LESSON CONTENT AND REVISION BOOKLET FOR PAPER 1: A STUDY OF RELIGION

Transcription

1 GCSE RELIGIOUS STUDIES EXAM BOARD: AQA Name: Class: LESSON CONTENT AND REVISION BOOKLET FOR PAPER 1: A STUDY OF RELIGION CHRISTIANITY AND ISLAM This booklet contains information sheets, exam questions, practice assessments and exam guidance for exam paper 1 on Christianity and Islam. You will need this booklet every lesson. Keep it safe. Christian Beliefs Christian Practices Islamic Beliefs Islamic Practices The Nature of God Types of Christian Worship The Oneness and The Five Pillars of Islam Supremacy of God God as Omnipotent, The Importance of Prayer Sunni and Shi a Islam The Mosque Loving and Just The Oneness of God and the Holy Trinity The Role and Meaning of Sacraments Nature of God in Islam Ten Obligatory Acts of Shi a Islam Creation Baptism Angels Salah and Sawm the Shi a Aspect The Incarnation of Jesus, the Son of God Holy Communion Predestination Zakah, Khums and Hajj in Shi a Islam The Crucifixion of Jesus Pilgrimage and Festivals Life After Death Jihad Resurrection and Ascension Role of the Church Food Banks and Street Pastors Prophethood and Adam The 7 th, 8 th, 9 th and 10 th Obligations Resurrection and Life Mission, Evangelism and Prophet Ibrahim Eid Ul Fitr and Eid Ul Adha After Death Church Growth Afterlife and Judgment The Worldwide Church Muhammad and the The Festival of Ashura Imamate Heaven and Hell CAFOD S Response to The Quran World Poverty Sin and Salvation Islamic Holy Books The Role of Jesus Christ in Salvation

2 Section One: Christian Beliefs Lesson 1: The Nature of God Keyword: Monotheistic: a religion that believes there is only one God. Denomination: a distinct group within the Christian faith, with its own organisation and tradition. E.g. Catholic, Protestant, Methodist Christianity as a world faith 1. 1/3 of the world population claim to be Christian. 2. It is split into different denominations. The Catholic Church is led by the Pope in Rome. Henry VIII started the Church of England Church when he was king in the sixteenth century. There are now various other Churches today such as Baptist and Pentecostal. 3. The 3 main branches today are Catholic, Orthodox (mainly in Eastern Europe but not entirely) and Protestant. Beliefs about the nature of God Beliefs about the nature of God Even though there are different branches of Christianity in terms of their lifestyle and practices, their belief in God is all the same. Christians believe there is one God who creates and sustains all life. God works through history and guides and inspires people for the good of all people. The first of the Ten Commandments that Christians should obey is: I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. You shall have no other Gods before me. Exodus 20:2-3 [NIV] Many Christians refer to God as He and Father, this does not mean they believe that God is male. God is thought to exist without the restrictions of gender, sharing both traditional ideas of male and female characteristics. Describing God is very difficult. God is sometimes pictured in the sky in a human form but Christians do not believe God has a physical human body. The Bible says that God is a spirit (book of John) and, in the book of Luke, it is written that a spirit does not have flesh and bones. However in Hebrew 1:3, it says that Jesus was God s son, and is the exact representation of God on earth. Exam Questions: Explain two contrasting ways that God is described in Christianity. (4 marks) Explain two Christian beliefs about the nature of God. Refer to scripture or sacred writings in your answer. (5 marks) WHAT SCRIPTURE IS IMPORTANT FROM THIS PAGE? WHAT DOES THIS SCRIPTURE MEAN? Page 2

3 Section One: Christian Beliefs Lesson 2: God as omnipotent, loving and just Keyword: Omnipotent: almighty, having unlimited power; a quality of God Benevolent: all-loving, all-good; a quality of God Justice: bringing about what is right and fair, according to the law, or making up for a wrong that has been committed God as omnipotent: In order to be the perfect Supreme Being, it is important that God is omnipotent. This means all powerful with unlimited authority there is nothing God cannot do or achieve. In the Bible, the angel Gabriel answered Mary when she questioned her forthcoming pregnancy: Nothing is impossible with God. Luke 1:37[NIV] Most traditional images show God s omnipotence in terms of physical power and strength, it also consists of power and authority to do good. This is how Christians often interpret omnipotence. God s omnipotence is benevolent. God as loving The idea that God is loving is very important for Christians. They believe that because God loves humans, God wants what is best for them. They believe that God created humans because he is all loving and desired to bestow his love upon creatures. This encourages Christians to love each other in their daily lives by treating everybody with care and respect. God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16[NIV] God as just With unlimited power and authority, together with total love, God is believed to be the perfect giver of justice. This not only included deciding on right and wrong but also being the perfect judge of human character. As the ultimate source of justice, God will never support injustice, ill-treatment, prejudice or oppression. Therefore, Christians should do all they can to prevent these wrongs wherever they encounter them The problems of evil and suffering Many people question why a loving God would allow people to suffer, rather than prevent the evil actions of others from happening. Christians believe that a just God treats all people fairly and is incapable of making a wrong judgment. Therefore, Christians are sure that they can trust God when things appear to be going wrong. Exam Question: Explain two qualities which Christians believe describe the nature of God (4) WHAT SCRIPTURE IS IMPORTANT FROM THIS PAGE? WHAT DOES THIS SCRIPTURE MEAN? Page 3

