New Testament Survey Flashcards
0
Q
Antiochus Epiphanes
A
Ruled the Seleucid Empire during the 2nd century BC. Hostile to the Jewish people. Took military control over Jerusalem. Desecrated the temple and caused sacrifices to cease.
1
Q
Alexander the Great
A
Macedonian king and conqueror – unbeaten in battles. Defeated Darius and seized his throne. Conquered the Persian Empire. Most lasting legacy was the spread of Greek culture.
2
Q
Apocalyptic
A
Having to do with future, large-scale events that have been revealed prophetically in a dream or vision; symbolic, hidden truth is revealed; prophet interacts with either God or an angel
3
Q
Apocrypha
A
A collection of books which were helpful historically and theologically but did not make it into the canon.
4
Q
Augustus
A
Emperor of the Roman Empire during the time of Jesus’ birth. The consolidator of the Roman Empire. Continued in the footsteps of his predecessor, Julius Caesar, who had started Rome on the road to imperialism. Defeated his enemies in a civil war around 30BC, and then reigned for decades after that. Served as a symbol of the Roman Empire as a whole.
5
Q
Diaspora
A
A New Testament Greek term used to describe believing Jews spread out all over the Roman Empire for a variety of reasons. Its beginnings go back to the time of the Babylonian exile.
6
Q
Domitian
A
The emperor of the Roman Empire from AD81 - AD96. He persecuted Christians and insisted on emperor worship, ordering that he must be addressed as “lord and god.”
7
Q
Emperor Worship
A
A Roman cult which first appeared during the reign of Herod the Great, in which the emperor was worshiped as a god. Became compulsory. Jews were exempt from the requirement to participate for a while.
8
Q
4QMMT
A
One of the Dead Sea Scrolls discovered at Qumran in 1947. Provides information on the nature of Second Temple Judaism as well as on the origins of the Qumran community.
9
Q
Essenes
A
A very conservative Jewish sect that existed during the time of Second Temple Judaism. Wanted to see a renewal of Israel and a purification of Israel. Radical. More withdrawn from everyday life than the Pharisees. Some participated in an ascetic communal life. It is likely that the Jews at Qumran were Essenes, and that they penned the Dead Sea Scrolls. Saw themselves as the “true Israel.”
10
Q
Alexander Jannaeus
A
The Hasmonean King of Judea from 103 BC to 76 BC. Declared himself high priest. Involved in conflict with pharisees.
11
Q
Psalms of Solomon
A
One of the Apocrypha. A collection of songs. One of the songs excoriates General Pompey for his invasion of Judea.
12
Q
Epicureans
A
Followers of an atheistic philosophy developed by Epicurus. This philosophy taught people to seek as their primary aim a pleasant and smooth life. They ridiculed the teaching of Paul and appear to have been highly thought of in Athens.
13
Q
Diatessaron
A
A harmony of the four Gospels connected into a single narrative. The Diatessaron (as a proper noun) refers to the diatessaron created by Tatian, a Christian apologist and ascetic.
14
Q
Murotorian Canon
A
The oldest known canon, or list of books of the New Testament. Written in Latin. Only a single, incomplete copy has been found. It was named after the person who found it, Muratori.
15
Q
Hasmoneans
A
Members of a Jewish priestly family in Judea in the 1st and 2nd centuries BC that included the Maccabees.
16
Q
Herod Antipas
A
Ruled as tetrarch in Galilean Perea from 4 BC to AD 39.
17
Q
Herod the Great
A
King from about 37 BC to 4 BC. Jesus is born during his reign. Considered a half-Jew. Shrewd and capable ruler. Many building projects. In a power struggle with the Hasmoneans. Has strong support in Rome. A bit paranoid – kills off everyone he perceives to be a threat, including most of his family members. Does try to maintain a facade of Jewishness, although Pharisees don’t trust him. Sponsors and builds up the temple.
18
Q
Zacchaeus
A
A short, wealthy tax-collector in Jericho, who climbed a tree in order to see Jesus. He drew Jesus’ attention, and as a result of Jesus’ interaction with him, he repented of his sinful ways.
