Reflection Paper 3: Velvet Elvis

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Bell in the book “Velvet Elvis” explores the Christian tradition by shedding light on the important concepts of spiritual journey, truth and salvation. The spiritual journey is one of the common concerns of every Christian because they want to purify them from the evils of this world. They are always concerned to find the right path and follow the laws of God. Christians are always struggling to find the meaning of ‘all truth is of God’ and are inclined to understand his existence. This reflects the determination of Christians in searching the reality of this world. Salvation solves the problematic thoughts on sin and is known as spiritual deliverance.

The question of truth about God’s existence intrigues every Christian that is based on intellectualism. Christianity promotes the belief that this universe is created by God who is all powerful. Bell says that, “I became aware of something so real, yet I couldn’t see it or touch it” (Bell, 40). Truth can only be felt but not seen because it is based on human connectivity with the creator of this universe. Bell has explained that reality s a complex and a multi-dimensional concept that require an individual to experience it. Because Christians can’t experience everything so they rely on the christen teachings that proves the existence of God. Bible has narrated many historic events that confirms the power of God. Followers of Christianity are inclined to believe on the sayings of Bible and relate it with their own lives. Bell explains that, “in many Christian settings people are encouraged to read the Bible alone, which is the new idea in the church history” (Bell, 52). In every action they are concerned to justify them by taking support from Bible. To them the truth is what is mentioned in the book by the God and passed to the humans by Jesus. Christians have a firm belief that they must follow the path shown to them by Jesus because it is the right path, which leads to the greater truth.

God has created humans and given them the quality of apprehending the truth. Christian tradition relies on the ideology that humans have the capacity of exploring the reality of this world so they investigate the history and facts for learning the truth of God. The author has explained that Christians use Bible as a reference for resolving their ordinary matters. Bell states that, “sometimes when people are backing their points and the Bible is used to prove that they are right, everything within me says” (Bell, 43). When they engage in a confusing or conflicting situation they use Biblical verses for providing their point. This has been part of Christian tradition passed to them from their ancestors.

Christians in an attempt of purifying themselves follow the teachings of Jesus. Bell mentions that Bible says, “do not seek a revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself” (Bell, 45). Spiritual journey require overcoming the evil side by replacing it with the pious side. This journey encourage Christians to fin their reality and identifying their problems. Their ultimate goal is to bring peace and positivity in the world. In this process a human being questions himself for examining the issues and solutions. They develop strength of facing the difficulties and overcoming them by choosing what is right. Spiritual journey confers the belief that human beings are responsible for the direction they choose. Any action or path that brings harm for self or others must be avoided. Instead a person must be able to choose the right path, the one that brings happiness.

The process of reconciliation and desire of enlightenment leads to salvation. Every Christian has a firm belief that God has the power of removing sin by punishing humans for their evil deeds. Bell mentions, “my understanding is that to be Christian is to do whatever it is that you do with great passion and devotion” (Bell, 84). The concept of salvation is to reach a point in life when a Christian realize his sins and purify them by indulging in good deeds. The author further states, “he is teaching people to live as Christians, and then whatever they do will be sacred” (Bell, 85). This change is linked to the process of self-discovery, starting from the sinful life and ending at a pious one. The concept of salvation is also associated with the eternal sin and deliverance by the God. Bell explains that teachings of Jesus have assured the Christians that God is graceful and the merciful. Even after committing sins they can reconcile by begging pardon and choosing the right path. After receiving salvation Christians attain inner peace and greater satisfaction. They receive the reward in the world and also after death.

Truth, spiritual journey and salvation are important themes that build human association with Christian tradition. Bell has uncovered the deeper meaning of these concepts by understanding the Bible and Christian teachings. Truth is the first thing encountered by every Christian as they begin to explore this world’s reality. God is the creator of this universe and has the power of controlling. Christians are determined towards spiritual journey because it leads to greater happiness. The feelings of reconciliation and building connection with God makes the concept of salvation equally important.

Work Cited

BIBLIOGRAPHY Bell, Rob. Velvet Elvis. HarperOne, 2012.