GCSE Religious Studies (Philosophy & Ethics) Revision Guide. Monday 15th May 2017 (am) Ethics 1 & Ethics 2

Transcription

1 GCSE Religious Studies (Philosophy & Ethics) Revision Guide Monday 15th May 2017 (am) Ethics 1 & Ethics 2 Thursday 15 th June 2017 (pm) Philosophy 1 & Philosophy 2 Page1

2 Key Information You will sit 4 x 1 hour exams for your full course GCSE Religious Studies (OCR GCSE Religious Studies B Philosophy and Applied Ethics J621*) The 4 papers are split over two days: Monday 15 th May 2017 (am): Ethics 1 & Ethics 2 Thursday 15 th June 2017 (pm): Philosophy 1 & Philosophy 2 Please make sure you are revising the right topics for each of the exams PLEASE NOTE THE ETHICS EXAMS ARE FIRST THIS YEAR. Below are the details of each paper and the topics you will need answer: Ethics 1 Unit B603 Section A: Religion and Human Relationships Section B: Religion and Medical Ethics Ethics 2 Unit B604 Section A: Religion Peace and Justice Section B: Religion and Equality Philosophy 1 Unit B601 Section A: Belief about Deity Section C: The End of Life Philosophy 2 Unit B602 Section A: Good and Evil Section C: Religion and Science Page2 Exam Advice 1. Answer 2 questions on each paper you must answer the 2 sections we have studied. 2. Answer parts a), b), c), d) and e) for each question you answer, but spend the most time on those sections worth most marks d) 6 marks, e) 12 marks 3. Answer the question religion we have studied (Christianity for most) 4. Read and answer the exam question carefully - you don t need to write everything you know about the topic. 5. Explain and support your points in d) and e) give reasons, evidence and explanations for the points you make.

3 Answering Exam Questions a) What is X? (1) Part a) questions test your knowledge of key terms. You need to define the term in one sentence, giving an example if possible. b) State two things that happen in X (2) or i) Give one word that describes X (1) ii) What does it mean? (1) Like part a), part b) questions test your knowledge. You need to give two points for two marks. Don t waste time explaining. c) Describe Christian beliefs about X (3) or State three reasons that X (3) Again, c) is about knowledge. Make sure you make 3 points for 3 marks a quote / some evidence could make up one of the 3 points. d) Explain Christian beliefs about X (6) Part d) is about explanation and evidence. You need to aim for 3 x Point Evidence Explain One Christian belief about X is This is supported by the quote / story.. This quote / story shows that. e) A statement e.g. Prayer is the best way to cope with suffering. You will need to discuss this statement. You should include different, supported points of view and a personal viewpoint. You need to: Introduce the statement define key terms. Give YOUR view make sure you give reasons to support it. Give ANOTHER view show the other side of the argument. Provide a Christian view give quotes to support it. Provide another Christian view try to show why Christians might not agree on the issue or at least another reason why they might agree. Include specialist Philosophy and Ethics vocabulary Page3

4 What do the different denominations think? In the exam it is useful to be able to show that you know what the different denominations of Christianity think. Below are the general approaches from some of the key denominations of Christianity: Roman Catholic: Very strict on lots of issues (no divorce, no abortion, only allow some forms of contraception etc). Church teachings from the Pope are very important. Most believe that war can be just (Just War Theory). Don t allow female priests. Church of England (Anglican/C of E): Have a wide variety of views on every issue Less strict than Roman Catholics on most issues (most will accept divorce/abortion/contraception as the most loving thing in some circumstances) Some believe in the Just War theory, others are pacifist. Do allow female priests and have recently allowed female bishops. Quakers: Very liberal Christians Tolerant of other religions and other views. Against violence (pacifist) Believe in doing the most loving this. See the light of God in everybody. Liberal Christians: Believe in sticking to general principles such as love your neighbour rather than strict rules. They are tolerant of others views. Page4 Fundamentalist Christians: Often have very strict views on ethical issues. Can be intolerant of other religions or denominations, Believe the Bible is literally true.

5 Philosophy exams B601: Philosophy 1 Belief about Deity The End of Life B602: Philosophy 2 Good and Evil Religion and Science Page5

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8 Philosophy 1 (B601) Section A: Belief about Deity Key words: Deity: God or a form of God God: A supernatural or divine being Omnipotence: God is all powerful Omniscience: God is all knowing Omni benevolent: God is all loving Omnipresence: God is everywhere at the same time Transcendent: God is above all Monotheism: Belief in one god Eternal: Everlasting Transcendence: God is above and separate from humans. Revelation: A way that God shows himself to humans. Trinity: The three parts to the Christian God; the father, son, and Holy Spirit Cosmological: Suggests a First Cause God was the creator of the world, and caused its existence Teleological: Argument from Design looks to the world and argues it must be designed. Theists: Believe in a God Agnostic: Believe there is not enough evidence either way, so are not sure if God exists. Atheist: Do not believe in God, Incarnation: God in human form - Jesus Miracles: events that go against the laws of nature - caused by God. Atonement: Paying for sins Resurrection: To come back to life Holy Spirit: The immaterial presence of God in the world. Part a) questions will test your knowledge of Key Terms. You will also need to include Key Terms in your answers to part d) and part e) questions to gain the highest marks. Page8 Revision activities: Cover the definitions above with a piece of paper and see how many you can fill in on your own. Use a dominoes template to make a sorting game to test your knowledge of key terms.

9 The Nature of God What is God like? Christians are MONOTHEISTS (they believe in ONE God) however they believe that God can be seen in THREE ways. This idea of God is known as the TRINITY. The three parts of the Trinity are: God the Father is the aspect of God that created the world (Creator) God the Son is the aspect of God which redeems the sins of the world (Redeemer) God the Holy Spirit is the aspect of God that keeps the world in being (Sustainer) How can God be One, yet made up of three persons? Christians would argue that, like a triangle, or a shamrock there are three different angles or leaves, yet only one triangle or shamrock, God is One but has three different aspects. These aspects are how God engages with the world in the acts of creating, redeeming and keeping the world together. But what is God like? Christians believe we can know what God is like through the following: The Holy Bible The Life of Jesus Personal experience of God answering prayers, experiencing miracles. The creation of the world Christians believe GOD is... Omnipotent all powerful Omnipresent - everywhere Omniscient all knowing Benevolent - all loving Perfect Good Judge Eternal Creator Page9 Revision activities: Find a piece of evidence (Bible quote / story) to support each of the attributes listed above

10 Reasons for belief: Why do Christians believe in God? The Bible Christians see the Bible as the word of God and therefore the Bible is one reason that Christians believe in God. The Bible provides evidence of God s nature, God s creation of the world, and ultimately of God s existence. Upbringing Some people believe in God because their parents, family have brought them up in a Christian family / environment. Miracles Some Christians believe in God because of the miracles He is believed to perform (both today and in Biblical times). The Bible reports lots of examples of God s miracles: the parting of the red sea, the healing miracles of Jesus and the resurrection of Jesus. Prayers Some Christians believe in God because God has answered or spoken to them through prayer. Support Some Christians might believe in God because they need support. This could be because they are lonely, grieving, or seeking forgiveness. For them, belief in God offers them real comfort and support. Response to Big Questions Some Christians might believe in God because they believe that the world and everything in it is too amazing to be the result of an accident. They believe that there are many Big Questions that the scientific world can t answer which can be resolved by faith in God. 2 Philosophical Arguments for the existence of God: The Cosmological Argument: Every effect must have a cause The universe must have a cause The cause of the universe is God. Page10 The Teleological Argument: The universe is so complicated it must have been designed. Therefore there must have been a designer. The designer is God.

11 God s intervention in the world: Christians believe that another important aspect of God s nature is that God intervenes and gets involved with his creation. God is believed to intervene in 3 key ways: - Miracles - Jesus - The Holy Spirit God s intervention through Miracles: Christians believe miracles are acts of God and are examples of God intervening with his creation. Christians believe God still performs miracles today and shows how God is OMNIPOTENT and BENEVOLENT. Biblical Miracles - The Creation of the world - The Parting of the Red Sea this shows God helping the Israelites escaping from the Egyptians. - The miracles of Jesus: Healing the blind, Raising Lazarus from the dead, The feeding of the The most important miracle of all. - The religion of Christianity is based on a miracle: The RESURRECTION and ASCENSION of Jesus. Lourdes: - Each year thousands of Catholics travel to Lourdes (a city in France). - The travel here as they believe that a miracles occurred where a young girl had a VISION of the Virgin Mary. - Catholics travel here in the hope that they too will witness a miracle. Page11 Revision activities: Can you write a definition for all of the KEY TERMS used on this page?

12 God s intervention through Jesus - Christians believe Jesus is God INCARNATE (in human form) - Christians believe God came to earth as Jesus. - Jesus performed many miracles (see previous page). God s intervention through The Holy Spirit Christian beliefs about the Holy Spirit: - Part of The Trinity - Within every Christian - Jesus sent the Holy Spirit as a comfort when he ASCENDED to HEAVEN. - Is described as a Violent Wind which shows its power. Revision activities: Divide a page into 3 and make notes about the 3 ways that God intervenes in the world: MIRACLES, JESUS, THE HOLY SPIRIT. Page12

13 Belief about Deity: Evidence Part d) and e) questions require you to use EVIDENCE to support the Christian views you put forward. EVIDENCE may come in the form of a Bible quote, a Bible story, or a specific example. Topic outline The Nature of God: Omnipotence / Creator Evidence - In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth (Genesis) - Miracles: The Parting of the Red Sea. Omniscience - Before I formed you in the womb I knew you (Jeremiah) Benevolence - For God so loved the world he gave his only son (John 3) - The healing miracles of Jesus Judge Reasons for belief in God: Bible Prayers Miracles - The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats - Every word is flawless - Pray to me and I will listen - Parting of the Red Sea, healing miracles of Jesus, the resurrection of Jesus. The world God s intervention: Miracles - In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth (Genesis) - The Teleological Argument / The Cosmological Argument. - Examples of miracles: Parting of the Red Sea, healing miracles of Jesus, the resurrection of Jesus. - Catholic pilgrimage to Lourdes. Jesus - The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us - For God so loved the world he gave his only son - The miracles of Jesus: Jesus curing a blind man, the calming of the storm. Holy Spirit - Biblical teachings of the Holy Spirit as a violent wind. - Jesus tells his disciples that he will send the Holy Spirit to be with them when he is gone Page13

