Christianity 4 ABC Flashcards

Question

Outline 3 reasons why abortion would be allowed:

Answer 1

Abortion would be allowed if the mother's life is in danger if she continues with the pregnancy. Secondly, it would be allowed if there is a risk that the baby may be severely disabled. Abortion is allowed under the premise that there is a risk to the mother's or another child's mental or physical health if the pregnancy proceeds.

Answer 2

Christains may say that we cannot be sure that life begins at conception so no life is being ended. They may argue that in cases of rape abortion may be the kindest thing to do. Abortion may be the best option if the mother's life is at risk.

Answer 3

The foetus is created in the image of God, so the sanctity of life applies to it as well as it is special to God God has a plan for every human life, and every human being has the right to life Abortion is murder, which is forbidden in the Bible

Answer 4

The Catholic Church and most evangelical Protestants are pro-life. This means they oppose abortions on the grounds that life is sacred. They may argue that life begins at conception - the moment when the sperm fertilises an egg. Furthermore, they believe that every human being has the right to life, and that humans are forbidden from committing murder, and as abortion is murder, abortion is wrong. The Catechism of the Catholic Church says: “Human life must be respected … from the moment of conception”. However, some more liberal Christians would say they are pro-choice. This means they are for abortion taking place. They may argue that Jesus taught his followers to act with love and compassion, and furthermore, denigrate the sanctity of life as being preserved with no abortion because religion sometimes allows the sanctity of life to be broken, such as during war.

Answer 5

Some non-religious people argue that abortion is based on situation ethics. The circumstances decide whether it is acceptable. For example, a severely disabled baby will not have a good ‘quality of life’ and thus it is cruel to bring such a baby into the world. The British Humanist association says that “abortion can be needed as a last resort”. Other non-religious people argue that the woman should have the right to choose what to do with her own body. They argue that access to safe and legal abortion services is essential for ensuring women's bodily autonomy and reproductive freedom.

Answer 6

Some proponents of abortion restrictions base their arguments on secular principles of human rights and personhood. They contend that human life begins at conception or at some point during foetal development, and therefore, the unborn foetus should be afforded legal protections against harm or destruction. From this perspective, abortion is viewed as the taking of an innocent human life and a violation of the unborn child's rights. Every foetus has the potential for life, thanks to medicine. Others may argue that adoption is an alternative to abortion. The baby could be happy with a different family.

Answer 7

Some Christians, especially Catholics, believe that life begins at conception; this is because in the Bible God says to Jeremiah, "I knew you before you were in the womb." This therefore means that abortion would be considered murder. These Christians also believe in the sanctity of life which states that all life is holy, including a foetus' life, so only God has the right to end the pregnancy. If a human had an abortion they would be playing God and it would be seen as murder.

Answer 8

God created humans in his image so all human life should be protected and the foetus is a child (and has a soul) from the first moment of conception as shown by the example of Mary’s visit to Elizabeth showing that Jesus was present in his mother’s womb from the moment of conception.

Answer 9

Some Christians think that abortion may not always be wrong, it depends on circumstances. For example, a severely disabled baby will not have a good ‘quality of life’ and thus it is cruel to bring such a baby into the world. The Church of England states about abortion: “there can be conditions under it may be morally preferable” Another argument is that the decision should be the mother’s as it is her body and only she will know if she can cope. Iin the case of rape, a woman may feel unable to continue with the pregnancy in terms of risk to the life or health of the mother outweighs consideration given to the rights of the baby. 4.5-Life After Death:

Answer 10

The Bible promises an afterlife If God is eternal, and he created life to have purpose and significance, then surely he would want human beings to continue to live beyond the grave The resurrection of Jesus is a guarantee of life after death for all those who believe in him

Answer 11

One reason are remembered lives, where people claim to be able to remember a past life A second reason is the paranormal, where some people including spiritualists believe there is a spirit world beyond the physical where spirits of the dead live on and can be contacted through a medium A third reason is logic - it is logical to believe in life after death as life can’t logically be all there is

Answer 12

The Bible teaches about the immortality of the soul through Jesus saying to the robber who was crucified with him, that he would see him in paradise. Belief in judgement comes from passages such as the Parable of the Sheep and Goats. The belief of the resurrection of the body is taught when St Paul says that bodies of the dead will become resurrected bodies.

