An Exegesis Of Colossians 3 12 17 Religion Essay

An Exegesis Of Colossians 3 12 17 Religion Essay Introduction In society there are innumerous encounters and engagements between Christians and non-Christian daily, some of these encounters are religious in nature the others are secular. The challenge to the Christian is to continuously exercise the commandment or requirements that God revealed via the Prophet Micah to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God (Micah 6:8, NLT).  [1]  The elements for living a holy life are not difficult and they are not exhaustive; however, because of so many different interpretations available to the Christian readers, congregants and students, there is a high probability that confusion will reign in the minds of many. There are myriad teachings available to the Christian that are full of error, personal interpretations, non-Christian agendas and false teachings to name a few, that will lead to inappropriate application of biblical principles that will not properly represent Christ in the Christian ambassadorship to each other and t o the world. Following this further, living a holy life is a requirement for all Christians and the instruction for how to live holy is imperative knowledge for the Christian. Colossians 3:12-17 is an excellent source of instructions for Christian living. The passage asserts that God chose Christians to be a holy people. It stands to reason that He authored provisions to help Christians reach that goal. The passage presents several principles for instructing the Christian how to exhibit him or herself as a representative of Christ. The exegesis of this passage will disclose if the principles are applicable to the contemporary audience as it were to the original audience or if there is time driven deviation that renders it less impactful for modern application. Setting/Historical Background In order to comprehend the context of Colossians 3:12-17 it is important to have background information for the period in which it was written. Pauls penned intervention had to reflect his understanding of the Colossians worldview. It was a worldview that was eclectic and problematic. Its multiculturalism created a challenge for a church leader who was not versed and or educated in true Christian doctrines and its applicability. Paul is the author of the letter to the Colossians, he has the authority to write an account of holy living because of his conversion and life experiences. His history prior to his conversion on the road to Damascus and his experiences that trained him as an apostle to the Gentiles equipped him with the wisdom and knowledge for teaching and instructing. His pre-apostolic days begin with him being born into and raised in a prominent Jewish-Roman family. He is from the tribe of Benjamin which is where he obtained his name Saul, but his Roman name is Paul. He was circumcised on the eight day in accordance with the law; he was afforded the opportunity to be educated in the Greco-Roman rhetoric as well as Hebrew.  [2]   Paul was a student of Gamaliel (Acts 5:34) who was the grandson of Hillel and one of seven scholars to obtain the title Rabban which means our master.  [3]   The church in Colossae was composed of Jews and Gentiles which created a culture of syncretism, mixing Jewish legalism, with Greek speculation and the mysticism of the Orient.  [4]   The city of Colossae was a major city located on the Lycus River with accessibility to trade routes. It was downgraded to a secondary city by the first century A.D. Colossae was a neighboring city to Laodicea and Hierapolis; each city was approximately 10 miles from Colossae.  [5]  The church at Colossae received the gospel from Epaphras, a convert from the church in Ephesus; he urged Paul, who was in prison in Ephesus, to write a letter to Colossae to address heretical issues that were plaguing the church in Colossae regarding its battle with heresy; which was creating disruption in churches all over the western portion of Asia Minor.  [6]   Although, Paul never visited the city of Colossae, he was aware of the heretical spirit that swept the region. Like its neighbors, Colossae was infiltrated by a mixture of pagan doctrines influenced by pre-Gnosticism that regarded the body as evil to promote spiritual/non-material items as superior human form, known as mystical wisdom. The pagan influence led to questions about Jesus having a physical body as an ordinary man, error in esteeming angels, and proclaimed that salvation was the result of knowledge rather than faith.  [7]   There is contention that Paul wrote the letter to the Colossians from Rome and that it was delivered to the church by Tychicus during the early 60s. This is supported by those who refer to 4:7-8 as the reason for choosing Rome over Ephesus and Tychicus over Epaphras.  [8]   Analysis of Colossians 3:12-17 The Colossians comfort with pluralism subjected them to vulnerability in achieving solidarity in understanding and incorporating the doctrines of their new Christian faith. Their failure to comprehend the true essence of Christ and his personage as well as exclusiveness of Christianity revealed their need for intervention from one of authority in the doctrines such as an apostle in the faith. Therefore, Pauls letter to the Church of Colossae was necessary to substantiate the tenets of the faith and to emphasize as well as educate the new Christians regarding the expectations of their lives as Christian. Paul is the apostle to the Gentiles and it is incumbent upon him to respond to the needs of the Colossians as they struggle to manifest their faith and its tenets according to their understanding. Pauls letter is an instructional guide as well as being comprised of words of encouragement. Chapter 3 and verses 12 through 17 describes to the new Christians how they are new creatures in Christ. He reaffirms that Christ is deity in bodily form and the supreme head of the church (1:15-23). He also warns against false teaching and calls for the rejection of it. He further instructs them on how to live holy (Chapter 3). More specifically, Colossians 3:12-17 concentrates on two main ideas; one idea focuses on how to live holy as an individual and as a member of the body of Christ; and the other focuses on holy living as an individual and as a collective member of the body of Christ. The tools used to explore passage 3:12-17 are the King James Version (KJV), the New International Version (NIV), the New International Readers Version (NIRV), The Message (MSG) and the New Living Translation (NLT) Bibles, along with The New Analytical Greek Lexicon (The Lexicon), The Greek English Interlinear New Testament (The Interlinear) and Strongs Strongest Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible (Strongs) with various commentaries. Colossians 3:12-14 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfection. In verse 12 holy living entails more than a confession or conversion experience, it regards a change in lifestyle. The Interlinear uses put on (endysasthe) in the active continuous form emphasizing that Christians must continuously display Gods characteristics which manifests his holiness. They are manifested as mercy, kindness, humbleness, meekness, and longsuffering. The Message says, Dress in the wardrobe God picked out for you. Its rendition offers that these characteristics are not natural human characteristics; therefore, it requires action on the part of the individual and is attainable with the guidance of God. In the KJV, the word bowels (splagchna) are used; The Lexicon defines it as the heart or affections of the heart, meaning these qualities must come from within. By separating the characteristics by commas the KJV, NIV and the NLT indicate that each of the characteristics is part of a whole. However, the NIVR presents them in multiple sentences to demonstrate them as de finitive commands. The NLT renders that the Christian should demonstrate holy living by being clothed in tenderhearted mercy which is a translation for compassion (oiktirmou), kindness(chrestoteta), humility(tapeinophrosyne), gentleness for meekness(prauteta), and patience as longsuffering(makrothymian); these are acts that God has demonstrated towards us. Bruce Buoton describes the characteristics of tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience as imitations of Gods acts towards man.  [9]   In verse 13 holy living is explored further, here all Christians are required to forgive one another because Christ has forgiven (charixomenoi) them. Failure to forgive others whom God has forgiven results in suffering. Robert E. Wall expressed that the holy response (to any offense) prompted by grace is to forgive. . .We forgive because we are already forgiven, we secure Gods forgiveness by forgiving others.  [10]  Forgiving allows the Christian to tolerate the offenses of others and to act in their behalf for their benefit. Forgiveness is essential in Christian growth, fellowship and manifestation. It is one of the characteristics of God that allows Christians to imitate him without necessarily displaying overt actions. The act of forgiving is a sign that the Christian is maturing as a Christian. In verse 14 love is exhorted above all the other characteristics and is determined to be the virtue that bonds all the characteristics together. It is impossible to live a holy life without love, The MSG expresses, And regardless of what else you put on, wear love. It is your all purpose garment. Never be without it. All of the aforementioned translations agree on loves ability to make the other virtues possible, for instance the NLT interprets the verse as, Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect unity. The Greek word for bond (sydesmos) in The Lexicon is described as bundle or connection. It is used in the same way in Ephesians 4:3 make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace (NIV). Love is the adhesiveness that unites all the virtues; it is joined in significance by the virtue of peace. Colossians 3:15-17 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body: and be ye thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him. When the Christian has adopted the characteristics in verses 12-14 and internalized them, a notable change should be evident by familiar observers. Holiness should be readily manifested and perceivable. One of the key words in verse 15 is the word rule. The Interlinear, shows rule is derived from let arbitrate (brabeutw) in all of the translations besides The MSG. The MSG converts the Greek into in tune. . .in step with each other. Pauls familiarity with the word, in accordance with The Lexicon, would have been umpire, or someone who governs a conflict. The Colossians would have understood keeping the peace as tantamount to resolving conflicts.  [11]   The MSG emphasis is the body of Christ unified (swma(i))as it addresses the meaning of the verse. It emphasizes every collective decision and action that comes from the community will have the character of peace if all members stay in tune and/or in step with each other.  [12]   Furthermore, verse 15 exhorts Christians to be thankful (euchiaristoi) or mindful of the benefits  [13]  if being part of the body of Christ. Strongs Concordance clarifies thankful as in mind and attitude which enhances the spiritual well-being concerted with the physical well-being of the individual and the body of Christ.  [14]   Verse 16 moves the reader or Christian to the command to teach and admonish one another in wisdom (sophia) which has both divine and secular connotations, according to Strong; however, Pauls inclination was a reference to Christian enlightenment as found in 1 Corinthians 12:8.  [15]  There is variance between The MSG which denotes this virtue or command to mean use common sense, whereas, the NLT state Teach and counsel one another with all the wisdom he gives. Verse 16 iterates to Christians to exercise the virtues of holy living and to continuously communicate that to one another. The emphasis is that when God enlightens a person that person is qualified to exercise authority to teach and admonish others. Each member of the body of Christ is called to model the holiness demonstrated by Christ. In order to imitate his model the individual must have the Spirit of God residing inside of him, moreover, the Spirit of God can only dwell in the individual if the that individual lives a life of holiness. The Interlinear text uses let dwell (enoiketw) in the imperfect tense in verse sixteen. It is used to demonstrate that Christs spirit within the heart first occurred when the individual accepted Christ as Lord; it is an action that is present and ongoing. The other aspect of verse 16 includes the singing of psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. The MSG says sing your hearts out to God whereas the NIV, NIRV and NLT render the concept as to sing with thankfulness. The KJV links both sections of verse 16 as a single action, meaning that the singing and teaching are synonymous to praise and admonishing. Also, the singing of the songs, spirituals and hymns with joy and thanksgiving display to others that the Spirit of Christ dwells within. When Christs spirit dwell within the Christian then Christ rules the heart and life and the person is authorized to teach and admonish because it is accommodating the Spirit of Christ. Verse 17 mandates that whatever and whichever virtue the Christian manifests, do it in the name of the Lord Jesus with thanks to God and the Father through him. The primary responsibility of living a holy life is for the glory of God. In concert, the verses 12-17 equip the Christian with guidance and instructions to live a holy life within the ability of the Christians and in response to Pauls exhortation in Romans 12:1-2. Applications The worldview has crept into the church and some of the moral authority of the church has come into question because of the level of tolerance experienced by the church today. Tolerance is not a negative thing, but there are mandates such as notable in the Ten Commandments that restricts some tolerations. The behaviors exhibited by a large number of highly visible Christians (not just renowned ministers) in their lives denote that holy living has been compromised. There are denominations that allow clear abominations to exercise the office of pastors and ministers, such as ordaining homosexual ministers and subjecting Christians in need of guidance, teaching and admonishing to their authority. Equally compromising is the congregations that outwardly support and accept this deviancy. The modern society in First World countries is replete with narcissism, public acceptance of vulgarity (as demonstrated in music and audio-visual media)and Christian lifestyle has become compartmentalized. Applying the principles or virtues found in the passage of Colossians 3:12-17 in todays society should be exceptionally easy because of the communications capabilities that are available such as the internet, satellites, cell phones and public forums. These same forums are used to counter the work of the church emphatically. The Church has to do as Paul and the other apostles and early Christians did in building up the faith and the church. It must espouse it doctrines at every opportunity and do not settle for a small corner to shout from. It must begin within the body of Christ first. The church must hold Christians accountable for their behaviors that are compromised and encourage them in the behaviors that exemplify the virtues found in the passage. Heads of households must take the responsibility of their family religious education in the home environment and not allow worship and services to be a Sunday event only. Holiness must become a lifestyle; it