Table on Syllabus / lesson Content -
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TOPICS
TOPIC 1
This is not directly mentioned on the syllabus but a knowledge of different traditions is at the core of the RE short course
Roman Catholic:
They believe the clergy are the only group who can correctly interpret the meaning of the Bible and the Roman Catholic Church has written an official interpretation of the Bible called the ‘Catechism’ which ordinary Roman Catholics follow more than the Bible.
They believe that members of the clergy can forgive people’s sins on God’s behalf and that God can transfer some of powers to people to perform miracles. They believe that ceremonies like baptism, weddings and Holy Communion help people to connect to God.
Church of England:
They do not follow the Pope or Catechism but believe in the authority of the Bible, Tradition, Reason and Conscience. They use the Common Book of Prayer as a guide to worship. The follow the teachings of the Historic Creeds, but they are a broad church with both Liberals and conservatives theologically and ethically. They believe that ceremonies like baptism, and Holy Communion help people to connect to God but do not think Marriage, last rights are sacraments.
Methodist:
They believe it is important to follow the examples set by Jesus and the prophets in the Bible, particularly to help those in need and be charitable. They believe that humanity is sinful but was saved and forgiven through Jesus’ death and therefore Holy Communion is the most important part of worship.
Quaker:
They don’t believe the Bible is the word of God, but an inspirational book about God. Most Friends believe in continuing revelation, which is the religious belief that truth is continuously revealed directly to individuals from God. They don’t believe in baptism or Holy Communion because being a Christian should be a way of life rather than lived through rituals. Quakers don’t have any clergy and are led by ‘elders’ who are elected from the community every three years.
Roman Catholic:
Catholics follow a form of rational ethics called Natural Moral Law. It is rational to preserve life, the family, rationality, society and worship. This means they are nearly always conservative on ethical issues like medical ethics and social relationships however within issues like the environment, war and pacifisms there is a diversity of viewpoints. They may also use the Bible which they call the Divine law to think about marriage the family and other issues.
Church of England:
Officially reformed but as a broad church have both those who are ethically conservative and liberal. The bases for determining the goodness of a work are scripture, tradition, reason, and experience– usually in that order unless more ‘liberal’. To the extent that the Bible remains authoritative among ‘literalistic’ Anglicans, the most commonly cited ethical teachings would the Ten Commandments, Jesus' Great Commandment (love the Lord God , + your neighbour and the Sermon on the Mount.
Methodist:
Social Justice issues remain the primary ethical concern for all Methodists and generally they are more ethically ‘liberal’ e.g. on medical ethical issues the statement on abortion says- ‘the foetus is never without significance but the significance grows throughout the pregnancy’ and if there are ’oppressive social conditions’ then abortion can be seen as an ‘agape’ (loving) act in the situation. Divided on the ethics of war.
Quaker:
Ethically a wide variety of views are accepted within Quakerism e.g. on social ethics Friends include those on both sides of the issue of same-sex marriage but Quakerism is known for its more liberal aptitudes. Yet on war the Quakers peace testimony says ‘it was contrary to the spirit of Christ to use war’.
Started in 1609 by John Smyth Thomas Helwys. They believed that people should only be able to become Christians as adults and be baptised by full immersion under water. They believe that the Bible is the only true authority in Christianity. Baptists have priests or ministers but they are elected from each local congregation and there are no overall church leaders.
Their religious beliefs are not consistent they have moderate conservative beliefs e.g. about one God, the virgin birth, the impeccability, miracles, vicarious atoning death, burial, and bodily resurrection of Christ, the need for salvation (though the understanding of means for achieving it may differ at times), divine grace, the Church, the Kingdom of God, last things (Jesus Christ will return personally and visibly in glory to the earth; the dead will be raised; and Christ will judge everyone in righteousess), evangelism and missions.
Recently, as with other Protestant traditions, a significantly increased diversity of views has emerged. E.g. on views of gender and sexuality they are consistent with Protestant views who approach moral thought and action reflect their emphasis upon the Bible in general but there are both strict + not.
A variety of Christian groups were founded by the disciples and believers in Jesus Christ.
At first the Christian Church had identical beliefs but over the next 300 years a range of Christian beliefs and ethics developed.
In 312 the Emperor Constantine became a Christian, Christianity is adopted as the official religion of the Roman Empire and so Rome helped the spread of Christianity. In the 9th Century later a split happened between East and West. This split involved different ideas about God as Trinity and how The Father, Son and Holy Spirit relate.
In 1517 a priest called Martin Luther objected to how the Catholic Church ran the religion. He listed 95 objections he had.
In 1534, Henry VIII broke away from the Pope and became the Head of his own Church The Church of England. Since then different groups (denominations) felt the need to worship God in different ways.
Conservatives can also be called ‘traditional’ Christians and are also though of sometimes as ‘conformist’ Christians because they follow a more literal interpretation of the Bible and adhere strictly to rules set down by the clergy. It has been the case that some thought only the clergy (priests and bishops) should have access to the Bible and teach its message to people, that the clergy can authorise God’s forgiveness for people’s sins and the Pope is God’s representative on earth. That God can transfer some of his powers to people to perform miracles (Saints).
More liberal Christians are sometimes thought of as ‘non-conformist’ Christians because they do not always follow Bibles or the church’s teachings literally and use their personal conscience to guide them. However, there are Conservatives who believe in the Bibles teaching on ethics but do not follow the Pope. Sometimes these are called evangelicals or fundamentalists.
Traditions
Festival traditions e.g. Christmas Traditions Christmas Cakes presents, holidays, Harvest festivals
Traditions tied with sacraments like Marriage – white dress, rooted in Christian moral expressions
Traditions tied to Christian disciplines- pilgrimage, and its links with certain places like Holy Isle, Grace before meals, prayers at the coronation of the monarch and opening of parliament.
Laws
The Rule of law in the West is an idea that has left a legacy of liberty and resistance against tyranny motivated by the idea of being made in Gods image. The Magna Carta refuted the absolute law of the king declaring there was a ‘higher law’ he was subject to. Samuel Rutherford (1600–1661), a Scot Presbyterian, who believed every person even the king could be sinful, developed in ‘Lex Rex’ a doctrine of lawful resistance against political tyranny that led to the idea of ‘checks and balances’ of loyal opposition and independent judiciary.
The Common law- law created by Judges was influenced by 10 commandments in both the medieval and puritan period as individual judges followed their reasoning and conscience e.g. inheritance laws.
Also Two Houses (Bishops in Lords), and Prayers at the start of parliament
Festivals
Shrove Tuesday or ‘Pancake Day’. Lent is the traditional Christian period of fasting, which lasts for 40 days. Shrove Tuesday is the day before Lent, when households would traditionally use up their eggs, milk and sugar by making pancakes.