19
Q
Maccabees
A
Jewish family that pulled together an army that took control of Judea and founded the Hasmonean dynasty. They expanded the boundaries of Israel, reducing the influence of Hellenism and brought about a restoration of Jewish political and religious life.
20
Q
Cornelius
A
A “God-fearing” Roman centurion whose story is described in Acts 10. Prays to God and an angel appears to him in a vision and tells him to send for Peter, which he does. At the same time, God sends Peter a dream indicating that God shows no partiality, but that salvation is open to all who seek after Him and believe. Peter preaches to Cornelius and Cornelius is saved.
21
Q
Tobiads
A
One of the leading aristocratic families during the time of the Maccabees. Favored the Hellenization of the Jews. Deposed Onias.
22
Q
Passover
A
a feast that celebrates the delivery of the Jewish people from slavery in Egypt. Celebrated in the early spring.
23
Q
Pentecost
A
Anti-Babel. When the Spirit descended on the apostles and other disciples while they were in the upper room. A sound as of a mighty rushing wind filled the house and flames that resembled tongues of fire rested on them and they were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages as the Spirit gave them utterance. Is celebrated 40 days after Easter.
24
Scribes
During NT times, members of the Pharisees, public teachers, came into frequent conflict with Jesus. Concerned with the Law, copying and teaching it and supplementing it with their traditions. Prior to NT times, acted as high officials, writers, prepared and issued decrees in the name of the king.
25
Philo
a Hellenistic Jewish philosopher who tried to fuse Greek philosophy with Jewish philosophy
26
Ptolemies
a hellenistic kingdom that succeeded Alexander the Great in Egypt. Battled with the Seleucids in the North. Because Palestine was right in the middle, it was like the bond that the two dogs were fighting over.
27
Qumran
A community of Essenes located about 10 miles south of Jericho. Produced and preserved the Dead Sea Scrolls.
28
Sadducees
Members of a Jewish sect that denied bodily resurrection and existence of angels. Focused on the Pentateuch rather than on the prophetic literature. Party of the aristocracy. The high priesthood was in their hands. Held positions of authority. But do not appear as a separate sect after the destruction of Jerusalem.
29
Samaritans
Name given to the new and mixed inhabitants of Samaria who had been brought in to repopulate the land by the king of Assyria after the original inhabitants went into captivity. They mixed with the remaining Jewish inhabitants. They gradually abandoned idolatry and partially adopted the worship of God. However the Jews of Jerusalem refused to allow them to worship with them and so they set up a rival temple on Mt Gerasene, and when that was destroyed, at Shechem. Looked down on by the Jews.
30
Pharisees
Members of a Jewish sect with a focus on purity and zeal. Very concerned about keeping the Sabbath and keeping the Torah. Developed an "oral Torah," which was a series of traditions or ways of interpreting the Torah that ostensibly came down to them from Moses.
31
Seleucids
a Macedonian dynasty located north of palestine that ruled over Syria. It continually was at war with the Ptolemies in the south, and fought over Palestine, which lay in between.
32
Septuagint
The Ancient Greek translation of the Old Testament, produced in the 3rd and 2nd centuries BC in Alexandria, Egypt. It was the Bible of most New Testament Christians.
33
Tobit
An apocryphal book. Was included in the Septuagint. Fragments of it were found in the Dead Sea Scrolls. Tells the story of an Israelite named Tobit. He was a devout Jew and captive in Ninevah. Wisdom literature.
34
Synagogue
Jewish place of gathering, worship, and instruction
35
Temple
First used to describe the Tabernacle, commonly used in Scripture to refer to the "sacred house erected on the summit of Mount Moriah for the worship of God." In the NT, the word is used variously to describe Jesus' human body, believers, the Church, and Heaven.
The religious and sacrificial center of the nation. A gathering place and unifying symbol. Beautiful. Source of pride. Economic powerhouse and had great military potential.
36
Letter of Aristeas
A letter describing the formation of the Septaugint, specifying that King Ptolemy Philadelphus sponsored its creation for his library and seventy scholars.