must be exhorted within the body of Christ community first and then missioned to the rest of the world. Music must be acceptable, television and other media must adhere to family values by presenting wholesome entertainment. Finally, each Christian has to develop the attitude to teach one, reach one so that no Christian is left behind. The children must be taught Christian values at home without compromise. Most importantly, Christian hearts must be governed by Christ and honor given to God. There needs to be a campaign to teach and encourage each Christian to exert the virtues of mercy, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering/patience, forgiveness and love. Each church should have an education plan to initiate and sustain such a campaign. Conclusion The Bible is composed of mandates, laws and principles for Christian living that is sometimes explicitly clear such as You must not murder. (Exodus 20:13), and some not so evident such as And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. (Colossians 3:15). There are several translations of the Bible that create debate within the Christian community and sometimes result in controversial applications in some aspects, such as Exodus 20:13 rendered in the New Living Translation as You shall not murder. whereas in the King James Version it is rendered Thou shall not kill. The impact of the two different wordings has affected the secular arena as well as the religious one. Abortions, military wartime service and the death penalty are three of the subjects associated with controversy regarding both editions of the verse. Avoiding confusion and controversy is not always possible, there are passages in the Bible that are not just principles but also instruct the Christian how to live. A law or situation is not necessarily transferrable from the context known to the original audience to the conditions and situations in modern times; some applications are situational and time sensitive. The instructions are clear and applicable to life situations for the environment of the original audience or for the contemporary audience. Sometimes they are applicable to both audiences but there must be some parallel but not necessarily the same conditions present. The examination of the words of Paul in Colossians 3:12-17 reveals there are instructions that are clear and applicable for holy living and they migrate across the time spectrum from the original audience through the contemporary audience. Living a holy life is mandatory for Christians and necessary to please God. It is the Christian responsibility to present God to the world, the passage aforementioned provides instructions and guidance for execution. How the Christian lives should reflect what he or she believes in accordance with the conditions set forth by the applicable Scriptures. The Christian walk should parallel the Christian talk. As a member of the body of Christ the modern Christian incurs the responsibility to teach and admonish fellow Christians as needed. He and she have the advantage of hindsight as well as the principles denoted in the passage 3:12-17 to aid and assist their growth and development as productive Christians with the same urgency and proficiency of the early Christians. Appendix Block Diagram Colossians 3:12-17 (NIV) 12Therefore, as Gods chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Therefore As Gods chosen people Holy and dearly loved Clothe yourselves With compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other And Forgive whatever grievances You may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And Put on love over all these virtues Which binds them all together in perfect unity. 15Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. 17And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts Members of one body (Since As) You were called to peace. And Be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly As you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs With gratitude in your hearts to God. And Whatever you do (Whether) in word or deed Do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus Giving thanks to God The Father through Him. Sunday School Lesson for Adults Colossians 3:12-17 Focus verse: Colossians 3:13 Introduction Forgiveness -As for volunteers to read each verse. -Give an illustration of a marital event that requires forgiveness although it is very difficult to do. Why do we forgive? Definition of forgiveness Explanation Discuss focus verse and Gods command to forgive Inquiry- Have class name times/situations that they have done something wrong and how they felt. Bearing with one another/ Ways to forgive. Explanation We are to forgive others because God forgives us refer back to verse. Explain how the husband is a reflection of God and wife is a reflection of the sinner. Demonstration- Two class members will act out scenarios followed by brief discussion of the incidents: -inappropriate conversations with the opposite sex -meeting someone other than the spouse for friendly night out Application- Have class name situations in which they/others should be forgiven and how to do so. Reiterate the passage that emphasizes that God forgave us first. Illustration- Finish story with husband forgiving wife due to her sincere apology. Re-emphasize how God forgives us and we should forgive others. Conclusion We are to seek forgiveness and forgive others because God forgives us. -Review of passage focus verse. Allow for questions/comments. -Prayer asking God to forgive us for our sins and help to forgive others. -Song.

John Updikes A&P :: essays research papers

Bathing Beauties   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   John Updike’s â€Å"A&P† is a short story about a nineteen year old boy during the 1960’s that has a summer job at the local A&P grocery. The main character in the story, Sammy, realizes that life isn’t always fair and that sometimes a person makes decisions that he will regret. Sammy sees that life doesn’t always go as planned when three young girls in bathing suits walk in and his manager Lengel gives them a hard time, and he comes to term with that sometimes you make bad decisions. Sammy is astounded by three young girls that walk into his store in their bathing suits. He follows their every move as they peruse over the cookies and other goods. The first thing this typical nineteen boy recognizes is the one girl’s â€Å"can†. But then he goes on to say that this girl is one that other girls seems to think has potential but never really makes it with the guys. One girl though especially catches his eye. He starts to call her â€Å"Queenie† because of the way she carries herself and that she seems to be the leader of the pack. Sammy does nothing but watch her every move as they parade about the store. He even daydreams about going into her house with her rich family at a cocktail party. He notices everything about her and thinks there was nothing cuter than the way she pulls the money out of her top. His immature infatuation with this girl is one of the reasons Sammy makes the hasty decision to quit in the end. Lengel, the manager of the store, spots the girls and gives them a hard time about their dress in the store. He tells them, â€Å"Girls, this isn’t the beach.† He says that they are not dressed appropriately to come into this grocery store. Lengel’s words cause Queenie to get embarrassed and start to blush. Sammy cannot believe this and gets frustrated at his boss. He doesn’t believe that it is right to prosecute these innocent girls for the way they are dressed. He also states at this point that the sheep are piling up over in Stokesie line trying to avoid all the commotion the scene has caused. I believe Sammy takes this as the last straw in a long string of aggravations. Sammy confronts Lengel and tells him that he didn’t have to embarrass them like that, but it does no good.

