Week 3- Bevans Chap 3

I don't think many Christians realize how their beliefs and practices rise out of models. I grew up in a hyper-charismatic, Pentecostal Christian tradition. When I began studying theology and philosophy as an undergrad, I began to see how the model I was raised with effected the way I viewed scripture, atonement and Church. Working out of my model I believed that the Bible was like a book of magic. I was taught that you can quote scripture out loud and supernaturally control demons, nature and other people. Faith was the focus in this model of theology. My Christianity was mostly about having faith in the power of faith. From this model I held a strong Christus Victor view of atonement. From this model the Bible had to be inerrant and scientifically authoritative for it to be powerful or valid. Bevans makes a good point to study our models of theology and philosophical underpinnings. When one is able to do this adequately they are able to have a more informed faith. In turn, I believe this makes for a stronger faith.