In the next few weeks, I will be sharing with you in series, the contents of the chapters of my book, “Dimensions of a New Civilization.” Comments and critiquing would be much welcome. Below is the Preface of the contents of the Book, marking the first of the contents in serialized postings. Enjoy the reading:
According to the Judeo-Christian Bible, Chris’s mission reverses the negative effects of human civilizations. This book expounds on the effects of the two philosophical concepts––self-centeredness and altruism.
At the end of their lives, those living today will ask the question: “In all my toiling on this planet, was I ever happy that I lived?” Yet those having adopted the concept of the New Civilization get occupied with the question: “In all my toiling on this planet, were most people glad that I lived?”
The last identifies with satisfactory living, as expounded by Jesus Christ. The former identifies with the person who, though possibly admired by many, has his/her soul in misery.
Here in this book is a viewpoint from one believer on biblical understanding. God’s truths need review, not necessarily on what others uphold or have always believed. Others may assist in clarifying one’s position. But the responsibility to accept or reject what is proffered rests with the individual.
History is littered with deceptions. Many people are led astray by those said to be renowned authorities. Readers need to individually examine facts between what is universally adopted as truth when compared with God’s word, which commonly sidesteps what comes from human authority.
The mission will be accomplished in two ways: 1) helping the reader to discover new truths. 2) The author is also being assisted to possibly adjust on verifiable inconsistencies between this book and God’s word––through communication with objective readers.
The intention is to analyse Christian faith with candour, helping those desiring to appreciate what is expected towards God’s Kingdom. Eighteen chapters address the causes of misunderstanding. The Biblical teachings carry workable techniques in human relations right across the globe. Jesus’ story of sacrifice reveals the standard that replaces our ineffective civilization.
Christianity heralds the application of love. Yet love is one of the most abused terms the world has ever known. Confusion emanates from idolizing Jesus––the love-giver––while ignoring what He taught.
True love is portrayed in the behaviour that leads to Jesus’ examples as He walked, talked and related to people in the first century. This calls for developing the same love––adding value towards others––regardless of background. The New Civilization advocates for full responsibility, being cause for acceptable conditions. This is just as a beam of light cast across a dark landscape removes darkness for everyone’s benefit.
The book upholds the principles of being a brother/sister’s keeper. This leads to understanding causes before addressing animosities and; accordingly, establishing excellent relationships. The book appeals to those who hunger and thirst for righteousness––willing to study the Bible like students––right up to the time of their physical demise.
No one holds a monopoly on wisdom and knowledge. However attentive listening and evaluation keep one on the path towards the attainment of both. Folly can also be the aptitude to perceive folly in other people, regardless of how uneducated or ill-advised those people may appear to be.
In other words, the enlightened person’s wisdom is portrayed in the wisdom of his fellows. The unwise people in that location reveal the ineffectiveness of the one claiming to be wise. Humans are interdependent, and affected by other people’s wisdom or follies, regardless of how enlightened one might assume to be.
Christ takes the centre stage; enabling readers to appreciate mysteries concerning God’s Kingdom. The legendary exhortation is: “Prove all things; hold fast that which is good” (1 Thess. 5:21 KJV). This calls for attentive listening before evaluation (Prov. 18:13). Readers become rooted in Christian faith, instead of being tossed by every wind of doctrine. Biblical texts require evaluation against what Jesus taught and practised, not necessarily what others say.
While the contents portray what I believe to be true, I shun being dogmatic, as knowledge can never be exhausted. After reading through, like a novel, the reader is encouraged to consider re-reading the book. This is necessary, to establish possible inconsistencies that the book may reflect against the authenticity of the Bible.
Contacting the author may be necessary, to enable progressive adjustments. A Christian author is still fallible and not necessarily better than the reader. Only the Bible contains an instructive collection of inspired writings, counselling those desiring God’s Kingdom.
If anyone agrees with this affirmation, then we are of the same fellowship, regardless of denominational considerations. Should anyone desire more of the new teachings, I am available and eager to assist and also be assisted toward our mutual goal.
The Glossary at the end clarifies the intended meaning of certain words and phrases, for the reader to fully comprehend the intended applications of the text. May the reader be blessed, after reading through the entire book with an open mind.
Andrew Masuku
May 9, 2015
Andrew Masuku is the author of Dimensions of a New Civilization, laying down standards for uplifting Zimbabwe from the current state of economic depression into a model for other nations worldwide. A decaying tree provides an opportunity for a blossoming sprout. Written from a Christian perspective, the book is a product of inspiration, bringing relief to those having witnessed the strings of unworkable solutions––leading to the current economic and social decay. Most Zimbabweans should find the book as a long-awaited providential oasis of hope, in a simple conversational tone.
The Print copy is now available at Amazon.com for $13.99
Also available as an e-copy at Lulu.com for $6.99