Lecture Notes: Theology of Fun and Holiness

Introduction

• Presenters: Jeremy Buolo and Kosti
• Topic: Theology of Fun and its relation to holiness and worship.
• Context: Series episode discussing the balance between enjoying life and living a spiritual life.

Personal Journey of Kosti

• Transition from a prosperity gospel background to a more conservative lifestyle.
• Initial struggle with understanding and adhering to new 'rules' about material possessions in ministry.
• Detox from prosperity gospel led to a mindset of minimalism, even to the extent of living on food stamps.
• Emphasized the notion of suffering as a sign of true Christianity in ministry.

Concept of Theology of Fun

• Definition of Fun: Spontaneous enjoyment of activities without a utilitarian purpose.
• Christian Dilemma: Balancing fun with spirituality and the feeling of guilt over enjoyment.
• Biblical Exploration: The Bible's perspective on play and enjoyment as part of God's creation.
• Series Context: Church series on work, play, rest.

God's Creation and Enjoyment

• Imago Dei: Humans are made in the image of God, reflecting His attributes including enjoyment of beauty.
• Creation: Described as vibrant, colorful (e.g., Eden not being a concrete slab), showcasing God's creativity.
• Psalm 104: Highlights God's creative playfulness in creation and the importance of enjoying it.
• Examples: Wine made to gladden man’s heart, Leviathan created to play in the sea.

Human Tendency and Misuse of Play

• Empire of Desire: Current societal obsession with pleasure over virtue.
• Dangers: Obsessing over entertainment or rejecting it altogether.
• Balance: Recognizing play as a gift and enjoying it as a reflection of God's character.

Anticipating the Kingdom of Play

• Biblical Storyline: Begins and ends in paradise, with play as part of the restored kingdom (Zechariah 8).
• Vision: A future where play and joy are abundant and reflect divine creativity.

Practical Advice for Christians

• Gift of Play: Recognizing it as from God and not to be rejected.
• Balance: Time for work and play, avoiding obsession or complete denial.
• Vacations: Important for rest and balance, modeled by Jesus in His ministry.

Encouragement for Enjoying God's Gifts

• 1 Timothy 6: Instructions to the rich on generosity and not trusting in wealth.
• Enjoyment: Encouraged as a response to God’s blessings, not an obsession.
• Perspective: Enjoying God’s gifts as a form of worship and gratitude.

Conclusion

• Call to Action: Encourage Christians to find balance, enjoy life as fun is a reflection of God’s character.
• Resources: Jeremy Buolo’s sermons and teachings available at gracechurch.org and his social media.