Answer 13

The Bible promises an afterlife. Christians consider the BIble to be the literal “word of God”, and therefore is the truth. Ephesians says: “And God … seated us with him in the heavenly realms”. The resurrection of Jesus is a guarantee of life after death for all those who believe in him. This means that once death happens, an individual will also become resurrected as per the Day of Judgement.

Answer 14

The resurrection of Jesus serves as a model and assurance for Christians of their own bodily resurrection. Christians believe that just as Jesus was raised from the dead in bodily form, so too will believers be raised to new life in resurrected bodies. The Apostle Paul emphasises this connection in Corinthians, where he describes Jesus as the “firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep”, indicating that his resurrection guarantees the resurrection of all believers. By identifying with Christ in his death and resurrection, Christians anticipate sharing in his victory over sin and death, including the transformation of their mortal bodies into immortal, glorified bodies at the time of resurrection. The resurrection of Jesus affirms the continuity of identity between his earthly life and his resurrected existence. Christians believe that Jesus' resurrection involved the transformation and glorification of his physical body, rather than the creation of a completely new body. This understanding suggests that bodily resurrection entails the renewal and restoration of the physical body, rather than its abandonment or replacement. In Luke, “Jesus appears to his disciples” in his resurrected body, demonstrating his physical presence by eating with them and inviting them to touch his wounds.

Answer 15

One divergence among Christians concerns the timing of the afterlife experience. Some Christians believe in the concept of immediate entrance into heaven or hell upon death, where the soul experiences its eternal destiny immediately after physical death. This belief is based on interpretations of passages in Luke, where Jesus promises the repentant thief on the cross immediate entrance into paradise. “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” In contrast, other Christians hold to the concept of soul sleep, which posits that upon death, the soul enters a state of unconsciousness until the resurrection at the end of time. This belief is derived from interpretations of passages such as Ecclesiastes, which speaks of the “dead knowing nothing … with forgotten memory”. Universalism vs Only believers enter heaven

Answer 16

One reason is because Christians believe that life after death was a core reason why Jesus came to Earth - to free humanity from sin and enable them to live forever with God. Christians believe that Jesus' atoning sacrifice on the cross and subsequent victory over death were central to God's plan for reconciling humanity to Himself and restoring the possibility of eternal fellowship with Him. Therefore, the belief in life after death is not only a theological tenet but also a deeply cherished hope that underscores the transformative power of Jesus' saving work and the assurance of future glory for those who trust in Him. For many Christians, the prospect of life after death serves as a source of comfort, hope, and meaning in the face of life's trials and uncertainties, inspiring them to live faithfully and to persevere in their journey of faith. A second reason is because believing in life after death impacts a Christian’s life on a daily basis positively. Life after death allows them to believe that one day they will be with God in heaven, which gives them joy and hope for the future, easing current problems they may be having. Meeting God in heaven means “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes”, as Revelation says. Allows them to lead moral lives knowing they will be judged. The understanding that individuals will be held accountable for their actions in the afterlife serves as a powerful incentive for adhering to ethical principles and striving for righteousness in earthly existence. Christians believe that God, as the ultimate judge, will assess each person's deeds and intentions, rewarding righteousness and condemning wrongdoing. 4.6 - Responses to arguments against life after death:

Answer 17

Non-religious people do not believe in life after death because life after death depends on there being a God and they do not believe in God. They also assume that the mind or soul can survive in a non-material state without the body, but the evidence of science is that the human mind is totally dependent on the physical brain. A third reason is that non-religious people wonder where life after death could take place since space exploration has shown there is no heaven above the sky and physics has shown there is no non-material world on earth.

