Actions or duties you are expected to carry out.
(PT1)-Firstly, marriage ceremonies are significant because they are often celebrated in a place of worship with ritual and religious symbolism, such as a nuptial mass. (EV1) This is because the setting emphasizes the sacred nature of the union and as an outward sign of commitment in the vows they say 'in the presence of God and his saints I offer my solemn vow to be your faithful partner in sickness and in health, in good times and in bad." . As Martin Luther said, "There is no more lovely, friendly or charming relationship, communion or company, than a good marriage" (EXP1) Which is thought to mean that the couple is making their vows in the presence of God and their faith community and is officiated by a representative of religious authority. R0man Catholics believe Marriage is one of the seven sacraments which are means of grace or what the Pope calls 'outwards signs of inward blessings'.
(PT2) Secondly, in marriage ceremonies prayers are often said that the couple would remain faithful and supportive of each other through good times and bad. (EV2) The prayers said to invoke divine blessings and guidance for the couple's future. For example it is prayed "As this couple begins their journey as one, we ask for Your divine blessings. May their love shine as a testament to Your grace and guidance. Strengthen them in times of joy and trial, and let their union be a source of inspiration to all. Amen" This aligns with the biblical teaching, "Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her" (Ephesians 5:24-25). (EXP2) Which is thought to mean that the couple is making their vows in the presence of God and their faith community who will continue to pray for them as they pray for and with each other. C.S. Lewis noted, "When I have learnt to love God better than my earthly dearest, I shall love my earthly dearest better than I do now"
(PT3) Thirdly, commitments might be expressed in the belief of Gods divine presence. (EV3) This is because many religious traditions view marriage as a covenant not just between the couple, but also with God. Tim Keller highlights this by stating, "At the heart of the Biblical idea of marriage is the covenant" (EXP1) Which is thought to mean that the marriage is seen as a sacred bond that is blessed and overseen by a divine authority. Marriage is thus seen as the ideal state symbolizing the outward sign of commitment. For literal Christians Genesis 1:27 'So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them." God performs the first Marriage of Genesis 3:8 "...the man and his wife'. Likewise Jesus does his first miracle at the Wedding at Canna showing for Christians how God wants marriage and sees it as an 'ordinance' first set out in creation in Genesis.
(PT)-Firstly, for Roman Catholics divorce is impossible as marriage is understood as a sacrament and the couple should not break up because the ceremony is so special — it is a sacrament — an "outward sign of a spiritual gift from God" Pope. (EV) This is because the catechism of the church says 'marriage is an indissoluble union' and the couple who get a divorce are thought of as committing a grave moral sin. (EXP) Which is thought means only annulment is allowed which is only the recognition that the marriage did not properly take place and so is nul and void e.g. if it is not consummated is a reason.
(PT2) Secondly, for Biblical Protestants as in a Christian wedding ceremony the couple make their vows before God to love and to cherish until death us do part. This would mean they must keep their promise to God and not break up or they will by judged as being disobedient on. (EV2) This is because for them even difficult circumstances are not enough as a reason as in their vows they promise ‘for better or worse, in sickness and health’ and these are like rules, which means if they are having difficulties they can look back on the vows and remember that they should be working at the marriage and not giving up at the first sticky patch. (EXP2) Which is thought means t0he vows symbolise the belief that marriage is forever. Moreover in Mark 10: 9 it says "Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.” and this is thought to support a prohibition of divorce. Conservative protestants believe divorce is wrong is in the wedding they exchange rings which are a symbol of their everlasting love. This would help them in their marriage because they could look at their rings and remember the happiness of their love. By wearing rings it tells other people they are in a committed relationship and this would help them remember the words of the vicar ‘what God has joined together let no man put asunder’ Which is thought means they would make every effort not to be led into adultery but to stay faithful to each other and keep their love pure. If a couple are having difficulty then counselling for reconciliation should be attempted.
