Today, many people rely on websites, blogs, social networking sites, media services, chatrooms, discussion boards and other electronic means to stay connected to their faith.
Thrivecast Christian webinars are integral to this movement, allowing Christians to connect online. However, before you launch a webinar, there are certain things you should take into account.
Sacred Gazing Upon Icons
An icon is a religious artwork that depicts an important figure, object or event. They can be painted, carved, cast or created in other ways, most commonly made from flat panels of wood but can also be created using mosaic work, embroidery on cloth or printing on paper.
Christian icons were first used to depict Jesus Christ. These images helped early Christians understand how their belief in the Incarnation of God brought human nature into the physical world, breaking away from Judaism’s traditional ban against making images, which did not tolerate figurative religious art.
On Sunday mornings, Christians of many traditions will pause to light candles or oil lamps before the image of their chosen saint as they enter the church. By doing this, they can gain a more profound spiritual insight into Christ, Mary or other saints.
Theologians hold various opinions regarding icons and how to pray with them. Some speak of their miraculous powers, while others see them as windows into divine grace.
Icons have a special place in the lives of believers. They serve as windows into heaven, allowing believers to connect with the holy figures they cherish and long for. Learn more about Thrivecast Christian webinars.
Linette Martin’s Sacred Gazing Upon Icons offers a clear and loving introduction to icons in her more comprehensive exploration of devotional art. She highlights some lesser-known qualities in iconography, delves into its history, and highlights Russian icon tradition – but most importantly, she manages to make icons understandable without taking away their mystique. This book should be required reading for any Christian interested in icons.
Making Disciples in the Age of COVID-19
Making disciples is more than a one-time experience or group activity for Christians. It requires an ongoing dedication to following Christ with passion and perseverance no matter what life throws your way – regardless of what comes your way.
We are thrilled to offer two miniature group courses that will empower you with the tools to make disciples in your community, church, and home. These classes teach you how to make disciples effectively within your neighbourhood, church, and home.
Participants in these online courses communicate with their assigned groups via conference calls and then come together in person twice annually for two-week intensives. Furthermore, they participate in weekly webinars and share updates on social media channels.
Intentional Scripture Formation
Establishing intentional Scripture formation as part of your congregation’s educational strategy is one of the most crucial things you can do to promote learning and stewardship in your community. With today’s divisive climate, people must gain a solid foundation in biblical faith before making decisions that impact their future.
Intentional Scripture formation can take many forms, but the most successful involves a group of committed Christians dedicated to critically examining the text they’re studying. It may include asking questions, underlining passages, drawing arrows, underlining and taking notes.
Providing some “connective tissue” through images, stories and anecdotes that bring the passage to life can also be beneficial. However, ensure that the focus remains on Scripture and its relevance for believers today.
The Bible is God’s inspired word and can be relied upon for any topic it addresses. This fact has been acknowledged by some of Christianity’s greatest thinkers, from Augustine to Luther and Calvin.
That makes the Bible the best book in your Bible and the ultimate authority on everything. Therefore, it should be a must-read for any discerning Christian.
Intentional Scripture formation can be accomplished by introducing the topic in small groups or leading a larger assembly through interactive exercises designed to develop the skills needed to become an effective disciple of Jesus Christ. This process can be an inspiring way to deepen your congregation’s spiritual life and prepare them for those challenging conversations that will ultimately lead them into a relationship with the Lord.