Tag: issues

Addressing Woke Theology

Rev. Dr. Cecil W Thorn, ThD

Introduction

As the cultural landscape continues to shift, the church faces growing challenges in navigating the differences between traditional church theology and the emerging influence of Woke theology. Traditional church theology is rooted in the belief that Scripture is the ultimate authority, focusing on the gospel’s power to transform lives and the call for personal salvation through Jesus Christ. It emphasizes biblical truths such as the nature of God, the sinfulness of humanity, and salvation by grace alone. Woke theology, on the other hand, often incorporates contemporary social justice movements, focusing on systemic issues such as racial inequality, oppression, and societal reform. It seeks to address perceived injustices and promote collective repentance for societal sins, which may sometimes challenge traditional biblical interpretations.

In addressing these differences, it’s essential for the church to remain grounded in biblical truth while engaging thoughtfully with cultural issues. The goal is not to oppose or alienate those who are influenced by Woke theology, but to lovingly guide them back to the teachings of Scripture. This requires balancing compassion and clarity, upholding biblical principles on justice, love, and human dignity, while also ensuring that the gospel remains central. By affirming the authority of Scripture, emphasizing personal transformation, and modeling true biblical justice, the church can engage with the world’s pressing issues without compromising the integrity of the faith.

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Table of Contents

The differences between traditional church theology and woke church theology

How can a traditional church address and respond to Woke theology?

Christian traditional biblical truths

Woke biblical truths

My Thoughts

The differences between traditional church theology and woke church theology

The differences between traditional church theology and woke church theology often center on their approaches to social justice, cultural engagement, and biblical interpretation. Traditional church theology prioritizes a focus on the gospel’s spiritual dimension, emphasizing humanity’s need for salvation through Jesus Christ and grounding its worldview in the authority and timelessness of Scripture. It often views social issues as secondary, with solutions rooted in individual transformation through Christ. In contrast, woke church theology seeks to address systemic injustices as central to the church’s mission, often integrating contemporary social theories into its understanding of oppression and justice. This perspective tends to emphasize collective repentance for societal sins like racism or inequality, sometimes challenging traditional interpretations of Scripture to align with modern cultural concerns. While both perspectives aim to reflect Christ’s teachings, they diverge on the balance between spiritual renewal and societal reform, leading to differing priorities in ministry and practice.

Traditional Church Theology

Focus:

  • Core Beliefs: Emphasizes historical, biblical doctrines such as salvation through faith in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9 (ESV)) and the inerrancy of Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16-17 (ESV)).
  • Mission: Primarily about preaching the gospel, discipleship, and eternal salvation (Matthew 28:19-20 (ESV)).
  • Ethics: Derived from timeless biblical principles, often avoiding alignment with contemporary cultural or political ideologies.

Key Scriptures:

  1. Ephesians 2:8-9 (ESV) “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.”
  2. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (ESV) “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”
  3. Matthew 28:19-20 (ESV) “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Woke Church Theology

Focus:

  • Core Beliefs: Emphasizes addressing systemic injustices (e.g., racism, poverty, and oppression) as integral to the gospel message (Isaiah 1:17 (ESV)).
  • Mission: Combines traditional evangelism with activism and societal reform (Micah 6:8 (ESV)).
  • Ethics: Advocates for cultural awareness and contextualization, often interpreting Scripture in light of modern issues.

Key Scriptures:

  1. Isaiah 1:17 (ESV) “Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause.”
  2. Micah 6:8 (ESV) “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”
  3. Luke 4:18-19 (ESV) “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”

Key Differences

  1. Emphasis on Justice:
    • Traditional theology often sees justice as an outcome of transformed lives through the gospel.
    • Woke theology places justice as a central component of the gospel message itself.
  2. View of Sin:
    • Traditional theology emphasizes personal sin and the need for individual repentance (Romans 3:23-24 (ESV)).
    • Woke theology often expands sin to include systemic and institutional dimensions (James 5:1-4 (ESV)).
  3. Cultural Engagement:
    • Traditional theology may view the church as countercultural and focus on spiritual over worldly matters (Romans 12:2 (ESV)).
    • Woke theology embraces cultural issues, aiming to reform societal systems as part of its mission.
  4. Scriptural Interpretation:
    • Traditional theology holds to a more literal, historical-grammatical interpretation.
    • Woke theology may employ more contextual or allegorical methods, emphasizing modern relevance.

