violence as presumption
Read pp. 323-328 in Institutes of Biblical Law.
corresponding Rushdoony lectures
Listen to the R. J. Rushdoony lecture, Violence as Presumption, that corresponds with this section.
Video summary lecture (Andrea Schwartz)
questions for thought & discussion
1. Discuss the concepts of penetrating the culture as opposed to Biblically dealing with the culture in light of this section. Would it be more accurate to describe the situation we face as culture wars? or cultures in conflict? Where does presumption come in?
2. Consider Jeremiah. Was he a cultural warrior? How did he influence his culture? Did the fact that Judah was morally superior to Babylon (in theory anyway) change the outcome of captivity? What was Judah’s main offense? Tie it in to presumption.
3. Describe Daniel and Joseph as cultural figures. How did they deal with the presumptuous men of their times?
4. How does a postmillennial view help us past the seemingly unwinnable culture war? How does it enable us to stay the course?
One of the surest ways to identify whether you understand a subject is to write a point of view paper (sometimes referred to as a position paper). This exercise helps to unearth areas of confusion, uncertainty, and/or disagreement, many times revealing that a number of unanswered questions remain. Once completed, you may submit your paper for comments.
After formulating your position(s) on the subjects covered in each lesson, a good next step is to engage in conversation (with your spouse, children, parents, friends, or co-workers) to better hone your skill in communicating the concepts you have learned and are assimilating into your own thinking. Do not be concerned about “messing up” or doing it the “wrong way” as you will do plenty of both! As with anything worth doing, practice will refine this skill, which is vital in order to fulfill the Great Commission. If you find you need some one-on-one interaction, you may submit a question or request an appointment.