14 Belief about deity: Exam questions would you be able to answer these? a) What is meant by the term monotheism (1) b) State 2 reasons Christians might give for their belief in God (2) c) Describe Christian beliefs about Miracles (3) d) Explain Christian beliefs about Jesus (6) e) There is no way of knowing that God exists Discuss (12) a) What is meant by the term Agnostic (1) b) What do Christians mean when they describe God as benevolent? (2) c) Describe Christian beliefs about the Holy Spirit (3) d) Describe Christian beliefs about the Nature of God (6) e) Miracles don t really happen people just see what they want to see Discuss (12) Example answers: c) Describe Christian beliefs about the Holy Spirit (3) One Christian belief about the Holy Spirit is that it is part of the Holy Trinity and is therefore one of the ways that God Shows himself. Another thing Christians believe about the Holy Spirit is that it was sent down to earth after Jesus had ascended to Heaven. Lastly, the Bible describes the Holy Spirit as a violent wind showing its power. Page14

15 Philosophy 1 (B601) Section C: The End of Life Key words: Death: The end of all mental and physical life. Soul: The nonphysical part of a person Immortal: Live forever Immortal Soul: The part of a person that lives on when the physical part dies Heaven: A place with God where there is no suffering. Purgatory: Catholic belief. Souls are cleansed or purified before they go to heaven. Hell: The place without God and therefore is torturous Salvation: To be saved / to be saved punishment of God (by Jesus). Bereaved: Family / friends of somebody who has died. Grief: The feeling of loss when someone dies. Redemption: To make up for something. Jesus dying on the cross makes up for human sin. Reconciliation: To repair a broken relationship Last Judgement: When God will pass his final sentence on the whole of humanity Cremated: When a body is turned into ash, and their ashes are usually spread in their favourite place Eulogy: Literally meaning good words. Speech given at a funeral about the person who has died. Funeral: Ceremony marking the close of somebody s life. Funeral rite: Tradition / part of a Christian funeral. Committal: When the coffin is lowered into the ground or taken at the crematorium. Committal Statement: Statement given by vicar during the committal Ashes to ashes, dust to dust. Page15

16 Christian belief about the end of life: All Christians believe that death is not the end. They believe that the soul, also called the spirit, which is distinct from the physical body, lives on. Many Christians believe that because Jesus was resurrected they will be as well. Beliefs about body and soul: Ancient Greek ideas: Plato believed that the soul was the part of the person which makes them individual; it was the soul that decided how to act and was eternal. Aristotle believed that although the soul was the core essence of a being it didn t have a separate existence from the body and so not eternal. Christian beliefs: Christians believe in an IMMORTAL soul that is distinct from the physical body, it cannot be seen and makes humans unique from other creatures. Christians also believe that the body and soul are in conflict with each other the body has physical needs and the soul is more spiritual and pure. Christian beliefs about Life After Death: Judgement Christians believe that God is the ultimate judge of all humankind. He will judge both their faith in him and their actions. Some believe that this judgement takes place as soon as someone dies; others believe it will take place when Jesus returns to earth at the end of time. God decides where the soul will spend eternity. The Parable of the sheep and the goats illustrates beliefs about God as judge. It shows that people who care for others will receive eternal life but those who ignore the suffering of others will be punished in hell. Heaven If someone has been true to their beliefs and has followed Christian teaching and lived a good life they will be rewarded. The reward will be being in the eternal presence of God. Descriptions of heaven are an attempt to show how there will be no more suffering, no mourning, no crying and now pain. Different Christians interpret the concept of heaven in different ways. Page16 Hell Hell is a place without God. Some Christians believe it is a place of indescribable, eternal torture; the fear of hell was used in the past to get people to follow Christianity and behave morally. Some Christians believe the devil lives in hell. Today many Christians believe hell is being apart from God for eternity, they see the descriptions of hell as being symbolic. A question that is often asked is that if God is BENEVOLENT and forgiving then he would not condemn people to eternal torture.

17 Purgatory- is a Roman Catholic belief that if you are not pure enough to go into God s presence immediately your soul goes to purgatory to be purified / cleansed so that eventually you can go to heaven. Forgiveness: - Although Christians believe that God will judge them and may punish them they also believe God is BENEVOLENT (all loving) and FORGIVES. - Jesus death makes up for human sin and means that even though humans are not perfect they can still go to heaven - As Jesus died for human sin humans receive REDEMPTION and are SAVED from the punishment of God. Repentance: - Christians believe that if you do wrong you should REPENT (admit that you have done wrong and be genuinely sorry) and you will be FORGIVEN. - Roman Catholics go to CONFESSION where they confess their sins to a priest who will forgive them. Funerals A Funeral marks the close of someone s life on earth but for Christians it is also a reminder of the hope of an afterlife with God. Mourners may benefit from attending a funeral service because It shows the person is no longer part of this world but safe with God. They can gain comfort from other mourners and the reassurance that the dead person lives on with God. It celebrates the life of the dead person. It is an opportunity to express publically their love or admiration for the dead person. The hope of eternal life means the mourner will be reunited with their loved one. Page17

18 Christian Funeral Services (there is a difference between the funeral services for different denominations, however most have similar parts) Funeral Rite Visited by the minister When a Christian is dying a minister (priest) may try to visit them to help them prepare for death. In the Roman Catholic Church the dying person may wish to confess their sins and receive a sacrament which is known as Anointing of the Sick. Funeral Service takes place in Church The funeral service takes place in a church, a Christian place of worship. Attended by the family and friends of the dead person. Church Decorations Churches are often decorated with flowers and candles. Links to Christian views on the Afterlife and how the funeral supports the bereaved. This links to Christian belief about forgiveness which Christians believe they must have in order to get salvation and go to heaven. The Minister may also comfort those who are with the dying person and say prayers with them. It is important for Christians for a funeral to take place in a church because it is a sacred place. It shows respect for the dead person, and helps comfort the relatives by showing the church and congregation care for them and the dead person. The flowers stand for the idea of new life with God which the person is now entering. Candles are lit as a reminder that Jesus is known as the Light of the World. His death repaired the relationship with God allowing Christians to be redeemed for original sin and given salvation. Some see the smoke from the candles as a representation of the soul rising to heaven. Readings from the Bible At the start of the service the priest normally says this Bible passage which was said by Jesus: I am the resurrection and the life, he who believes in me will live even though he dies. (John 11: 25 26) Other passages will also be read from the Bible. This passage, and others, will remind Christians of Jesus promise that through belief in him they will get salvation (go to heaven). Other readings will emphasise God s love and bring comfort to the bereaved. Page18

19 Eulogy This is the talk or speech which remembers the person s life. Close friends or family usually contribute to this part of the service. This part of the service brings comfort to the bereaved as it allows people to acknowledge the life and the achievements of the dead person. It allows them to remember and celebrate their life. Hymns Hymns will be sung during the service. Like the Bible readings they will focus on Christian beliefs about life after death, heaven, Jesus resurrection and God s love. Committal The person s coffin is lowered into the ground or is taken to the crematorium to be turned to ash. The minister says earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust, in the sure and certain hope of everlasting life. These will bring Christians comforting beliefs that the dead person is happy and with God in heaven. They may also remind the bereaved that death is not the end. This is a difficult time for the bereaved. The priest s words remind everyone that we come from the earth and perhaps it is no sadness that we return to this state. The words said again remind Christians of the belief in eternal happiness in heaven after death. This will comfort the bereaved as they can think their loved one is happy and they will see them again when they die. Page19

20 The End of Life: Evidence Part d) and e) questions require you to use EVIDENCE to support the Christian views you put forward. EVIDENCE could be a Bible quote, a Bible story, or a specific example. Topic outline Body and Soul The Soul The relationship between body and soul Beliefs about Life After Death God as Judge Evidence - And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul - The conflict between body and soul: When I want to do good, evil is right there - The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats Heaven Hell Purgatory Salvation / Redemption The Suffering of Christ Funerals Bible Reading - There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain - God himself will be with them, and he will be their God. He will wipe away all tears from their eyes - I saw Satan fall like lightening from Heaven - Different interpretations about hell - Catholic teaching: The final purification of the elect - Christ died for us - For God so loved the world he gave his only son (John 3) - I am the resurrection and the life: whoever believes in me will live even though he dies. John 11 v23 - Jesus is whipped and made to wear a crown of thorns / The crucifixion - I am the resurrection I am the life Prayers Hymns Eulogy The Committal / Committal Statement - Pray to me and I will listen - Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you - Hymn: The Lord is my Shepherd - Life is a gift from God - Ashes to ashes, dust to dust Page20

21 Example Exam Questions would you be able to answer these? a) What is death? (1) b) What is meant by soul? (2) c) What do Christians believe about life after death? (3) d) How may Christian funeral rites reflect beliefs about life after death? (6) e) When people die that is the end. Discuss this statement. You should include different, supported points of view and a personal viewpoint. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. (12) a) What is salvation? (1) b) Name two things Christians believe about heaven. (2) c) What do Christians mean by purgatory? (3) d) Explain why the suffering of Christ is important for Christians. (6) e) A forgiving God would not send people to hell. Discuss this statement. You should include different, supported points of view and a personal viewpoint. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. (12) Example answers: d) Explain how Christians try to find the right answer to a moral problem. (6) One way a Christian might find the right answer to a moral problem is by looking in the Bible. The Ten Commandments from the Old Testament give Christian s rules to live by and the study of these rules will show them the right way to behave. For example, they should not kill. The would use the Bible as they believe it is the word of God and therefore every word is flawless. `Another way a Christian might try to find the right answer to a problem is by considering what Jesus would do. For Christians Jesus is the perfect example of how to behave. Jesus taught Christians that they should act out of love and love your neighbour as you love yourself. Another way a Christian might find the right answer is by following their conscience. Christians believe their conscience is given to them by God and will help them to do what is right, to do good and to avoid what is bad or morally wrong. If Christians act according to what their conscience says, then they can live at peace with themselves, believing that they have made the right decision and done the right thing. Finally a Christian might ask another Christians advice or speak to a vicar or priest. They might also pray to God for guidance. Page21