Mcdonalds Energy Drink Research Report Essay

The purpose of this report is to investigate past trends and forecasts of the energy drink market. Included in this report, is information on market size, target population and statistical data on growth history and growth projections. The aim is to determine if adding energy drinks to McDonalds offerings will create a profitable segment for their menu. The market research collected and contained in this report consists of secondary data. This research was authorized by: McDonalds Corporation. Current market research shows that the energy drink market has grown into a multi-billion dollar business, which has been reported as being the fastest growing segment in the beverage industry since bottled water. The US energy drink industry is expected to more than double in the 5 years preceding 2013. (Comprehensive Reviews) Eighteen to twenty-four year olds or college students are the largest segment of energy drink consumers. (NutritionJ) The conclusion of this report suggests that the growth of the energy drink market has been greater than most other liquid refreshment beverage sectors in the US in the past five years and that this trend will continue. It is recommended that McDonalds Corporation add energy drinks to their offerings and target college-aged students. Introduction Fast food consumption in the US has declined during the recent economic crisis. To stay profitable, many fast food chains have introduced low-cost or â€Å"value† items too keep sales up. Along with low-cost items, many fast food chains have added specialized items or niche items to attract customers that can more conveniently buy these at a fast food store. McEnergy 3 Energy drinks have continued to gain popularity since Red Bull was launched in 1997. More than 500 new energy drinks were launched worldwide in 2006 and beverage companies are reaping the rewards of the exploding energy drink industry. This report examines the energy drink market and its potential to become a niche item in a fast food chain along with the population to target. Methods. This report was conducted using a secondary statistical data and secondary research that was gathered using a focus group and survey of college age participants. The statistical data was obtained from New York City-based Beverage Marketing Corporation which is the leading research firm dedicated to the global beverage industry. The statistical data regarding the previous growth patterns and growth forecasts will be discussed in the results. The focus group and survey were done by Nutrition Journal and focuses on energy drink consumption patterns among college students. The survey was based on responses from a 32-member college student focus group and a field test, a 19-item survey was used to energy drink consumption patterns of 496 randomly surveyed college students. (nutritionj) The population was defined as undergraduate students at a state university located in the Central Atlantic Region of the United States. 85% of the undergraduates were 18-24 years of age, 12% were 25-40 years of age and 3% 41 years of age or older. Sixty two percent of the entire student body is female. The sampling units were individual college students that were generated with a McEnergy 4 non-probability method of asking students around campus if they would like to participate. (Nutritionj) Results Fifty one percent of participants reported consuming at least one, energy drinks a month. Thirty four percent of participant reported consuming at least two energy drinks a month. Table 1 % of college energy drink users reporting amount and frequency of energy drink consumption by situation in an average month Energy drinks consumed Days/month ________________________________________________ Situation n 1 2 >2 1-4 5-10 >10 Insufficient Sleep 169 64 22 14 74 18 8. Need general energy 165 63 21 16 74 18 8 Studying or project 125 50 36 14 85 10 5 Driving long distance 114 63 23 14 86 9 5 With alcohol 136 27 24 49 73 18 9 Treat hangover 42 74 10 16 74 14 12 N= 253 college energy drink users (nutritionj) The US refreshment beverage market grew by 1. 2% in 2010The growth of the energy drinks market is up 5. 4% in the past year. (beveragemarketing) From 2004 to 2009 the McEnergy 5 overall growth of the energy market is up over 240% (Wiley) The shift from consumption of sports drinks such as Gatorade and Powerade towards energy drinks should continue. In the last year, carbonated soft drinks remain the largest liquid refreshment beverages category but their volume slipped 0. 8% from 13. 9 billion gallons in 2009 to 13. 8 billion gallons in 2010, which resulted in their market share decreasing. (beveragemarketing) Table 2 U. S Liquid Refreshment Beverage Market Change in Volume by Segment 2009-2010 Percent Change Segments 2009-2010 RTD Tea 12. 5% Sports Drinks 9. 4% RTD Coffee 8. 1% Energy Drinks 5. 4% Bottled Water 3. 5% Value-Added Water 0. 2% Fruit Beverages -2. 0% Carbonated Soft Drinks -0. 8% Total LRB 1. 2% Source: Beverage Marketing Corporation (BeverageMarketing) McEnergy 6 Conclusion The energy drink market has grown into a multi-billion dollar business, which has been reported as being the fastest growing segment in the beverage industry since bottled water. Having grown 240% in the past five years, the only beverage sectors to grow faster that energy drinks last year were ready-to-drink tea, ready-to-drink coffee and sports drinks. McDonalds already distributes these other three beverages and would benefit by adding the next fastest growing beverage sector, energy drinks. Despite the large market share that carbonated beverages owns, there is a demand and shift towards other beverage sectors as evidenced by a decrease in carbonated beverage market share last year. A large segment of energy drink consumers is the college-aged consumer. With over 50% of college students drinking at least one energy drink a month and 34% at least two a month, this would be a good population to target. Recommendations Include energy drinks to the offerings at McDonalds fast food restaurants. Target college-aged students with initial locations and marketing strategies. McEnergy 7 References: – Gonzalez de Mejia, E. & Heckman, M. A. & Sherry, K. (2010). Energy Drinks: An Assessment of Their Market Size, Consumer Demographics, Ingredient Profile, Functionality, and Regulations in The United States. Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety. Retrieved from: http://onlinelibrary. wiley. com/doi/10. 1111/j. 1541-4337. 2010. 00111. x/pdf – West, T. (2011). The Energy Market is Still Full of Growth Potential Reports. Wholesale News. Retrieved from: http://web. ebscohost. com. lib. kaplan.edu/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfviewer? vid=12&hid=123&sid=eeec713f-80bc-4ca6-b6ce-02c68e0f1f50%40sessionmgr112 – The US Liquid Refreshment Beverage Market Increased by 1. 2% in 2010. (March 2011). Beverage Marketing Corporation Reports. Retrieved from: http://www. beveragemarketing. com/? section=pressreleases – Aeby, V. G. & Barber-Heidal, K. & Carpenter-Aeby, T & Malinauskas, B. M, & Overton, R. F. (2007). A Survey of Energy Drink Consumption Patterns Among College Students. Nutrition Journal. Retrieved from: http://www. nutritionj. com/content/6/1/35.