37
Pompey
A Roman general who invaded Judea in 63 BC, effectively ending Judean independence. He entered the temple and even went into the Holy of Holies. Disputes within Jewish leadership led to Pompey's invasion.
38
Which two gospels have the greatest amount of discourse (teaching) material?
Matthew and John
39
Which gospel was most likely written for a Jewish audience?
Matthew
40
With which saying does Jesus conclude the episode with Zacchaeus?
"Today salvation has come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost."
41
When do the disciples in Luke 24 recognize Jesus?
When He broke the bread.
42
What does Jesus mean when He says, "My kingdom is not of this world?"
He means that His kingdom is based on love rather than power, unlike other kingdoms of the world that Pilate would be familiar with.
43
In John's gospel, which discourse follows immediately after the feeding of the five thousand?
The "Bread of Life" discourse.
44
Where did Onias IV set up a rival temple around 160 BC?
In Egypt, in the district of Heliopolis.
45
List four Hasmonean rulers.
Aristobulus I
Alexander Jannaeus
Alexandra Salome
Aristobulus II
46
Which gospel was addressed to an individual?
Luke
47
According to the lectures, what does Jesus see as the center of Torah?
The commandments to love God and love neighbor.
48
What is the attitude of the Psalms of Solomon towards the Roman general Pompey?
It excoriated him -- described him as an arrogant, lustful man.
49
What is the attitude of Josephus towards the Roman general Pompey?
He saw him as a noble conqueror forced to invade Judea by the exigencies of politics. He called him "virtuous" for not touching the money or valuables in the temple.
50
Which group within first century Judaism had control of the high priesthood?
Sadducees.
51
Which group within first century Judaism were the precursors of "rabbinic Judaism?"
Pharisees.
52
What four categories summarize Jesus' public ministry?
* Teaching and preaching the Kingdom of God
* Calling disciples
* The mighty works
* Facing opposition
53
Name two Apocryphal books in which maintaining Jewish identity is a key theme.
Judith
| 4 Maccabees
54
Which gospel is characterized by the interplay of signs, discourses, and feasts?
John
55
Which gospel appears to have been written first according to most contemporary scholars?
Mark
56
In which gospel does the Sermon on the Mount appear?
Matthew
57
According to the lectures, what are the four key themes of the Gospel of Luke?
* Christ
* Crisis
* Community
* Commission
58
Which gospel devotes the most attention to hospitality?
Luke
59
Jesus' cry on the cross, "My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?" comes from which Old Testament text?
Psalm 22:1
60
Give three types of "mighty works" performed by Jesus during His public ministry.
Healing
Exorcisms
Nature miracles
61
Name the two gospels in which the birth of Jesus is recorded.
Matthew and Luke
62
Who are the rather surprising additions to Matthew's genealogy of Jesus?
Ruth and Rahab
63
Which gospel has a particular emphasis on fulfillment of prophecy?
Matthew
64
List the four pillars of first century Judaism according to N.T. Wright.
Temple, Land, Torah, People
65
List five aspects of the Temple's significance.
1) Magnificent buildings. A source of pride for 1st Century Jews around the world.
2) An economic powerhouse.
3) The religious and sacrificial center of the nation and the Diaspora.
4) A religious communal place to preserve Jewish identity. A unifying symbol for Jews.
5) It had great military potential.
66
According to the lectures, the theme of purity unites which two stories in the gospel of Mark?
The story of Jairus' daughter and the story of the woman with the flow of blood
67
Which four geographical references in Acts 1 form a kind of outline for the book as a whole?
Jerusalem
Judea
Samaria
Ends of the earth
68
The Pentecost event in Acts 2 stands in contrast to which important Old Testament story?
The story of Babel in Genesis 11.
69
List four principles used in the formation of the New Testament canon.
The selected items needed to be apostolic, catholic, orthodox, and in traditional use.
70
In what chapter of what book does Jesus evaluate John the Baptist's relation to the Old Testament prophets and the Kingdom of God?
Matthew 11
71
In what chapter of what book does Jesus demonstrate that the entirety of the Old Testament teaches about Him?
Luke 24 (24:27)
72
Name four Jewish feasts which are referred to in John's gospel.
