The Nurse Theologian

I do not think that there is any such thing as euthanasia, though there are many who say that there is; I think that the actual definition of euthanasia demonstrates my point. The Feinbergs said that “euthanasia” comes from two Greek words that combine to mean good death.1 Is death ever good? Man was created by God, in the image of God, male and female. (Gn.1:28) Death became part of the creation because of human sin. (cf. Gn.3:14-19, Rom.5:12) Death therefore is inevitable; (cf. Heb.9:27) we can do nothing to stop it, but death is also an enemy. (cf. 1 Cor.15:26, NASB) Do you embrace your enemies? I am currently in my 21st year as a Registered Nurse. I have spent almost my entire career working in an intensive care unit. I’m certified as a Critical Care RN (CCRN). I have probably witnessed over 1000 deaths during my career and I assure you that there are no good deaths. Some are more horrific than others, but none are good. “Approximately 20% of deaths in the United States occur i…

This past week I started Christian Ethics at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. I have decided to take a break from formal study during the summer to spend time with my wife; therefore, Christian Ethics will be my last class until the fall semester kicks off.

Last week I learned a great deal; in a lecture given by Dr. J. Alan Branch, professor of Christian Ethics. Dr. Branch gave us a seven-step process for making ethical decisions. It is a great process; therefore, I want to share it with you today. How do you currently make decisions? There are two ways in which people make decisions. They either make decisions from above or decisions from below. Decision making from above means that God is in charge and what He says on the matter is binding. Decision making from below puts man in charge; human desire and human reason combine to make decisions from below. Christian ethical decision making comes from above.

Consistently Practice the Spiritual Disciplines

This step is something …

The work of Christ has been historically categorized in terms of prophet, priest, and king;1 I will demonstrate that the atonement is best understood when viewed in light of these three offices. First, in terms of the Old Testament covenants we will see that Messiah (Christ) would be a Prophet like Moses, a Priest like Aaron, and a King like David. Secondly, in the New Testament we will see that Christ is much better than Moses, much better than Aaron, and much better than David. Finally, within the frame work of each office we will take a look at the atonement. We will see in the atonement a demonstration of God’s love, a demonstration of God’s righteousness, and a demonstration of God’s power. Our story covers the entire history of the Bible; it is an incredible story of creation, fall, curse, redemption and restoration of all created things. In order to understand the work of Christ we must start at the beginning. The first three chapters of the Bible set the stage for the work of…

Dr. Duesing (Provost at Midwestern) calls seminary formal•structured•discipleship. I found that description by him of seminary very interesting because it is the reason that I am taking classes at Midwestern.

I saw a need for better evangelism outside of the church and better discipleship within the church. I am seeking the MTS rather than the M.Div. because I do not plan to pastor a church. After graduating I plan to spend the time the Lord gives me serving as a Registered Nurse, Evangelism, and Discipleship.
The examination and communication of ideas has determined the course of civilization. Theology has served in this role. Consider, for example, how it has affected the development of schools and hospitals. But theology must never become and end in itself of a source of prideful speculation. It must lead to a witness of the gospel and an appreciation for and worship of the greatness and grandeur of God.1 Eschatology is a subject in theology, it literally means last things. We w…