4 Section One: Christian Beliefs Lesson 3: The Oneness of God and the Trinity Keyword: Trinity: There are three persons in the One God; the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit are all separate but are also one being. Holy Spirit: the third person of the Trinity. Christians believe this is the inspiring presence of God in the world. Son of God: a title used for Jesus, the second person of the Trinity, showing the special relationship between Jesus and God the Father. The Oneness of God shown through the Trinity Christians believe in One God, Christianity is a monotheistic religion The Trinity helps Christians to understand the true oneness of God by analysing the three persons, which are all God. God can be seen as one in three and three in one, all at the same time. God is a supreme being and his Godly presence is understood through the Trinity. One person in the Trinity did have a physical presence (The Son) but God himself is not a physical being this is to help us know how special Jesus is to God. The three persons of the Trinity Christian Baptism and the Trinity: There is only one God and each person is fully God The persons of the Trinity are not the same God the Father is the first person, showing God to be omnipotent, omnibenevolent, omniscient and omnipresent The Lord s Prayer begins with Our Father in Heaven, which shows that God the Father is the creator of the Earth and the only one true God The Son of God is the second person, and refers to God showing himself and his powers through a physical body. Christians believe Jesus was fully human and also fully God. After Jesus died, the third person the Holy Spirit was sent to earth to influence and guide everyone I baptise you in the name of the father and of the son and of the holy spirit. Amen. this is known as the Trinitarian formula. Why do some people challenge the idea of the Trinity?- Some Jews and Muslims and other faiths say Christians believe in tritheism, which is the belief of three Gods Other non-religious people like Richard Dawkins say that the Trinity makes no sense at all and that it is all made up from old fashion habits and out of date thinking. Some believe the three persons contradict the idea of one God and that it is too difficult for humans to understand. Exam Questions: Explain the Christian belief in the Trinity. (4 marks) Christians believe in three Gods, not one. Evaluate this statement. (12 marks) WHAT SCRIPTURE IS IMPORTANT FROM THIS PAGE? WHAT DOES THIS SCRIPTURE MEAN? Page 4

5 Section One: Christian Beliefs Lesson 4: Creation Keyword: Transcendent: beyond space and time, controlled by neither Creation: the act by which God brought the universe into being The word: term used at the beginning of John s Gospel to refer to the Son of God Christian beliefs of Creation: God created the world and all living things on the earth (creation story - in Genesis Chapter 1) Many believe the story is not scientifically accurate, but it presents religious truth. The story explains the process of creation, being God s choice and that God designed and caused it to happen. God created through his word (is this because he is transcendent?) In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the spirit of God was hovering over the waters. And God said, let there be light, and there was light Genesis chapter 1 verse 1 This quote includes the most important part of the story for Christians Demonstrating the power of God the creator (often called God the father) and that everything was created good The creation is believed to have happened in six periods of time (days) after which God rested on the seventh day. The role of the spirit Some Christians have questions regarding this story: Did creation take six days? Had days been created? How could something spiritual create something physical? However the belief that God is the creator, a role that continues today with the start of each new life is central to their faith. God s word Most scholars agree that the word refers to God the Son, who entered history as Jesus. This shows that not only the Holy Spirit was involved in Creation, but also God the Son. The whole of the Trinity were involved in Creation and have therefore existed since the beginning. Existing alongside each other God the father the creator God the Son The word The Holy Spirit Hovering over the waters In the beginning was the word, and the word was with God and through him all things were made John 1 v1-3 Exam Questions: Give two ways in which the Trinity was involved in the Creation of the earth (2 marks) Explain two Christian beliefs of the Creation story (4 marks) WHAT SCRIPTURE IS IMPORTANT FROM THIS PAGE? WHAT DOES THIS SCRIPTURE MEAN? Page 5

6 Section One: Christian Beliefs Lesson 5: Incarnation of Jesus, the Son of God Keyword: Incarnation: becoming flesh, taking a human form. Resurrection: Rising from the dead. Jesus rising from the dead on Easter day. Blasphemy: A religious offence which includes claiming to be God. The incarnation For Christians the details of Jesus birth (the circumstances surrounding it and where it happened etc.) are not as important as the fact that Jesus was God in human form. 2 of the Gospel writers (authors of books in the Bible) Matthew and Luke say that he was born without Mary having sex, but do not give any information about the actual birth of Jesus. The important thing for them is that he is the Son of God. People question how Jesus could have been born when Mary was a Virgin because it s not natural. However, this is evidence of God incarnate for Christians- God made flesh in human form, fully God yet fully human and therefore God the Son as part of the Trinity. It is a fundamental Christian belief that through incarnation God showed himself as a human being for around 30 years. Son of God Another gospel writer, John, is more concerned with the meaning of Jesus birth rather than his conception and birth. The word became flesh and made his dwelling among us John 1:14. John explains that the word is the Son of God- part of the Trinity. This makes it clear that God was in the flesh as a man. Christians call Jesus Christ. In Greek Christ= Christos which means anointed one, which in Hebrew means Messiah. Jews believed long before Jesus was born that God would send a special leader to save people. However, they don t believe that this person is Jesus but Christians do. Key Quotes that show Jesus was the Son of God You are my Son (Mark 1:11). This was said from heaven when Jesus was baptized. When asked if he was the Son of God when he was on trial for his death he responded with I am (Mark 14:61b). This is important as he previously said that no one should call him that as it could be blasphemy. Exam Questions: Explain 2 reasons why Christians believe that Jesus is the Son of God. Refer to scripture or sacred writings in your answer. (4 marks) Which of the following means becoming flesh, taking a human form: A) Incredible B) Incapable C) Inedible D) Incarnate (1 mark) WHAT SCRIPTURE IS IMPORTANT FROM THIS PAGE? WHAT DOES THIS SCRIPTURE MEAN? Page 6

