Church History General

Question 1

What were the “solas” of the Reformation?

Answer 1

Sola Scriptura (Scripture Alone):
Meaning: The Bible alone is the ultimate authority in matters of faith and practice. It is the sole infallible source of divine revelation, over and above tradition or church authority.
Scripture Reference: 2 Timothy 3:16-17

Sola Fide (Faith Alone):
Meaning: Justification (being declared righteous before God) comes only through faith in Jesus Christ, not by works or human merit.
Scripture Reference: Romans 5:1, Ephesians 2:8-9

Sola Gratia (Grace Alone):
Meaning: Salvation is a gift of God’s grace, not something earned or deserved. It is given freely, and humans can do nothing to merit it.
Scripture Reference: Ephesians 2:8-9

Solus Christus (Christ Alone):
Meaning: Jesus Christ is the only mediator between God and humanity, and His atoning work on the cross is the only basis for salvation.
Scripture Reference: Acts 4:12, 1 Timothy 2:5-6

Soli Deo Gloria (To God Alone Be the Glory):
Meaning: All glory for salvation belongs to God alone. Everything is done for His glory, and humans should not seek to glorify themselves.
Scripture Reference: 1 Corinthians 10:31, Romans 11:36

Question 2

What is the value of studying Church History?

Answer 2

Studying Church History is valuable because it helps us understand the development of Christian doctrine, avoid past errors, and appreciate the faithfulness of God throughout generations.

Question 3

Briefly trace the spread of Christianity through the centuries

Answer 3

-1st Century: Christianity began in Jerusalem and spread across the Roman Empire.
-4th Century: Christianity was legalized under Constantine.
-Middle Ages (5th–15th Century): Christianity spread across Europe, Eastern Christianity thrived in the Byzantine Empire.
-1054: The Great Schism divides Eastern Orthodoxy and Roman Catholicism.
16th Century: Protestant Reformation
-Modern Era (16th–20th Century): Christianity spread worldwide.

Question 4

Briefly discuss the development of Covenant Theology?

Answer 4

Covenant theology, rooted in early Christian thought ( Augustine (354–430 AD)) and developed significantly during the Reformation emphasizing God’s relationship with humanity through the Covenants of Works and Grace culminating in formal expressions in documents like the Westminster Confession of Faith (1646). Its influence expanded during the Puritan era and continues to be significant in Reformed traditions today,

1- Early Christianity (Augustine 354-430)
2- Rediscover in Reformation (Calvin)
3- Culminated in West Standards 1643
4- Influence Puritans/ and world