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How can a traditional church address and respond to Woke theology?

Balancing Perspectives

While these theologies may differ, a biblical approach can acknowledge the importance of both personal salvation and societal justice, without compromising the gospel’s integrity. Jesus addressed individual hearts (John 3:16 (ESV)) while also challenging societal norms (Matthew 23:23 (ESV)).

Addressing and responding to woke theology as a traditional church involves a balanced approach of biblical faithfulness, love, and clarity. Rather than framing it as a battle against people, the focus should be on addressing theological errors, affirming biblical truth, and engaging with grace and understanding. Here’s how a traditional church can respond effectively:

1. Reaffirm Core Biblical Truths

Ground the church in sound doctrine, emphasizing timeless biblical truths that transcend cultural trends.

  • Authority of Scripture: Emphasize the Bible as the ultimate source of truth.
    Scripture:
    • 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (ESV) “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.”
    • Isaiah 40:8 (ESV) “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever.”
  • Christ-Centered Gospel: Reiterate that salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus, not works or societal reform.
    Scripture:
    • Ephesians 2:8-9 (ESV) “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.”

2. Address Theological Errors

Lovingly confront the areas where woke theology deviates from biblical teaching.

  • Definition of Sin: Clarify that while systemic issues may exist, sin is ultimately a personal condition of the human heart (Romans 3:23 (ESV)).
  • Role of the Church: Highlight that the church’s primary mission is to preach the gospel and make disciples, though good works and justice are natural outcomes of faith.
    Scripture:
    • Matthew 28:19-20 (ESV) “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.”
    • Mark 8:36 (ESV) “For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?”

3. Equip the Church with Discernment

Teach members how to critically evaluate cultural and theological ideas through a biblical lens.

  • Bible Study: Offer regular teaching on biblical doctrine, emphasizing how Scripture applies to contemporary issues.
  • Cultural Discernment: Help believers recognize when social justice movements align with or diverge from Scripture.
    Example: Caring for the poor aligns with Scripture (Proverbs 31:8-9 (ESV)), but redefining biblical morality does not (Isaiah 5:20 (ESV)).

4. Model Biblical Justice

Rather than rejecting all aspects of woke theology, demonstrate how true biblical justice looks. This will show that the church cares about justice while remaining faithful to the gospel.

  • Justice with Truth: Advocate for justice based on God’s standards, not cultural ideologies.
    Scripture:
    • Micah 6:8 (ESV) “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”
    • Amos 5:24 (ESV) “But let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.”
  • Compassionate Ministry: Serve the poor, oppressed, and marginalized in practical ways that reflect Christ’s love without compromising biblical truth.

5. Promote Unity, Not Division

Avoid framing the conversation as “us vs. them.” Instead, seek to win hearts and minds with grace and truth.

  • Speak the Truth in Love: Address errors with compassion, avoiding arrogance or hostility.
    Scripture:
    • Ephesians 4:15 (ESV) “Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ.”
  • Avoid Strawman Arguments: Engage with the actual ideas of woke theology instead of misrepresenting them.

6. Teach a Robust Theology of the Kingdom

Help believers understand the broader biblical vision of God’s kingdom, which encompasses both personal salvation and social restoration.

  • God’s Sovereignty: Emphasize that ultimate justice and restoration will come through Christ’s return, not human efforts alone.
    Scripture:
    • Revelation 21:1-5 (ESV) “Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth… He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more.”
  • Faith and Works Together: Teach that good works flow out of faith, not as a means of salvation but as evidence of it.
    Scripture:
    • James 2:26 (ESV) “For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so also faith apart from works is dead.”

7. Engage in Healthy Dialogue

Rather than isolating or alienating those influenced by woke theology, engage in respectful conversations to understand their concerns and point them to biblical truth.