Leadership and Organizational Culture - Free Essay Example

Sample details Pages: 1 Words: 336 Downloads: 8 Date added: 2018/12/17 Category Management Essay Type Critical essay Level High school Tags: Leadership Essay Did you like this example? As members of an organization work towards achieving the set goals, they tend to adapt specific ways and methods to achieve the goals (Chang et al., 2015, p. 770). They gain specific values and practices. Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "Leadership and Organizational Culture" essay for you Create order These practices are referred to as the organizational culture. As an intern in a law firm, I learned that specific cultural practices are impacted by the organizations founders. The founders choose the firms mission and defined the environmental context in which the members operate. Personal productivity determined the profitability of the organization as a whole. Team work was also encouraged. Members from different departments came together to solve cases that were challenging. A compensation system was established to reward members who had achieved the companys short-term goals. The rewards encouraged the members to work harder in their areas of expertise. The decision-making process was done at the corporate level. Junior partners and the interns had minimal participation in the decision making process. As a result, they were hindered from using their own initiatives in carrying out their duties. The authoritarian culture caused conflicts between the management and other membe rs of the organization. As a company develops, its cultural values are diversified and strengthened. The initial cultural values determine the organizations future (Dasgupta Vaghela, 2015, p. 27). To maintain these values, the organization hires individuals who can easily fit in. In the law firm, the leaders taught the new employees the way of doing things in the organization. Through the process of onboarding, the new employees learned the norms, values and behavioral patterns of the organization. Each new employee received a mentor who assisted them to become an organizational insider. Orientation programs were also carried out to introduce the new members to other employees. References Chang, Y. T., Su, C. T., Chen, R. Y., Yeh, C. Y., Huang, P. T., Chen, C. J., Chu, M. (2015). Association between organization culture, health status, and presenteeism.? Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine,? 57(7), 765-771. Dasgupta, M., Vaghela, D. (2015). Integrating Organization Culture with Corporate Sustainability Strategy: A Review.

How to Use the French Preposition Chez

Anyone who has eaten at a French  restaurant  is familiar with the  French preposition  chez  since its often used with the name of the chef, as in  Chez Laura.  It is loosely translated as  at or in the  home or business place  of and can be used in a number of circumstances, including location or state of mind, as well as in common idiomatic expressions. This phrase has even crept into English, where its frequently used in restaurant names such as the iconic Chez Panisse in Berkeley, Calif. Uses and Examples Chez  is most commonly used to refer to a home or business, but it can also be employed to characterize someone or something or as part of an expression. For example:      chez mon oncle   at / to my uncles house  Ã‚  Ã‚  chez moi   at home, at / to my house  Ã‚  Ã‚  Carole est chez elle.   Carole is at home.      chez le mà ©decin   at / to the doctors (office)     chez lavocat   at / to the lawyers office      chez le boucher   at / to the butcher shop  Ã‚  Ã‚  chez le coiffeur   at / to the barbershop, hairdresser     une robe de chez Dior  Ã‚  Ã‚  a Dior dress,  a dress designed by Dior     (une coutume) chez les Franà §ais (a custom) among the French  Ã‚  Ã‚  Cest typique chez les politiciens.  Its typical of politicans.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ãƒâ€¡a se trouve souvent chez les vaches.  You often find that among cows.     chez les Grecs   in  ancient Greece / among the ancient Greeks     chez la femme in women / among women      Chez lui, cest une habitude   Its a habit with him.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Cest bizarre chez un enfant.   Thats strange for a child.      chez Molià ¨re   in Molià ¨res work / writing     chez Van Gogh   in Van Goghs art       chacun chez soi     everyone should look to his own affairs      cest une coutume  / un accent bien de chez nous  Ã‚  its a typical local custom/accent  Ã‚     Ã‚  chez-soi at home     Ã‚  fais comme chez toi   make yourself at home     Ã‚  In an address:  chez M. Durand  Ã‚  care of Mr.  Durand  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  elle la raccompagnà © chez lui  Ãƒ   pied   she walked him home        elle la raccompagnà © chez lui en voiture she gave him a lift / a ride home     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     rentrer chez soi  / rester chez soi to go home / to stay at home

Study on African American Youth and Young Adults with...