22 d) Explain why the suffering of Christ is important for Christians. (6) One thing Christians believe about why the suffering of Christ is important is that His suffering and death saved humans from punishment with God. Jesus dying on the cross made up for Original Sin and is the price God needed to make up for this. This is supported by the Biblical accounts of Jesus crucifixion. Another thing Christians believe about the suffering of Christ is that it is important as it shows that God is benevolent and sacrificed his son to give humans salvation. This is supported by the quote For God so loved the world that he gave his only son. Christians also believe that the suffering of Christ is important as it help Christians cope with their own suffering. Christians look the biblical descriptions of Jesus being whipped and crowned with a crown of thorns and finally his crucifixion and draw strength from this when they themselves suffer. It helps them to feel that God understands their suffering and in a way, through Jesus, suffers with them. Page22

23 Philosophy 2 (B602) Section A: Good and Evil Key Terms Evil is not easy to define but often means something which causes harm or suffering it can be divided into two: Moral evil: caused by humans (e.g. murder, bullying, and theft) Natural evil: has no human cause (e.g. natural disasters, illness) Suffering: physical or mental pain or distress. The Fall: when Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit. Original sin: the sin which Eve brought into the world when she picked the fruit from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil in the Garden of Eden. Sin: behaviour which goes against religious teaching. Devil: A fallen angel who refused to bow down to human beings. Many Christians believe the Devil is an evil force/powerful person in the world that attempts to go against God s plans for people to do good and worship God. Redemption: by dying on the cross, Jesus made up for human sin and humans received redemption. Benevolent: all-loving, cares for everyone. Omnipotent: all-powerful, can do anything. Omniscient: all Knowing, knows everything that happens. Prayer: speaking to God. Conscience: a sense of right and wrong. Faith: belief or trust in something without proof. Free Will: The idea that people are free to choose between doing good or evil. Moral: A moral action is a good or worthy action. Immoral: An immoral action is a bad or unworthy action Parables: Story from the Bible with a message of meaning The Problem of Evil: If God is all powerful and all loving then why does He allow people to suffer? The Problem of Evil: Suffering and evil cause problems for Christians because; if God is benevolent (good and loving) he cannot want people to suffer and if God is omnipotent (all-powerful) he could stop suffering. Page23 Revision activity: Draw and label a triangle that demonstrates the problem of evil.

24 Christian responses to the Problem of Evil Response Explanation Evidence / Examples Evil is a test of our faith in God Evil is a punishment Freewill Evil helps us to mature and develop Some people believe evil and suffering is here to test us and our faith in God Adam and Eve deliberately disobeyed God by eating the fruit from the tree (The Fall). Humans deliberately chose to do bad things which cause suffering. Some people believe evil is necessary to help us grow and learn and develop. The story of Job The Creation Story (Genesis) Murder / Rape Irenaeus Lance Armstrong Augustine ( ) believed evil was a lack of good. Evil happens when people do not chose good and live according to a standard which God has set for human beings. This means evil is not a thing in itself, but simply what is left when there is no good present Irenaeus ( ) said that people needed to suffer to be made to choose between good and evil, otherwise they would be like automatons or robots and God wants people to choose to worship him. (How does this apply to the suffering of babies?) Page24

25 The Origin of Evil: Where did evil come from? The Fall:The book of Genesis tells the story of how the world was created perfect, but Adam and Eve were tempted by the devil to disobey God. Because of this humans have to suffer hard work and pain in childbirth. If human beings were not disobedient and followed God s rules, there would be no suffering. Original Sin: Refers to the first sin of humans. Augustine said we must all suffer as we are all seminally present in Adam. The Devil Some Christians believe the devil is a fallen angel who tried to make himself better than God and so he was thrown out of heaven. He has angelic followers are called Demons. They fight against God and try to destroy humankind. Some Christians think the Devil is a symbolic figure who does not exist but who represents all of the evil in the world. In the Bible the devil or Satan is - The force of evil first found in the Old Testament as the serpent / snake who tempted Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. In the New Testament Jesus is tempted by Satan in the desert for 40 days and nights he resists all of the temptations. In the book of Revelation when the Kingdom of heaven comes Satan, the great deceiver, will be destroyed by being thrown into the lake of fire (Hell) Coping with Suffering Christians cope with the suffering in many ways: They may pray to God to help with the suffering they see or to give them the strength to help. Some Christians may believe that in praying to God, God will help them even if it is not in the way that they originally asked for. However, others may pray not because they think God will intervene or do a miracle, but because they seek guidance and strength from God to know and do the right things. They may look to the fact that Jesus suffered. Christians believe that Jesus was God in human form. So this means they believe God came down to earth, innocent of any sin and was punished and suffered here. This means God understands their suffering and shows that even God experienced innocent suffering. Some Christians may find comfort in this thought. Page25 They might remind themselves that God knows best and trust in God s plan, and they cannot see God's plans. God works in mysterious ways. They might say from God s perspective it is for the best, even if from our limited perspective it doesn t seem so.

26 How do Christians work out the right way to behave? 1. The example of Jesus. Christians try to be like Jesus, as they think he was God, so the perfect example of how someone should act. Jesus showed kindness and love to people, even those who others were prejudiced against. He went off to pray often. He put God and people before money or possessions. Many of Jesus teachings about how he thought people should behave are in his Sermon on the Mount. Another key teaching is that he said you could summarise what the Bible said about how people should behave in their lives in to two key principles: to love God with all your heart and to love your neighbour as you love yourself. (Mark 12:28-31) 2. The Bible. As well as telling Christians about Jesus the Bible has guidance in the form of commandments (e.g. the Ten Commandments in Exodus 20) and Parables that Jesus told. All Christians make decisions on which principles should still apply today. For example it says in one part of the New Testament that women should be quiet in Church and should 3. Conscience. Christians believe their sense of right and wrong comes from God. This is why people feel guilty or sorry for what they have done. These feelings of right and wrong are known as conscience. Because they think their conscience comes from God, or may even be the voice of God, Christians try to do what their conscience tells them Revision activity: Write an answer to the following question d) Explain how Christians work out the right way to behave. (6) Page26

27 Good and Evil: Evidence Part d) and e) questions require you to use EVIDENCE to support the Christian views you put forward. EVIDENCE could be a Bible quote, a Bible story, or a specific example. Topic outline Evidence The Goodness of God - He saw what he had made and it was good (Genesis) - For God so loved the world he gave his only son (John 3) Responses to the Problem of Evil Freewill - Genesis Creation story Adam and Eve were given free will Evil as a test Evil as a punishment The Origin of Evil The Devil The Fall - The Story of Job - Genesis Creation story The Fall. - Augustine & Irenaeus - I saw Satan fall like lightening from Heaven - Your enemy the Devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. (1 Peter 5:8) - The Devil is also seen in The Story of Job and The Creation Story. - Genesis Creation Story - In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth - He saw what he had made and it was good (Genesis) Original Sin Coping with suffering Prayer - We are seminally present in Adam Augustine - Pray to me and I will listen - Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you Trusting in God s plan The Suffering of Jesus Discovering he right way to behave The Bible The Example of Jesus The conscience - The Story of Job - The Story of Abraham and Isaac - Jesus is whipped and made to wear a crown of thorns / The crucifixion - Every word is flawless - The Parable of The Good Samaritan - The 10 Commandments - What Would Jesus Do? - The teachings of Jesus in the New Testament e.g The Good Samaritan / Love your neighbour as you love yourself. - And the Lord God said Man has now become like one of us, knowing good and evil Page27

28 Example Exam questions would you be able to answer these? a) What is meant by redemption? (1) b) What is meant by original sin? (2) c) Describe Christian beliefs about God being good. (3) d) Explain how Christians respond to the idea that a loving God allows evil and suffering in the world. (6) e) Suffering is caused by the Devil. Discuss this statement. You should include different, supported points of view and a personal viewpoint. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. (12) a) What is meant by evil? (1) b) Name two things Christians believe about the Devil (Satan) (2) c) What do Christians believe about redemption? (3) d) Explain how some Christians may respond to suffering in the world. (6) e) If people suffer, it s usually their own fault. Discuss this statement. You should include different, supported points of view and a personal viewpoint. You must refer to Christianity in your answer [12] Exemplar answers d) Explain Christian beliefs about the Devil (Satan) (6 marks) One Christian belief about the devil, also known as Satan or Lucifer, is that he is the cause of evil and suffering in the world. Traditionally the devil is shown as a red creature with horns and a tail carrying a pitchfork. Some Christians believe that the Devil exists as a real physical being. This is supported by the quote He prowls around like a lion. However some other Christians believe the devil is symbol of evil or a symbol for how people sometimes struggle to do what is right. Christian beliefs about the devil can also be seen in the bible. In the Bible it says that the Devil was originally an angel in Heaven with God. The devil then tried to make himself better than God and God banished him from Heaven this is why the Devil is sometimes called a fallen angel - this is described in Luke 10 - I saw Satan fall like lightening from heaven. Christians believe the Devil is not as powerful as God but tries to tempt people to disobey God. In the Bible, the Devil, disguised as the serpent, tempts Eve to eat the forbidden fruit from the tree of knowledge and disobey God (Genesis). The Devil is also present in the story of Job where the Devil suggests to God that Job only believes and worships God so that He will protect him and reward him. God therefore allows the Devil to cause Job to suffer to test his faith. Jesus is also tempted by the Devil in the desert, where the Devil offers him food, wealth and power (Luke) however, like Job, Jesus remains faithful to God. Page28

29 d) Explain how a Christian may cope with suffering (6 marks) One way that a Christian may cope with suffering is through prayer. Christians believe that when they pray to God, God will hear them and this gives them comfort and strength in a time of need. Christians may pray for God to help them in a specific situation, for example if a family member is sick. It does not matter to Christians how God responds to their prayers as they understand that ultimately God decides what should happen. This idea is supported by the quote Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you Another way that a Christian may cope with suffering is by understanding that God has a plan for each of us and that that plan is what is best for us. God s plan is beyond human understanding Christians may believe that even if they are suffering, as a part of God s plan, it will be ok in the end. For example it might be the case that God is allowing a person to suffer from an illness so that they may be growing closer to God though their suffering. Lastly another way in which Christians may cope with suffering is by remembering that God suffers also through the suffering of Jesus. Humans share in the suffering of Christ who was tortured, whipped and crucified. This is supported by Biblical accounts of Jesus crucifixion. Page29 e) There is no reason to behave morally Discuss this statement. You should include different supported points of view and a personal view point. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. I disagree with this statement because I believe that there is a reason to behave morally and that that reason is because people have a responsibility to behave morally for the sake of society. By this I mean that if everyone just behaved in the way they wanted to society would be chaos we all have to live and get on together and to do that people need to behave morally and not kill or steal. That said, I also agree with this statement in a way as I believe that there is nobody and no God who will make people behave morally, obviously there are the police who can punish people who do not behave in accordance with the law, but for some people that is not a real reason to behave morally. Somebody else might agree with this statement as some people are selfish and think that the most important thing is to be happy and to enjoy your life even if that means not behaving morally. Some people might say that to get ahead in life you sometimes need to do bad things and obviously they believe there is no reason to behave morally. A Christians would disagree with this statement and say that there is a reason to behave morally and that that reason is that God wants them to and tells them to behave morally. Christians believe the Holy Bible is the word of God (exactly or at least inspired by God). The Holy Bible tells people to behave morally and therefore that is a reason to behave in such a way. For example the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20) sets out ten rules that Christians must follow, e.g thou shall not kill. For some Christians, the fact that God has laid out these rules is enough of a reason to follow them and behave morally. Christians may also believe that they should behave morally because of the example set by Jesus. Throughout the New Testament Jesus is seen to behave morally, helping and healing people, and Christians want to follow in his footsteps. Some Christians wear bracelets that say WWJD which stands for what would Jesus do. Christians wear this to remind them to behave morally as Jesus did. Other Christians believe that one reason to behave morally is because that is what their conscience tells them to do. Sometimes people get a sense that they ought to behave in a certain way Christians believe that this sense of right and wrong comes from God and is therefore a valid reason to behave morally.

30 Page30 Philosophy 2 (B602) Section C: Religion and Science Key Words Big Bang theory: Scientific theory which suggests that there was a massive explosion about 18 billion years ago and this led to the creation of the universe. Cosmology: study of the universe / beginning of the universe. Creationists: people who believe that God created the world in six days as in the bible. Evolution: Scientific theory for the beginning of humanity. Made popular by Charles Darwin. Suggests that animals have developed or evolved over time. Intelligent design: a theory which says that life is so complex that it must have been designed by a higher intelligent being and did not evolve by natural selection. Natural selection: Survival of the fittest - animals that are best adapted to their environment survive. Creation: God s making the universe. Faith: Believing without seeing. Creator: someone who makes or produces something. Ex nihilo : out of nothing. E.g God created the earth ex nihilo. Dominion: authority over something. Christian belief that God told humans to rule over the animals. Steward: Someone who looks after something Stewardship: Christian belief that God has made them stewards of the earth. Soul: the part of a human being which is separate from the physical body. Deforestation: The cutting down of trees / forests for resources / land. Literal interpretation Believing the Bible word for word / exactly as it is written. Non-literal interpretation Believing the Bible holds important messages but is symbolic / a metaphor.

31 Scientific Beliefs about the beginning / origin of the universe: The universe was created by a huge explosion approx. 18 billion years ago. The planets came about as a result of cooling gases in the aftermath of the Big Bang. The Big Bang theory is heavily supported by observations and evidence. Christian Beliefs about the beginning / origin of the universe: The universe was created in 6 days by God. The story of the Creation is found in the Book of Genesis, the first book of the Bible. God created different things on different days beginning with light on Day 1 and human beings on Day 6. On the 7 th day God rested. The Creation Story is based on FAITH and THE BIBLE. Remember..different Christians read the Bible in different ways: Some Christians read the creation story literally, and believe that it describes exactly how the universe was created: i.e. the universe was created in 6 actual days, in the order that it says in the Bible. Some Christians read the creation story non-literally and believe the creation story is symbolic or a metaphor rather than believing it word for word. Scientific Beliefs about the beginning / origin of humanity: Science believes that humans EVOLVED from other animals. This process took billions of years. The theory of Evolution was made popular by CHARLES DARWIN. The theory is based on NATURAL SELECTION which states that animals slowly change and adapt to their environment - Survival of the fittest. Scientific beliefs are based on EVIDENCE and OBSERVATIONS. Christian Beliefs about the beginning / origin of the universe Humans were created by God on the 6 th day of creation. The story of the Creation of man is found in the Book of Genesis, the first book of the Bible. Man was made in the image of God Genesis The Creation Story is based on FAITH and THE BIBLE. Believing in both Religion and Science: Page31 It is possible to be a Christian and accept scientific theories about the creation of the world. Science does not have full proof of everything for example the Big Bang and Evolution is scientific theories, are not 100% proven fact.

32 The Big Question is, if the Big Bang actually happened, and it seems likely that it did, what caused it? Christians may answer that GOD cause the BIG BANG to happen. Some may believe that science helps to tell us more about God s creation. The Environment Your belief in how the world began may also affect your beliefs about the environment and environmental problems. Environmental Problems: Deforestation Global warming Littering Overfishing Christian beliefs about the environment: Christians believe the earth belongs to God and therefore they should look after God s creation. Christian teachings on stewardship mean that Christians should not just look after the world but rule it wisely and use its resources responsibly. God also gave humans dominion and told them to rule over the animals. The story of Noah shows that God requires humans to care for the environment that is why Noah is told to take two of every animal into the ark and save them from the flood. Christianity has always taught that people should only take from the world what they need and that they should not be concerned with material wealth. Although they are not Christian organisations, some Christians have chosen to join such groups as Greenpeace to work towards the protection of the environment. Revision activity: Research the charity Greenpeace. Why might a Christian choose to join such a group? The relationship between humans and other animals: Christians believe that human beings are special and are higher than the other forms of life on Earth. In the Bible, human beings are described as being made in God s image and likeness and have a soul, given by God and therefore, humans are above other forms of life. Also humans were given DOMINION. Page32

33 Religion and Science: Evidence Part d) and e) questions require you to use EVIDENCE to support the Christian views you put forward. EVIDENCE could be a Bible quote, a Bible story, or a specific example. Topic outline The Beginning of the world Scientific views The Christian Creation Story The Beginning of Humanity Scientific views Christian views Animals The Relationship between humans and animals Attitudes towards animals and their treatment Christian beliefs about the Environment Stewardship / Dominion Evidence - The Big Bang Theory - In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth (Genesis) - God saw what he had made and it was good - 6 days of creation - The Theory of Evolution / Charles Darwin / The Origin of Species - Let us make mankind in our image (Genesis) - Let man rule over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky and the animals (Genesis) - And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul - Let man rule over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky and the animals (Genesis) - Let us make mankind in our image (Genesis) - And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul - The Earth is the Lord s and everything in it Psalm 24 - Let man rule over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky and the animals (Genesis) - The Earth is the Lord s and everything in it Psalm 24 - GreenPeace environmental charity Page33

34 Example Exam questions could you answer these? a) What is meant by the term dominion? (1) b) What is meant by stewardship? (2) c) Give three examples of environmental issues which might concern Christians. (3) d) Explain why some Christians might find it difficult to accept the story of creation. (6) e) Religious people have a special duty to care for the environment. Discuss this statement. You should include different, supported points of view and a personal viewpoint. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. (12) a) What is meant by the Big Bang? (1) b) How does science believe humans began? (2) C) How do some Christians believe animals are different to human beings? (3) d) Explain why Christians believe it is important to look after the environment. (6) e) Science is right about how the world began and so religion is wrong. Discuss this statement. You should include different, supported points of view and a personal viewpoint. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. (12) Example Answers Page34 e) Science is right about how the world began and so religion is wrong. Discuss this statement. You should include different, supported points of view and a personal viewpoint. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. (12 marks) Scientist hold different theories about how the world began, the Big Bang theory states that 18 billion years ago there was a big bang in space which led to the creation of the universe. The gases and matter released by the explosion formed the stars and planets of the universe. There are other theories like the string theory and rubber band theory. Being a scientist does not mean that a person is an atheist and there are many scientists who are Christian. They would argue that not accepting the creation stories does not mean you cannot believe that God did create everything but that science has now explained how what happened in a way that is obviously more sophisticated than the creation accounts that were written thousands of years ago. This means that for these people the statement science is right about how the world began so religion is wrong is only an opinion and one they would not agree with. If the scientist was an atheist and did not believe in God he may well agree with the statement. Some Christians are called creationist because they believe the bible story literally, they can also be called fundamentalists. This group of Christians believe that God created the world in 6 days, on day one he separated light form dark, on day two he separated the sea and sky and on the third day he made land, trees and plants. On day four he created the sun, moon and stars and set the seasons. He created fish and birds on day five and animals and humans on day six. These Christians believe that fossils have been made up as they believe the world can only be 6000 years old. Another group of Christians believe God created the world in 6 days but that each day was actually millions of years as time is very different for God. These Christians would be offended by the statement science is right about how the world began so religion is wrong because for them the bible proves that

35 Page35 religion is right as God created man in his image and he made them special which they cannot be if they evolved from an ape. I don t know if I believe in God as I have no real evidence that he exists and I think if he created a world it would be perfect which this one isn t, there are moving tectonic plates which have caused volcanoes and earthquakes. I understand that a lot of people do believe in God and would say they know he exists but I am not sure. However this doesn t mean that I agree with the statement science is right about how the world began so religion is wrong because these are just opinions and no one opinion is right. At the moment we cannot prove either one is right or wrong so it is always going to be down to what an individual believes or thinks.

36 Ethics exams B603: Ethics 1 Human Relationships Medical Ethics B604: Ethics 2 Religion, Peace and Justice Religion and Equality Page36

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39 Ethics 1 (B603) Section A: Religion and Human Relationships Key words: Cohabitation: When a couple live together without being married Marriage: A legally recognised relationship, established by a civil or religious ceremony, between two people. Wedding: The ceremony where a marriage is made legal. Sacrament: An event that is in God s presence, and makes us closer to him Vows: promises made between the couple getting married with God as a witness. Nuptial mass: A special service that takes place in a Catholic wedding Civil Partnership: A legally recognised relationship, established by a civil ceremony, between two people of the same sex. Divorce: The legal ending of a marriage. Annulment: a declaration that a marriage was never a proper marriage in the eyes of the church Heterosexual: someone who has a sexual attraction to people of the opposite sex. Homosexuality: The emotional and sexual attraction to members of the same sex. Celibate: Living a life with no sexual relations Chastity: abstaining from sexual activity because of religious vows, e.g. a nun or monk Contraception: chemical or physical methods used to prevent conception. Rhythm method: A couple only has sex at certain times of the month when women are least fertile. Nuclear family: A married couple with biological children Ordained: People who are accepted into the church as a leading figure e.g. priest, vicar, minister Page39

40 Marriage Marriage is important for Christians, as they believe that it is a gift from God and the ideal way to bring up a family. Some Christians say marriage is the only proper context for sexual relationships. What happens at a Christian wedding ceremony? It takes place in a church and conducted by a vicar. Why does this happen? How does this reflect Christian belief? A church is the house of God and is the Christian place of worship. The vicar will welcome everyone and remind them about the purpose of marriage for Christians. (see above). The couple exchange vows making promises to each other. E.g In sickness and in health, till death do us part The saying of vows / making of promises reflect belief that marriage should be forever. What God has joined together let man no separate. The couple exchange rings. Prayers Biblical readings Hymns The signing of the register This is a public symbol that shows the outside world that they are married. The use of a ring also reflects belief that marriage should be for ever in the same way that a ring is circular and goes on forever. At a Christian wedding prayers are said to ask God s blessing for the marriage and for the couple to have a happy marriage and be blessed with children. The couple may select Bible readings to be read at their wedding. These may include passages about love and the purpose of marriage. An example might be Corinthians: Love is patient, love is kind. The couple may select hymns to be sung at their wedding. These may be favourite hymns of the couple of hymns about love. Hymns are also a form of worship, thanking God for the union of the 2 people. This is the legal aspect of a wedding. Page40 Revision activity: Draw and label a picture of a Christian wedding ceremony. Then turn over your piece of paper and see how much you can remember.

41 Civil partnerships / Same sex marriage In 2005, civil partnerships became legal in the UK. These civil partnership services are formal ceremonies for same- sex couples giving them the same legal status as married heterosexual couples. Civil partnership ceremonies, by law, do not have any religious content to them. In 2014, same sex marriage became legal in the UK. Religious institutions can decide whether they conduct these ceremonies in their places of worship or not. In support Christian beliefs on EQUALITY suggest everyone is created equally and therefore everyone should have the same opportunities. The Quakers support civil partnerships believing that all life is special, sacred and God is within each of us irrelevant of our sexuality. Against Christians believe the purpose of marriage should be to have a family. Some Christians believe that homosexual sex is wrong (as it does not lead to pro-creation) and therefore condemn civil partnerships. Divorce and re-marriage Divorce is the legal ending of a marriage. Christians believe that marriage is a gift from God and the promises made during a wedding service show that the marriage should last until the couple are parted by death ( till death us do part ). However, some Christians accept that relationships do end and divorce is permissible, others believe that marriage is for life and divorce is not an option. Christian beliefs about divorce will also affect their beliefs about re-marriage. Re-marriage can occur in all churches if a spouse has died. Annulment - In the Catholic Church, a marriage can only be ended by an annulment. This is when it is decided that the marriage was invalid, for example if it can be shown that the vows were not meant, or if someone was already married to someone else and therefore the marriage was not real / genuine. Some Christians accept divorce / re-marriage because: It may be the most loving thing to do if there is no hope of the couple mending their relationship perhaps if abuse or adultery has occurred. Jesus taught us to forgive others, so the Church of England allows divorcees to remarry Some Christians are against divorce/ remarriage because: Jesus said; what God has joined together, let no man separate (Mark 10:9). Marriage should be forever and only God (death) can break it. The Roman Catholic Church will not recognise divorce / re-marriage as it believes that the couple are always married in the eyes of God. Page41

42 Relate is a relationship counselling service. It is not a Christian organisation, but many Christians support its work because it can help to hold marriages together. It aims to help people in their relationship and help to solve any problems. Christian beliefs about the family: Christians believe that the family is an important unit. Family members have different duties towards one another. The role of the Christian family: Bring up children in a secure and loving environment. Bring up children to know the Christian faith Supporting one another in times of difficulty The role of men and women in the family: Some Christians believe men and women should have different roles the man should be the leader and the woman should support him. The man should be the head of the family and wives should obey their husbands. This is because God made man and woman differently Others believe that men and women should be equal because they were both made in the image of God. They should share responsibilities and privileges The book of Genesis says that men and women are made equally in the image of God but also says women were made as a helper to God. The role of men and women in the Church Family: The Catholic Church The Church of England Page42 Only men can become priests and bishops. The Pope is always a man. Women act in a more supporting role giving out the bread and the wine. Why? Jesus was a man and chose male disciples. Timothy 1: I do not permit a woman to teach, she must be quiet Woman can become vicars. Since 2015, women can now be Bishops. The Archbishops must still be men. Why? Biblical teachings on equality. Reflect modern day life where men and women have equal roles. Jesus treated women with respect.

43 Sex and contraception: Christian beliefs about sex: The purpose of sex is to reproduce. Sex should happen within marriage. Some Christians believe sex can be a way of showing your love for your partner. Sex should be between a man and a woman. Christian beliefs about contraception: Contraception or birth control is a way of preventing pregnancy (and STIs). There are many different forms of contraception that may be used if a couple do not want to start a family or if they wish to control the age-gap between their children or their family is complete. These can be ARTIFICIAL methods such as condoms or the pill or NATURAL methods such as the withdrawal or rhythm method. The Church of England accepts contraception because it may be a responsible way of ensuring all children born are wanted. It also stops the transmission of STIs. This is based on teachings such as Love your neighbour as you love yourself. The Catholic Church says that the use of artificial contraception is unnatural because it interferes with God s plan. God should decide when a baby is conceived not humans. This is based on teachings such as be fruitful and multiply and Before you were born I knew you. Natural methods of contraception are allowed. However! The Pope recently said that condoms are a necessary evil suggesting that perhaps the use of condoms is acceptable to stop the spread of STIs. Revision activity: Plan answers to the following part e) questions: 1. Sex should be between a man and woman Discuss (12) 2. Contraception is immoral and should not be used Discuss (12) Page43

44 Human Relationships: Evidence Part d) and e) questions require you to use EVIDENCE to support the Christian views you put forward. EVIDENCE may come in the form of a Bible quote, a Bible story, or reference to a specific example. Topic outline The Family / Roles of men and women Marriage Purpose of marriage / marriage ceremony Evidence - There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Jesus Christ - I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man, she must be quiet - Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord - Honour your father and mother (10 Commandments) - Be fruitful and multiply - The Lord God said, It is not good for man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him. - What God has joined together, let no man separate - Love is patient, Love is kind Biblical passage often read at weddings. - The vows: Till death do us part Civil partnerships - Love your neighbour as you love yourself - Be fruitful and multiply - If a man lies with a man as one lies with a woman, both of them have done what is detestable Divorce Remarriage Sexual relationships Contraception - What God has joined together, let no man separate - Love your neighbour as you love yourself - A wife must not separate from her husband. But if she does, she must remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband - Be fruitful and multiply - Your body is a temple - If a man lies with a man as one lies with a woman, both of them have done what is detestable - Thou shall not Kill - Be fruitful and multiply Page44

45 Example Exam questions could you answer these? a) What is meant by contraception? (1 mark) b) Describe Christian attitudes to sex before marriage (2 marks) c) Explain why Christians believe the wedding ceremony to be important (3 marks) d) Explain the different attitudes to the roles of women in the Christian family (6 marks) e) Divorce is always wrong (12 marks) Discuss this statement. You should include different, supported points of view and a personal viewpoint. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. a) What is meant by the term divorce? (1 mark) b) What do Christians believe about civil partnerships? (2 marks) c) What do Christians believe about the use of contraception? (3 marks) d) Explain Christian attitudes to divorce (6 marks) e) Women should always obey their husbands (12 marks) Discuss this statement. You should include different, supported points of view and a personal viewpoint. You must refer to Christianity in your answer Exemplar answers d)explain Christian attitudes towards divorce. (6 marks) Catholics believe that divorce is completely wrong as it breaks the vows made between a couple before God, these sacred promises are meant to last until death parts them. Therefore they think remarriage is impossible as it would be considered adultery because they are technically still married. In the bible it says the man will leave his mother and father and become one flesh with his wife. Meaning that as one flesh they cannot be divided. The Church of England while disapproving of divorce because of the promises made in the wedding, understands that not all marriages work out because humans aren t perfect and if one of the couple is abused by the other it is safer for them to be apart. It is therefore up to the vicar in question as to whether, if they chose to remarry, they can be blessed by him after a civil ceremony in a registry office. More liberal Christians are more accepting, and understand that marriages fail and so will remarry couples who have been divorced. All Christians believe that the vows are said because the couple believe they will be together till one of them dies but some realise that divorce happens. Page45

46 Ethics 1 (B603) Section B: Religion and Medical Ethics Page46 Key Words: Medical Ethics: Any ethical dilemma / moral problem that comes from a medical procedure. Sanctity of Life: Christian teaching that all human life is a precious gift from God and therefore sacred. Abortion: means the premature ending of a pregnancy before the baby is born. Embryo: Early collection of cells in the early stages of development from conception up to approx. 2 nd month of pregnancy. Double effect: Aborting a baby to save the life of the moth Foetus: developing unborn baby. Euthanasia: from the Greek meaning gentle, easy death. Voluntary Euthanasia: where someone with a terminal illness ask the doctor to end their life, sometimes within a living will. Involuntary Euthanasia: ending someone s life painlessly when they are unable to ask themselves. This decision is taken by doctor or family e.g. when on a life support machine. Suicide: to end your own life. Assisted suicide: providing a person with the means to commit suicide. Passive Euthanasia: stop treating a person i.e. switch of the life support, or no longer administer drugs. Active Euthanasia: giving someone who is terminally ill a drug to end their life. Fertility Treatment: Medical procedure to help a couple conceive if they are unable to naturally. Fertilisation: when a sperm and egg fuse at conception. Infertility: Natural conception cannot be achieved IVF (in-vitro fertilization): literally in glass fertilization. A form of fertility treatment where doctors extract a couple's eggs and sperm and fuse them together to create an embryo this is then inserted into the woman s womb AID: artificial insemination from a donor. AIH: artificial insemination from husband. Egg and sperm from the couple but medical help is needed for fertilization. Cloning: Making an exact copy of a living thing Therapeutic cloning: medical procedure where single cells are taken from a person/embryo and reprogrammed to create stem cells which can be used in medical treatment. Vivisection: Testing on animals.

47 The Sanctity of Life This is the Christian belief that all life is sacred and a gift from God. All Christians believe that God created people and he created people in his image - Then God said let us make man in our own image. (Genesis 1:26) When does life begin? Your view on when life begins will probably affect your beliefs about a number of medical ethics topics in particular abortion. 1. Conception Catholics believe that life begins at CONCEPTION when the sperm fertilises the egg. Therefore an abortion at any stage is the taking of a life. 2. Viability Some people believe life begins when an unborn baby is VIABLE. This means when a baby could survive outside of the womb around 24 weeks. 3. Birth Some people think life properly begins when a baby is born. Abortion The termination / deliberate ending of a pregnancy. The Abortion Act 1967 : made legal in the UK. Only carried out with the authority of 2 doctors. Usually must take place before 24 weeks some exceptions such as the mother s life being in danger. Revision activity: List 5 reasons a woman might choose to, or be advised to have an abortions. Arguments For (Pro-Choice) Women have the right to choose whether or not they want to have a baby. If a girl has been raped it would be too distressing for her to go on and have the baby. In the early stages of pregnancy the embryo is not yet a proper life. Arguments against (Pro- life) Life begins at conception and therefore abortion is the taking of a life. We should not be able to choose to end life. The unborn baby must be protected. Page47

48 Christian attitudes towards abortion Christians are generally against abortion due to their beliefs on the sanctity of life. However some Christians will allow an abortion in some situations if it is the most loving thing to do. Catholic Church Life begins at conception and therefore every embryo / foetus has the right to life. All life is sacred. Abortion is wrong. One exception: Abortion will be allowed only if the mother s life is at risk. This is called the teaching of DOUBLE EFFECT. In this case the aim is to save the mother s life not to take the life of the baby. Church of England Generally against abortion but in some situations it can be allowed. In the case of rape or if the mental or physical health of the mother or baby is at risk they may allow an abortion. This is because it is the most loving thing do to. Revision activities: Consider your own view on this topic and then compare it to the views of the Catholic Church and the Church of England. Page48

49 Fertility Treatments Fertility treatment is medical help given to people who are unable to conceive a child naturally. This can be done through IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation) or AI (Artificial Insemination). In both cases, it may be the sperm and egg of the parents used or a donor may be used. Christian Attitudes towards Fertility Treatments For Some Christians believe that God has given humans the ability to develop medical knowledge and procedures to help in situations like infertility. Jesus healed people because he loved and was compassionate to humans. Be fruitful and multiply Against A child is a gift that is given by God and humans should not interfere in God s plan. The Story of Hannah states that God closed Hannah s womb and therefore the was not able to have children. Interfering with this process is not treating life as sacred. During the process of IVF many embryos are discarded which goes against the commandment Thou shall not Kill. Roman Catholics believe that the use of donor eggs or sperm is completely wrong as it involves a 3 rd party within the marriage which can be considered adultery. Cloning Cloning creates a genetically identical copy of either a single cell or animal or plant. The most famous example is Dolly the sheep who was cloned in Many animals have been cloned but Dolly is important as she is the first mammal to be cloned from an adult cell rather than an embryo. Different types of cloning: Therapeutic Cloning: Cloning stem cells which can help to find cures for diseases. Reproductive Cloning: The cloning of whole organisms such as Dolly the sheep. Page49

50 Christian Attitudes towards Cloning: For Some Christians believe that God has given humans the intelligence for this kind of scientific advancement so we should use it. Therapeutic cloning can lead to cures and therefore might be considered a loving thing to do. Against Life is sacred and gift from God and therefore should not be messed with or created in this way. Only God gives life and only God takes it away. Euthanasia: Literally meaning good / easy death / also known as assisted suicide. Might be voluntary (the person s choice) or involuntary (The decision would be made a Dr. or family member). Voluntary euthanasia is illegal in the UK. However it is legal in some other countries. For example there is a clinic in Switzerland called Dignitas where you can pay for someone to help you to die. Some Christians are against Euthanasia: Many Christians are against euthanasia because they believe life is a gift from God. They believe only God has the right to take life and God will choose the right time for someone to die. This ANIMAL is based TESTING on teachings on The Sanctity of Life and Thou shall not kill. Many Christians believe suffering can bring people closer to God because when they are in pain they may turn to God. Some Christians argue that the Hospices are an alternative as they provide dying people with the chance to end their lives with dignity and without pain. Page50 Some Christians are for Euthanasia: Some Christians believe that in some situations to help someone to die to end their pain is the most loving thing to do. This is based on Jesus teachings on compassion. Some Christians like the Quakers feel euthanasia should be allowed if a person requests it and their illness is incurable. They believe this because of the principle that God gave humans free will.

51 Hospices Some Christians think an alternative to euthanasia is going to a hospice. Hospices are places where people who are terminally ill can go to live permanently, or for short breaks. Hospices give medical treatment to help people live with dignity and without pain until their lives come to a natural end. They provide counselling and support, to help patients and their families prepare for death. Suicide Historically people who committed suicide were not buried in church graveyards. Today, whilst Christians believe suicide is wrong because life is a gift from God, they do not condemn people who feel they cannot continue to live. Christians might recommend that someone seeks help from their vicar or THE SAMARITANS - a 24-hour listening service run by volunteers. Many Christians support the Samaritans either with their time or by giving donations. Revision activity: Research the Good Samaritans. Find out what they do, how they began. Which Biblical story does the organisation take their name from? Page51

52 Animal Testing Animal testing (Vivisection) is carried out for both medical research and testing for cosmetics and skin products. Christian attitudes towards animal testing Most Christians believe that is it ok within reasonable limits to use animals for medical research that will benefit humans. This is because they believe that animals do not have a soul and therefore are inferior to humans. They also believe that humans have DOMINION over the animals this is shown when Adam and Eve name the animals. However, other Christians believe that all of God s creatures should be treated equally as both humans and animals are both created by Him. Furthermore humans were given STEWARSHIP to look after God s creation and this includes animals. Page52

53 Medical Ethics: Evidence Part d) and e) questions require you to use EVIDENCE to support the Christian views you put forward. EVIDENCE may come in the form of a Bible quote, a Bible story, or reference to a specific example. Topic outline Evidence Sanctity of life - God made man in his image - Thou shall not kill - Before I formed you in the womb I knew you Abortion - You shall not kill - Before I formed you in the womb I knew you - Love your neighbour as you love yourself Fertility Treatment - Thou shall not kill - Be fruitful and multiply - The Story of Hannah: Hannah had no children, because the Lord had closed her womb - Love your neighbour as you love yourself Cloning - Thou shall not kill - For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my Mother s womb - The Sanctity of Life - Love your neighbour as you love yourself Euthanasia/suicide - There is a time to be born and a time to die - Thou shall not kill - Your body is a temple - Love your neighbour as you love yourself - There is a time to live and a time to die Animal Testing - The earth is the lord s and everything in it - Dominion: Rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air - And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul Page53

54 Example Exam Questions Could you answer these? a) What is meant by abortion? (1) b) State two reasons why some Christians might oppose human cloning. (2) c) Describe Christian attitudes towards someone who is attempting suicide (3) d) Explain Christian attitudes towards the use of animals in medical research (6) e) All life is worth living. Discuss this statement. You should include different, supported points of view and a personal viewpoint. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. (12) a) What is euthanasia? (1 mark) b) Describe Christian teachings on suicide. (2 marks) c) What does Christianity teach about fertility treatment? (3 marks) d) Explain Christian attitudes to abortion. (6 marks) e) It is wrong to use animals for medical research (12 marks) Discuss this statement. You should include different, supported points of view and a personal viewpoint. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. Exemplar answers d) Explain Christian attitudes towards abortion (6marks) In general Christians are against abortion as it goes against the commandment You shall not murder. Abortion also goes against the Christian belief that all life is sacred and a gift from God (The Sanctity of Life) suggesting another reason why Christians might be against abortion. Christian attitudes towards an abortion might be based on their beliefs about when life begins. For example, Catholics believe life begins at conception (as soon as the embryo is formed) and therefore an abortion at any stage is taking away a life and is murder. The only situation in which a Catholic would agree with abortion is if the mother s life is at risk this teaching is known as double effect. However, the Church of England teaches that abortion might be ok in some circumstances. For example if a young girl has been raped then an abortion might be considered the most loving thing to do. This attitude is based on the idea that Jesus taught that people should Love your neighbour as you love you self. Therefore some Christians might allow an abortion if it is a situation where they would like to be shown the same compassion. Page54

55 e) Every woman has the right to have a baby. Discuss this statement. You should include different, supported points of view and a personal viewpoint. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. (12) One of the purposes of a Christian marriage is for the couple is to have a family. Having a baby is considered to be the natural result of the couple s sexual union. In biblical times if a couple did not have a baby then this was considered to be the will of God. The following quote from the Old Testament shows this Hannah had no children... because the Lord had closed her womb. The key question is therefore if a couple are unable to conceive a baby naturally, whether other means to have a baby are acceptable such as fertility treatment, adoption or surrogacy. The Roman Catholic view is that babies are a gift from God and therefore that a woman does not have the right to have a baby. It is God who decides whether this will happen. Roman Catholics do not approve of any form of fertility treatment with intervention e.g. IVF or donor eggs and condemns any procedure that involves conception without sexual intercourse. They do not believe that couples have a right to children. Roman Catholics do approve of childless couples adopting children. Other Christian churches, such as the Church of England, do believe that intervention to assist with conception is the most loving way to behave. They see this helps to create further human life and saves couples from the unhappiness of being childless if they want a family. There are lots of different types of intervention, but the general Christian view is that it is acceptable as long as the husband s sperm and the wife s eggs are used. Some types of interventions such as donor eggs or donor sperm may therefore not be acceptable to Christians. There is also the issue of what happens to any spare embryos and whether they can be disposed of. My own view is that it is not a right for a woman to have a baby. Babies are not a possession like a house or car. Whilst I think that every woman should have the right to choose if they want to try for a baby, it is a natural process and some people will simply not be able to have babies even with fertility treatment. It is sometimes argued that some people, examples include handicapped, older women or gay couples should not automatically have the right to be able to have a baby. At the extreme this could mean actually preventing some people from naturally conceiving (e.g. by sterilising them). Less extreme, would be to refuse intervention methods of fertility treatment to some couples. My own view is that that fertility treatment on the whole is good and has helped millions of couples to have children. However, as a society we do need to make sure that the methods used are ethically sound. For example, there have been some interesting legal cases around the ownership of frozen eggs following a divorce or death of one of the couple. Page55

56 Ethics 2 (B604) Section A: Religion, Peace and Justice Key Words Crusades: military expeditions fought from the 11 th -13 th centuries when Christians gathered under a Holy banner to fight to regain Jerusalem and the Holy land. Holy war: war which is fought over religious issues by people who believe it is what God wants. Just War: a war fought according to particular conditions. Agape: selfless love, taught by Jesus. Conscientious objectors: people who refuse to join the armed forces because of their beliefs. Pacifism: belief that all acts of violence are wrong.. Deterrence: when a punishment is designed to persuade others not to do the same thing. Protection: when a criminal is put in prison to keep the public safe. Reform: punishment which allows the criminal to become a better person. Retribution: when the criminal is punished to bring a sense of justice to the injured party. Capital punishment: death penalty. Liberation theology: the movement which helps the poor who are oppressed by social injustice. (Mainly in South America). Social Injustice: unfair treatment of people in society (can be racism, ageism, poverty, sexism etc.) Amnesty International: Organisation that helps to protect individuals in jail who may face the death penalty or may be being treated unfairly. Page56

57 Christian beliefs about War: Christians are divided on whether it can be right to fight. Some believe it can be right depending on the circumstances, others believe it is never right to fight. Both groups support their views by referring to the Bible. Christian teaching in support of war: Holy wars: The Crusades are examples of holy wars as the Christians believed God wanted them to retake the Holy Lands and particularly Jerusalem from the Muslims The Just War Theory who rules it. For some Christians this shows that God supports war. The Just War Theory is a set of rules that can be used to decide whether or not a war was fair or just. They were first proposed by Thomas Aquinas (A Christian thinker). He said that if a war met all of these conditions it was fair / just to fight. The rules are: 1. The war must be started / declared by the proper authority. (The King / Queen or government). 2. There must be a good reason. 3. There must be a reasonable chance of success. 4. The war must be the last resort. 5. Only sufficient force must be used to achieve the aims. Revision activities: Consider the details of WW2. Would this war be considered a just war according to The Just War Theory. Christian teaching against of war: War often involves the taking / loss of life this goes against the commandment - Thou shall not kill. Jesus said Blessed are the Peacemakers CONSCIENTIOUS OBJECTORS Some Christians during the war refused to fight and refused to take part in the front line aspect of war. Page57

58 Christian beliefs about violence and pacifism: Violence is the use of physical force to cause damage to someone or something. Pacifists believe that violence is always wrong and that there are better ways to deal with conflict than violence. They may use non-violent protests such as demonstrations, boycotts and non-cooperation. People who refuse to fight are called conscientious objectors some refuse to take part in any wartime duties; others perform other duties such as driving ambulances. Martin Luther King was a Christian pacifist and used peaceful protests to fight for black civil rights in the USA. Some Christians are pacifists because: Some Christians are not pacifists because: Many of Jesus teachings seem to support pacifism. Jesus said blessed are the peacemakers Christians believe humans were created in God s image so we shouldn t use violence against others. Turn the other cheek There is evidence of Jesus using violence: Pushing the tables over the in the temple. Violence might be the most loving thing to do if it helps someone / saves a life. Sometimes violence may be the only way to solve a problem e.g. self defence Quakers (the Society of Friends) is a Christian church, which started in the 17 th century. Quakers are committed to pacifism because they believe there is a spark of God in everyone and we should try to use this to resolve conflict. Quakers believe in using truth, love and cooperation to resolve conflict. Page58 Revision activities: Create a glossary of key terms and definitions using the following words: WAR, VIOLENCE, PACIFIST, CONSCIENTIOUS OBJECTOR, PEACEFUL PROTEST

59 Punishment Christians hold many different views on how and when it is right to punish people. In general, Christians believe in loving and forgiving everyone, even their enemies, however they also believe that people should be punished for their crimes. The aims of punishment: 1. Deterrence to stop other people committing the same crime 2. Retribution to pay the criminal back for the crime ( Eye for an eye for an eye) 3. Protection to protect society from the criminal 4. Reformation to make the criminal a better person. Christian teachings about punishment - People should be punished according to their crime Eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth. - Society must be protected from dangerous criminals Love your neighbour. - God is loving and forgiving and therefore criminals should still be treated as part of God s creation. Christian beliefs about the treatment of criminals can also be seen through the work of Elizabeth Fry: - Quaker (type of Christian) - PRISON REFORMER went in to prisons and fought for better conditions. - Quakers believe that all people are equal and should be treated with respect. Page59

60 Capital Punishment Capital Punishment (the death penalty) is illegal in the UK but it is still used in many other countries including some states in America. Christians have mixed views on Capital Punishment and The Bible can be used by Christians to support or argue against the death penalty. Some Christians are in favour of the death penalty because: In the Old Testament there are some teachings that say some crimes should be punished by death. For example Eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth suggests if you take a life your life should be taken. Christians believe God is just and fair and people must be punished for their sins. Some Christians are against the death penalty because: The death penalty does not include the chance for forgiveness which Christians believe is very important. The 10 commandments states Thou shall not kill The Church of England and the Quakers are against capital punishment. Revision activities: Plan an answer to the part e) question: If you take a life you deserve to have your life taken Discuss (12). Introduction: Your view: Another view: Christian view: Christian view: Page60 Conclusion:

61 Social Injustice Christians believe that all human beings are valuable because they were made in God s image. The UN declaration of human rights says that everyone should be treated equally and without prejudice, and that people should be able to expect a fair trial. No one should be tortured or kept in prison without good reason. People should be free to hold whatever opinions they feel are right. Because of this, many Christians work to fight against injustice. Martin Luther King (Baptist) fought against social injustice in USA. He fought for Black Civil Rights using peaceful protests and speeches. His most famous speech is I have a dream. Oscar Romero (Catholic) was part of the Liberation Theology movement which believes that Christians have a duty to fight against opression and injustice. Liberation theologians believe it is wrong for Christians to stand by and do nothing when people are being denied their basic human rights. Oscar Romero was a Roman Catholic priest and bishop of El Salvador. He spoke out against the corrupt government in his country which opressed the people. Many people had been tortured and killed for opposing the government. Romero was killed for speaking out against the government. Amnesty International is not a Christian organisation, but many Christians put their beliefs into action by supporting its work. It campaigns to free people who are imprisoned for their beliefs, to abolish unfair treatment of prisoners and opposes human rights abuses. It works by setting up letter-writing and publicity campaigns and protests to make people aware of human rights abuses. Page61

62 Religion, Peace and Justice: Evidence Part d) and e) questions require you to use EVIDENCE to support the Christian views you put forward. EVIDENCE may come in the form of a Bible quote, a Bible story, or reference to a specific example. Topic outline Evidence War / Just War Theory - Thou shall not kill - Bless are the peacemakers - The Just War Theory (Thomas Aquinas) - Eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth Violence and pacifism - Blessed are the peacemakers - Love your neighbour as you love yourself - Turn the other cheek - The peaceful protests of Martin Luther King Justice - The parable of the sheep and the goats - Righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne The aims of punishment Protection / Reform Retribution - Love your neighbour as you love yourself - Eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth The treatment of criminals Capital Punishment (Death Penalty) Page62 - I will punish you as your deeds deserve - The work of Elizabeth Fry (Quaker) - The Lord s Prayer: Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. - Thou shall not kill (Against) - Eye for an Eye Tooth for a tooth (For) - Whoever kills a man must be put to death (For) Social Injustice - The work of Martin Luther King (Baptist Christian) - Liberation theology - The work of Oscar Romero (Catholic) - God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them - There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Jesus Christ

63 Example Exam Questions Could you answer these? a)what is capital punishment (1) b)give two of the conditions for a just war (2) c)describe Christian views on the aims of punishment. (3) d)explain how Christians might respond to social injustice. (6) e) Criminals should be punished, not forgiven. Discuss this statement. You should include different, supported points of view and a personal viewpoint. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. (12) a) What is meant by a Holy war? (1) b) Give two reasons why a Christian might be a pacifist. (2) c) Describe what is meant by the Christian concept of a Just War [3] d) Explain how a Christian would respond to war (6) e) Sometimes there is no other way to solve a problem except by violence Discuss this statement. You should include different, supported points of view and a personal viewpoint. You must refer to Christianity in your answer [12] Example Exam Questions d) Explain Christian beliefs on the treatment of criminals (6 marks) One Christian belief about the treatment of criminals comes from their beliefs about forgiveness and compassion. Because of this Christians believe that criminals should be forgiven for what they have done and treated compassionately. This is based on Jesus teachings on forgiveness and his commandment - Love thy neighbour as you love yourself. However, Christians also believe that criminals should be punished but that punishments should be fair and criminals should be treated well. An example of a Christian demonstrating this belief is Elizabeth Fry, a Quaker who fought for criminals to have decent living conditions in prisons. Christians also believe punishment should aim to reform the criminal. This means that criminals are given the chance to reflect on and improve their behaviour. Therefore Christians would encourage workshops which help criminals in prison to learn new skills and teach them how to behave. They would also support community service. Some Christians believe that the aim of punishment should be retribution. This means that the punishment given should fit the crime and the criminal should pay the price of what they have done. This belief is influenced by teachings from the Old Testament which state an eye for eye (Exodus 21) this literally means that if an eye is taken and eye should be given, and shows Christians that a punishment should fit the crime. This could be interpreted as meaning that if somebody takes a life then they should have their life taken, supporting capital punishment. Page63

64 Ethics 2 (B604) Section B: Religion and Equality Key terms: Equality: To treat everybody the same regardless of any consideration Prejudice: Prejudging or thinking things about people without knowing them Discrimination: acting on your prejudices e.g. not giving someone a job because they are female or disabled, unfair treatment of one person or a group. Stereotype: saying all members of a group are the same e.g. all year 8 boys are badly behaved. Racism: To judge, or treat, somebody differently because of the colour of their skin or race. Sexism: To judge, or treat, somebody differently because of their sex, whether they are male or female. Reconciliation: To repair a broken relationship Missionary work: Where Christians spend time encouraging others to join their faith. This may be done alongside helping people whilst showing and sharing the message of God. Inter-faith dialogue: Discussion between two people or groups from different faiths. Ecumenism: the breaking down of barriers between Christian denominations. Evangelism: the idea that all Christians should go out into the world and convert people. Forgiveness: the act The of teachings pardoning below or can forgiving be applied someone to many for issues in something they have done wrong. Convert: The change somebody s religious beliefs. The parable of the Good Samaritan Jesus told the story of a man who had been beaten up and left t. Christians believe that all humans are created equally and therefore should be treated equally. This is supported by a number of Biblical teachings: God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. Genesis 1:27 Page64 There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor freeman, male nor female; you are all one in Christ Galatians 3:28 You shall love your neighbour as yourself. Matthew 22:39 Forgive and you will be forgiven Luke 6:37

65 Martin Luther King was a Christian minister in America. He put his Christian beliefs into action by fighting against racism. He led a protest, which began when a black woman, Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat to a white man on a bus. MLKs protest was non-violent because he tries to follow the teachings of Jesus. He said: I have a dream that my four children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the colour of their skin but by the content of their character. Trevor Huddleston was an Anglican Bishop who fought against apartheid in South Africa. He saw how the black people in South Africa were treated unjustly and believed that as a Christian and a priest he had a duty to change the system. He spoke out against other Christians who were not trying to end injustice and fought politically against the South African government. Christian attitudes towards gender - Many Christians believe men and women are equal and should have same rights when it comes to jobs and roles this is due to the Biblical teachings listed above. - Other Christians believe that men and women have different roles, although these roles are equal. Page65 Christians believe both men and women are made in the image of God and physical differences do not matter Eve was created as a helper for Adam some Christians believe this means women should help men in life. Many Christians believe in traditional roles of men and women in the family, the man as the leader and wage earner and the woman as the wife and mother. The roles are considered to be of equal value. The role of men and women in the Bible traditional values are shown in the Bible. Jesus treated women with respect. Men and women are seen as equal in the eyes of Christ.

66 The role of women in the church Why? The Catholic Church Only men can become priests and bishops. The Pope is always a man. Women act in a more supporting role giving out the bread and the wine and visiting the sick on behalf of the church. Jesus was a man and chose male disciples. Timothy 1: I do not permit a woman to teach, she must be quiet The Church of England Woman can become vicars. Since 2015, women can now become bishops. The Archbishops must still be men. Why? Biblical teachings on equality. Reflect modern day life where men and women have equal roles. Jesus treated women with respect. Christian attitudes towards other religions Christians hold different views about how they should treat other religions. 1. Some Christians believe that Christianity is the only true faith and all other religions are untrue. They believe that they have a responsibility to tell other people about their beliefs. Some Christians who believe this would choose to work as missionaries in other countries to teach people about Christianity. (Sometimes called Evangelical Christians) 2. Other Christians believe that there are different paths to God and that we should all try to work together and accept each other s beliefs. Ecumenism: This is the belief that although there are lots of different denominations (subgroups) within Christianity it is important to remember that Christianity is one church and it is important to unite as one. Page66 Inter Faith dialogue: Many Christians believe that it is important for people from different faiths to have discussions about their religion as a way of understanding each other s beliefs. It is so important that on October 20 th 2010 the United Nations passed a resolution that the first week of February of every year will be the World Interfaith Harmony Week between all religions, faiths and beliefs it encourages the spread of the message of interfaith harmony and goodwill in the world s Churches, Mosques, Synagogues, Temples and other places of Worship during that week.

67 Forgiveness and Reconciliation Christians believe God forgives those who repent (this means they are sorry for what they have done). The forgiveness of humans is possible because of Jesus death and resurrection. Christians believe because God forgives them they should forgive the sins of others. The parable of the lost son Jesus told the story of a son who leaves home taking his inheritance with his. After spending all his money and falling on hard times, the son returns home. His father is so pleased to see him that he does not question him, just accepts his return. Christians believe that God forgives everyone who returns to him. Page67

68 Equality: Evidence Part d) and e) questions require you to use EVIDENCE to support the Christian views you put forward. EVIDENCE may come in the form of a Bible quote, a Bible story, or reference to a specific example. Topic outline Evidence Equality - There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Jesus Christ - Love your neighbour as yourself Racism - There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Jesus Christ - God created man in his own image - The Story of The Good Samaritan - Love your neighbour as you love yourself Sexism / Attitudes towards women - God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them - There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Jesus Christ - I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man, she must be quiet - It is not good for man to be alone I will make a helper for him Attitudes towards other religions - My brothers, as believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, don t show favouritism - There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Jesus Christ - I am the way and the truth and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through me. - The work of missionaries such as William Carey. Forgiveness and Reconciliation - The Lord s Prayer: Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. - If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive our sins - The Catholic practice of confession. - The Parable of The Lost Son Page68

69 Example Exam questions Could you answer these? a) What is meant by reconciliation? (1) b) Give 2 examples of racist behaviour (2) c) Describe Christian beliefs about other religions(3) d) Explain Christi./an teachings about equality (6) e) Women should stay at home while the men go out to work Discuss this statement. You should include different, supported points of view and personal viewpoint. You must refer to Christianity in your answer (12) a) What is meant by equality? (1) b) What do Christians believe about reconciliation? (2) c) Describe Christian beliefs about equality. (3) d) Explain Christian teaching about the role of women in society. (6) e) Men and women are not equal. Discuss this statement. You should include different, supported points of view and personal viewpoint. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. (12) Example answers d) Explain Christian teachings about equality (6 marks) Christians believe in the equality of all people. This is because Christians believe that everyone is created in the image of God (Genesis) which means everybody was created in the same way. Another reason Christians may believe that everybody should be treated the same is because of the following Bible quote: There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. This quote tells Christians that all humans no matter their religion, race or sex are seen as the same in the eyes of Jesus. Christians also believe in equality because Jesus taught that people should love your neighbour as yourself. This quote tells Christians that they should love and treat other people as they would like to be treated, promoting equality. Some Christian teachings could be interpreted as not supporting equality, for example some Christians believe that men and women have different roles in the family and that women should be a helper to men. Also, some Christians teachings suggest that Christianity is the only true religion thus suggesting people from other religions are not equal. Page69 d) Explain Christian teaching about the role of women in society. (6 marks) Most Christians believe that women s role in society is equal to the role of men. This is based on Christian beliefs in equality. For example Christians may believe that men and women should have equal opportunities to have the same jobs and roles in society because of the following Bible quote: There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. (Galatians)This quote states that it doesn t matter whether you are male or female - Jesus views all people as equal. Christians also

70 believe that women should have an equal role to men because we are all made in the image God (Genesis). However other Christians might believe that it is a women s role to help men in society because Eve is created as a helper for Adam in the Bible. This may mean that a woman should fulfil traditional role as a house wife and mother. Christians may also look to the roles of women in the Bible as guidance to the role of women today such as Ruth and Deborah as strong women. Although some Christians may believe a woman s role in society is different to a man s these roles are still considered to be equal. e) Everyone is entitled to their own view on religion and no one should try to make you change your mind. Discuss this statement. You should include different, supported points of view and a personal viewpoint. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. (12 marks) This statement is suggesting that a person s religious belief is something that they are entitled to decide on and that people should not try to convert or persuade others to their own belief. I agree with this statement because I believe that somebody s religion is something that is personal to them and something that someone should have the right to make their own decisions about. I understand that religious people want to share their views with other people and sometimes they might find it difficult not to try and change others people s minds but ultimately I think they should respect other people s beliefs. I also think that somebody shouldn t just become religious because somebody tells them to; I think it is something that everybody should really think about and make their own mind up about. Some Christians would agree with this statement and say that everyone is entitled to their own view on religion and that everyone can choose their own path to God and that Christianity is just one of these paths. Most Christians would also agree that ultimately it is up to the individual to choose to believe in Christianity and that the decision to enter into a relationship with God is not one that can be made by someone else. However other Christians may disagree with the 2 nd part of this statement and say that it is important for Christians to try and change people s views on religion. These Christians are called evangelical Christians and they believe it is their mission to share their faith with other people. Some Christians who believe this try to convert other people to their faith, directly disagreeing with the statement. Some Christians may believe that Christianity is the only true path to God and that other people s views of religion are wrong however this does not mean they think that people are not entitled to their view just that they believe any other view is wrong. Some Christians believe everyone is entitled to their opinion and their own view on religion and show this by the importance they place on inter-faith dialogue. Christians believe that these discussions between different religious groups and individuals are an important way of learning to understand and respect different attitudes towards religion. Page70

71 Page71 e) All people must be treated equally discuss this statement. You should include different, supported points of view and a personal viewpoint. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. (12 marks) Paul wrote in his letter to the Galatians that all people were equal in Christ. Many Christians believe this to mean that all people are equal and should be treated equally, not just Christians. Some Christians have taken this statement to mean that only Christians should be treated equally. However it does say in Genesis that God made man in his own image which suggests that people should all be treated fairly and equally and the United Nations was formed to try to ensure that people all had the same rights and could be treated equally. In fact the majority of Christians and non-religious people would probably agree with the statement and would work to try to ensure people are treated equally. In the past the churches have been guilty of not following the statement and it was only in 1994 that the Church of England allowed women to become priests, the Roman Catholic Church still does not allow women to be priest which is unfair as today we believe any job can be done by any sex (even women as football referees!) Many Christians such as Martin Luther King and Desmond Tutu have worked to ensure that black people in their countries were treated equally; they believe that everyone deserves to be treated equally because Jesus told the story of the Good Samaritan to show that people should be treated as we would like to be treated. It could also be argued that it is not possible to treat everyone equally if we mean that everyone has to be treated the same because some would argue that because of disabilities someone may need more help in their lives. Some may also say that criminals such as murders and paedophiles do not deserve to be treated equally. I am not a Christian and therefore the teachings of the Church and Bible do not matter to me. However, I think that one of the most important human rights is that all people should be treated equally and I also think that there is a need to give special help to people such as the disabled who might otherwise not have the opportunity to be equal.

72 Page72 Mark schemes for part d) and part e) questions: