John 4:24: "God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth." This verse emphasizes that God is not a physical being but a spiritual entity. True worship involves connecting with God on a spiritual level, recognizing God's transcendent nature. Attributes of God: Christian theology attributes various qualities to God, which can be categorized into:  Incommunicable Attributes: These are qualities that belong to God alone and cannot be shared with created beings. They include: o Aseity: God's self-existence and independence from any other being. o Immutability: God's unchanging nature. o Eternity: God's existence outside of time. o Omnipotence: God's all-powerful nature. o Omniscience: God's all-knowing nature. o Omnipresence: God's presence everywhere at all times.  Communicable Attributes: These are qualities that God shares with created beings, although in a perfect and infinite way. They include: o Love: God's unconditional and sacrificial love for all creation. o Holiness: God's absolute moral purity and separation from sin. o Justice: God's commitment to fairness and righteousness. o Mercy: God's compassion and forgiveness towards sinners. o Truthfulness: God's reliability and faithfulness to promises. o Goodness: God's benevolent and kind nature.  1 John 4:8: "Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love." This verse highlights love as the defining characteristic of God. It reveals God's unconditional, sacrificial, and overflowing love for humanity, which is demonstrated through the life and death of Jesus Christ.  Psalm 145:8: "The Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love." This verse emphasizes God's mercy, compassion, and patience. God is not quick to judge but desires to forgive and restore those who turn to Him.  Isaiah 6:3: "And one called to another and said: 'Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory!'" This verse underscores God's holiness, his absolute moral purity and separation from sin. God's holiness is the standard by which all righteousness is measured. Understanding these attributes helps Christians to know God better, to deepen their relationship with God, and to live lives that reflect God's character. In conclusion, Understanding of God is a rich and complex area of study that seeks to comprehend the incomprehensible. While human understanding of God will always be limited, the Christian faith provides a framework for approaching the mystery of God through scripture, tradition, and reason. This understanding of God shapes Christian beliefs, practices, and ethics, guiding believers in their relationship with God and the world around them. Reflection: Considering the biblical portrayal of God's attributes, how does the understanding of God's love, holiness, justice, and mercy challenge and shape your understanding of yourself, your relationship with others, and your role in the world? JESUS CHRIST Jesus Christ is the central figure of Christianity, revered as the Son of God and the savior of humanity. His life, teachings, death, and resurrection are the foundation of Christian faith and theology. Humanity of Jesus: The Bible affirms that Jesus was fully human, born of a woman (Mary) and living a life subject to human experiences like hunger, thirst, emotions, and temptations.  Luke 2:7: "And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn."  Matthew 4:2: "And after fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry."  John 19:28: "After this, Jesus, knowing that all was now finished, said (to fulfill the Scripture), 'I thirst.'"  Hebrews 4:15: "For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin." Deity of Jesus: While fully human, Jesus is also believed to be fully divine, the second person of the Trinity (God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit). The Bible presents various evidence of Jesus' divinity:  John 1:1: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God."  John 1:14: "And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth."  John 8:58: "Jesus said to them, 'Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am.'"  Colossians 1:15-17: "He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together." Death of Jesus: Jesus' death on the cross is central to Christian theology. It is seen as a sacrificial act to atone for the sins of humanity and reconcile them with God.  Isaiah 53:5: "But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed."  Romans 5:8: "But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us."  1 Corinthians 15:3: "For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures." Resurrection of Jesus: The resurrection of Jesus from the dead is considered the cornerstone of Christian faith. It confirms his divinity, validates his teachings, and offers hope for eternal life.  Matthew 28:6: "He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay."  1 Corinthians 15:14: "And if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain."  Romans 1:4: "And was declared to be the Son of God in power according to the Spirit of holiness by his resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ our Lord." Jesus Christ's humanity, deity, death, and resurrection are intertwined and essential to understanding Christian faith. They offer a model of perfect love, sacrifice, and hope for all who believe. Reflection Question: Considering Jesus Christ's life, teachings, death, and resurrection, how does His example challenge and inspire you to live a life of love, sacrifice, and obedience to God?