3.2.3.3 Self, Death And Afterlife - Eschatology, Parousia and Judgement Flashcards
What is meant by the Kingdom of God?
The term has used by the Church to mean Christian lifestyle, a method of world evangelisation, the rediscovery of charismatic gifts and many other things.
List some interpretations of the Kingdom of God
Origen in the third Century - Jesus himself represents the Kingdom
Origen - the Kingdom represents the hearts and minds of the faithful and the pursuit of Christian teachings.
Eusebius in the fourth century - the Kingdom represents the Christian Church composed of the faithful.
Define eschatology
The part of theology concerned with the final events of history and the ultimate destiny of humans. The “end of time”
List two pieces of evidence for eschatology in the Bible
“My kingdom is not of this world” (John 18:36)
“Inherit the kingdom prepared for you” (Matthew 25:34)
Define parousia
An ancient Greek work meaning presence or arrival. It is used in Christian theology to refer to the second coming of Christ at the end of time.
How do parousia and eschatology link?
The second coming of Christ will happen at the same time as the eschatological end of time. With Jesus’ death and resurrection, eternal life and salvation will be made available to all Christians. Through living a good life, Christians believe that Jesus will return again and bring with him and everlasting Kingdom of God.
Why is Judgement important to Christians?
Judgement at the of a Christians life provides a purpose to their current life on earth. In order to prepare for judgement, Christians will therefore follow Jesus’ teachings in order to live good lives.
What is particular Judgement?
Particular judgement is judgement for each person on an individual basis. It is at this point that God will decide whether the person should enter heaven, hell or purgatory.
List Catholic proofs for particular judgement.
“Each will be rewarded immediately after death in accordance with his works and faith.” The Catechism
“Immediately after death the eternal destiny of each separated soul is decided by the just judgement of God.” The Catechism
“For we must all appear before the judgement seat of Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:10)
What is purgatory?
A catholic belief in a place where people go, temporarily, after death to be cleansed of sin before they are fit to live with God in heaven for eternity
List Catholic proofs for purgatory
“After death they undergo purification so as to achieve holiness” The Catechism
“He himself will be saved but only as one escaping through the flames.” (1 Corinthians 3:15)
What are the problems with purgatory?
The idea of purgatory fails to recognise that Jesus’ death was sufficient to pay the penalty for all of our sins.