* Passover
* Tabernacles
* Dedication
* Sabbath
73
List six "signs" which Jesus performs in John's gospel.
1) changing water into wine
2) healing an official's son in Capernaum
3) healing the invalid at the pool in Jerusalem
4) feeding the 5,000 near the Sea of Galilee
5) walking on the water of the Sea of Galilee
6) healing a blind man in Jerusalem
7) raising Lazarus from the dead
74
What title does Jesus use most frequently for Himself in the gospels?
Son of Man
75
In which gospel do we find the only references to the "church" of Jesus Christ?
Matthew
76
According to the lectures, what are the two "keynotes" of Pharasaism?
Purity and Zeal.
77
Which Old Testament text particularly influenced Matthew's depiction of the death of Christ and its consequences?
Ezekiel 37
78
The "canon" of the New Testament...
a) was set by the end of the first century A.D.
b) was established by Athanasius.
c) was the product of lengthy debate and discussion.
d) was in flux until medieval times.
b) was established by Athanasius
79
Antiochus Epiphanes...
a) probably would not have succeeded without some Jewish support.
b) sponsored the translation of the Septuagint.
c) never entered Jerusalem.
d) was the father of Herod the Great.
a) probably would not have succeeded without some Jewish support.
80
A phrase that summarizes the work of Ezra and Nehemiah would be...
a) welcoming the nations.
b) establishing boundaries.
c) apocalyptic visions.
d) turning the other cheek.
b) establishing boundaries. (Nehemiah -- physical boundaries. Ezra -- ethnic and religious boundaries.)
81
During the Fourth to Second Centuries BC, Israel...
a) was an independent nation.
b) a pawn in the wars of the Ptolemies and Seleucids.
c) was uniformly faithful to God.
a) a pawn in the wars of the Seleucids and Ptolemies
82
In John's gospel, Jesus' death is triggered most directly by...
a) His action in the temple.
b) His criticism of the High Priest.
c) the raising of Lazarus.
d) the parable of the tenants.
c) the raising of Lazarus.
83
Augustus...
a) openly persecuted Jews and Christians.
b) effectively founded the Roman Empire.
c) fell to Antony and Cleopatra at the battle of Actium.
d) had only a brief reign.
b) effectively founded the Roman Empire
84
The Gospel of Luke puts special emphasis on Jesus...
a) fasting.
b) praying.
c) weeping.
d) laughing.
b) praying
85
Luke writes his gospel to...
a) Theodorus.
b) Theocritus.
c) Theophilus.
d) Theotokos.
c) Theophilus
86
Which gospel emphasizes the theme of "Jesus on the mountain?"
a) Luke.
b) Matthew.
c) John.
d) Mark.
Matthew
87
The Beatitudes are based most directly on...
a) Isaiah 53.
b) Isaiah 61.
c) Isaiah 40.
d) Isaiah 2.
b) Isaiah 61
88
The Book of Acts is primarily intended to...
a) provide a model for church growth.
b) offer guidance for systematic theology.
c) describe the ideal church.
d) describe aspects of the history of the early church.
d) describe aspects of the history of the early church.
89
The story of the Gerasene demoniac...
a) happens in Gentile territory.
b) has no connections with present day experience.
c) is not meant to be taken as history.
d) is one of the nature miracles.
a) happens in Gentile territory
90
Alexander Jannaeus...
a) was a Pharisee.
b) ruled the Seleucid empire.
c) was fairly hellenized.
d) succeeded Herod the Great.
c) was fairly Hellenized
91
Matthew's readers should gain insight into Jesus by...
a) seeing past His Jewishness to His timeless truths.
b) reflecting on His works in light of the Old Testament.
c) contrasting good works with faith.
b) reflecting on His works in light of the Old Testament
92
What epistle is occasioned by the reports heard about the congregation and a letter written from the congregation?
1 Corinthians
93
In which epistle does Paul solicit support for his mission endeavors in Spain?
Romans
94
In which epistle does Paul express the joy which he has in Christ, despite difficult conditions?
Philippians
95
The most extended treatment of the resurrection occurs in what epistle?