(PT3) Thirdy, there are different beliefs and practices held by different denominations and the interpretation of scriptures matters. In the Church of England and Methodist churches Divorce is accepted as the 'lessor of two evils' where there is Abuse, Adultry or Abandonment it is the 'agape' loving thing to do for our neighbour. Thus Jesu words to'do for others as you would want them to do for you' Mat 7. (EV3) Morover, in Matthew 19:8-9, Jesus says “Moses permitted you to divorce your wives because your hearts were hard. But it was not this way from the beginning. I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery.” (EXP3) Liberal Christians like Methodists think this allows for the believer as marriage is an expression of love but that divorce may an expression of unconditional 'love of neighbour' or Agape when this love dies between a couple so has the marriage and divorce is seen as sad but necessary. Divorce is thus accepted as a legal ending of marriage but is not welcomed. Further Jesus taught us in John 10:10 - I have come that they may have life and life to the full and if remarriage means greater happiness and love then it should be permitted.
(PT)-Firstly, Roman Catholics do not believe that women can be priests in Church since Jesus was a man. (EV) This Roman Catholic doctrinal belief is that only men can be priests is rooted in the idea that priests act "in persona Christi" (in the person of Christ) during the Eucharist. Since Jesus was male, the Church holds that only men can represent Him in this role. That is they believe that when Jesus gave out bread and wine and instituted the Eucharist telling the disciples 'This do in remembrance of me' he did so as a man. Only a man then can act 'in persona Christ' at the 'alter Christus'. (EXP) Which is thought means the consecration of the sacrament of the mass or Eucharist can only be officiated by a man. St. John Paul II in his apostolic letter Ordinatio Sacerdotalis stated: "The Church has no authority whatsoever to confer priestly ordination on women" They believe instead God created men and women to have different roles. It is argued that it is only natural for a man to celebrate Eucharist as Jesus was a man and said do this in remembrance of me. The Catechism of the Catholic Church explains: "Only a baptized man validly receives sacred ordination. The Lord Jesus chose men to form the college of the twelve apostles, and the apostles did the same when they chose collaborators to succeed them in their ministry" Moreover Catholics claim Papal succession is male as the disciples were men and Jesus. This is seen as a continuation of the tradition established by Jesus when He said to Peter, "You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church" (Matthew 16:18), signifying Peter as the first Pope. They this argue it is important to keep to the tradition of a religion e.g. Jesus appears to have selected twelve men as disciples. (DIS 1) This is a weak argument as scripture is full of examples of women in leadership roles. In Judges 4:4-5, Deborah is described as a prophet and judge over Israel, demonstrating that women can hold leadership roles and be spiritual leaders. In Romans 16 Paul describes Phoebe as a deacon of the church in Cenchreae, indicating her recognized standing within the early church. Additionally, Junia is mentioned as being "outstanding among the apostles," suggesting that she held a significant and respected position within the apostolic community. These examples highlight that women have historically held important roles in religious leadership, supporting the argument for equal roles in worship.