This paper proposes to address the psychological needs, behavioral factors, social factors surrounding a stratified sample of African American youth and young adults with incarcerated fathers. In doing so, assessment measures possessing test-retest reliability to assess subjects’ mental health conditions, stress related behavior, socioeconomic status, and interpersonal relationships. Incarcerated fathers who are imprisoned for non-violent crimes and are opened to reconcile and/or improve their relationship with their children. Sample will be drawn from a non-profit organization geared toward keeping imprisoned fathers in the Federal Bureau of Prisons and have had some communication with their children via pre-paid phone calls and Corrlinks (an electronic mail system in the FBOP prisoners and their families). Mothers or caretakers will be encouraged to participate in the proposed intervention programs. Introduction Studies have shown that children of incarcerated mothers experience more mental health issues as well as disruptions in their life because, more than likely, the mother was the primary caregiver prior to incarceration. Therefore, more programs for reuniting children with their mothers have been implemented yet the long-time/short-term effects of such programs remain unclear. Additionally, given the effects of maternal incarceration tend to cause more disruption of the lives of youths, an examination addressing reconciling relationships betweenShow MoreRelatedThe Impact Of Mass Incarceration On African Americans1019 Words   |  5 Pageshas the highest prevalence of jailing its citizens. Nearly 2.3 million Americans are behind bars or nearly one percent of the adult population at any given time (Campbell, Vogel, Williams, 2015). As of 2014, African Americans make up 34% of the incarcerated population. As a result, a disproportionate amount of African American youth will experience a parent’s incarceration. Research has shown that children of incarcerated parents experience emotional problems, socioeconomic problems, and cognitiveRead MoreIs Georgia A Criminal Justice Major?1921 Words   |  8 Pagesovercrowding. Being a Criminal Justice major I thought this would be great topic to research. The African American Male population in prisons is steadily rising, which I feel has something to do with psychological and sociological backgrounds. Today more African American men are in jail than in college. Many African American men grow up in urban ghettos, in a lifestyle they get caught up in. The African American males dream is to grow up and be just like the biggest drug dealer in their part of townRead MoreAfrican Americans And The Criminal Justice System1542 Words   |  7 PagesIntroduction African American males are overrepresented in the criminal justice and many times are subject to harsher sentences than their Caucasian counterparts. African American males also experience racial profiling and have more negative interactions than any other population in the United States. Ibie, Obie, and Obiyan states, â€Å"African Americans have continued to be the repository for American crime and to be treated as amalgamation of presumed group trait rather than as individuals†. ThisRead MoreAt-Risk Minority Males : The 100 % Graduation Rate Program1258 Words   |  6 PagesActivity/Exploitation; and (6) Family Functioning.3-15 The Intervention Targets an Underserved Population: At-Risk Minority Male Today, one out of every 3 young African-American male and one out of every 8 young Hispanic male in the U.S. is under the direct supervision of the criminal justice system, either incarcerated, on parole, or on probation.16 African-American and Hispanic males also account for over 70 percent of our nation’s prison population, which cost the U.S. economy roughly $30 billion a year.17Read MoreSocial Patterns Of Subculture And Crime Essay980 Words   |  4 Pages #2 Discuss three different social patterns regarding subculture and crime, i.e., who are more likely to be perpetrators? Victims? Who is most likely to be incarcerated? What crimes are females more likely to commit than males? What is the â€Å"gender contract†? Every year, one out of five people is a victim of a crime in the United States. (8) Have you been a victim of a crime or committed a crime in the last year? In the U.S. approximately 12 million crimes are committed yearly. What factors attributeRead MoreThe Issue and History of Illiteracy Among African Americans1510 Words   |  7 PagesIlliteracy Among African Americans Becca White Writing 123 Instructor Sydney Darby 27 May 2008 Illiteracy is a growing issue in America. The U.S. Department of Education funded the National Adult Literacy Survey (NALS) in 1992 that estimates over 90 million Americans fall well below an eight grade literacy level (Rome, 2004, pp. 84). Nowhere is this tragedy more prevalent than among the impoverished African Americans. Illiteracy has always been higher among African Americans now the gap isRead MoreAmerica s Drug Enforcement And Addiction1725 Words   |  7 PagesDrug War. One can argue that the United States has taken steps to improve the treatment of drug users, but this overlooks the fact that there is an underlying racial bias in drug enforcement and more must be done to improve this. In American History, African Americans have had laws issued against them resulting in holding second class status despite given full emancipation through the 13th amendment. During Reconstruction, Southern legislatures passed provisions to keep newly freedmen from exercisingRead More Racial Disparities of the Criminal Justice System1518 Words   |  6 Pagesto the current criminal justice system. The U.S. population is comprised of 79.96% Whites, 12.85% African Americans, and 4.43% Asians. The U.S. Census Bureau considers Hispanic to mean persons of Cuban, Puerto Rican, Dominican Republic, Spanish and Central or South American origin and they make up about 15.1% of the total U. S. population (CIA World Factbook 2013). Even though African Americans make up only about 13% of the population, they account for around 40% of all arrests and approximatelyRead MoreThe Relationship Between Race and Juvenile Delinquency1965 Words   |  8 Pagesjustice system have contemplated the reason why some youth turn to delinquency and violence. To investigate the reasons, for some adolescents you would have to research on a case to case basis could fall into one category of multiple categories stemming, why they act the way they do and what cause these reactions. Some researchers may want to find reasons that is caused in the genetic line, it is the youth’s social atmosphere concer ning in the youth has the right friends or any friends at all, or theyRead MoreJuvenile Justice System Based On Their Race, Gender, And Social Class Essay2585 Words   |  11 Pagesexamines different studies of juveniles and their place in the United States’ justice system based on their race, gender, and social class, as well as looks into policing tactics that may be beneficial to the affected youths. By looking at a wide variety of academic journals and books it was clear to see that youths are looked upon and treated differently depending on what their race is, the sex that they were born, or their family’s economic standing. Resulting in the outcome of these youths being treated

Sustainability Performance and Sustainability Disclosure †Free Sample