7 Section One: Christian Beliefs Lesson 6: The Crucifixion of Jesus Keyword: Crucifixion: 1. Roman method of execution by which criminals were fixed to a cross. 2. the execution and death and Jesus on Good Friday. Jesus crucifixion: One of the most detailed stories from the whole of Jesus life is the account of how he died. He was sentenced to death by Pontius Pilate, the Roman Governor, and his death was to be by crucifixion. Even though Christians believe that Jesus was the Son of God, it does not mean that he was in some way spared the pain and horror of his crucifixion. Not only was he fully God, he was also fully human, and had the same feelings as anybody else. According to Luke s version of the story, possibly told to him by people who were there, Jesus forgave the guards who crucified him because they did not realise the significance of what was going on. He also had conversations with the two men who were crucified with him, promising one of them that soon he would join God in paradise. Finally, after around six hours on the cross: Jesus called out with a loud voice, Father, into your hands I commit my spirit. When he had said this, he breathed his last. Luke 23:46 [NIV] One of the Roman centurions in charge of the crucifixion praised God and acknowledged that Jesus had been a righteous man who had done nothing to deserve being crucified. According to Mark 15:39, he said: Surely this man was the Son of God! Mark 15:39 [NIV] The impact of the crucifixion for Christians today There are several ways in which the crucifixion affects Christians today. It gives them the confidence that if they accept Jesus sacrifice, sin can no longer destroy their lives because God forgives those who faithfully ask for forgiveness. They believe that suffering is a part of life, just as it was a part of Jesus life and that, having also experienced it, God understands what the sufferer is going through. Jesus is buried Once Jesus was dead, and the Roman guards had made sure that he was, a man called Joseph asked for the body of Jesus so he could bury it. Joseph was a member of the Council that had pressed for Jesus to be crucified but he had himself disagreed with it. As there was insufficient time to bury Jesus properly because the Sabbath day of rest and religious observance was due to start, he laid the body of Jesus in a cave-like tomb and rolled a large stone to block the entrance Exam Questions: Explain two ways in which a belief in Jesus crucifixion influences Christians today (4 marks) The crucifixion is more important to Christians than the resurrection. Evaluate the statement (12 marks) WHAT SCRIPTURE IS IMPORTANT FROM THIS PAGE? WHAT DOES THIS SCRIPTURE MEAN? Page 7

8 Section One: Christian Beliefs Lesson 7: Resurrection and Ascension Keyword: Resurrection: rising from the dead. Christians believe Jesus rose from the dead on Easter day. Ascension: When Jesus returned to God in heaven 40 days after he resurrected. Heaven: a place and state of eternal happiness and peace ruled over by God. Biblical Quotes about the Resurrection and Ascension: 1. The angel said to the women (Mary Magdalene), Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen. Matthew 28: 5-6 (NIV) 2. When he had led them out to the vicinity of Bethany, he lifted up his hands and blessed them. While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up into heaven. Luke 24: (NIV) The Resurrection of Jesus: The Ascension of Jesus: After Jesus was crucified, his body was placed in a tomb, so he can be buried soon after. When some women went to bury the tomb more than a day later, they discovered that his body was missing. Jesus appeared after this in front of witnesses, and he told them that he rose from the dead. Important for Christians because the resurrection is evidence of the divine and powerful nature of Jesus The story of the resurrection is described in four gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John). The belief in both the resurrection and the ascension of Jesus is down to individual faith and interpretation. Some Christians believe that if Jesus has the power of God to rise from the dead and resurrect, then he also has the power to physically leave earth and return to heaven which is known as the ascension of Jesus. The four stories all have similarities and differences in the story. All four say that Mary Magdalene was one of the women who discovered that the body was missing. For Christians, the ascension shows that Jesus is with God and this is comforting for them in many ways. Christians believe the resurrection shows the power of good over evil. Christians try to live life without the fear of death because they believe they will also resurrect after death and live an eternal life with Jesus Christians believe that Jesus died for everyone s sins to be forgiven and that his resurrections reassures them of this. For Christians, the ascension is important and significant because it paves the way for the coming of the Holy Spirit to provide comfort and guidance. It reassures believers that they too will be united with God and Jesus in heaven. Exam Questions: Explain two ways in which belief in the resurrection of Jesus influences Christians today. (4 marks) Jesus resurrection is a lie Evaluate this statement. (12 marks) WHAT SCRIPTURE IS IMPORTANT FROM THIS PAGE? WHAT DOES THIS SCRIPTURE MEAN? Page 8