(PT2) However, Protestants are more liberal in their ideas and will allow women to be vicars and have more recently allowed for women Bishops. (EV2) This is because they interpret scripture in a way that supports gender equality in church leadership. Paul encouraged women's leadership when he supported the work of Phoebe and Junia. He argued, "There is neither male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus" (Galatians 3:28). (EXP1) Which is thought means (DIS 1) This is a strong argument a there have been many changes recently in faith traditions, with some denominations now ordaining women as bishops. Other Christians like Methodists believe in equal roles as both men and women better reflects the overall picture of scrture where women were 'made in Gods image'. It reflects the history of scriture that includes Deborah a prophetess and judge over Israel (Judges 4:4-5), and Phoebe is described as a deacon in the early church (Romans 16:1-2). Moreover Paul in Acts 18:26: "...began to speak boldly in the synagogue." but as yet he lacks knowledge about the Christian faith and a woman helps him "When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately." Priscilla, along with her husband Aquila, played a crucial role in teaching and guiding Apollos, indicating that women were active in teaching and leadership in the early church . These examples demonstrate that allowing women to serve in leadership roles can enrich the church by bringing diverse perspectives and talents and aligns with the broader societal movement towards gender equality, making the church more relevant and inclusive. Further, surveys show that a significant majority of evangelicals support women in various church leadership roles, including teaching Sunday school, leading worship, and even preaching during church services
(PT3) In contrast many traditional literal interpretations of scripture hold that men and women have different, complementary roles, with men typically taking on leadership positions in worship and women supporting these roles through other forms of service. (EV3) This is because Paul says in 1 Timothy 2:12: "I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man; she must be quiet." (EXP3) This verse is often used to argue that there are distinct roles for men and women in the church, with leadership roles reserved for men . It is thought this further means equal does not mean identical. Different actions can have equal power and authority. They argue if all people are supposed to have been made equal then there should be no gender discrimination. Moreover, they argue that women are morally weaker, referencing the story of Eve eating the apple first and giving it to Adam (1 Timothy 2:13-14). Sacred scriptures sometimes depict specific roles for men and women. Some believers thus take these literally. (DIS 3) This is a weak argument as it overlooks the numerous examples of women in leadership roles in the Bible, such as Deborah, Phoebe, and Junia, who demonstrate that women can hold significant positions in religious communities. Moreover the interpretation of Pauls statement in 1 Timothy 2:12 to prohit women universally from speaking in church is perhaps not what Paul was meaning as the text seems to address the bad behaviour of one woman and how she should change her behaviour in church.
Process by which living creatures are believed to have developed from less complex forms during the history of the earth.
(PT)-Firstly, (EV) This is because (EXP) Which is thought means
(PT1) Secondly, (EV1) This is because (EXP1) Which is thought means
Generic reference to the importance of stewardship and khalifah.
Generic reference to the importance of environmental sustainability.
The role and authority of specific religious texts e.g. Psalm 8:6.
Respecting the interconnectedness between all of creation.
(PT)-Firstly, (EV) This is because (EXP) Which is thought means
(PT1) Secondly, (EV1) This is because (EXP1) Which is thought means
(PT2) Secondly, (EV2) This is because (EXP2) Which is thought means
There may be differences between believers in the same tradition.
Christianity
Life is a gift from God and only God can take it away.
Hospices seen as a preferable alternative. Suffering can have a purpose and bring people closer to God.
Some Christians argue that God has given people free will and the ability to think for themselves and therefore believers can choose when to die.
Distinctions between different types of euthanasia.
Some denominations e.g. Roman Catholic believe all forms of euthanasia are wrong and could be considered as murder although in exceptional circumstances medical procedures can be withheld, CCC 2278.
Teachings from the Roman Catholic Catechism concerning euthanasia disrespecting human life CCC 2277.
Some denominations e.g. Salvation Army & Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) consider it important that the authority of doctors and the wishes of the patient is considered.
Some denominations e.g. Baptist believe when a person is brain dead and relatives and doctors agree then it is acceptable for treatment to be stopped and death to be allowed to happen however death should not be hastened
Interpretations of biblical teachings.
Islam
Only Allah can decide the time when someone is permitted to die. Suffering can have a purpose. It is important to show compassion to those who are suffering. There will be differences between believers in the same tradition.
Interpretation of scriptures and sacred texts causes considerable debate among many members of the faith therefore it is often a personal decision. Sanctity of life has precedence.
Reference to specific texts may be used to reinforce this view e.g. Qur’an 30:40.
Guidance may be sought through prayer.
Distinctions between different types of euthanasia.
(PT)-Firstly, (EV) This is because (EXP) Which is thought means (DIS 1) This is a strong weak argument as
(PT1) Secondly, (EV1) This is because (EXP1) Which is thought means (DIS 1) This is a strong weak argument as
(PT2) Secondly, (EV2) This is because (EXP2) Which is thought means (DIS 1) This is a strong weak argument as
For some people creation stories are literal truths and do explain origins. Some religious believers consider interpretations of the stories but not as literal truths.
The Big Bang Theory e.g. Hawking. Reference to religious believers e.g. Maimonides.
Issues of conflict and compatibility between science and religion.
Theory of evolution with reference to Darwin/Dawkins, theistic guided evolution and natural evolution.
Questions posed such as ‘who designed the designer’.
References to the relationship between the design argument and intelligent design.
Humanist considerations regarding the process of evolution
Principles and standards determining which actions are right or wrong.
(PT)-Firstly, (EV) This is because (EXP) Which is thought means
(PT1) Secondly, (EV1) This is because (EXP1) Which is thought means
Counselling to those in prison. Prison chaplains from religious traditions will offer prayers and share religious teachings with those in prison. Prison chaplains from religious traditions will lead individual and communal acts of worship. Support prisoners emotional and social needs. Support prisoners with rehabilitation into society. Support prisoners at times of bereavement or personal crisis. Support prisoners with specific religious needs e.g. festivals, dietary regulations
(PT)-Firstly, (EV) This is because (EXP) Which is thought means
(PT1) Secondly, (EV1) This is because (EXP1) Which is thought means
(PT2) Secondly, (EV2) This is because (EXP2) Which is thought means
Christianity
There are different beliefs within the same traditions dependent upon interpretation of religious texts and moral reasoning e.g. distinctions between liberal and conservative Christians
Reference to beliefs and sacred texts about the sanctity of life, e.g. Exodus 20:13, Matthew 5:38-39, 43-47
Only God has the right to take life
Reference to beliefs about the aims of punishment
References to interpretations of Exodus 20:13 Belief that only God can punish and that will happen at the end of life
Some denominations e.g. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints refers to the importance of keeping to the prescribed law
Some denominations e.g. Society of Friends (Quakers) considers the death penalty shows a lack of respect for human life.
Some denominations e.g. Methodists consider that the death penalty denies the power of Christ to redeem
The Evangelium Vitae 1995 contains a statement saying the death penalty was acceptable under specific conditions
Islam
There are different beliefs within the same traditions dependent upon interpretation of religious texts and moral reasoning.
Can depend upon the circumstances in the country. Only Allah can decide the time when someone dies.
Many Muslims accept the death penalty believing that Allah decides on the Day of Judgement but people can be punished on earth.
References to sacred texts e.g. Qur'an 16.90. Shariah Law regulations.
(PT)-Firstly, (EV) This is because (EXP) Which is thought means (DIS 1) This is a strong weak argument as
(PT1) Secondly, (EV1) This is because (EXP1) Which is thought means (DIS 1) This is a strong weak argument as
(PT2) Secondly, (EV2) This is because (EXP2) Which is thought means (DIS 1) This is a strong weak argument as
In some religious traditions e.g. Judaism, you cannot forgive on behalf of another person.
Only God (Ultimate Being) can forgive.
There is a difference between forgiveness and forgetting.
Prayer can help people to learn to forgive.
Reconciliation activities can help people learn to forgive e.g. Corrymeela.
Following the example of religious leaders or founders e.g. Jesus.
By recognising that by not forgiving you continue to be a victim.
Counselling to those in prison. Prison chaplains from religious traditions will offer prayers and share religious teachings with those in prison.
Prison chaplains from religious traditions will lead individual and communal acts of worship.
Support prisoners emotional and social needs. Support prisoners with rehabilitation into society.
Support prisoners at times of bereavement or personal crisis.
Support prisoners with specific religious needs e.g. festivals, dietary regulations
(PT)-Firstly, (EV) This is because (EXP) Which is thought means
(PT1) Secondly, (EV1) This is because (EXP1) Which is thought means
Freedom of speech can hurt other people.
Sometimes people who are vulnerable have to be protected from the influence of other people.
Some things are considered blasphemous and so appear offensive to religion.
Pictures and words can go against religious teachings e.g. there should be no images of the Prophet Muhammad.
(PT)-Firstly, (EV) This is because (EXP) Which is thought means
(PT1) Secondly, (EV1) This is because (EXP1) Which is thought means
(PT2) Secondly, (EV2) This is because (EXP2) Which is thought means
References might be made to individuals or communities from religious traditions.
Christianity
Belief in liberation theology and campaigning for social justice e.g. Oscar Romero.
Belief in equality of human beings e.g. Martin Luther King ;Desmond Tutu.
Conscientious Objectors to war e.g. Society of Friends, Jehovah’s Witnesses.
Belief that abortion should be illegal. Belief in polygamy e.g. some Latter Day Saints.
Belief for some Christians in the importance of wearing a cross/crucifix e.g. in countries where religious dress are banned.
Islam
Belief in campaigning for social justice e.g. Malala ; Shirin Ebadi.
Belief for some Muslims in the importance of wearing Hijab e.g. in countries where religious dress are banned.
(PT)-Firstly, (EV) This is because (EXP) Which is thought means (DIS 1) This is a strong weak argument as
(PT1) Secondly, (EV1) This is because (EXP1) Which is thought means (DIS 1) This is a strong weak argument as
(PT2) Secondly, (EV2) This is because (EXP2) Which is thought means (DIS 1) This is a strong weak argument as
Many people believe it is a moral responsibility to support others.
Considerations regarding the lack of importance of wealth in an after-life. Religious teaching against misuse of money e.g. gambling.
References to teachings from sacred texts e.g. Luke 16:19-31, Qur'an 2:177, GGS 1, 42, 1246.
References to specific religious practices e.g. sadaqah, zakah, tithing, artha, dhana, sewa.
Belief that humans are custodians of wealth for God.
Reference to religious teachings e.g. Maimonides' eight levels of charity.
The Trinity is the belief God consists of three persons.
(Candidates do not need to give examples in order to be awarded 2 marks But candidates could also give an appropriate example to reinforce their definition e.g. The first part of the Trinity is God the Father, Jesus Christ the Son of God is the second part of the Trinity . The Holy Spirit or Paraclete is the third part of the Trinity
(PT1)-Firstly, the soldiers mocked him and put a purple Robe on him and a Crown of thorns on his head. (EV1) THe gospel record says "then they mocked him and said hail King of the Jews." (Matthew :) (EXP1) Which it is thought means they were taunting what they thought was a rebel making a claim to greater authority than Roman rule.
(PT2) Secondly, they made him carry his cross to a place called Golgotha which means place of a skull and nailed him to the cross on Calvary which is . (EV2) The gospel record says "And they crucified him there, along with the criminals—one on his right, the other on his left" (Luke 23:33). (EXP2) Which it is thought means Jesus was executed in a manner reserved for the worst criminals, highlighting the severity of his punishment.
(PT3) Thirdly, Jesus hung between two thieves and promised one that he would join him in Paradise. (EV3) The gospel record says, "Jesus answered him, 'Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise'" (Luke 23:43). (EXP1) Which is thought means that Jesus offered forgiveness and salvation even in his final moments. Jesus even asked God to forgive those who sentenced him and were crucifying him.
(PT4) Fourthly, a Jesus was given vinegar on a sponge to drink. (EV4) The gospel record says, "They put a sponge soaked in wine vinegar on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus' lips" (John 19:29). (EXP4) This is thought to mean that Jesus was offered a bitter drink to quench his thirst, fulfilling a prophecy.
(PT5) Fifthly,a sign was placed above him saying 'Jesus of Nazareth King of the Jews' (EV5) The gospel record says, "Pilate had a notice prepared and fastened to the cross. It read: JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS" (John 19:19). (EXP1) This is thought to mean that the sign was intended to mock Jesus' claim to kingship, yet it also proclaimed his true identity.
Many more things happened according to the gospel account which include soldiers gambling for his clothes , Roman soldier pierced his side - blood and water flow out, His mother and other disciples gathered at the foot of the cross, Jesus died saying 'It is finished', darkness over the land Earthquake and the Temple curtain was torn in two Jesus' body was taken down and buried in a tomb.