  • Find Common Ground: Agree on the importance of justice, mercy, and humility, while highlighting the need to root these in Scripture.
  • Ask Questions: Gently challenge assumptions by asking how their views align with biblical teaching.

8. Pray for Revival

No theological debate can replace the work of the Holy Spirit. Pray for hearts to be softened and for the church to stay rooted in truth.
Scripture:

  • 2 Chronicles 7:14 (ESV) “If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.”

Conclusion: A Gospel-Centered Response

The traditional church combats woke theology not by rejecting justice but by rooting it in the gospel. By emphasizing the authority of Scripture, the centrality of Christ, and the transforming power of the gospel, the church can address societal issues without compromising biblical truth. A church that remains faithful to God’s Word while engaging compassionately with the world will stand as a beacon of hope, proclaiming the gospel’s power to change hearts and heal nations.

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Christian traditional biblical truths

1. The Authority and Infallibility of Scripture

The Bible is God’s inspired and inerrant Word, authoritative for faith, doctrine, and practice.

  • 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (ESV) “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.”
  • Psalm 119:160 (ESV) “The sum of your word is truth, and every one of your righteous rules endures forever.”

2. The Nature of God

God is eternal, sovereign, and unchanging, existing as one God in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

  • Deuteronomy 6:4 (ESV) “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.”
  • Matthew 28:19 (ESV) “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”
  • Malachi 3:6 (ESV) “For I the Lord do not change; therefore you, O children of Jacob, are not consumed.”

3. Creation and Sovereignty

God created the world and sustains it by His power. Everything exists for His glory and purposes.

  • Genesis 1:1 (ESV) “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.”
  • Colossians 1:16-17 (ESV) “For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth… and in him all things hold together.”

4. The Sinfulness of Humanity

All people are born sinners, separated from God, and unable to save themselves apart from divine grace.

  • Romans 3:23 (ESV) “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”
  • Psalm 51:5 (ESV) “Behold, I was brought forth in iniquity, and in sin did my mother conceive me.”

5. Salvation by Grace Through Faith

Salvation is God’s gift, received through faith in Jesus Christ alone, not by works.

  • Ephesians 2:8-9 (ESV) “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.”
  • John 14:6 (ESV) “Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'”

6. The Person and Work of Jesus Christ

Jesus Christ is fully God and fully man, who lived a sinless life, died for humanity’s sins, and rose again, securing eternal life for believers.

  • Philippians 2:6-8 (ESV) “Who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped… He humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.”
  • 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 (ESV) “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day.”

7. The Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit convicts, regenerates, indwells, sanctifies, and empowers believers for godly living and ministry.

  • John 16:13 (ESV) “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth.”
  • Galatians 5:22-23 (ESV) “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.”

8. The Church

The church is the body of Christ, called to worship God, make disciples, and proclaim the gospel.

  • Ephesians 4:4-6 (ESV) “There is one body and one Spirit… one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all.”
  • Matthew 28:19-20 (ESV) “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”

9. The Return of Christ and Final Judgment

Jesus will return to judge the living and the dead, establish His kingdom, and make all things new.

  • Matthew 24:30 (ESV) “And then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.”
  • Revelation 21:1-4 (ESV) “Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth… He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more.”

10. Eternal Life and Destiny

Believers will enjoy eternal life with God in heaven, while those who reject Christ will face eternal separation in hell.

  • John 3:36 (ESV) “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.”
  • Revelation 20:15 (ESV) “And if anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire.”

Conclusion

Traditional Christian theology holds that God is sovereign, holy, and just, humanity is sinful and in need of salvation, and Christ’s work on the cross is the only means of reconciliation with God. These truths are unchanging, grounded in Scripture, and central to the Christian faith.

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Woke Biblical Truths

The term “woke” typically refers to a heightened awareness of social issues, particularly concerning race, gender, and inequality. When interpreting “woke” biblical truths, it’s important to consider a Christian perspective on justice, equality, and love while remaining grounded in Scripture. Here are several key principles from the Bible that align with social justice but may differ in interpretation from certain modern “woke” movements:

1. Equality of All People Before God

  • Scripture: Galatians 3:28 (ESV) – “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
  • Explanation: The Bible emphasizes that all people are equal in God’s sight, regardless of race, social status, or gender. This concept speaks to a vision of inclusivity and equality, aligning with the value of human dignity.

2. Love for Neighbor

  • Scripture: Matthew 22:37-40 (ESV) – “And he said to him, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets.’”
  • Explanation: True love for others transcends all societal divisions, urging Christians to care for the marginalized and oppressed, seeking their well-being as part of the broader community.

3. Advocating for the Marginalized

  • Scripture: Isaiah 1:17 (ESV) – “Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause.”
  • Explanation: The Bible commands believers to fight for justice, advocate for the oppressed, and stand against systems that exploit or harm vulnerable people, echoing calls for social justice.

4. Compassion and Mercy

  • Scripture: Micah 6:8 (ESV) – “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”
  • Explanation: Compassion and mercy are central to the Christian walk, emphasizing a humble approach to addressing societal wrongs and showing kindness to others.

5. Standing Against Injustice

  • Scripture: Proverbs 31:8-9 (ESV) – “Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute. Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy.”
  • Explanation: Christians are urged to use their voices to defend those who cannot speak for themselves, advocating for justice, especially for those who are poor or oppressed.

6. Peacemaking

  • Scripture: Matthew 5:9 (ESV) – “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.”
  • Explanation: True peace goes beyond a lack of conflict; it is a commitment to justice, reconciliation, and healing, which challenges systems of injustice and oppression.

7. God’s Justice for the Oppressed

  • Scripture: Psalm 82:3-4 (ESV) – “Give justice to the weak and the fatherless; maintain the right of the afflicted and the destitute. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.”
  • Explanation: God’s justice is a crucial theme in Scripture, where He calls His followers to defend the oppressed and seek justice on behalf of those who are suffering.

These truths emphasize a commitment to justice, equality, and care for others, which are principles that may overlap with modern social justice movements but are framed within a biblical worldview that values both individual dignity and the care of the broader community.

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My Thoughts

As the church navigates the growing influence of Woke theology, it faces the challenge of upholding traditional biblical truths while engaging with the broader cultural conversation on social justice. Traditional church theology is grounded in the unchanging authority of Scripture, prioritizing the gospel’s power to transform individuals through salvation in Jesus Christ. This theology emphasizes the redemptive work of Christ for personal salvation, acknowledging humanity’s sinful nature and the need for grace. In contrast, Woke theology often prioritizes systemic justice and societal reform, seeking to address perceived social injustices such as racism, inequality, and oppression. While Woke theology may draw from biblical principles, it integrates modern social theories that can sometimes reinterpret or challenge traditional biblical teachings. Thus, the church faces the task of discerning how to address cultural issues without compromising the gospel’s integrity.

In responding to these theological differences, it is important for the traditional church to affirm the authority and sufficiency of Scripture while also engaging with cultural issues in a way that reflects Christ’s love and justice. The church should not view Woke theology as an adversary but rather as a point of engagement, with a commitment to guiding individuals back to the teachings of the Bible. This requires a balanced approach that emphasizes both personal transformation through the gospel and a commitment to biblical justice. By addressing the concerns raised by Woke theology through a biblical lens, the church can foster meaningful dialogue, promote reconciliation, and maintain its focus on the eternal truths of Scripture, ensuring that the gospel remains central in its mission to the world.

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Copyright Notice © 2024 Rev. Cecil Thorn Permission is hereby granted, free of charge, to any person obtaining a copy of this work authored by Rev. Cecil Thorn, to distribute, display, and reproduce the work, in its entirety, including verbatim copies, provided that no fee is charged for the copies or distribution. This permission is granted for non-commercial distribution only.

SELLING THE GOSPEL MESSAGE

Rev. Cecil Thorn

Let me share a recent experience that deeply impacted me. Not long ago, I encountered someone dedicated to outreach among the homeless—feeding them, sharing the gospel, offering salvation. They approached me seeking advice on how to proceed.

They mentioned giving out free Bibles to those they reached, but then came a crucial question: Our discussion turned to discipleship, and a significant hurdle emerged: they lacked funds for structured study materials.

I took it upon myself to search online for affordable resources. Sadly, even the cheapest options were beyond their means—$10 per book was simply too much. Frustration mounted as I realized the financial barrier preventing us from providing essential guidance without cost.

Determined to make a difference, I resolved to write a comprehensive discipleship training program myself. I compiled it and handed it over to them, free of charge. This experience crystallized for me the essence of the gospel: it’s about giving generously, not receiving.

Reflecting on my own work as an author, I decided to remove my books from platforms like Amazon. If my message truly reflects the gospel, it shouldn’t come with a price tag. Instead, I now offer them freely on my website, ensuring anyone can access them without cost.

This highlights the challenges faced in ministry and the commitment to providing resources freely, in line with the spirit of the gospel.

Regarding the Gospel Message:

Matthew 28:19-20 (KJV): “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”

Jesus commands his disciples to spread the gospel to all nations, baptizing and teaching them to obey his commands. The central message is to share the message of salvation 

Matthew 10:8-9 (KJV), Jesus instructs his disciples, “Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give. Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses.” 

These words underscore a profound principle: the gospel message and the spiritual gifts we receive from God are not commodities to be bought or sold for personal gain. Jesus specifically commands his disciples to freely share these gifts, without seeking material compensation. This challenges us to consider whether charging for aspects closely tied to the gospel, such as books, teachings, or spiritual services, aligns with the spirit of Jesus’ teachings. It’s essential to ensure that the core message of God’s grace and love remains accessible to all, without financial barriers.

Regarding Money:

Mark 11:15-17 (KJV):“And they come to Jerusalem: and Jesus went into the temple, and began to cast out them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves; And would not suffer that any man should carry any vessel through the temple. And he taught, saying unto them, Is it not written, My house shall be called of all nations the house of prayer? but ye have made it a den of thieves.”
Matthew 6:19-21 (KJV): “Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”
Matthew 6:24 (KJV): “No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.”

Jesus warns against prioritizing earthly wealth and material possessions over spiritual values. He emphasizes the spiritual and eternal significance of serving God rather than pursuing riches, cautioning against the dual allegiance to God and money.

Contemporary Issues:

In modern times, there are concerns about financial exploitation within Christian ministries, where leaders may solicit money for various goods and services, including books, seminars, revivals, concerts, and more:

Critics argue: Some leaders may exploit their positions of influence, urging followers to donate money under the guise of spiritual blessings or rewards. This can potentially contradict Jesus’ call to freely share the gospel and prioritize spiritual growth over financial gain.

Biblical perspective: The Bible condemns using ministry for personal enrichment or exploiting believers for monetary gain. It emphasizes integrity, humility, and genuine care for others in all aspects of ministry.

Divine Justice:
Matthew 7:21-23 (KJV): “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.”

Jesus warns that outward acts in his name do not guarantee entrance into the kingdom of heaven if they are tainted by greed or self-interest. Those who misuse their ministry for personal gain may face severe judgment.

God’s Care and Justice:
The Bible assures that God is just and will hold everyone accountable for their actions, including those within Christian leadership. Those who exploit others for personal wealth or status will face consequences.
1 Timothy 6:10 (KJV): “For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.”

This verse underscores the danger of placing money and wealth above spiritual values. It warns against the love of money, which can lead to moral and spiritual downfall.

In conclusion, Jesus’ teachings call for spreading the gospel freely and prioritizing spiritual values over material gain. The Bible condemns exploitation in ministry and emphasizes God’s justice and care for those who misuse their positions. It urges believers to uphold integrity, humility, and genuine care for others, ensuring that ministry focuses on serving God and others rather than personal enrichment.

Copyright Notice © 2024 Rev. Cecil Thorn Permission is hereby granted, free of charge, to any person obtaining a copy of this work authored by Rev. Cecil Thorn, to distribute, display, and reproduce the work, in its entirety, including verbatim copies, provided that no fee is charged for the copies or distribution. This permission is granted for non-commercial distribution only.

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