9 Section One: Christian Beliefs Lesson 8: Resurrection and Life After Death Keyword: Resurrection: To rise from the dead Ascension when Jesus was taken up to heaven as his resurrection Resurrection of Jesus The background According to the New Testament, a man named Joseph was given permission by Pilate to have Jesus body taken down from the cross and handed over to him for burial. Jesus was buried in a rock tomb, but the women who accompanied Joseph could not take care of the body because the Sabbath was about to start. (The Sabbath is the Jewish day of rest, when Jews are not allowed to work) A huge bolder was rolled across the entrance to stop animals from entering. The women returned as soon as it was light on the Sunday to do this work, only to discover that the stone was rolled to one side. The Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) all agree that the body was no longer there and the women had been told that Jesus had risen. According to Mark, a young man in white told them this and said that they were to return to Galilee where they would meet the risen Jesus. John says she returned to the disciples and told them she had seen him. Matthew, Luke and John s Gospel give accounts of Jesus appearing during the next 40 days to his disciples and to other believers. The stories all emphasis the physical nature of Jesus appearance (not just spirit) Christian beliefs of resurrection Some believe a person s soul is resurrected very soon after death occurs Some believe that everyone will rise for judgment day Catholics believe that the resurrection will include the body, people will receive their old bodies but without suffering. The ascension Why is the resurrection important to Christians? The ascension The 40 th day after the resurrection Luke s Gospel ends with the ascension of Jesus, where he is taken up to heaven. Showing that the resurrection stage is now complete. The belief in Jesus resurrection is a central element to their faith Christians interpret resurrection from the dead as the ultimate proof that he is the Son of God Showing God s triumph over evil and death. Exam Question: Explain why Christians believe in the resurrection of Jesus. 5 marks WHAT SCRIPTURE IS IMPORTANT FROM THIS PAGE? WHAT DOES THIS SCRIPTURE MEAN? Page 9

10 Section One: Christian Beliefs Lesson 9: The Afterlife and Judgment Keyword: The Afterlife Afterlife: What Christians believe follows life on earth. Day of Judgment: a time when the world will end and every soul will be judged by God and rewarded or punished. Christians believe that human beings receive eternal life as a gift from God, and so a belief in the afterlife is for Christians is dependent on a belief in God. The afterlife either begins upon death or at the Day of Judgement when Jesus will come again to judge the living and the dead. At this time Christians believe their souls enter a different dimension about which little is known. The Apostles Creed (a statement of Christian belief which dates to around 400CE but is still very important today) contains the following beliefs: He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father, he will come to judge the living and the dead: I believe in The resurrection of the body; and the everlasting life The Apostles Creed Judgement- The Parable of the Sheep and the Goat Christians believe that it is God who decides the fate of those who die. God will consider the life of the person and the extent to which they have tried to get close to him, by following the teachings and the example of Jesus. Jesus told a story (a parable) which was recorded in Matthews gospel that contains a description of God at work in judgement. When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne in heavenly glory. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. Then the King will say to those on his right, Come, you who are blessed by my Father, take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was ill and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me Matthew 25:31-36 The passage goes on to say the goats did the opposite and so they will be punished for that. This passage gives Christians a good idea about the criteria God uses in judgement and shows what they need to do to be saved. Jesus makes it clear that in serving other people, Christians are serving him. Christians also believe that simply treating other people well is not enough to guarantee a good afterlife. They believe Jesus is the Son of God and following his teaching is also important. Exam Questions: Explain two ways in which believing in Judgement Day might influence Christians today. (4 marks) Explain two Christian teachings about judgement. Refer to scripture or sacred writings in your answer. (5 marks) WHAT SCRIPTURE IS IMPORTANT FROM THIS PAGE? WHAT DOES THIS SCRIPTURE MEAN? Page 10

11 Section One: Christian Beliefs Lesson 10: Heaven and Hell Keywords: Heaven: a state of eternal happiness in the presence of God; the place of eternal peace ruled over by God. Hell: the place of eternal suffering or the state of being without God. Purgatory: the intermediate state where souls are cleansed in order to enter heaven. Satan: name for the Devil the power and source of evil. Heaven Traditional paintings of heaven show it is beyond the clouds and where God sits on a huge throne, surveying the earth with angels flying around. It is seen as a place of peace, joy and freedom from pain, and a chance to be with friends and family who are already in heaven. Whether this is a physical or spiritual existence is unclear. Christians may have different beliefs about who will be with God eternally. Some believe that only those who believe in Jesus will be with God in heaven Others believe it is for all those who call themselves Christians regardless of how they live their life, and that simply the act of being baptised into the faith is almost a guarantee into heaven. Others think that heaven is reserved for Christians and perhaps followers of other faiths who have lived good, principled lives and pleased God in doing so. All Christians believe that God will forgive sins and this will enable people to approach God s presence. The Parable of the Sheep and Goats does seem to indicate that it is a reward for both faith and actions only one is insufficient. Hell Hell is often seen as the opposite of heaven. Christians understand it to be a state of existence without God. It is often shown in paintings to be a place of eternal suffering, terror, fire and torture ruled by the Devil (Satan). It is pictured as a fiery pit somewhere beneath the earth. Does this mean that non-christians go to hell if heaven is reserved for Christians? This would appear to be very unfair and, as Christians believe God is incapable of being unfair, may believe that all those who believe in God and try to follow him will be accepted by God and be welcomed eternally into his presence. There is great debate about whether a loving God would condemn people to eternal torment and pain. If this is not the case, perhaps a more modern interpretation is that hell is an eternal state of mind of being cut off from the possibility of God. This would be what awaits a person who throughout their life did not acknowledge God or follow his teachings. Judgement in Jesus teaching A number of Jesus parables relate to judgement. The parable of the rich man and Lazarus (Luke 19:1-31) warns that ignoring the needs of others may have eternal consequences. Another parable is that of the sheep and the goats (Matthew 25:31-46). The message is that on judgement day, some will be rewarded with heaven for helping others, whilst others are sent to hell because they did not. Exam Questions: Explain two ways in which belief in heaven and hell influences Christians today. 4 marks The existence of hell does not fit with a belief in all-loving God Evaluate this statement. 12 marks WHAT SCRIPTURE IS IMPORTANT FROM THIS PAGE? WHAT DOES THIS SCRIPTURE MEAN? Page 11

12 Section One: Christian Beliefs Lesson 11: Sin and Salvation Keywords: Sin: Any action or thought that separates humans from God. Behaviour that goes against God s laws Original sin: An Augustine Christian doctrine that says everyone is born with a built in urge to do bad things and disobey God Salvation: Brought about by Jesus and means saving the soul, set free from sin and entering heaven Grace: A quality of God which He shows to humans by providing love and support humans do not need to earn this Forgiveness: Showing grace and mercy and pardoning someone for what they have done wrong Atonement: Restoring the relationship between people and God through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Mass: Ceremony, also called the Eucharist, in which the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus is celebrated using bread and wine Origin and Meaning of Sin: Christians believe in original sin and that human beings are born with an in-built tendency to do wrong and bad things Christians believe all humans commit sins. Nobody is perfect and so it is impossible not to sin Original sin was first found in the story of Adam and Eve (Genesis 2:4-3:24) Adam and Eve lived in paradise. God instructed Adam and Eve not to eat the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. A serpent appeared and tempted them to take the fruit and Adam and Eve disobeyed God and took the fruit. The consequence was to be removed from paradise and be separated from God. This is known as The Fall. Adam and Eve realized they had sinned and this awareness of sin and knowing when you have done wrong is now shared by all humans descended from Adam and Eve. Sin is any action or thought that goes against God s wishes, God s laws or against the principles of morality of God Sinful thoughts can lead to sinful actions Many sinful actions are illegal and some are legal but according to Christianity, they are still wrong (e.g murder = illegal/sin, adultery = legal/sin) Messages from the story of Adam and Eve: The serpent that tempted Eve represents Satan (devil) Christians accept the existence of temptation that may lead to actions that displease God Some Christians believe temptation is so difficult to resist that Satan is behind temptation as it is the devil who always tries to get people to disobey God Christians believe God gave everyone free will and they can choose how they live their lives but they should use it wisely and not just do whatever they want Guidance in Christian teachings helps to allow Christians use their choices and free will wisely, such as the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-19) Salvation: In Christian belief, to receive salvation allows Christians to have an eternal life with God, free from the consequence of sin Two main ways that salvation (the soul being saved) can come about: - Salvation through good works the Old Testament makes it clear that a person achieves salvation by having faith in God and obeying God s law - Salvation through grace salvation is given by God through faith in Jesus. This type of salvation is not earned or deserved but is a gift from God for the faithful (Ephesians 2:8-9) Sin separates humans from God, salvation allows them to get close to God again God s grace is the free gift of help that is given through the Holy Spirit. So, Christians believe that we need God s grace in order to be saved. Exam Questions: Explain two Christian teachings about the means of salvation. Refer to sacred writings in your answer. 5 marks As nobody is perfect, it is impossible not to sin Evaluate this statement. 12 marks WHAT SCRIPTURE IS IMPORTANT FROM THIS PAGE? WHAT DOES THIS SCRIPTURE MEAN? Page 12

13 Section One: Christian Beliefs Lesson 12: The Role of Jesus Christ in Salvation Keyword: Forgiveness Showing grace and mercy and pardoning someone for what they have done wrong Atonement Restoring the relationship between people and God through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Mass Ceremony, also called the Eucharist, in which the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus is celebrated using bread and wine The role of Jesus in Salvation The book of Romans in the New Testament is believed to have been written by Paul, around 25 years after Jesus was crucified. This was written to explain that salvation is offered through the life and teachings of Jesus. Christians believe that Jesus death makes up for the original sin committed by Adam and Eve and so can bring people back to God. The crucifixion was the result of human evil set against an innocent man. As Son of God, Jesus could easily have avoided being crucified. While he was being crucified, some people shouted to him that he should use his powers to get down from the cross. However, he knew that his death was necessary to restore the relationship between God and believers and make the opportunity for salvation (saving the soul) available to all people. Jesus resurrection Jesus resurrection three days after his death shows Christians that death has been defeated and that the goodness of Jesus had defeated the evil of sin. So Christians believe that through Jesus death and resurrection, humans can receive forgiveness for sin and are able to get close to God and will receive eternal life. The fact that Jesus rose from the dead shows that God accepted Jesus sacrifice as atonement, which means that Jesus restored the relationship between God and Humanity. Jesus made salvation possible because God will now forgive anybody who asks in faith. Christians believe that this is why God came to earth in the form of Jesus and that it demonstrates the importance of following his teachings Atonement The bible makes clear, atonement removes the effects of sin and allows people to restore their relationship with God. This is only possible because Jesus atoned for the sins of mankind when he died and rose again. Scriptures If anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world 1 John 2:1-2 Exam Questions: Name two Christian beliefs that are remembered at Mass. (2 marks) Explain two ways in which the death of Jesus is important. (4 marks) WHAT SCRIPTURE IS IMPORTANT FROM THIS PAGE? WHAT DOES THIS SCRIPTURE MEAN? Page 13

14 KNOWLEDGE QUESTIONS OF SECTION ONE CHRISTIAN BELIEFS: 1. What is the importance of Christianity as a world faith? 2. What are key beliefs about the nature of God in Christianity? 3. What is a monotheistic religion? 4. What are the qualities of God and to what extend can they be found in humans? 5. What is the problem of evil and suffering in relation to the qualities of God? 6. What is the concept of the Oneness of God in Christianity? 7. What is the concept of the holy trinity in Christianity? 8. What conflicting ideas are there about this? 9. What is the role of God in creation? 10. What are the key aspects of belief in creation? 11. What does Jesus is an incarnation of God mean? 12. What evidence is there from the bible that Jesus is the son of God? 13. What are the key details about Jesus crucifixion? 14. What is the impact of Jesus crucifixion on Jesus today? 15. What are the key points of the story of resurrection and ascension of Jesus? 16. Why are these stories important to Christians? 17. What are the different Christian beliefs about the afterlife and judgement? 18. What effect would these views have on Christians? 19. What are the Christian beliefs about the origin and nature of sin? 20. What effect does sin have on salvation? 21. What is the role of Jesus crucifixion and resurrection in salvation? 22. What is the idea of atonement in salvation? PRACTICE ASSESSMENT ON CHRISTIAN BELIEFS: 1.Which word means becoming flesh, taking a human form? (1 mark) A. Transcendent B. The Word C. Incarnation D. Omnipotent 2. Name two Persons of the Trinity. (2 marks) 3. Explain two Christian beliefs about the nature of God. (4 marks) 4. Explain two Christian teachings about the creation of the world. Refer to scripture or sacred writings in your answer. (5 marks) 5. Jesus death is more important than his resurrection. Evaluate this statement. (12 marks) You should: Refer to Christian teaching. Give developed arguments to support this statement. Give developed arguments to give a different point of view. Reach a justified conclusion. Page 14

15 Section Two: Christian Practices Lesson 1: Types of Christian Worship Keyword: Worship: The feeling or expression of adoration for a deity. Liturgical Worship: Liturgical worship is a Church service that follows a set structure or ritual. Liturgical services often take place in a church, but sometimes can be outside or in a person s home if they are sick. This type of worship is found in services in Roman Catholic and some Church of England churches. Some of the features include having a set structure, the use of set and often very old prayers and set readings. The passages from the Bible are often read out and the Priest will do specific actions which have specific meaning to the service. There will often by hymns sung by a choir. Some Christians prefer a liturgical service as it makes them feel secure as they know exactly what to expect in the service. Non-Liturgical Worship: Non-Liturgical worship is a service that does not follow a set text or order. Some Christians prefer an informal style of worship. It s often in a church but can be anywhere they feel the need to pray. They think that set orders and rules stop people from being able to worship in their own style. Methodists and Baptist often have a non-liturgical service which suits their own theme. Sometimes it involves clapping and dancing. Some Christians believe that this worship comes from the heart and some worshippers speak in tongues (outbursts of praise which no one can understand but is seen as a devotion to God). Quakers have a special type of non-liturgical service where there is no leader or set structure at all. They sit in chairs around a table with a Bible in the middle in silence until someone feels the need to say something. Private Worship: Private worship is when a believer praises or honours God on his or her own. It allows people to spend time with God alone. It may be liturgical in structure (have a set routine) but is conducted often within their own home without a priest or someone leading the service. Those travelling may also worship alone in private on buses, trains or even planes. The Rosary is a string of beads (like a necklace) with a crucifix attached which people often use to help them worship alone. They say different prayers while touching each bead. Christians often meditate using a picture (often of Jesus) to help them to focus on what they are doing. Exam Questions: Explain the use of two types of worship for Christians. (5 marks) Liturgical worship is the best type of worship for Christians Evaluate this statement. (12 marks) SUMMARISE THE INFORMATION ON THIS PAGE INTO FIVE BULLET POINTS: Page 15