Romans
96
In what non-Pauline epistle does Abraham play a significant role?
James
97
According to the lectures, "Listen to Christ!" is the key theme of which epistle?
Hebrews
98
Outside of Paul's epistles, in which epistle is Christian suffering a dominant feature?
1Peter
99
What non-canonical book is apparently cited by Jude in his epistle?
Enoch
100
In what "group" of epistles are the requirements of various church officers found?
Pastoral
101
Melchizedek appears only in which New Testament book?
Hebrews
102
The church universal is spoken of in some detail in which epistle?
Ephesians
103
Which Pauline epistle mentions "the man of lawlessness?"
2 Thessalonians (usually thought to refer to the antichrist)
104
For which congregation is Paul particularly thankful?
Philippians
105
For which congregation does Paul express no thanks?
Galatians
106
In what epistle is there evidence that some people have denied that Jesus was fully human?
1 John
107
According to the lectures, what is the primary purpose of the book of Acts?
A lengthy story showing the growth of the early church and what it signified in God's plan for His kingdom.
108
What city was Paul raised in?
Tarsus
109
In which prison epistle is progress a crucial theme?
Philippians
110
What key Old Testament figure appears in both 1 and 2 Peter?
Noah
111
Which congregation does Paul attempt to console by reminding them of our Lord's return?
1 Thessalonians
112
What epistle consists of a collection of ethical instructions?
James
113
In what "group" of epistles is there a close relation between doctrinal error and moral error?
Pastoral epistles
114
In which Pauline letter is the believer's relation to the civil government addressed?
Romans
115
In which non-Pauline letter is the believer's relation to the civil government addressed?
1 Peter
116
Paul records his confrontation with Peter in what epistle?
Galatians
117
Which is the most "circular" of Paul's epistles?
Ephesians
118
The body of Paul's letter is divided into two sections. What are they?
thesis; argument
119
The requirement that Gentiles be circumcised is refuted in what book?
Galatians
120
In what epistle is there a significant reflection of the teaching of Jesus?
James
121
In what Pauline epistle is Christ's humiliation cited as an example of selfless service?
Philippians
122
Paul defends his apostolic authority before two congregations. Which are they?
Corinthians
| Galatians
123
In which two epistles does Paul employ the analogy of the body to discuss the church?
1Corinthians and Romans
124
Abraham plays a pivotal role in which two of Paul's epistles?
Romans
| Galatians
125
If you were asked to illustrate the dangers of improper speech, to which epistle would you turn for the most vivid illustrations?
James
126
Name two of the three epistles in which Paul discusses spiritual gifts.
1 Corinthians
| Romans
127
The epistle to the Hebrews affirms that Christ is superior to a number of things. Name four of them.
```
angels
Moses
Aaron/priesthood
sacrifice
covenant
```
128
The relationship of Jew and Gentile is discussed at some length in several epistles. name three.
Galatians
Ephesians
Romans
129
Which two catholic epistles are so similar that some think one was used to write the other?
2 Peter and Jude
130
List four catholic epistles.
James, 1 Peter, 2 Peter, 1 John
131
List the prison epistles.
Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, Philemon
132
Two of Paul's prison epistles are very similar. Which are they?
Ephesians
| Colossians
133
In what epistle does Paul "boast" in his weakness?
2 Corinthians
134
In what epistle does Paul exhort a slave-holder to receive his slave as a brother in Christ?
Philemon
135
The Revelation consists of a number of sections which include groups of seven things. List four of these groups of seven.
* messages to the seven churches
* seven seals
* seven trumpets/judgments
* seven bowls/plagues
* seven final visions
136
In what epistle does Paul address the apparent exclusion of ethnic Israel from messianic blessings?
Romans
137
Pauline authorship of various epistles is disputed on the basis of three arguments. Identify these arguments.
* Historical arguments concerning questions about chronology
* Doctrinal arguments concerning alleged discrepencies in theology between the "genuine Pauline letters" and those which are considered Deutero-Pauline
* Literary arguments concerning demonstrable differences in vocabulary
138
Pauline authorship of several epistles is disputed. Name three of these.