Question: Discuss about the Sustainability Performance and Sustainability Disclosure. Answer: Introduction This paper is set to address the question of whether legitimacy theory can act as a base for the new CDP law that requires firms to disclose their actual carbon performance on a quarterly basis. The legitimacy theory posits that the actions of any entity must be appropriate or proper within the system of values, norms, and beliefs within which the entity exists (Comyns, 2012). As such, it is important to measure just how the current law on GHG emissions could work along this. Not so many years ago, it was projected that 400 parts per million for CO2 would be a tipping point as far as climate change was concerned. In the legitimacy theory, and concerning the climate change issue, firms should report their carbon performance and the measures they are taking to reduce it. When organizations demonstrate that they are taking substantial actions in reducing climate change, they gain their legitimacy in society. However, many firms fail to report properly and accurately they only use the m edia to offer reports that improve their image and legitimacy (Comyns, 2012). In this study, the idea is to explore whether the legitimacy theory can act as a basis for the new environmental law to motivate forms to ensure accurate and timely disclosure. The previous research on legitimacy theory has not focused on how the ambiguities, in theory, can be addressed (Hahn et al., 2015). There are discrepancies in research on whether the theory motivates firm towards better disclosure considering that there may be positive or negative performance (Apergis et al., 2013). Previous research has not addressed how new local laws can be developed based on this theory so that firms have legal requirements to follow. Further, the issue of mandatory disclosures and how such an approach can motivate accuracy and honesty in reporting have not been addressed in research. Currently, disclosures are voluntary, and companies are expected to play their ethical mandate in displaying their findings to all. Research has found it vulnerable in the sense that it fails to make the process mandatory where all companies have to adhere to it (Fernando and Lawrence, 2014). Chu et al. (2013) noted that the organizations must be bound by the social contract with society. Organisations have certain social responsibilities which include sponsorship, education and voluntary disclosure of information. The firm agrees to act in a certain way in line with the values and beliefs of society (Comyns, 2012). This enable firms gain their legitimacy in society and develop positive image. They are accepted morally since their actions are appropriate and desirable to society. These help them to gain customers and labour force Increasing steps to reduce carbon footprints has been linked to the higher legitimacy of firms in society. Many firms provide more precise and reasonable carbon disclosures when there is legal requirement. Firms always follow disclosures that are mandatory and the figures are more accurate and timely since there are legal ramifications of failure to disclose, (Comyns, 2012). Firms can use this approach to demonstrate their ability to do things that are proper and beneficial. A positive correlation has been identified between proper actions and legitimacy and this translates to more profit. The more a company discloses precise and accurate carbon emission to the public the better the company will gain in term of image and profits, (Downie Stubbs, 2013). Theoretical Constructs and operational proxies In the previous research, there has been the focus on how the legitimacy theory can benefit the disclosures that are related to carbon emissions. In using the legitimacy theory, stakeholders rely on the promise of the social contract to establish how firms should take action against global warming (Chu et al., 2013). The proportion of the effort taken by firms should be in line with their carbon footprint. Every company is entitled to take care of the surrounding environment and take some social responsibilities. This help firms establish positive co-existence with different publics and take responsibility of reducing world global warming effects (Toke, 2017). There is also need to understand how the theory can be relied upon to bring about more strict measures and ensure correct action against the carbon emissions. The relationship between stringent legislation and compliance is positive the more stringent the laws, the better the outcomes regarding reporting and disclosure and the less the stringent law the worse the outcomes regarding carbon disclosure. Previous study identified law make it possible for every company to timely and accurately report on carbon emission level and measures the firm is undertaking to reduce this, (Rahmana et al., 2014). In theory, it is important to note that the arguments are logical and they can form a basis for the law forcing companies to disclose their positions and actions in reducing global warming. The legal arguments can be made for the social contract and the requirements identified in theory. The law can define the areas of proper and appropriate action and the values, beliefs, and morals that a firm exists in (Toke, 2017). It means that there is a high possibility of the theory being used as a basis for making the law. The previous research has indicated that more strict rules and regulatory requirements force companies to achieve better reporting and disclosure (Chu et al., 2013), and legal requirements have penalties that can be instituted to motivate firms and this is connected to the improved performance in reporting and disclosure. Previous studies also shows that the firms attempt to follow the law to remain more legitimate and get appreciation from government and consumers. It was also established that the new laws are likely to motivate firms to compete in showing compliance and this is connected to a better performance in this area. The firm will try to create positive image to public, media, government, society and customers and by doing so improve the level of carbon disclosure, (Kaime, 2014). Accurate and timely disclosure is considered as proxy of carbon disclosure index while legal requirements to direct firm to disclosure are proxy of legitimacy theory. The law can incentivize companies to improve their approaches in disclosure and possibly motivate them to seek more actions to improve their carbon performance. Firms will try to make can disclosure a priority and even create new departments to deal with carbon performance, and this has a direct link to the positive performance of businesses in the area. Operational Constructs The enterprises in the businesses that pollute the environment more are typical Variable Type of Variable Indicator Tools of analysis Type of analysis There is also need to understand how the theory can be relied upon to bring about more stringent measures and ensure correct action against the carbon emissions. Dependent Accurate and timely disclosure Percentages Mean score Descriptive statistics Regression analysis The relationship between stringent legislation and compliance is positive the more stringent the laws, the better the outcomes regarding reporting and disclosure Independent Stringent law/legal requirement Percentages Mean score Descriptive statistics Regression analysis The sample for this research has been taken from a data of 60 companies of different profiles. The sample of the sixty companies was randomly selected. These gave all the companies in the population equal chances of being selected. Companies selection was made with the greatest firms have been picked as a result of their effect on the economies where they play out their operations (Jose Lee 2007). Second, disclosure practices (particularly natural revelations) of large organizations are wealthier than small and medium measured organizations (Deegan Gordon 1996; Patten 1991) H0: If a new law is created based on legitimacy theory, then firms are likely to improve the accuracy and timeliness of their carbon performance disclosures. H1: If a new law is created based on legitimacy theory, there will be no change in the accuracy and timeliness of the carbon performance disclosures provided by firms. Data analysis- Descriptive statistics The method of data analysis is descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. Descriptive include measure of location and measure of dispersion which are used to describe the distribution of data. The data set provide consisted of different companies and also from different countries. country of the company Frequency Percent Canada 1 1.7 Denmark 2 3.3 Finland 2 3.3 France 1 1.7 Germany 1 1.7 Japan 2 3.3 Netherlands 2 3.3 Spain 2 3.3 Sweden 3 5.0 Switzerland 3 5.0 Taiwan 3 5.0 United Kingdom 9 15.0 USA 29 48.3 Total 60 100.0 The sample selected composed of companies from USA having the largest number of