EASTER- Death and resurrection of Jesus is celebrated with ‘carnivals’ and feasts that followed the fast of lent WITSUN – (Pentecost) A spring Bank holiday. All Souls- remembers the dead and departed CHRISTMAS- Jesus birth as God the Son's incarnation- celebrated with school holidays.
TOPIC 2
Question and Answers
Christians all agree that God is an absolute or infinite being.
Catholics say God IS being itself while …
Protestants tend to talk of God being the source or creator of being.
All this means is that God just is and needs nothing else to exists.
A person is a being with Will, Emotion, Desires, Beliefs and Thoughts – except God is not like us he is an immaterial being.
Christians generally agree God is a person, and there are three persons Father Son and Holy Spirit who all share in being God.
As a person God wants a relationship with his creatures Humans who are also persons but material.
Omnipotent: He is all powerful.
Christians believe that God is perfect; if there was anything God could not do, then God would not be the Supreme Being. They believe he can do anything, for example, when God makes the world, God makes the heavens and the earth out of nothing. Christians believe God is almighty because of the Bible stories showing God carrying out impossible activities like miracles. (e.g. calming the storm).
Benevolent: He is all loving
A Supreme Being has to be completely loving. Without love God could not be perfect. Christians believe God is loving because of the Bible stories where God looks after people in need, for example when Jesus heals a paralysed man. God sent his Son Jesus to make a sacrifice to save humans from the punishment their sins deserve. This shows how much he loves people.
God creates the universe from nothing
Exodus 7-11, is the story of the 10 plagues – for Jewish people showed Gods power over the Egyptians deities. This was especially true about the crossing the red Sea where God showed his power over Pharaoh (who Egyptians saw as manifestation of the divine)
Exodus 14:21:
Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the LORD drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land. The waters were divided,
The Old Testament includes many ideas about Gods compassion and care. In the Psalms it says
· But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness. Psalm 86:15
This theme is continued in the New testament most symbolically in Jesus death as a sacrifice for us. In John it 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,
The new testament writers however want to say like the Old testament authors that God is both Omnibenevolent and Omnipotent Paul says
· 37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8: 37-39
TOPIC 3
Question and Answers
God is fair
Christians believe God is just because in the Bible God rewards people who follow his rules and punishes those who don’t. God gives Moses the 10 Commandments and tells him to make sure the people follow the rules. If 4 humans follow God’s rules they can be rewarded in heaven. If they don’t, they can be punished in hell. If God is loving then God also has to be fair. Fairness (Justice) is love-in-action.
Because they believe he will judge them when they die to see if they deserve to go to Heaven or Hell
God is all-powerful and all-loving
If God is all-powerful – so can do anything, and is all-knowing – so knows that evil exists, then why doesn’t He do anything about it?
Epicurus said “Whence then is evil?” or Why then does evil exist?
Maybe he’s not all-powerful or not all-loving or maybe he doesn’t exist.
This is called the problem of evil.
Evil then is a challenge to the existence of God?
Moral evil
The evil caused by people’s actions as resulting from free will. An example of this would be murder.
Natural evil
The evil caused by occurrences in the world around us beyond human control. An example of this would be an earthquake.
Moral evil - A common view is that human beings have free will and sometimes choose to do evil things.
St. Augustine blamed Adam and Eve (particularly Eve!) for evil and suffering in the world – theis a strength for this theodicy because God is not responsible. The weakness of this argument – Why do the rest of us have to suffer for what two people supposedly did thousands of years ago?
Suffering from natural evil could be seen as making people stronger, for example, having to show courage to rescue someone from an earthquake.
St. Irenaeus developed his theodicy in the 2nd century suggesting God designed the world to include evil – so God is responsible for suffering!! Suffering is an important part of our growth- we learn from our mistakes and are thankful for what we have got – we appreciate the good times because we know what the bad times are like God has planned for things to be this way and He knows that the outcome of our suffering is a much greater good. Suffering is a form of education for our souls. By suffering, we grow spiritually and also we learn to take responsibility and help others. The strength of this argument – It does seem logical to suggest that suffering has a part to play in our lives – it can make us stronger and also it helps us appreciate the good times we have. The weakness of this argument – Surely we would therefore all suffer in the same measure? Also it means that an all-loving God created suffering – that doesn’t seem like an all-loving thing to do
It describes Job an ancient rich farmer with a large family, servants lots of animals.
It then describes a dialogue between God and Satan. It finishes by saying
8 Then the LORD said to Satan, “Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil.”
42 Then Job replied to the Lord:
2 “I know that you can do all things;
no purpose of yours can be thwarted.
3 You asked, ‘Who is this that obscures my plans without knowledge?’
Surely I spoke of things I did not understand,
things too wonderful for me to know.
4 “You said, ‘Listen now, and I will speak;
I will question you,
and you shall answer me.’
5 My ears had heard of you
but now my eyes have seen you.
6 Therefore I despise myself
and repent in dust and ashes.”
In the Book of Job in the Bible, suggests several ways to think about the Problem of suffering.
First God allows Satan to tests Job’s faith by removing all of his luxuries- his family and servants killed, crops destroyed, health ruined.
Second we learn Job is righteous and is not being punished for some sin- rejecting the idea of Karma.
Third, while God remains the cause of the evil in this story, as it is God who permits Jogs suffering, it seems he does not want Job to suffer.
It seems God may have reasons for allowing suffering we may not be aware of.
Suffering some Christians think is part of God’s greater plan and has a true purpose, and even though Job could not see it to begin with he learns to trust Gods goodness even as he experienced pain and loss.
Question and Answers
1. Describe the relationship of the three parts of the Trinity to the one God in Christianity?
The Trinity consists of THREE persons: the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.
Each of these persons is distinct and fully God, yet they come together in the ONE God.
The Holy Spirit is the continuing presence and hand of God in the world. Where people might say they sense God in the world around them, this can be identified as the Holy Spirit, who regularly guides people’s actions and decisions throughout their lives.
The Holy Spirit is God’s presence and love in the world. In the Bible the Holy Spirit is called the paraclete, which means someone who supports another person by speaking up for them and comforting them.
They believe the Holy Spirit will support them when they are judged by God. After Jesus died, the Bible says that the Holy Spirit came to his followers, to help and strengthen them. This event is called Pentecost. Tongues of flame appeared above the heads of the Christians and they were able to speak in different languages.
Some Christians believe that the Holy Spirit gives them God’s power to do miraculous things, like speaking different languages and healing people. Other Christians believe that the Holy Spirit helps them to live good lives. The results of living a good life are often called the fruits of the Spirit, and include love, joy, peace, goodness etc.
The term Father is given to God due to his creating the earth and his continuing care of it in the same
way that a father might take care of his children.
God the Father is understood as the creator. In the apostle’s creed, which states Christian beliefs, he is described as ‘God the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.’ God the Father is strong and powerful. He protects those who follow him. In the Book of Genesis in the Bible, God creates the world and the Garden of Eden for Adam and Eve. In the Old Testament, God the Father gives Moses the 10 Commandments as rules to live by. In the New Testament, God is referred to by Jesus as ‘Abba, father’. ‘Abba’ is similar to our word ‘daddy’. It is a way of showing that God loves and cares for his followers, and can be trusted as a good father is trusted.