Colossians
Ephesians
2 Thessalonians
139
Why does Paul express no thanks for the Galatian church?
Paul is so upset that the Galatians are deserting the gospel and are being lured by the Judaizers to become circumcised and to enter the old covenant in order to become "complete Christians."
140
On what basis does Paul refute the requirement of the Judaizers that Gentiles be circumcised?
Abraham was uncircumcised when he was called. He chose to believe God, so his original covenant was faith-based. And so those who believe are children of Abraham. Also, "For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision nor in circumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love." (Galatians 5:6). Paul also states that by being circumcised, the Gentiles are choosing the old covenant rather than the new, and thus are choosing to be justified by the Law instead of by faith. Thus, they would also inherit the curse.
141
In which letters does Paul address the respective duties of Christian husbands and wives?
Ephesians
| 1 Peter
142
Why does Paul need to "defend" his apostolic authority to the Galatian church?
Because he wants to critique the Judaizers, so he needs to demonstrate his own authority to speak to these issues.
143
How does Paul say the church's unity in Christ should be expressed?
Look out for the interests of others. Have the same mind that was in Christ. In humility, count others as more significant than yourselves. Have the same love.
144
What spiritual gifts does Paul describe in Romans?
```
prophecy
teaching
service
exhortation
contributing
leading
acts of mercy
```
145
What does Paul say is the relationship of faith and law in the life of the Jew?
the promise to Abraham and his offspring that he would be heir of the world did not come through the law but by the righteousness of faith. If it is the adherents of the law who are heirs, faith is null and the promise is void
146
According to Paul, what are the benefits that come with justification?
* peace with God
* grace
* glory of God (present and future)
* productive suffering (producing character, endurance, and hope)
* reconciliation with God
* salvation from God's wrath
147
What does the illustration of the tree signify in Paul's teaching concerning the place of Israel in God's plan of salvation?
One tree with branches taken off (the unbelieving Jews) and others grafted on (the believing Gentiles). God's intention is that it is the remnant who will be saved, as it has been all along. Salvation came through the Jews but was extended to Gentiles. Not clear whether at the end when "all Israel" will be saved means all God's people, Jews and Gentiles, or if all remaining living Jews will choose to turn to God. (Romans)
148
What does the "sealed scroll" represent in Revelation chapters 4-5?
the achievement of God's Kingdom
149
In what two epistles does Paul emphasize his prior achievements in Judaism?
Galatians
| Philippians
150
The requirements for which two church offices are given in the pastoral epistles?
Elders (overseers)
| Deacons
151
What is the nature of Paul's charge to Timothy in each of his letters?
Instruction and encouragement, encouragement to be strong
152
Why does Paul say he sent Titus to the church of Crete?
to put things (new churches) in order and to appoint elders in every town
153
The author of Hebrews compares Christ to Melchizedek to emphasize which of Christ's roles?
High priest
154
According to Hebrews, what became of the old covenant when the new covenant was introduced by Christ?
It becomes obsolete
155
In which catholic epistle is suffering a dominant feature?
1 Peter
156
What were some of the victories enjoyed by faithful Old Testament believers, as described in Hebrews?
Abel -- still speaks today
Enoch -- did not see death, commended by God as righteous before death
Noah -- saved household and became "heir of righteousness"
Abraham -- descendants more numerous than the stars
Sarah -- received power to conceive past child-bearing age
157
What makes Christ especially qualified to help Christians when they are being tempted?
Because He Himself has suffered when tempted, He is able to help those who are being tempted (Hebrews 2:18); for we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with us in our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. (Hebrews 4:15)
158
A main theme in the letters of John is...
a) instruction concerning the administration of the church.
b) warnings against false teachers.
c) teaching concerning the proper use of music in worship
b) warnings against false teachers
159
Abraham plays a significant role in Hebrews as an example of...
a) joy.
b) prayer.
c) faith.
c) faith.
160
A main theme of Revelation is...
a) the faithful witness of the saints.
b) the need to submit to governmental authority.
c) the destruction of the church.
a) the faithful witness of the saints
161
Paul uses the Old Testament example of ______ in Galatians to illustrate that justification is by faith.
a) