Reader Response: Christianity and Secular Literature Please answer the following questions in complete answer, short responses. In the blog entry titled “Secular Reading with a Christian Perspective,”...

Reader Response:

Christianity and Secular Literature

Please answer the following questions in complete answer, short responses.

1. 
   

   In the blog entry titled “Secular Reading with a Christian Perspective,” the author, known only as Nathan, makes several arguments about how a Christian should approach a secular work. According to Nathan, what is the Christian reader’s responsibility when reading secular books?

   
   

2. 
   

   Nathan mentions English author and literary critic Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) in his article. According to Nathan, what did Johnson argue about literature and how has that viewpoint changed since the 1700’s? Does Nathan agree with Johnson’s thoughts?

   
   

3. 
   

   Do you think Nathan successfully integrates Philippians 4:8 and 1 Thessalonians 5:21 as evidence in his argument?

   
   

4. 
   

   What are the main advantages for Christians reading secular literature, according to Nathan?

   
   

5. 
   

   In his article written for BJU Press, Steve Skaggs presents two main arguments why Christiansshouldread secular literature. What are these arguments and do you agree with them?

   
   

6. 
   

   What are some warnings that Skaggs presents for Christians who read secular literature? Do you agree with these viewpoints and why or why not?

   
   

7. 
   

   Why has Skaggs written this article and who is his intended audience? Does this make his argument any less credible or authoritative in your opinion?

   
   

8. 
   

   Scott Kay’s blog entry is much more informal and opinionated than the other two articles. How are his reasons for Christians enjoying secular works (including literature) different from Skaggs’ or Nathan’s reasons?

   
   

9. 
   

   Do you agree with the quote by John Calvin that Kay uses in his argument? Why or why not?

   
   

10. 
    

    Define in your own words the term “discernment”.