Date of Award
2-2019
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Ministry (DMin)
Department
Seminary
First Advisor
R. Anderson Campbell, DMin
Second Advisor
Lacy Borgo, DMin
Abstract
The consilience of interpersonal neurobiology and theology is the template for the viscidity of faith throughout one’s lifetime. The congruence of disciplines conclude that what is experienced and believed before the age of thirteen determines how one will live their life. The loss of connection to parents at home and adults within the faith community, is cultivating isolation, loneliness, and the loss of love and belonging in each emerging generation.
Chapter One introduces the deprecating beliefs that are practiced during the first twelve years of one’s life that ultimately lead young believers away from homes and communities of faith and in many cases to reject the gospel of Jesus Christ. Chapter Two explores what it means to be a person. Through the lens of ontology and scripture, Yahweh’s kind intentions and divine purposes for imago Dei are discovered anew, showing that love and fidelity in the home and within the faith community are imperative for faith to thrive and endure. As breakthroughs in neuroscience reveal what the mind is and how it develops and grows, Chapter Three explores how interpersonal neurobiology and theology are aligned toward the common goal of one’s health and overall development.
Chapter Four looks at the promise of a nurturing secure attachment. Beginning in utero, the mother first, and then the loving presence of other caregivers, leads to the health and wellbeing of a child. Sadly, far too many children struggle as teens and adults because of the devastating effects of early childhood trauma. Chapter Five shows how empathy can be acquired, even late in life. It also celebrates the gift of passion that God has graced each person with and shows how passion is key to one’s faith. It also explores the benefits of play developing the brain and emerging mind. Finally, the unique neurobiological and theological design of the first twelve years of one’s life uniquely makes the sixth-grade year the epicenter of promise and destiny. Chapter Six emphasizes specific ways that homes and the faith community can love and lead children toward a lifetime of faith.
Recommended Citation
Newby, Jim, "The Promise and Purpose of Love and Belonging in Shaping the Spiritual Destiny of Sixth Graders" (2019). Doctor of Ministry. 308.
https://digitalcommons.georgefox.edu/dmin/308