4. Who is ‘the Son’ in the Trinity?
The Son was incarnate on Earth as Jesus during his time on earth.
Jesus is believed to be God incarnate. This means God taking on a body and becoming human. Christians believe that Jesus was not conceived naturally but was placed in Mary by the Holy Spirit. Christians believe that Jesus was completely human, and also completely God. Jesus shows people the love of God and sets an example to follow. He teaches them to “Love your neighbour” and was prepared to sacrifice his own life to take the punishment humans deserve for their sins. Christians believe Jesus came back to life after his death to show that he really was God’s Son, and also to prove there is life after death. Jesus shows God’s power through performing miracles, calming the storm, healing the paralysed man and feeding the 5,000. Jesus also teaches about the justice of God. He says that at the end of time God will judge people on how they have lived their lives. Good people will be rewarded with heaven and bad people will to be sent to hell.
Question and Answers
1. What are the main events connected with creation in Genesis ?
For Christians, God is the creator of the universe. The main events in creation are:
Creation of the universe
Creation of the earth
Creation of Adam and Eve (humankind)
Temptation of Adam and Eve
The fall of humankind from grace
2. Describe how Christians believe the world was created.
Christians believe that God created the universe and all things on it.
This is outlined in Genesis where God works across seven days, creating humans on the sixth before resting on the seventh.
3. How might different kinds of Christians view the Creation story in Genesis?
Fundamentalist
A fundamentalist Christian might see the Genesis story as being literally true, agreeing that God did create the world in seven days and seeing modern scientific theory as being false when contradicting this account.
Liberal
A liberal Christian might say the Genesis account is purely symbolic and written by humans. The important aspect is that there is a God who lovingly created people and the world for them to look after.
4. What is the meaning of being ‘created in God’s image’ in the story Genesis 1?
The Genesis 1 creation story makes it clear that humankind is unique among God’s creation, as we are like God as limited persons as God’s creatures who yet have capacities other creatures don’t.
5. What is the Big Bang and what do Christians think of it?
The Big Bang is the idea that about 13,700 million years ago all the matter in the universe was concentrates at a single point.
A huge explosion – A Big Bang – sent it all spiraling outwards, eventually creating the universe as we know it today.
Scientists believe that they have found evidence for the Big Bang, including that the universe is still expanding.
Some Christians like George Le mitre’ believe when it says in the beginning God created this is the big bang.
6. Who is Stephen Hawking and what did he say about the creation of the world.
Stephen Hawking is a scientist who said “ given a law of gravity the universe can and will create itself” which seems to suggest that God could have nothing to do with it and the larger message of Genesis is not true.
7. What is the evolution and what do Christians think of it?
Darwin’s Theory of common descent, survival of the fittest along with other more recent ideas such as genetic mutation seems to suggest how creatures including humans may have evolved. Some Liberal Christians accept Darwin’s theory as the laws that describe the process God worked through Fundamentalists who believe in Special creation reject this.
8. How and why might Christians interpret the text as less than literally true?
‘Day’ (Yom in Hebrew): There are diverse views on how the word ‘day’ should be interpreted. A literal Christian (a fundamentalist) would mean that a day is 24 hours exactly. A liberal Christian may read ‘day’ as a period of time and may actually represent millions of years. The differences in view are due to how different Christians believe the Bible should be interpreted. Regardless of whether Christians believe in the Big Bang theory, all Christians believe that God is the ultimate creator of the universe.
9. What is the story about what happened in Genesis 2?
Genesis 2:
In Genesis 2, Adam lives in the Garden of Eden – a paradise. God creates a ‘companion’ for Adam from his rib. Adam names her ‘Eve’.
“Then the Lord God made a woman from the rib he had taken out of the man, and he brought her to the man.
The man said, “This is now bone of my bones, flesh of my flesh; she shall be called woman, for she was taken out of man.”(Genesis 2:22-23)
God gives Adam and Eve one command, which is to not eat from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil that grows in the garden.
God says, “You must not touch it, or you will die.” (Genesis 2: 3).
10. ‘God saw everything that he had made, and indeed, it was very good.’ (Genesis 1:31 NRSV) What does this mean for ordinary Christians?
The world as ‘good’ for ordinary Christians means that God created the world with a plan in mind and, upon creation, that plan was put into action. So, throughout their lives, they can be assured that the things that occur within the world happen for a reason. This is the idea of Gods foreknowledge.
11. What is the interpretation of the story about what happened in Genesis 1:28?
In Genesis 1:28, people have a clear purpose – to have ‘dominion’ or powers over the earth, but this must be exercised through Stewardship on God’s behalf. People have a God-given duty to take care of the earth in a responsible way, looking after both the environment and animals. Humans act as caretakers of God’s world, preserving and conserving the environment. Having control over the earth and managing God’s creation. This is a more active role and gives mankind more power and autonomy over their choices regarding the earth and the environment.
12. What is Stewardship and what is Dominion?
Stewardship
The idea that people have a God-given duty to take care of the earth in a responsible way, looking after both the environment and animals. Humans act as caretakers of God’s world, preserving and conserving the environment.
Dominion
Having control over the earth and managing God’s creation. This is a more active role and gives mankind more power and autonomy over their choices regarding the earth and the environment.
13. What is the story about what happened in Genesis 3?
Genesis 3 describes ‘The Fall’ by Augustine– when Adam and Eve are tempted by a serpent (the devil) to eat from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil against God’s will. The serpent tricks Adam and Eve into thinking that if they eat from the tree, they will become ‘like God’ and be as knowledgeable as God. Eve gives in to the temptation and then gives some of the fruit to Adam.
They confess to God but, as a punishment, God sends them from the Garden of Eden. They are no longer able to eat from the Tree of Life and therefore they are no longer immortal and death enters the world.
14. What way to Christians interpret the story about what happened in Genesis 3?
For Christians, this represents the point where God’s perfect relationship with humans breaks. Humans are made in the image of God, but are sinful and in need of God’s forgiveness.
For some Christians, this is why humans are born with ‘original sin’. The ‘evil’ or ‘sin’ that is innate in all human beings, as a consequence of The Fall.
This broken relationship is the reason why it was necessary for Jesus to die on the cross, as his death paid for human sin and restored the broken relationship with God.
Question and Answers
1. ‘In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.’ (John 1:1 NRSV) Who is the ‘Word’ described here?
Jesus
The book of John is the first book of the New Testament in the Bible. It tells of the idea of Jesus existing before the world was created. This idea of Jesus is known as ‘the Word’ (or ‘logos’ in Greek).
It starts by saying “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through Him all things were made; without Him nothing was made that has been made.”
