Head, Heart & Hands: Overview – Definitions of “Head,” “Heart,” and “Hands.” Part 2

As we dig further into the material developed in Part 1*

• What kept Jesus “in balance” during his ministry?
• What caused church leaders to get “off balance” in the New Testament Church?
• Which faith dimension do you struggle to keep in proper perspective or alignment in your daily life, work, and relationships? Is there an area which your local congregation and/or campus ministry over-emphasizes? How so? Why?

Jesus and Head, Heart & Hands

How did Jesus relate to those to whom he ministered?

• He taught, preached and healed (Matthew 4:23). His teaching almost always included parables.
• In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus called his followers to be seasoning and light in the recognition of their need of God (poor in spirit), meekness, purity of heart, righteousness, and mercy.
• He had compassion on those who came to hear him. He fed them; he healed them.
• He sought to “soften” or reach their hearts – see Isaiah 29:13.
• He served his disciples, calling them to follow his example (John 13:4-17).

How did Jesus relate to his adversaries?

• He explained Scripture, challenging their strict interpretation, especially when they attempted to ensnare him with Scripture.
• The greatest commandment ’ love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind. The 2nd greatest – love your Neighbor as yourself.   (Matthew 22:37-40). Shortly after this pronouncement – they left him alone!

The early Church and Christians and Head Heart and Hands

How did the Church relate within?

• “’ one in heart and mind” (Acts 4:32).
• The early Jerusalem church chose 7 to specifically care for the physical needs while the disciples focused on ministry (Acts 6:1-7).
• Broke bread and fellowshipped together.
• The body of Christ is made up of many parts (I Corinthians 12:1-31).
• Encourage and discipline (Titus)

How did the Church relate to those to whom “She” ministered?

• Healed those who were sick or lame.
• Preached the good news; witnessed to Jesus as the Christ.
• That witness was given to leaders in the Jewish community and local and Roman governments.

I’m sure we’re just scratching the surface, so please contribute. Since coming alongside the Christian Medical Society/CMDA  at Penn State Hershey College of Medicine, I’ve been struck even more by the importance of Head, Heart & Hands. Reminds me of growing up in a Dental Office, I think that I’ve said that before 🙂

Next in series: Christian Faith and the Head.

*Drawn from an adult elective based upon Dennis Hollinger‘s “Head, Heart & Hands: Bringing Together Christian Thought, Passion and Action” (InterVarsity Press, 2005). Kevin Milligan facilitated the class at Elizabethtown Brethren in Christ Church. Note: See the first post in the series for more on the genesis of this study guide as part of a local Emerging Scholars Network partnership (South Central Scholars Network PA FB and Christian Scholar Series).