16 Section Two: Christian Practices Lesson 2: The Importance of Prayer Keyword: Prayer: An address or communication with God. Set Prayer: Prayers that have been written down and said more than once by more than one person. Informal Prayer: Prayer that is made up by an individual using his or her own words. One type is arrow prayers, short prayers addressed to God in an urgent time of need, e.g. Help me God. The Hand of Prayer: Prayer is not all about asking God for things. For Christians it is about listening, being open to God s guidance and falling in line with his plan. Christians may pray for five main reasons: Praise- The basis of all Christian prayer (thumb) Thanks- A Christians whole life should be an act of thanks (second finger) For Self- this should be the last thing that Christians pray for (last finger) Sorry- Confession to God (first finger) For Others- committing yourself to another (third finger/marriage finger) Informal Prayer: Some Christians may prefer informal prayer because this means that they can say what they want to God in exactly the way they want to say it. This might help them to feel closer to God in the way that they are having a conversation with him. Set Prayer: Set prayers are usually read directly from the Bible and may help worshippers if they are unsure what to say. The Lord s Prayer: BENEFITS (of Lord s Prayer): PROBLEMS (of Lord s Prayer): Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be your name, Your kingdom come, Your will be done On Earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread, Forgive us our sins, As we forgive those who sin against us And lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one. Matthew 6:9-13 Jesus taught his followers how to pray by giving them the Lord s Prayer. Helps people with words to say if they may find praying out loud difficult. Gives a sense of unity to the congregation. Does not allow individuals to express themselves in their own way. May be out-dated Sometime arrow prayers are more suitable: short prayers addressed to God in an urgent time of need, e.g. Help me God. Exam Question: Explain two types of prayer for Christians (5 marks) SUMMARISE THE INFORMATION ON THIS PAGE INTO THREE BULLET POINTS: Page 16

17 Section Two: Christian Practices Lesson 3: The Role and Meaning of Sacraments Keyword: Sacrament: A holy ritual that outwardly expresses inner spiritual experiences. A sign of something that cannot be seen come from the word sacred, bringing people closer to God. Sacraments: The Protestant traditions generally acknowledge only the two sacraments of Baptism and the Eucharist. Roman Catholics, Orthodox Christians and some Anglicans recognize seven sacraments; baptism, confirmation, the Eucharist, reconciliation, healing, marriage and ordination. Baptism: Baptism is the first sacrament. Babies are usually baptised but adults are able to be baptised as well. They are welcomed into the church family. Water and special oils are used on the baby s head. The candidate is immersed in water, or water is poured over the candidate's head. Becoming a member of the Church of Christ (Christian Initiation); also being forgiven of one's sins. Confirmation: Confirmation is similar to a baptism where the person makes promises. This time the person chooses to make these promises themselves. The person making their confirmation chooses someone to stand for them, just like they had Godparents at their baptism. The same oils are used at the confirmation as were used at the baptism. A very important person in the church called the Archbishop comes to the ceremony. Laying on of hands (the bishop lays his hands on the head of the confirmed). Being strengthened by the Holy Spirit; being "confirmed" in the fullness of the Christian faith. Eucharist: The sacrament of the Eucharist is also known as Holy Communion. Everybody dresses in smart clothes, the girls wear white dresses and boys wear suits. Children prepare for their Holy Communion in school but the sacrament takes place in church, again this is usually followed by a party At a Holy Communion children are allowed to have bread and wine in church for the first time. The bread and wine are blessed by the minister and received/shared by the communicants. Being spiritually nourished by Christ's body and blood; being united ("in communion") with Christ and other believers. Reconciliation: Reconciliation is the sacrament of forgiveness. During this sacrament Christians say that they are sorry for the bad things that they have done by confessing their sins. To prove that they are truly sorry, the person has to say a penance and try not to sin again. The individual confesses his sins, expresses remorse, and proposes improvement; the confessor speaks the words of absolution (forgiveness) Being forgiven of one's sins; being reconciled to God the Church, and other people. Healing/Anointing of the Sick: This is usually the last sacrament a Christian can have and is given to people who are very sick and will probably die. Sometimes a sick person receives this sacrament and gets well again. The sacrament of the sick is normally given to a person in hospital or in their bed at home. The priest or vicar goes to their house. In the sacrament of the sick a person is again forgiven for their sins so that when they die they are happy. The minister massages the sick person s forehead and hands with blessed oil Being strengthened in time of illness. Marriage: The sacrament of marriage or matrimony is when two people get married. The couple are joined together and their relationship is blessed by God. The bride wears a white dress and the groom wears a suit The husband and wife make these promises to each other publicly. (Rings are exchanged as a visible sign of this verbal commitment). Being united in God's eyes; becoming a publicly and legally recognised couple. Ordination/Holy Orders: Holy order is sacrament only taken by some people. This is when they want to work for the church. The priest or vicar, promises to devote their whole lives to the God and often do not even have families. The bishop lays his hands on the ordinand's head; he also anoints his hands and performs several other symbolic gestures. Becoming a member of the "ordained" clergy, the church's official leadership "orders". SUMMARISE THE INFORMATION ON THIS PAGE INTO FOUR BULLET POINTS: Page 17

