The First Petition: Introduction (WIP)

By Kurai Chitima

In this book titled 'The First Petition', the author takes inspiration from the first request that Jesus instructed his disciples to include in their prayers (Mathew 6:9-13). The order of requests matters, as the first request often signals the highest priority of the person making it. According to Jesus, when his disciples prayed, the first thing they should ask for was that God's name be recognised as Holy. This book explores the implications of this petition for anyone interested in effective living and ethical leadership. It draws valuable life and leadership lessons from a biblical perspective on the nature of God and God's role in finding solutions to questions of life and leadership integrity. By focusing on the 'first petition', the book aims to stimulate the reader's desire to understand God's workmanship in humanity and its expression in Christian conduct.

"The First Petition" addresses concerns about Christian ethics and the relevance of Christian values in communities. It is not only for Christians but for anyone who cares about the impact that Christians have on their communities. The Bible implores Christians to set a good example and make a positive difference on issues affecting their families and communities.

Some Christians have failed to set a good example for others. These individuals have engaged in activities such as misappropriation of funds, sexual misconduct, dishonesty, and corruption, which go against expected behaviour. This inconsistency in the behaviour of some has led personal development thought leaders to discuss the causes to find remedies for this issue.

Different explanations and solutions exist for addressing believers who do not live according to the biblical standard. Some argue that God's acceptance rests on his grace, not human merit. Believers cannot add to or subtract from it. Therefore, their conduct isn’t a major issue. Others disagree and believe behaviour matters because of repentance and new life. To them, a lack of transformed behaviour signifies a lack of practical teaching for real-life situations at work, home, and in business. The First Petition offers a third perspective on this issue. It acknowledges the case for grace and the case for transformed conduct in believers' lives. It balances these views by seeking holiness, as in Jesus' first petition in the Lord's prayer – that God may be known as Holy.

Book Style

This book adopts a conversational style. People often avoid lengthy, highly technical material. Many people, especially younger generations, are used to short messages in digital messaging. That's why this book is written in a way that's relatable and encourages sustained reading for the average reader. It aims to make teachings often confined to large volumes, scholarly minds, theological institutions, and academic ivory towers, accessible to ordinary people. Future works may revise it to suit a scholarly audience. 

The book features a unique round-table discussion format. Each chapter introduces a topic, and a moderator opens a discussion involving four groups represented by specific individuals.

Chris has a good understanding of the teachings presented in the gospels and their application in the epistles of the Bible. Pius is also knowledgeable in the Bible, but specialised in the Old Testament and draws lessons from it. Chris and Pius help establish the biblical foundation. Theo is a leader with a theological background and is passionate about the relevance of Christianity in today's world by bridging biblical principles with realities of modern life. She is particularly concerned about ethical conduct in the workplace.  She is reflective and often reserves her main contributions for the end of the discussions. Khue is a curious learner who is always eager to gain knowledge and sincerely raises questions about faith in everyday decisions.  The moderator introduces, guides and concludes the conversation.

All participants provide biblically sound contrib'utions to the discussion. Unlike a debate, this jigsaw approach has each person bring a piece of truth that collectively helps in understanding the topics being discussed. Each chapter considers the implications of a biblical perspective on the believers’ conduct.

  

Eight Episodes 

The Outline is based on Ephesians 2:8-10.

“For by grace (Ch. 2), you have been saved (Ch. 6) through faith (Ch. 1). And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God (Ch. 3), not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship (Ch. 5), created in Christ Jesus for good works (Ch. 7), which God prepared (Ch. 8) beforehand, that we should walk in them (Ch. 4).”

 

Episode 1 analyses how God's attributes serve as a vital model for answering questions about faith and its practice. It specifically also addresses how the attributes coalesce in one attribute – holiness. Through faith – knowing God

Episode 2 explores the problem of human depravity that results in hatred, violence, and other ungodly behaviour instead of biblical integrity and ethical conduct.  The story behind God's intervention. It also examines the God-given solution. For by grace – undeserved

Episode 3 further engages the reader with the God-given identity and mandate for Christians and their relevance to building righteous, peaceful, and prosperous communities.  The gift of God – regeneration. identity

Episode 4 examines how God’s provisions are an invitation to accept the challenge of testing and proving them in real life. (should walk in them) - choice

Episode 5 discusses the spiritual workmanship and other divine resources available to empower people to practise responsible Christian conduct. (His workmanship) – mission. Rights and privileges and mission  

Episode 6 builds the case for responsible human choices in response to life realities, considering the resources God has made available to humanity.  (Been saved)

Episode 7 suggests reasons and ways to overcome unethical and ungodly practices in the face of real-life challenges. (created for good works)

Episode 8 offers, given divine attributes, an arbitration of the two divergent views in the controversies about Christian conduct. (God prepared in advance)

 

The Writer

The author has some Bible training but is more trained in leadership and management. He has also served in leadership roles in church, nonprofit organisations, business, and academia.

 

 

 

Definitions of key words are provided after each chapter.