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Checkpoint #6

Prompt

  • I need to see where you are with your outline after three class periods.
  • It should include interaction with the text - how you are using your sources
  • What shape your project is going to be taking - what medium, how it will be structured, etc.
  • Different Sections of your Essay, Podcast, Etc.
  • Your Key Claims + Historical Viewpoints of your Doctrines, Dogmas, and Social Context.

Response

Outline

Introduction

Brief introduction to the doctrines of the Church and Salvation, the dogma of the Sabbath, and the issue of marijuana.

Thesis Statement

By integrating the doctrines of the Church and Salvation with the Sabbath dogma, Christians can formulate a principled yet compassionate stance on marijuana legalization, balancing ethical considerations with societal needs.

Theological Foundations

  • Doctrine of the Church (Source: Heinrich Vogel): Discuss the Church's universal and local roles, focusing on its mission and how it shapes its stance on ethical issues like marijuana.
  • Doctrine of Salvation (Source: E. Edward Zinke): Present the role of doctrine in deepening faith and influencing moral behavior, crucial for understanding Christian behavior towards marijuana.
  • Dogma of the Sabbath (Source: V. Norskov Olsen): Examine the foundational role of the Sabbath in Christian life, suggesting how it might inform lifestyle choices including the use of substances like marijuana.

Marijuana in Contemporary Society

  • Historical and Legal Background (Source: John T. Doyle): Outline the legal challenges and status of marijuana, linking religious freedom debates to current policy discussions.
  • Public Health and Ethical Concerns (Source: James Goben): Discuss the intersection of marijuana with public health and Christian ethical considerations.

Integrating Doctrine, Dogma, and Social Issue

  • Church’s Response to Marijuana (Source: C.S. Lewis): Use Lewis's discussions on Christian behavior and ethics to discuss potential Christian responses to marijuana legalization.
  • Salvation and Moral Behavior (Source: E. Edward Zinke): Tie in the doctrine of Salvation with moral and ethical responses to marijuana, showing how salvation-oriented life perspectives might critique or support marijuana use.
  • Sabbath Observance and Lifestyle Choices (Source: V. Norskov Olsen): Link Sabbath principles to choices about rest, recreation, and substance use, suggesting a restorative rather than indulgent approach to lifestyle.

Empirical Insights and Public Opinion

  • Religiosity and Marijuana Legalization (Source: Jasmine M. Hernandez): Present empirical evidence on how differing levels of religiosity affect views on marijuana legalization, demonstrating the practical influence of Church doctrine on public opinions.

Synthesis and Practical Implications

  • Theological Synthesis: Bring together the discussions on the Church, Salvation, and Sabbath to form a coherent viewpoint on how Christians might view marijuana use.
  • Practical Recommendations: Based on the theological synthesis, suggest how churches might approach the issue of marijuana, balancing compassion with ethical standards.

Conclusion

  • Recap Sections
  • Thesis

Annotated Bibliography