companies represented by 48.3%, United Kingdom 15%, Sweden, Switzerland and Taiwan had 5%, Canada, France and Germany had 1.7% and finally Finland, Netherlands and Spain had 3.3%. This is evident that most of the companies in the population are from USA then followed by United Kingdom. Type of company Frequency Percent Consumer Discretionary 8 13.3 Consumer Staples 1 1.7 Financials 6 10 Health Care 4 6.7 Industrials 18 30 Information Technology 22 36.7 Telecommunication Services 1 1.7 In the sample selected, 36.7 % of the companies were information technology companies followed by industrials with 30%, consumer Discretionary 13.3%, Financials 10%, Health care 6.7% while Consumers Staples and Telecommunication Services had 1.7%. In the graph above, there is considerable change in board role in the issue of discussion between the years 2010 to 2015. According to Simpson (2016), the prevalence of CDP in propagating the disclosure of emission information is helping companies reduce environmental disasters. Aside from that, the figures of executive decisions are a signal to the changing investment and economic trust that many businesses are embarking on. Further, close to 1000 entities have implemented policies on the internal cost of emission in the pipelines (Deatherage, 2011). Moreover, the target of most companies has overwhelmed many of those that were against the move. As a result, it has become a relevant issue for leading global industries to embed climate change objectives within each business strategy. Responsibility of climatic change with the organization Frequency Percent Board or individual/sub-set of the Board or other committee appointed by the Board 42 70.0 No individual or committee with overall responsibility for climate change 1 1.7 Other Manager/Officer 3 5.0 Senior Manager/Officer 12 20.0 Total 60 100.0 The climatic change responsibility in an organisation has been dedicated to the board committee. The carbon emission has to be in control by all the companies. In the sample selected, most of the companies have delegated these duties to appointed board represented by 70% while only 1.7% hasnt delegated this responsibility. New laws need to be put in place to allow timeliness and accuracy of reporting. Most of the businesses have integrated climatic change in their policy. They have set law policy of reducing carbon emission, disclosure method of this policy to the public and also set policy on how to reduce the risk in future. Although some of the business have not come up with an integrated climate change. Data analysis-Inferential statistics Data analysis was done using IBM SPSS software version 22. Inferential statistics are used to make logical conclusion on the data. Analysis of variance and t test are used to test significance of variables under study. ANOVA was conducted to test the relationship of disclosure score and law integrated in the business at 5% level of significance. Also was used to check risk incorporation in firm and improvement of disclosure score. ANOVA assumes that the data is continuous and normally distributed with equal variance. H0: If a new law is created based on legitimacy theory, then firms are likely to improve the accuracy and timeliness of their carbon performance disclosures. H1: If a new law is created based on legitimacy theory, there will be no change in the accuracy and timeliness of the carbon performance disclosures provided by firms. The companys disclosure score can be compared with integrated climate change and determine if their business strategy has catered for accuracy and timeliness. The P-value is 0 thus less than the significance level 0.05 thus we reject the null hypothesis that a new law created based on the legitimacy theory, firms would improve the accuracy and timeliness of their carbon performance hence their would be no change. The new law created wouldnt improve the accuracy and the timeliness of their carbon performance disclosures. H0: If a new law is created based on legitimacy theory, then firms are likely to improve the accuracy and timeliness of their carbon performance disclosures. H1: If a new law is created based on legitimacy theory, there will be no change in the accuracy and timeliness of the carbon performance disclosures provided by firms. The P-value which is 0.019 that is less than 0.05 we reject the null hypothesis and conclude that a new law created based on legitimacy theory will no change in the accuracy and timeliness of the carbon performance disclosures provided by firms. These means that creating a law based on the legitimacy theory the way companies have been having carbon performance disclosures would not change. In addressing the concerns of theories in the business operations of large corporations, there is a need to focus on the impact of climate change on value creation in companies. The new law based on the legitimacy theory has proved that the accuracy and timeliness of carbon emission disclosure would remain the same. With an open platform for disclosure, it offers an avenue to meet the interests of the population and ensure that the business environment remains stable for the ultimate performance of many companies. Mostly studies address the emission and not putting into consideration the facts on its effect to residents. Despite the increased number companies most of them are not will to disclose the carbon emission. The challenge, the choice and impact of disclosing carbon emission still lies with the confines of the firm in addressing the impact it will have on its future operation. The research only made use of new law contribution and effects on carbon disclosure level which may be influences by other factors not included in study. Many scholars still infer the impact of climate issues, corporations are facing the predicament of sinking behind in the turn of addressing market concerns on the rapid change regarding climate. There need to do further research and identify how the firms behaved before and after introduction of new law. Also a survey will be appropriate to assess how the management think disclosure score should be improved. Reference Baumast,A. (2013). Carbon Disclosure Project.Encyclopedia of Corporate Social Responsibility, 302-309. doi:10.1007/978-3-642-28036-8_559 Bellassen,V., Stephan,N. (2015).Accounting for carbon: Monitoring, reporting and verifying emissions in the climate economy. Chu, Chatterjee Brown, (2013). The current status of greenhouse gas reporting by Chinese companies: A test of legitimacy theory.. Managerial Auditing Journal, 28, pp.114-39. Comyns, B., (2012). Media, legitimacy and climate change reporting by companies in the oil and gas industry. In Corporate Responsibility Research Conference. Marseille, 2012. Euromed Management School. Cormier, D. and Magnan, M. (2013). The Economic Relevance of Environmental Disclosure and its Impact on Corporate Legitimacy: An Empirical Investigation. Business Strategy and the Environment, 24(6), pp.431-450. Deatherage,S.D. (2011).Carbon trading law and practice. New York: Oxford University Press. Dickson,M., Conference Board of Canada. (2009).The Carbon Disclosure Project: Why should companies participate?Ottawa: Conference Board of Canada. Giannarakis,G., Zafeiriou,E., Sariannidis,N. (2017). The Impact of Carbon Performance on Climate Change Disclosure.Business Strategy and the Environment. doi:10.1002/bse.1962 Hahn, R., Reimsbach, D. Schiemann, F., (2015). Organizations, Climate Change, and Transparency: Reviewing the Literature on Carbon Disclosure. Organization Environment, 28(1). HoJeong Kim (2016). State secrets, and information disclosure based on Official Information Disclosure Act. HUFS Law Review, 40(4), pp.1-19. Hummel, K. and Schlick, C. (2016). The relationship between sustainability performance and sustainability disclosure Reconciling voluntary disclosure theory and legitimacy theory. Journal of Accounting and Public Policy, 35(5), pp.455-476. INDAHL, A. (2013). Hypothesis for research or treatments. Acta Anaesthesiologica Scandinavica, 57(3), pp.269-270. Kaime, T.,( 2014). International Climate Change Law and Policy: Cultural Legitimacy in Adaptation and Mitigation. Routledge.