What did the idea of the Logos mean to the Jewish and Greek readers
Jewish
1. FOR GREEKS it was their eternal infinite ‘principle of reason’ that John argues is in fact personal ‘speaking’ and structuring the whole universe into existence now finite and in flesh or incarnate.
Greek
2. FOR JEWS it was the moral energy of the Hebrew religion, the very holiness and wisdom of Jehovah John argues ‘the name’ that should not be spoken declared in flesh!
2. Later in Chapter 1, John describes the Word as the light which shines in darkness and then writes of the Word becoming flesh as the Son of God, Jesus. What does this mean?
These beliefs are important to Christians today. They show that:
· God the Father created everything.
· Jesus and the Holy Spirit were involved in the creation.
· The Holy Spirit, Jesus and the Father are united in the Trinity.
· God the Father, the Holy Spirit and Jesus are eternal.
· Jesus is the light in the darkness, saving people from Hell.
· God always intended to send Jesus to save people.
3. What does Genesis 1: 1-2 say?
The book of Genesis is the first book in the Bible at the beginning of the Old Testament. It tells of the world being created in 6 days with God resting on the 7 th Day. It starts with the words
“Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.”
And God said, “let there be light,” and there was light.”
4. What could ‘the Spirit of God’ in the Creation account refer to?
The Holy Spirit
Christians believe that God has always existed and will always exist (He is eternal). They believe that God existed before the world was created and that He created the Earth for humans to live on. This part of Genesis shows that the Holy Spirit (the Spirit of God) was involved in creation and, like God the Father, existed before the world was created.
Question and Answers
1. Four important events in Jesus’ life:
The Incarnation (God becomes man)
The Crucifixion and death of Jesus
Resurrection
Ascension to heaven
2. What does John 1:14 say and what does it mean?
John 1:14
14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
Meaning
Christians believe Jesus is the revelation of God. God invisible made visable
3. What does Luke1:28-33 say and what does it mean?
Luke1:28-33
28 The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.”
29 Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. 30 But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. 31 You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.”
Meaning
The incarnation is the belief that God took on the nature of a human. Christians refer to the idea of the hypostatic union i.e. The Niceed Creed says Jesus is truly Go dand truly man.
4. How does the incarnation help explain God’s love for humanity?
The incarnation helps explain God’s unique love, as understanding how Jesus was both fully human and divine gives an insight into the humbling action of God sending his only Son down to Earth to suffer and die. It demonstrates even how God was sacrificing a part of himself for the atoning of humanity’s sins.
5. How does the incarnation show Jesus has Gods authority and power?
This shows that Jesus had God’s authority and taught his will, and so Christians know what to believe and practice for certain. This shows that God has power – to become human, raise the dead, perform miracles… It also establishes that like God Jesus has the power to grant life after death, meaning that Christians can look forward to the afterlife.
6. How does the incarnation help Christians today?
It helps Christians to have a personal relationship with God, because they believe God came to have a relationship with them. Some Christians feel that by following Jesus’ example and teaching they can come closer to God, and having an incarnated God makes it easier to relate to him.
7. Explain Jesus’ God-like Qualities / Divine Nature?
· Jesus healed many people, including the Centurion’s servant, a leper, the woman with haemorrhages, a blind man, and he raised Lazarus from the dead.
· Jesus performed other miracles, such as making five loaves and two fish feed thousands, walking on water, and calming a storm.
· Jesus claimed the authority to forgive sins and cast out demons, typically attributed to the divine, which he backed up with his healing abilities.
· Even though he was killed, he was resurrected, confirming his power over death.
8. Explain Jesus’ human-like Qualities / Human Nature?
The Bible also references Jesus’ human nature – he is reported to:
· have cried when his friend died
· have suffered leading up to his death (e.g. Luke 23); and
· he died a painful death on the cross (e.g. Matthew 27).
Christians do not believe that Jesus being the incarnation of God made him any less human. Some Christians also use Jesus’ humanity to explain times in the Gospels where he appears to lack power and knowledge – if he were only God and not human, then this might not make sense.
9. Explain the four Types of Miracles found in the gospels and give some examples of each?
Healing – when people with illness or disability are dramatically made better.
Blind man. Lepers, Paralysed man, Centurions servant and Lame man.
Nature – when natural features of the world work in unnatural ways to benefit humans
Feeding of the 5000, water into wine,
Exorcism – to cast our evil spirits / free people from demonization.
Legion, the boy with the evil Spirit.
Resurrection – to be raised from the dead to life.
Lazarus, The boy in the funeral, Jarius Daughter, Jesus own resurrection
10. How does the incarnation help Christians explain
the miracles and healing in the Gospels?
A lot of the miracles in the Gospels are inexplicable still to this day by modern science.
Understanding how the incarnation made Jesus fully divine helps people understand the power he could draw on to perform his miracles and healings.
Question and Answers
1. What is the passion of the Christ?
The belief that Jesus died and was raised from the dead is of central importance to Christianity. The events surrounding Jesus’ death are often referred to as his ‘Passion’, because the word passion comes from the Greek word for suffering. Jesus’ Passion is remembered especially during Lent and at Easter, but it is crucial to the whole religion.
2. What does the physical process of crucifixion involve?
The crucifixion
Crucifixion is a method of execution where the victim is hung or nailed to a cross and left to die. Christians call the day that Jesus died on the cross as Good Friday. The events are told in the Gospel of Matthew (27:28–50):
3. What happened at the Lords Supper and what does it mean?
Matthew 26:26-29
Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, ‘Take and eat; this is my body.’ Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, ‘Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.’ (Matthew 26:26–28)
Meaning
The night before Jesus’ crucifixion, he and his apostles gathered for the Last Supper. During the meal, Jesus explained to them that he was going to die to atone or make amends for humanity’s sins. Christians remember the Last Supper when they participate in the Eucharist, as Jesus asked them to. The Eucharist is a celebration of thanks for Jesus’ sacrifice, which made salvation possible.
4. What are the key events of the crucifixion in Matthew 27:28-31 and what does it mean for Christians?
Jesus is mocked and beaten by the soldiers
“They [the soldiers] stripped him and put a scarlet robe on him, and then twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on his head. They put a staff in his right hand.”
“Then they knelt in front of him and mocked him. “Hail, king of the Jews!” they said.”
“They spat on him, and took the staff and struck him on the head again and again.”
“After they had mocked him, they took off the robe and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him away to crucify him.”
Christians belief that Jesus is a king but who’s rule and reign is in believers own faith in His authority and that one day he will return to remove the curse of sin on people and creation i.e. thorns.
5. What are the key events of the crucifixion in Matthew 27:32-33 and what does it mean for Christians?
Jesus is taken to be crucified
“As they were going out, they met a man from Cyrene, named Simon, and they forced him to carry the cross.”
“They came to a place called Golgotha (which means “the place of the skull”). There they offered Jesus wine to drink, mixed with gall [a bitter substance]; but after tasting it, he refused to drink it.”
“Above his head they placed the written charge against him: “This is Jesus, the King of the Jews.”
Christians belief that Jesus death at the place of the skull is the means God has used to overcome the power of death and that the sign shows Jesus authority and victory over death. This is Jesus as Christus Victor - Jesus death was a spiritual victory that defeated death and Satans power over us.
6. What are the key events of the crucifixion in Matthew 27:33-44 and what does it mean for Christians?
Jesus on the cross
“Two rebels were crucified with him, one on his right and one on his left. Those who passed by hurled insults at him, shaking their heads and saying, “You who are going to destroy the temple and build it in three days, save yourself! Come down from the cross, if you are the Son of God!” In the same way the chief priests, the teachers of the law and the elders mocked him. “He saved others,” they said, “but he can’t save himself! He’s the king of Israel! Let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in him. He trusts in God. Let God rescue him now if he wants him, for he said, ‘I am the Son of God.’” In the same way the rebels who were crucified with him also heaped insults on him.”
Christians belief that we are offered a choice in Jesus death to be like the thief who put his trust and faith in Jesus atoning death as the ultimate and final sacrifice for sin. Christians call this Reconciliation = that Christ’s death means that, having been enemies, people can become friends with God
7. What are the key events of the crucifixion in Matthew 27:45-50 and what does it mean for Christians?
Jesus dies
“From noon until three in the afternoon darkness came over all the land.”
“About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” (which means, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”). When some of those standing there heard this, they said, “He’s calling Elijah.””
“Immediately one of them ran and got a sponge. He filled it with wine vinegar, put it on a staff, and offered it to Jesus to drink. The rest said, “Now leave him alone. Let’s see if Elijah comes to save him.””
“And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit.”
Christians believe the darkness and the cry symbolised Gods judgement i.e. He is separated so that those who believe in Him do not have to be serpated from God. One word used is Propitiation= the turning away of anger, usually by the offering of a gift, removing from us the wrath of God that we deserve, “Christ died as a propitiation of our sins”
8. What does Leviticus 16:20-22 and what’s its importance in understating Jesus Atonement?
20 “When Aaron has finished making atonement for the Most Holy Place, the tent of meeting and the altar, he shall bring forward the live goat. 21 He is to lay both hands on the head of the live goat and confess over it all the wickedness and rebellion of the Israelites—all their sins—and put them on the goat’s head. He shall send the goat away into the wilderness in the care of someone appointed for the task. 22 The goat will carry on itself all their sins to a remote place; and the man shall release it in the wilderness
Christians believe Jesus death is like a Sacrifice = Because of our sins we deserve to pay the penalty – death. Yet Christ – is our substitute – Christ died in our place
9. What does Isaiah 53:3-9 and what’s its importance in understating Jesus Atonement?
3 He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain.
5 But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.
Christians use the word Justification = a legal term – from the law courts. To ‘justify’ = to ‘declare righteous’ or to ‘declare to be not guilty i.e. before God. Jesus death is a perfect sacrifice that pays for our sin- This is the word Redemption= to buy out of slavery and give freedom. The suffering servant / Jesus gets to die so we get to go free.
10. What is the link between salvation and atonement:
Salvation is what Christians believe Jesus brought them – he saved humanity. Atonement refers to how Christians believe he did it – by dying (as a sacrifice).
11. Why are there different ideas about atonement?
There are different ideas about how Jesus managed to atone for sin and save humans. A key idea is that Jesus could pay the price to redeem humans because he was human, but he was able to overcome sin and death because he was divine.
The conservative protestestant or refomers view is that Jesus achieved atonement through sacrifice – by satisfying the price necessary for sin – death (this view is used throughout because it is a popular view).
Roman Catholics tend to say Jesus’ sacrifice defeated the devil, so that he could no longer control sinners and also that it satisfied Gods honour in a way that is mysterious and not fully explainable.
Liberal Protestants follow the idea of ‘moral exemplar’ – that Jesus didn’t actually do anthing but did set a good example in dying for others
Question and Answers
1. What is the story of the story of the Resurrection of Christ in Luke 24:1-9?
Jesus Has Risen
24 On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. 2 They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, 3 but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. 4 While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. 5 In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, “Why do you look for the living among the dead? 6 He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: 7 ‘The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.’ ” 8 Then they remembered his words. 9 When they came back from the tomb, they told all these things to the Eleven and to all the others.
2. What is explained 1 Corinthians 15:3-8, and what does it mean for Christians?
1 Corinthians 15:3-8 The Resurrection of the Dead
3 For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 5 and that he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve. 6 After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. 7 Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles, 8 and last of all he appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born.
Pauls first statement is thought by Christians to indicate a very early source for the Jesus traditions and gospel in linking Pauls teaching to that which he received from Peter and the other disciples this gives Christians confidence in believing the authority of his words. The second statement for Christians a list of appearances provided authorial sources which could be accepted as the eyewitnesses of Jesus bodily resurrection.
3. What is explained 1 Corinthians 15:12-14 and what does it mean for Christians?
12 But if it is preached that Christ has been raised from the dead, how can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? 13 If there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised.14 And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith.
For Christians Paul's argument reassures them that Jesus resurrection means they will be raised.
Premise 1. If Jesus has been raised from the dead we will be raised from the dead
Premise 2 Jesus has been raised from the dead Conclusion. Therefore our faith is well founded!
4. Explain how the resurrection is still relevant to Christians today.
The resurrection is still very relevant to many Christians today as it offers them faith that they too will be resurrected one day after they die.
Question and Answers
5. What does the word Ascension mean?
Christians believe that after he rose from the dead, Jesus did not die a second time. Instead, 40 days after his resurrection, Jesus left the Earth by being taken up, body and soul, to Heaven to re-join God the Father sit at his right hand in the position of all authority. This event is known as the ascension, and Christians believe that it was witnessed by Jesus’ apostles. It is believed that Jesus said he would send the Holy Spirit to inspire and guide his apostles after his ascension.
6. What does Luke 24:50-53 say and what does the ascension meant to indicate about Jesus?
When he had led them out to the vicinity of Bethany, he lifted up his hands and blessed them. While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up into Heaven. Then they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy. And they stayed continually at the temple, praising God (Luke 24:50–53).
The ascension is meant to indicate that Jesus, having completed his earthly ministry with the resurrection, returns spiritually to reside with God and take of the role of leader of Gods Kingdom as it spread everywhere through his disciples who empowered by the Holy Spirit were following the great commission.
7. What is the great commission?
The ascension is often linked to first Jesus instruction to wait for the coming of the Holy Spirit – which happened on Pentecost and the great commission.
Jesus teaching that the disciples should go into all the world and preach the gospel, given just before his ascension as his last words on earth.
8. Why is the ascension is important to Christians?
It shows that Jesus really had overcome death - he wasn’t resurrected to die again, but to live forever.
For Christians, the fact that Jesus’ followers witnessed him ascending into the clouds leaves no doubt that he is alive with the Father in Heaven, is no longer limited to living on Earth and will return again as he left to bring about the judgement. Nicene creed ‘I believe in the judgement
The ascension demonstrates God’s omnipotence.
Question and Answers
1. What is the Law?
Law: Before Jesus, Jews aimed to achieve salvation through following God’s law (the Jewish law), but many Christians believe that this was not a permanent solution, and Jesus’ sacrifice replaced this (most Jews still follow the Jewish law). Instead of following a written law, they should instead follow the spiritual law of love, perfectly expressed in Jesus.
2. What other sources of Wisdom and Authority might a Christian use when thinking about ethics or theology?
When making moral decisions, the Christian wants to know what God would want them to do. To find this out they turn to trusted sources that they believe have some authority [credibility] to help guide their decisions. These will include... their conscience, reason, the church, tradition, creeds, Jesus example, love, the Holy Spirit.
3. What is the Bible and what does the Bible say about the Bible?
2 Timothy 3 16 ‘“All scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching and training in righteousness.”
The word Bible means library. It is a collection of books considered by the church to be authoritative and useful because of their origin with the Apostol’s and continued use by the church. There are
66 books (73 for Catholics).
Written over a period of 1000 years.
40 different authors.
OT compiled around 300BCE.
NT compiled and combined around 375CE.
4. What are the different views about the Authority of the Bible?
The Words of God:
Some Christians, mainly fundamentalists, believe the Bible contains the actual words of God. These people are called literalists as they believe every word is literally as God wanted it to be. As such, the bible has total authority in all situations
Words inspired by God:
Other Christians – Roman Catholics, Conservative Protestants- feel the Bible was written by humans but inspired by God. Although it has God’s authority, it needs interpreting in light of its day when considering an application for today.
Words about God:
Some Christians- liberal protestants- see the bible as written by people who genuinely loved God, but the words do not have God’s direct authority. They may use conscience, reason and logic to interpret its meaning for them.
5. How would different Christians interpret Genesis?
The Words of God:
when reading the creation story, conservatives might accept that one of God's days may not necessarily be the same length as one of our days; meaning the world wasn't literally created in seven days but that God did create the world as outlined in Genesis.
Words inspired by God:
when reading the creation story in Genesis, fundamentalists would believe that the world was literally created in seven days.
Words about God:
· when reading the creation story, a liberal Christian might believe that the Genesis account is simply a story to help Christians understand that God is the creator of the world.
6. Why do Christians today feel free from sin, rituals, and also free from following the Jewish law.
Because of Jesus. This is not to say that they can do anything they want, but that they do not have to perform special steps to purify themselves, and that if they do something wrong and repent, they believe God will forgive them. This means Christians do not have to fear death, or punishment, and can have a new start, having faith that God loves and cares for them.
7. Do Christians follow the Ten commandments?
However, while Christians do not follow all of the rules in the Old Testament, they still believe that they should follow the principles of God’s law – just because Jesus died for humanity’s sins does not mean that Christians can do anything they like. However, St Paul makes it clear that Christians cannot be saved by following the law, only by following Jesus.
Question
Answers
1. What Christians mean by sin.
All Christians believe in personal sin – personal acts which go against God’s will, but it can also refer to a state of separation from God due to humans not matching up to God’s perfection. The consequences of sin are believed to be death and hell – if people act against God, they will be punished by dying and going to hell. Christians believe that if they confess their sins and ask God to forgive them, then he will do, and they will not go to hell, but will receive eternal life in heaven.
2. What Christians mean by original sin?
One interpretation of creation leads to the doctrine of the Fall, largely associated with St Augustine. This expresses that it was through the sin of humans taking and eating the forbidden fruit (Adam and Eve eating the apple from the tree of knowledge) that they fell from God’s grace. Humans cannot redeem themselves from this, and need saving; sin is part of the human condition.
3. Define what Christians mean by ‘a sinful action’ or personal sin.
Christians who believe in original sin also believe in personal sin – things which individuals do wrong, against God’s will. Some Christians only believe in personal sin, so do not feel the added weight of original sin. They believe that any disobedience to God is sinful, but that humans do not constantly sin. A sinful action is one which goes against the moral principles as set out by God and Jesus in the Bible.
4. Give two actions Christians
would regard as sinful but
which are not illegal in the UK.
1. Blasphemy
2. Adultery
5. What story in the Bible is used to illustrate the concept of original sin, and how?
The story of Adam and Eve is used to demonstrate the concept of original sin. Eve, despite being ordered by God to not go near the fruit tree, is tempted by the serpent into eating fruit from it.
6. How does Jesus act as a savior and what is he saving us from?
Jesus can be seen as a second Adam, who came to remedy the Fall and/or to allow Christians a relationship with God despite sin. Regardless of whether humans inherit sin, they all act against God’s will sometimes, and so they need saving – through Jesus. Traditionally Christians in the creeds describe both Heaven and hell.
Jesus gave many teachings on sin, recorded in the New Testament. He taught that he had come to save sinners, to rescue people from the consequences of sin. He told many people that their sins were forgiven and preached that God would forgive the sins of those who repented. He gave his disciples authority to forgive sins.
7. Explain the relationship between free will
and sinning.
In Christian thought it is free will that is responsible for the moral evil that exists in the world. This means sinful action or personal sin is directly linked to people enacting their free will.
8. What does it mean for a Christian to
seek salvation?
In Christian belief, to seek salvation is to be saved from a life of sin and eventually be granted eternal life with God.
9. Give two ways in which a
Christian might seek salvation?
Grace - Protestants
A Christian might also seek salvation through faith in Jesus.
• “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. “ Ephesians 2:8-9
Works - Roman Catholics
A Christian might seek salvation through performing good deeds.
• ‘Not everyone who says to me “Lord, Lord,” will enter the kingdom of heaven but only he who does the will of my father.’ (Matthew 7).
10. What do Christians mean when they refer to God’s grace?
When Christians refer to God’s grace, they are referring to the salvation granted by God as a gift, often for having faith in Christ Christians believe that grace is a spiritual gift which God can give to people in order to save them. For example, Christians believe that sending Jesus to save humans was an extension of God’s grace.
11. What are sacraments and how are they used in Salvation?
Catholics and Protestant both use the sacraments which are ‘Outward signs of inward blessings’ (Pope).
For Catholics Sacraments are essential to receiving salvation for Protestants taking the sacraments are a signs of salvation.
12. What is the concept of salvation through law (Good works) and explain why some Christians belive good deeds are not enough to gain slatvation?
Roman Catholic Christians believe that we must participate in the perfection ourselves through developing our virtue and character so that we can receive heaven. Good works may include doing charity work.
Protestants like Luther and Calvin suggested we are entirely sinful and only faith in Jesus good work on the cross will be enough for us to merit eternal life.
13. What is Baptism and Confession?
Baptism
Infant baptism is the sacrament in the Roman Catholic and Anglican churches that signifies entrance into the church. Some churches practice believers adult baptism
Confession
Is the sacrament of reconciliation when a Roman catholic confesses their sins to a priest.
Question
Answers
1. Who is the Holy Spirit?
· The Holy Spirit, the third Person of God in the Trinity, is also believed to be a means through which God can send his grace; by sending Christians the Holy Spirit to help them in their lives and faith.
· As the Third person of the Trinity– Christians believe the Holy Spirit is the God the Holy Spirit. A person who can be upset, prayed to and called upon in prayer for comfort and power.
· Christians believe that Christians believe that the Holy Spirit has always been at work in the world.
· In Genesis it says Gods Spirit was involved in creation ‘the spirit hovered over the waters’
2. What does the Creed say about the Holy Spirit?
· The Holy Spirit referred to in the Apostles' Creed I believe in the Holy Ghost’
· Christians believe the Holy Spirit is the same Spirit of God which hovered over the waters at creation in the book of Genesis- the Bible's account of the creation of the world, and inspired the prophets.
· The Nicene Creed says ‘We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son.’
· It is also the same Spirit which spoke the Word of God through the Old Testament Prophets.
· The word for spirit in Hebrew is 'ruach', It can also be translated as 'breath' or 'wind‘.
· The promises of the OT book Joel 2:28-29 k was that one day Gods spirit would be poured out on all flesh and then old men would dream dreams and young men visions
3. How important was the Holy Spirit for Jesus?
· When Jesus was Baptised the Holy Spirit descended from heaven upon him and then led him into the desert to be tested.
· Christians believe that it was the Holy Spirit whom Jesus mentioned as the promised "Comforter" in John 14:26,
· In Johns Gospel Jesus gives the Spirit to his disciples. Before Jesus ascended to heaven on the mount of Olives ‘he breathed on the disciples and told them to receive the Holy Spirit’
4. How does a Christian receive is the Holy Spirit?
Many Christians feel that they can also receive God’s grace through his teaching in the Bible and through sacraments; for example, reliving Jesus’ sacrifice in the Eucharist, or accepting a new spiritual life through baptism.
5. What is the role of the Holy Spirit in salvation?
Christians often speak of inviting the Holy Spirit into their lives- come Holy Spirit they may pray. The Holy Spirit, as a constant presence in the world, allows the possibility of Christians to not only understand God in the world around them, but also to achieve salvation through God’s grace and live their lives in the example Jesus set during his time on earth.
6.
What does Acts 2:1-6 say about The role of Holy Spirit?
The Holy Spirit Comes at Pentecost
2 When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. 2 Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. 4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues[a] as the Spirit enabled them.
5 Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. 6 When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard their own language being spoken.
7. What ways do Christians have different views about the Holy Spirit?
1. A Roman Catholic Christian might say we are given the Holy spirit through taking the Eucharist and the gifts of the Holy Spirit help us lead sober Christian lives. It is only really the saints who do the miraculous.
2. A Charismatic or Pentecostal Christians believe they receive the Holy Spirit through a special ‘Baptism with the holy Spirit’. Often the gift of speaking in tongues or some other charismatic gift is associated with this ‘second blessing’.
8. What are the fruit of the Spirit?
Christians believe the Holy Spirit helps them to become more like Jesus taking on his Character traits which are described as The 'Fruit of the Spirit' (i.e. the results of his work).
These should be "love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control" (Galatians 5:22).
9. What are the gifts of the Spirit?
The power of the Holy Spirit, they believe, is what inspires people and gives special charismatic gifts, such as the ability to preach, teach, heal, prophesy and speak in tongues.
1. What does Jesus say about life after death?
John 11:25-26
· 25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; 26 and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?”
meaning
There is a post mortem existence after death that is what Jesus taught and Christians should believe and live as if true. Jesus says faith in him is the key to eternal life.
2. What does Jesus say about what are attitude to death should be?
John 14:27
•
27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
meaning
The Christian does not have to fear death as a final extinction, it is an enemy but one conquered already by Jesus resurrection.
3. What does the creed say about the resurrection and what does it mean?
“We look for the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come” Nicene Creed
The afterlife will be more that a consolation for this life’s pains it has been Gods plan to create a final enduring experience of a people who will live life forever in an incorruptible state.
4. Describe briefly the Christian belief in resurrection?
Christians believe that death is not the end. Christians believe that Jesus came back from the dead (was resurrected). Many believe that all humans will be raised from the dead at the end of time.
5. Why might a Christian believe that they will be resurrected?
The main inspiration is Jesus’s own resurrection after his crucifixion. Throughout the Bible he promises the return of the Kingdom of God and eternal life for those who follow God’s word so his own resurrection is a fulfilment of his message throughout the gospels.
1. What is Judgement?
Judgment is the event at the end of time and/or when each individual person dies when God evaluates people based on what they believed, and whether they lived a good or bad life. Christians believe that judgment results in people being sent to heaven, hell or purgatory
2. How do Christians differ in their views about Judgment
Roman Catholics
There will be a general judgement which is the dramatic end of history as we know it followed by a particular judgement where God will weight up our response to his gifts of grace, where we have taken the sacraments and done works of mercy.
Liberal Protestants
There will no general judgement, no dramatic end of history only a gradual process where sinful human structures are progressively destroyed. At death typically its thought every soul will be glorified into an immaterial heavenly state.
Conservative Protestants
There will be a general judgement which is the dramatic end of history as we know it followed by a particular judgement where God will weight up our response to the gospel of Gods offer of forgiveness in Christ as a free act of grace.
3. What are the Christian concepts
of heaven and hell?
Heaven
Heaven in Christianity is the place where human beings are reunited with God after death.
Hell
Hell has often been depicted as a horrific place of fire and suffering where sinners go upon death. However, it may be more broadly thought of as an eternal separation from God’s presence in the afterlife.
4. What did Jesus teach bout Judgement?
Jesus taught that after death people would be judged depending on how they had lived their lives and if they were prepared for God and his Kingdom. He told parables, or stories with meanings, a bit like Aesop’s fables, to explain what judgment and the end of time would be like.
5. What is the Parable of the Sheep and the Goats in Matthew 25:31–46 and what does it teach?
Christians believe that God will judge them when they die and will decide who goes to Heaven and who goes to Hell. One way that this is explained is through the story that Jesus told, called the parable of the sheep and the goats. This explains who will be rewarded in Heaven and who will be punished in Hell.
Jesus will come back at the end of time and separate the good people (sheep) from the bad people (goats). He will grant the sheep the ‘kingdom’ and ‘eternal life’ because they fed and watered him, welcomed him, clothed him, and cared for and visited him. The sheep will ask when they did these things. Jesus will tell them that when they did these things for anyone, they did it for him.
He will then tell the goats that they did not care for others, and help them. They will be condemned to ‘eternal punishment’.
This story as a number of Jesus’ parables do relates to judgement. The message is that on Judgement day, some will be rewarded with heaven for helping others, whilst others are sent to hell because they did not.
6. What is the Parable of the rich man and Lazarus in Luke 16:19-31 and what does it show?
In the story of the rich man and Lazarus a Rich man eats well, lives well but does not help his Jewish brother a beggar Lazarus despite his ability, proximity and knowledge about Lazarus need.
Lazarus knows his need and waits for help from his Jewish brother who has the ability- both die.
God puts the rich man in Hell for ignoring the poor man at his gates. The poor man on the other hand is rewarded by being put in heaven.
The story shows that God will punish one man and rewards another in the afterlife – particular judgement? - as is shown in the parable and seems to say this is connected in part with our generosity and neighbourliness. Catholics would say the Rich man shows this teaches ‘good works’ as the way to salvation;
Protestants would say if the Poor man shows faith in Christ (A true Rich man) is what it teaches.
1. What do ALL Christians believe about the afterlife?
Christians believe in an afterlife – that there will be another life after death. The afterlife has been very important within Christianity.
There are varied beliefs about the nature of resurrection: some believe that resurrection is immediate at death; some believe that it is delayed until the end of time; some believe that the body will be resurrected while some believe that it will not be, and that in heaven there will be no bodies, or new bodies, completely different to earthly bodies. However, all Christians agree that there is an afterlife and that this is available to them because Jesus has saved them and God has the power to grant this.
2. What are the different Christian beliefs about the soul?
· Christians believe that each human being is a soul and has a body. The Soul is generally thought to be distinct from the brain and the rest of the body.
· The soul is not a physical thing, e.g. you cannot see or touch it. It is the spiritual part of a human being. Christians believe it is immortal, meaning that it doesn’t die when the body dies, but lives forever.
· Because of their souls, humans do not simply die but have the chance of eternal life with God in heaven. Some more liberal Protestants believe this immaterial existence is forever.
· Traditionally Christians have taught that we need both a soul and a body to be a proper person. These Christians believe that in the afterlife our souls will receive a new body.
3. What does it say in 1 Corinthians 15:42-55?
Paul contrasts an idea of a natural body with spiritual body suggesting the latter is the glorification or perfection of the former and is the final state.
Paul suggested there will be a dramatic moment when those of us who have not died will also be transformed and that this will be victory over sin and death.
4. Why is Resurrection is important?
Resurrection is important because:
¨ Christians believe that there will be life after death.
Þ This can comfort them because they know death will not be the end.
Þ This can encourage them to live good lives because they know God will judge them when they die.
¨ The existence of resurrection tells us things about the character of God.
Þ God is powerful enough to overcome death (demonstrated by Jesus’ resurrection, and others brought back to life in the Bible).
Þ God is loving and forgiving – he wants humans to enjoy heaven with him.
5. Explain the differences between the ideas of the physical and spiritual resurrection?
Physical
Traditional Christians believe in resurrection of the body because Jesus was raised from the dead in some sort of bodily form, and he raised others from the dead physically; for example, Lazarus (John 11) and Jairus’ daughter (Mark 5). Also, Jesus taught that the dead will be raised from their graves at a coming time.
Spiritual
Other Liberal Christians believe in immortality of the soul because Jesus promised eternal life (John 6:47; 17:2), not life which ends and then starts again at some point in the future. Also, he told one of the thieves on the cross that he would be in heaven that day, which implies that the thief did not have to wait to be resurrected at the end of time.
6. What does St Paul and St John say will be the process of resurrection?
In a book of his letters, 1 Corinthians 15, St Paul describes the process of Jesus’ resurrection. Paul says that everybody will be resurrected on the Day of Judgement, when God will judge everyone individually. According to the Book of Revelation, written by John after people have been judged, they will be sent to Heaven or Hell. Therefore, death is not to be feared for those who have lived morally and done God’s will.
7. Give a passage that supports the idea of the physical resurrection and explain it.
St Paul says that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God (1 Corinthians 15:50).
Some Christians interpret this to mean that only the soul lives on - resurrection will be spiritual rather than physical. Most Christians, however, believe that there will be a resurrection in some form for those God judges as worthy of eternal life.
8. Does it matter if there is no scientific proof of the resurrection?
Yes! No! Paul says if Jesus has not be raised your faith is in vain! Some more liberal Christians say No- Jesus resurrection is of symbolic and mythical importance. Importantly, the evidence for the resurrection has never claimed to be scientific. It’s more like that found in a court of law or historical evidence. Christians argue the earliest disciples believed God raised Jesus from the dead and that the best explanation for that event is the supernatural and not natural explanations.
1. What is heaven?
Christians believe that if you have lived a good life, followed God’s rules, been baptised to wash away original sin and repented your sins then you will be rewarded in Heaven, which is an eternity with God. Most Christians accept that heaven will be completely different to any experience we could have on earth and that we will not know what it is like until we get there.
2. What are the different Christian views about heaven?
A Liberal view of heaven
· Heaven is a place filled with peace. There are angels and people playing harps with light and white everywhere.
· Liberal Christians believe that when Jesus returns to judge us our bodies will come back to life and that we will have these bodies in heaven.
· Other believe that we will be spirits without a body.
A traditional view of heaven
· Heaven is a temporary experience and the final state will be a combined heaven and earth = it will be a new, perfect earth – we will live like we have done on earth, but without any sin or suffering. Traditional Christians believe that we will have new, perfect bodies on this new earth.
3. What is Hell?
If you have not done all of the things necessary to get into Heaven, Christians believe you will go to Hell. Hell traditionally is thought of as separation from the presence of God. Jesus describes Hell as a rubbish tip where ‘the fire is not quenched’ and there will be “nashing of teeth” – Some think hell is eternal torment while more liberal Christians think about it as the annihilation of the Soul or “the second death”.
4. What are the different Christian views about Hell?
The traditional view of hell
is of a fiery place filled with demons torturing wicked people.
Liberal views of Hell
that this is symbolic, not literal. They believe that hell is a poetic way of describing an eternity away from God.
Some Christians believe that hell is not real at all and focus on the idea of God as loving and forgiving.
5. What is the concept of purgatory?
Generally a belief held by Roman Catholics, purgatory means ‘cleansing’ and is an intermediate stage between death and heaven, where those who aren’t quite ready to enter heaven undergo stages of purification in preparation.
Roman Catholics (but not other Christians) believe that most Christians are not ready to go straight to heaven when they die. First they must go to purgatory to work off their sins. Protestants do not believe in Purgatory.
6. How does the Catechism of the Catholic Church describe Purgatory?
“The final purification of the elect”.
7. What are Prayers for the dead?
Catholics will often pray for the soul of a dead person so that they will not have to spend too long in purgatory.