Answer 18

One non-religious argument against this is that they argue the afterlife is merely a story made up to provide comfort to people who are bereaved. Thus, as a reason to give them satisfaction and comfort, people latch onto this belief falsely out of desperation, and have not any real conviction themselves. However, “For Humanists the absence of an afterlife makes this life more important and meaningful”, from Humanist Perspectives: Death, British Humanist Association. A second non-religious argument is that there is a lack of evidence to support the belief. They argue that this belief cannot be scientifically backed up by evidence, and therefore is no more than just wishful thinking. A final argument is that mediums and spiritualists are just fraudulent accounts, who exploit those who are bereaved.

Answer 19

Christians do not believe that the belief in life after death is a feeling of comfort that allows it to be proof for life after death. They argue that they base their beliefs on evidence from the Bible and find comfort in those beliefs. A second response to the lack of evidence, is that science is not able to explain or prove everything. They believe certain beliefs require faith. Christians therefore trust the evidence of the Bible. Besides, they point to the resurrection of Jesus as evidence for an argument for the existence of life after death. “[You are saved] by the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven” - Peter. A third response to fraudulent accounts would be that they indeed do not believe that mediums and spiritualists who conduct seances, uphold integrity. They too believe that they exploit the bereaved and thus is not valid proof of life after death. In fact, in Christianity, integrity is an important principle: Zechariah says “speak the truth to each other”, and therefore Christians should not condone purposefully misleading people.

Answer 20

Many Christians believe that the resurrection is proof for life after death even those who do not believe because of lack of evidence will be given life after death ‘For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God’ - Peter Christians do not believe that they are being controlled because of their belief in life after death they believe that belief in Jesus will lead to life after death and eternal freedom ‘I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he dies, yet shall he live’ - John Christians would answer those who say it is merely a source of comfort with the response that it is a comfort but a real one. It is not an empty hope for the future but provides a purpose in life. Paul in Corinthians said ‘The last enemy to be destroyed is death’ 4.7 - Euthanasia:

Answer 21

Christians believe in the sanctity of human life, opposing euthanasia as a direct violation of God-given dignity and worth. They affirm God's sovereignty over life and death, trusting in His timing and providence, and rejecting euthanasia as an interference with His divine plan. Some Christians emphasise the redemptive value of suffering and advocate for compassionate end-of-life care, viewing euthanasia as contrary to the potential for finding meaning and grace in times of affliction.

Answer 22

One type is passive euthanasia, which includes things like not giving extraordinary treatments to patients with terminal or life-threatening illnesses. Another type is non-voluntary euthanasia which is ending someone’s life painlessly when they are unable to ask but you have good reason for thinking they would want you to do so. A third type is voluntary euthanasia which is ending life painlessly when someone in great pain asks for death.

Answer 23

Christians believe that the terminally ill should have good palliative care. They believe that the dying should be sent to hospices for better end of life treatment. Christians support hospices with fundraising and work as volunteers.

Answer 24

Christians believe that it is up to God to decide when people die, not humans. Sick people may choose euthanasia because they feel like a burden but may actually want to live. Christians see euthanasia as murder which breaks the commandment 'Thou shall not kill.' It is hard to distinguish what is murder and what is euthanasia.

Answer 25

One argument is that euthanasia allows the person to have a gentle, pain-free death that allows them to choose how and when they die. This allows the patient to die with dignity, rather than slowly getting worse, mentally and physically, which can be painful not only for them, but for the family and doctor to witness. The patient is able to decide when their quality of life is so low that they would prefer to die. The British Humanist Association says: “We do not think there is a strong moral case to limit … the needs of ill people who are suffering” A second argument is that euthanasia is beneficial for others as well. Euthanasia saves medical costs, and allows medics to focus their attention on patients who have a chance of recovery. Furthermore, it relieves the family of emotional and financial burdens.

Answer 26

One non-religious argument against euthanasia emphasises the importance of safeguarding the rights and interests of vulnerable individuals, particularly those who may be susceptible to coercion or exploitation. Critics of euthanasia argue that legalising assisted dying could pose significant risks to marginalised or disadvantaged populations, such as the elderly, disabled, or mentally ill, who may feel pressured to end their lives prematurely due to societal attitudes, financial constraints, or perceived burdensomeness on others. Another non-religious argument against euthanasia revolves around concerns about a potential slippery slope effect, whereby the legalisation of assisted dying for terminally ill individuals could gradually expand to include broader categories of individuals and circumstances. Critics caution that once euthanasia becomes accepted as a legitimate option for end-of-life care, the criteria for eligibility may be subject to reinterpretation or relaxation over time, leading to a gradual erosion of safeguards and oversight. For example, how can you be sure that voluntary euthanasia really is voluntary?

Answer 27

Some Christians may accept euthanasia out of a sense of compassion and mercy towards individuals who are suffering from terminal illness or unbearable pain. They may believe that allowing terminally ill patients to end their lives through euthanasia is a compassionate response to their suffering, offering them relief from physical and emotional distress. "Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy." - Matthew Some Christians may accept euthanasia based on considerations of quality of life and human dignity. They may believe that individuals have the right to live with dignity and autonomy, and that this includes the right to make decisions about their own end-of-life care. These Christians may argue that prolonging the suffering of terminally ill patients through aggressive medical interventions or palliative care measures may compromise their dignity and quality of life. This may prevent the patient from honouring their body, as commanded by Corinthians: “honour God with your bodies." Most Christians would accept passive euthanasia, for example the withdrawal of treatment and turning off a life support machine when someone is brain dead because the person has already died and it is God's will that they're going to die. Some Christians may look to situation ethics and decide that euthanasia is the most loving thing to do; Jesus said love your neighbour and some Christians may feel that euthanasia is a way of loving your neighbour because you are ending their suffering and allowing a terminally ill person a peaceful death and enabling them to die with dignity.

Answer 28

One reason is because it goes against the principle of the sanctity of life. All life of humans is considered blessed, and as God created human beings in his image, so only he has the power to take away their lives, as per his plan. Job has a serious illness which has destroyed his illness, but he opposed voluntary suicide by saying: “Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?”, which shows how God has a plan, and must have faith at all times. A second reason is because it can be constituted as murder, which is forbidden as per the Bible. As the life is being taken, it is in essence, murder, which is wrong and one of the ten commandments “You shall not murder”, Exodus. Christians believe in the sanctity of life which states that life is holy and belongs to God. It is God's decision when people die, not humans. Euthanasia would mean that you are playing God and to put yourself on God's level is a sin. Furthermore, they would see euthanasia is murder, which is condemned in the commandments: Thou shall not murder. They instead believe that people with terminal illnesses should be sent to hospices for better pain management and care.

Answer 29

Instead of euthanasia, the Christian response to help those who are dying Is to have good palliative care. This is done through hospices Christians support hospices as they ease the pain of the dying and terminally ill, and also help their relatives cope with their death. Many Christians support them with fundraising and work as volunteers. In this way they are following the teaching of the parable of the Sheep and the goats to care for the sick. 4.8 - Issues in the Natural World:

Answer 30

Global warming is a threat to the environment because it causes flooding. Another threat is pollution which causes health problems. A third threat is our use of finite resources because when they’re gone, they’re gone.

Answer 31

Christians believe they are stewards of the Earth and should care for the environment. Christains also believe they have a responsibility to care for the natural world since God gave it to them as a gift. Christians believe they have the authority to make a positive difference in the world because God made them in his image.

Answer 32

They protect natural habitats to conserve species They campaign against animal experimentation, such as banning animals in zoos They may adopt vegetarian and vegan lifestyles

Answer 33

The Bible teaches that humans should look after the world that God has given them. Christians believe that they are stewards of God's world. They believe that they must leave the world a better place than they found it. They believe pollution is unacceptable as it isn't leaving the world a better place.

Answer 34

Christians should act as stewards of the natural world. Christians should protect the world. They should ensure the natural world is not abused. They should work to reduce global warming. No one has the right to abuse the natural world.

Answer 35

Stewardship is crucial to help save the natural world. A shared commitment to working to help the environment is necessary. All Christians should take responsibility in caring for the world.

Answer 36

Animals are part of God's creation so should be valued more. Animals were not made in God's image so do not have souls like humans. Humans have dominion over animals.

Answer 37

Many Christians advocate for environmental stewardship and responsible care of the Earth as part of their religious beliefs. They view pollution and global warming as threats to God's creation and recognise humanity's role as stewards entrusted with the care and preservation of the natural world. Drawing from biblical teachings such as Genesis, which instructs humanity to "tend and keep the garden of Eden”, they may engage in efforts to promote renewable energy, reduce carbon emissions, conserve natural resources, and advocate for policies that prioritise environmental protection and sustainability. Another Christian response to pollution and global warming is grounded in principles of justice and compassion, particularly for vulnerable communities disproportionately affected by environmental degradation and climate change. These Christians recognise that pollution and global warming exacerbate social inequalities and disproportionately impact marginalised populations, including the poor, indigenous communities, and future generations. They may engage in advocacy efforts, support sustainable development projects, and work to amplify the voices of marginalised communities in environmental decision-making processes. Christians believe that they are stewards of God's world. The parable of the Minas (or Talents) shows that when humans are given a gift, they must improve on it and not waste it. Christians therefore find the pollution unacceptable, as this is not leaving the Earth a better place and they found it. As stewards of God's creation, Christians would actively try to reduce pollution by recycling and not littering.

Answer 38

Many Christians believe in the principle of stewardship, which emphasises humanity's responsibility to care for and protect God's creation, including animals. While humans are granted dominion over the Earth according to Genesis, Christians interpret this as a call to responsible stewardship rather than unchecked exploitation. They believe that animals are valuable creatures of God, deserving of compassion and care, and that humans have a moral obligation to treat them with kindness and respect. The Anglican Society for the Welfare of Animals website draws on this, saying that “The Bible teaches us that God has given us “dominion” over animals. This means “loving care”, not “ruthless exploitation”. Another Christian belief regarding animal rights centres on the avoidance of cruelty and the promotion of humane treatment towards animals. Christians draw from biblical teachings such as Proverbs, which states, "The righteous care for the needs of their animals", to emphasise the importance of compassion and mercy in human-animal interactions. They believe that mistreatment, abuse, or exploitation of animals is contrary to God's will and ethical standards, and they advocate for policies and practices that promote the welfare and well-being of animals.

Answer 39

Christians actively participate in initiatives such as tree planting and habitat restoration, recognising their role as stewards of God's creation. By engaging in these practical actions, they demonstrate their commitment to caring for the Earth and preserving its ecological diversity. This is represented by God giving Adam the role to be “in the garden of Eden, to cultivate and care for it”. Through advocacy efforts and educational outreach, Christians seek to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote sustainable practices within their communities. By advocating for policies that address environmental concerns and educating others about the importance of responsible stewardship, they embody the biblical mandate to care for the Earth and its resources, allowing them to show respect for God’s creation. Psalm says: “The earth is the Lord’s”. Some Christians choose to adopt plant-based diets as a means of reducing their environmental impact and promoting sustainable food systems. By embracing vegetarianism or veganism, they align their dietary choices with values of compassion and stewardship not only by preventing the murder of animals, but also lower associated carbon emissions from meat which lowers their carbon footprint. After all, Genesis says: “I have given you every herb bearing seed … and every tree … to you it shall be for meat.”

Answer 40

Many Christians, such as Anglicans, believe that stewardship of the environment also involves the stewardship of animals, and therefore they condone the use of animals in vile ways. They may campaign against animal experimentation, because they feel that animals are also part of God’s creation, and it is their duty as stewards to respect God’s creation. The Anglican Society for Welfare of Animals promotes reflection on the importance of animals through an annual Animal Welfare Sunday service, promotes conservation activities, and campaigns over issues such as fox-hunting. The Anglican Society for the Welfare of Animals website says: “The Bible teaches us that God has given us “dominion” over animals. This means “loving care”, not “ruthless exploitation”. Some Christians choose to adopt plant-based diets as a means of reducing their environmental impact and promoting sustainable food systems. By embracing vegetarianism or veganism, they align their dietary choices with values of compassion and stewardship not only by preventing the murder of animals, but also lower associated carbon emissions from meat which lowers their carbon footprint. After all, Genesis says: “I have given you every herb bearing seed … and every tree … to you it shall be for meat.”

Answer 41

Many Christians, such as Anglicans, believe that stewardship of the environment also involves the stewardship of animals, and therefore they condone the use of animals in vile ways. They may campaign against animal experimentation, because they feel that animals are also part of God’s creation, and it is their duty as stewards to respect God’s creation. The Anglican Society for Welfare of Animals promotes reflection on the importance of animals through an annual Animal Welfare Sunday service, promotes conservation activities, and campaigns over issues such as fox-hunting. The Anglican Society for the Welfare of Animals website says: “The Bible teaches us that God has given us “dominion” over animals. This means “loving care”, not “ruthless exploitation”. Other Christians believe that using animals for food and clothing, and experimentation on animals for medical research are acceptable. For this, they may refer to the fact that human life is of more value than animals as humans were created in the “image of God” and have the sanctity of life, and thus utilitarianism states that if experimentation on animals leads to the greatest benefit for humans, such as in medicine, it is completely fine. The Catechism of the Catholic Church says “experimentation on animals is a morally acceptable practice”.

Answer 42

Christians work to conserve the environment because Genesis teaches that God made humans stewards of the earth and that they will be judged on how well they fulfil that task. The Catholic Catechism on Nature says that “God has granted humans dominion over nature but is limited by the need to guard the quality of life for our neighbours.” Christians also work to conserve the environment because Jesus said in the Parable of the Talents that God expects humans to pass on to the next generation more than they have been given and in the Sermon on the Mount he taught that Christians must share the Earth’s resources fairly. Most Christians believe they will be judged on how well they have fulfilled their duty as stewards of God’s earth, and thus this motivates them to do their best to respect God’s creation so they can reunite with Him in heaven.

Answer 43

Christians are responsible for looking after the natural world, because in Genesis God gave it to humans to look after Christians believe the world was created by God therefore should be cared for , this would show respect for the work of God Stewardship shows responsibility and love for people in the future exploitation of the environment does not show love of neighbour Christians believe that they are stewards of God's world. This means that they have a duty to look after the earth so that it can be passed on to the next generation. In Genesis it states, "The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and to take care of it." This clearly shows that humans should look after the world and treat it kindly. Some Christians think they should be stewards as the earth is part of God's creation, they should respect it and care for it 'The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it' (Psalm) Christians also believe that when they face judgement after death, they will be judged upon how well they have performed as stewards, so it is important that humans respect God's creation and treat it in the way that He intended.

Answer 44

Most Christians would not be against eating meat or fish because they believe that this is why God produced the food chain. Humans were given dominion over animals, and in Genesis 1, God permitted Adam and Eve to eat anything that had, "the breath of life in it." However, some Christians are vegetarians and opposed to the animals being used for food as animals are part of God's creation and as stewards, they have the duty to care for all of creation.