18 Section Two: Christian Practices Lesson 4: Baptism Keyword: Baptism: Sacred act to welcome a person to the Christian faith. The Baptism of Jesus: John the Baptist was Jesus cousin. He led a simple life. He was a preacher and told others to ask for forgiveness for the things they had done wrong. He wanted to help people to change their lives so that they could become like a brand new person inside, so that they could have a fresh start at life. John continued to preach and baptise people until one day Jesus came to be baptised. John did not know what to say, how could he baptise the saviour of the world? John said to Jesus, You should be baptising me I cannot baptise you lord. Jesus replied It is important that I do this now, I am ready and want to be an example to others and show them that it is important So John did as Jesus wanted, He baptised Jesus in the River Jordan. He placed his hand on his back and laid him down into the water till He was covered and brought him back up. Just as Jesus was baptised, the sky opened up and the gospels say the Holy Spirit came in the form of a white dove some Christians believe this literally happened. The white dove now represents the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit. (wisdom, understanding, knowledge, wonder and awe, reverence, right judgment, courage) Jesus then told his disciples Go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them this was done in the name of the Holy Trinity and marked the initiation into the Christian faith right from the start. All Baptist services uses water to cleanse away sin and a church minister uses the Trinitarian formula: I baptise you in the name of the father and of the son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Christians believe that no-one is perfect and due to the actions of Adam and Eve, everyone is born in original sin. Baptism cleanses this original sin. There are many references to baptism in the Bible and shows that being baptised is a sign to show we are all equal and united before God. Baptism welcomes people into the Christian faith, leaving behind an old life of sin and looking forward to an eternal life of faith. Biblical verses: Just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the father, we too may life a new life (Romans 6:4) You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus (Galatians, 3:26) Infant Baptism: The parents make the decision and promise to raise the child in the Christian faith. Baby is baptized using a font filled with water, parents promise to raise the child in the Christian faith. It is expected that there will be a confirmation in the future when the child is old enough. God parents are appointed- they promise to guide and care for the baby. Roman Catholic and Anglican Churches pour water three times over the baby s head. Orthodox churches immerse the naked baby totally in the font, whereas Protestant and Anglican traditions dab water on the baby s forehead and sign the cross. Believers Baptism: The person chooses to be baptized as a teenager or as an adult. Going into the water ends the old life of sinthe person is tipped back into water, coming out symbolizes the new life as a Christian. Person is totally immersed in water in a large tank, river or swimming pool. The Baptist and Pentecostal churches only practice believers baptism, there are no God parents needed. The person gives testimony, which is a statement about their faith and why they want to be baptised, showing declaration and a lifelong dedication to Christianity. Exam Questions: Explain two types of baptism in Christianity. (4 marks) Explain why Jesus baptism is important. (5 marks) SUMMARISE THE INFORMATION ON THIS PAGE INTO THREE BULLET POINTS: Page 18

19 Section Two: Christian Practices Lesson 5: Holy Communion Keyword: Holy Communion: Service of thanksgiving in which the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus are celebrated using bread and wine. Holy Communion: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me. In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me. For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord s death until he comes. 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 Orthodox Church: Known as the Divine Liturgy, the communion service aims to recreate heaven on earth and take place on the alter. The Church is filled with candles an incense to help people feel God s presence. It is broken into two parts: Liturgy of the Word: The service includes Bible readings, a sermon, and prayers, before the procession of the Gospel/Bible through the Royal Doors. The cherubic hymn is sung, to bring everyone present into the presence of the angels around God, then the bread and wine are carried through the Royal Doors. In The Orthodox Church bread and wine symbolises the body and blood of Jesus. Liturgy of the Faithful: The priest enters through the Royal Doors and selects one loaf which has been backed by the congregation. Behind the doors the priest repeats Jesus s words from the last Supper. Part of the bread is consecrated to be given to the congregation, (present in the body of Christ). The priest comes through the doors to give the bread and wine to the people who come forward. At the end of the service, a;; those present may take home to share with others the fourth consecrated piece of bread. Baptised members receive the consecrated bread and wine, given from a silver chalice (cup) on a spoon. The Anglican Church: Known as Mass, the ceremony starts with a greeting from the priest and prayers of penance. The communion ceremony is broken into two parts: Liturgy of the Word: There are three readings form the Bible as well as a psalm, and a homily (a type of sermon). People say prayers for the church, the world, the local community, the sick and the dead. Liturgy of the Eucharist: The priest and congregation give a sign of peace to each other (a handshake). Offerings of bread and wine are brought to the alter. The priest blesses the offerings using the words of Jesus from the Last Supper. The people say the Lord s Prayer. The priest blesses the people and sends them on their way. Non-Conformist Churches (also known as The United Reformed Church) And Protestant Churches: Often much simpler than Orthodox or Catholic churches. In other denominations a person must be Baptised, however here they may only need to be a church member. Begins with prayers and thanksgiving. In the United Reformed Church the bread and wine symbolises the body and blood of Jesus. Prayers for the world and particular people in need. The minister reminds the people of the last supper. He blesses the bread and wine saying This is my body, this is my blood. There is an open table so anyone who wishes can come forward and take some bread and wine, those that do not come forward are simply blessed. The wine is given in individual glasses, rather than a chalice. There is a prayer of thanksgiving and the congregation are encouraged to go and serve God. Dependent on the Church, hymns may also be sung, a prayer will certainly be said in addition to the Lord s Prayer. The Catholic Church: Known as Mass, the ceremony starts with a greeting from the priest and prayers of penance. The Catholic Church believes the bread and wine literally become the body and blood of Jesus. The communion ceremony is broken into two parts Liturgy of the Word: Worshippers confess their sins to God, and forgiveness is given. There are three readings from the Bible as well as a psalm, and a homily (a type of sermon). People say prayers for the church the world the local community the sick and the dead. Liturgy of the Eucharist: Offerings of bread and wine are brought to the alter. The priest blesses the offerings using the words of Jesus from the Last Supper, whilst the bread and wine are consecrated. The priest and congregation give a sign of peace to each other (a handshake). The people say the Lord s Prayer. The congregation stand before the Priest to receive the bread which may be placed on their tongue or in their hands. There is a post Eucharist prayer, followed by a blessing and dismissal by the Priest. Page 19