(PT1)-Firstly, Christians believe the Bible is important because it is considered the inspired word of God. (EV1) This is because the Bible itself claims, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness" (2 Timothy 3:16). (EXP) This means that Christians view the Bible as divinely inspired and authoritative for their faith and practice. Further it means taking Bible as the most important sacred text for the Christian religion and is a source of authority and wisdom. This is because it says, "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path" (Psalm 119:105) and that it contains the Ten Commandments. THE INFLUENCE OF THIS IS THAT a Christian should turn to the Bible for guidance in their daily lives and moral decisions as a guide for contemporary living and gives meaning to human life. This is because it says, "Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God" (Matthew 4:4). Moreover, the teachings and stories in the Bible provide meaning, purpose and direction for their lives.
(PT2) Secondly, the Bible explains the origin of human life and narrates the story of Jesus. (EV2) This is because it says, "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth" (Genesis 1:1) and "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us" (John 1:14). (EXP2) This means that the Bible provides foundational stories about creation and the life of Jesus, which are central to Christian beliefs. THE INFLUENCE OF THIS IS THAT the Bible is read in church services as part of worship because it is considered to be so important in explaining we humans are ‘made in the image of God’ yet 'shaped in sin from birth'. So the Bible is used as the basis of many sermons about sin and salvation in church and may be read and studied for personal faith.
(PT3) Thirdly, the Bible narrates the story of God and his covenants with humanity. (EV2) This is because it says, "I will establish my covenant between me and you and your descendants after you for the generations to come, to be your God and the God of your descendants after you" (Genesis 17:7). (EXP3) This means that Christians see the Bible as a record of God's promises and relationships with people throughout history.
(PT)-More liberal Christians from both Protestant and Catholic traditions especailly Quakers and Methodists would say that the concept of hell is out of date because they believe God will forgive everyone. (EV) This is because the Bible says, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16). (EXP) This means that God's love and forgiveness are available to all, suggesting that eternal punishment in hell may not align with this belief. This belief is called Universalism or Universal Reconciliation. Origen, an early Christian theologian, is known for his belief in Universalism, the idea that all souls will ultimately be reconciled with God. He said "We think that the goodness of God, through the mediation of Christ, will bring all creatures to one and the same end" (De Principiis I.6.1-3) He believed "In the end and consummation of the Universe all are to be restored into their original harmonious state, and we all shall be made one body and be united once more into a perfect man" and that at most any punishment is by nature is temporary: "The Word seems to me to lay down the doctrine of the perfect obliteration of wickedness, for if God shall be in all things that are, obviously wickedness shall not be in them" (DIS 1) This is a strong argument as many contemporary protestant scholars have agreed J.A.T. Robinson says: "Love’s victory over all is the final word of the Gospel", and David Bentley Hart says: "If Christianity taken as a whole is indeed an entirely coherent and credible system of belief, then the universalist understanding of its message is the only one possible….I say that without the least hesitation or qualification". Emil Brunner says: "The final word of the Gospel is not hell but the reconciliation of all things in Christ". Even popular Catholic thinkers agree that medieval ideas of hell are outdated as Bishop Robert Barron says: "We may reasonably hope that all will be saved, because Christ’s sacrifice is sufficient for all, and God’s mercy is boundless. This means that as God is a god of love, then ultimately no one would be in hell as "God is love" (1 John 4:8) and a loving God would not condemn people to eternal suffering..
(PT2) However traditional Catholics belief in hell is not out of date because it is a teaching in the 'Divine Law' or Bible, Jesus makes reference to Hell and historic Creeds and confessions state that hell is a place of punishment for sinners. (EV2) This is because Jesus in the parable for the sheep and the Goats said, "Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life" (Matthew 25:46). Moreover in the parable of the Rich man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19-31.) the rich man says "I am in torment" and seeks some end to his torment but father Abraham says "there is a great gulf which no man can cross that divides us" suggesting eternal conscious torment. Moreover the Catechism of the Catholic Church says "Mortal sin results in the loss of charity and the privation of sanctifying grace, that is, of the state of grace. If it is not redeemed by repentance and God's forgiveness, it causes exclusion from Christ's kingdom and the eternal death of hell." (EXP2) This means that the concept of hell as a place of punishment is a clear biblical teaching. If "All Scripture is God-breathed" (2 Timothy 3:16) and considered the word of God, it should be read literally. (DIS 1) This is a strong argument as it is based on direct scriptural references and the teachings of Jesus. Further this belief in hell is stated in the Christian creeds because the Apostles' Creed mentions, "He descended into hell." meaning traditional Christian beliefs have consistently included the concept of hell. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that if we die with unconfessed mortal sin, we risk eternal separation from God, which is understood as hell.
(PT3) Further and protestants there are references to hell in both the Old and New Testaments but have different views on what it literally means. (EV3) This is because the Old Testament mentions Sheol and the New Testament mentions Gehenna and Hades. ob 26:6 says, "Sheol is naked before God, and Abaddon has no covering" In the New Testament, Jesus says, "But I will warn you whom to fear: fear him who, after he has killed, has authority to cast into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him!" (Luke 12:5) (EXP3) This means that the concept of a place of punishment after death is present throughout the Bible but it meay not mean eternal punishment. (DIS 3) This is also a strong argument as as it shows the continuity of the belief in hell across different parts of the Bible or 'divine law'. It is true that some Christians regard hell as a real physical place and while Science proves hell is not under the ground, showing the medieval idea is false, it does not necessarily disprove its existence as a spiritual realm. However, some Christians regard hell as separation from God perhaps the idea of what Paul calls 'the second death' is best understood as 'Annihilationism' Pauls says: (2 Thessalonians 1:9): "They will suffer the punishment of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his might" meaning as John Stott says : "I find the concept [of eternal conscious torment] intolerable and do not understand how people can live with it without either cauterizing their feelings or cracking under the strain" Clark Pinnock likewise argues : "How can Christians possibly project a deity of such cruelty and vindictiveness whose ways include inflicting everlasting torture upon his creatures, however sinful they may have been
Give one mark to candidates who provide one accurate example. Give two marks to candidates who provide two accurate examples.
Credit valid alternatives. Candidates could include the following, but other relevant points should be credited.
● Sing hymns
(PT)-Firstly, (EV) This is because (EXP) Which is thought means
(PT1) Secondly, (EV1) This is because (EXP1) Which is thought means
Refer to the relevant band descriptors in these marking guidelines. Candidates could include some or all of the following, but other relevant points should be credited.
Evangelical worship is a form of worship led by the Holy Spirit
Evangelical worship allows Christians to speak in tongues and interpret
Evangelical worship is often informal and provides the congregation with an opportunity to use music, singing and dancing
Evangelical worship allows Christians to be spontaneous and testify to their faith
There is a focus on Bible teachings and sermons
(PT)-Firstly, (EV) This is because (EXP) Which is thought means
(PT1) Secondly, (EV1) This is because (EXP1) Which is thought means
(PT2) Secondly, (EV2) This is because (EXP2) Which is thought means
Many churches host a variety of social activities; creches and toddler clubs for young mothers, youth clubs for teenagers, OAP meals, 'sleep overs' for the homeless, etc. because everyone is made in God's image and should be treated with dignity
Jesus' teachings such as 'do to others' and 'love one another' means that the Church must engage in social action
Many churches work with charities to provide social care because teachings from the Bible such as The Last Judgement, make it clear that helping others is key to salvation
Some churches employ youth workers to do outreach social work because they may want to evangelise
Churches organise social events and outings because they are a community of believers
(PT)-Firstly, (EV) This is because (EXP) Which is thought means (DIS 1) This is a strong weak argument as
(PT1) Secondly, (EV1) This is because (EXP1) Which is thought means (DIS 1) This is a strong weak argument as
(PT2) Secondly, (EV2) This is because (EXP2) Which is thought means (DIS 1) This is a strong weak argument as
Pilgrimage is an important expression of faith
Pilgrimage to places in the Holy Land provides an opportunity for Christians to 'walk in the footsteps' of Jesus
Pilgrimage may provide an opportunity for spiritual or physical healing
Pilgrimage is an opportunity for Christians to grow in their faith
Pilgrimage to a sacred place allows Christians to join together with other Christians
Pilgrimage is the life journey to God and not just a physical journey made to a sacred place Belief in God and Jesus are more important than pilgrimage
Social action and charity work are more important than pilgrimage
Pilgrimage is not an essential part of being a Christian Christian festivals, such as Christmas and Easter are more important parts of Christianity
It is more important for a Christian to worship God and 'love your neighbour'
Tawhid means the oneness of God and is the basic Muslim belief in the oneness of Allah.
(PT)-Firstly, (EV) This is because (EXP) Which is thought means
(PT1) Secondly, (EV1) This is because (EXP1) Which is thought means
Adam was the first human being.
Adam was the first man and first Muslim.
Adam was the first prophet.
Adam was made from the clay of the earth.
Allah breathed life into him.
Adam was married to Eve.
Adam lived in the Garden of Eden.
(PT)-Firstly, (EV) This is because (EXP) Which is thought means
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Prophethood is one of the most important beliefs in Islam.
Belief in prophethood is one of the six articles of faith of Sunni Islam.
Belief in prophethood is one of the five roots of religion in Shi'a Islam.
Prophethood or 'risalah' is the term used for the succession of prophets.
Prophethood is the term used for the prophets or messengers sent from Allah.
Muslims believe Allah has spoken to humanity through the prophets.
Muslims believe prophets are human.
In the Qur'an twenty-five prophets are named.
Prophet Muhammad is the last or 'seal' of the prophets.
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Belief in angels is one of the six articles of faith of Sunni Islam
Angels are divine messengers made from light by Allah.
The Qur'an contains stories of angels and the Qur'an is an ancient text .
Many people today do not believe in the supernatural.
Angels do not seem to intervene in human affairs.
Many people do not believe two angels are watching over them in daily life.
Many Muslims do believe two angels are watching over them in daily life.
Many people do believe in angels.
Any action or thing which is permitted or lawful, often used in reference to foods that are permitted.
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Zakat money may be used for the assistance of travellers. Zakat money may be used to help the poor.
Zakat money may be used to help the destitute and those in need.
Zakat money may be used to help widows.
Zakat money may be used to help orphans.
Zakat money may be used to respond to disasters with emergency aid.
Zakat money may be used to help Muslim converts.
Zakat money may be used to pay those who collect and distribute zakat funds.
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There are two types of jihad; the lesser and the greater jihad.
Some Muslims regard the lesser jihad as the greater jihad and the greater jihad as the lesser jihad.
Jihad is daily struggle or striving to live as a good Muslim.
Lesser jihad is the struggle to remove evil from society. Lesser jihad is 'holy war'.
Lesser jihad may be fought only in defence of Islam.
Greater jihad means to strive to serve Allah.
Greater jihad means striving to live a good moral life each day.
Greater jihad means striving to live in peace.
Greater jihad means to perform the Five Pillars with a sense of devotion.
Greater jihad means to follow the way of life set out by the Prophet Muhammad.
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Pilgrimage is one of the Five Pillars of Faith.
Hajj or pilgrimage is an expression of faith.
Many Muslims are too poor to go on pilgrimage.
Muslims unable to complete a physical pilgrimage may make a spiritual pilgrimage.
There are too many Muslims in the world for it to be practical for all Muslims to go on pilgrimage to Makkah.
Those Muslims who are able to travel to Makkah should be the Muslims who go on pilgrimage.
Many Muslims live too far away from Makkah.
Muslims who are too ill or old should not have to go on pilgrimage.
Muslims are able to watch pilgrimage to Mecca on television and the internet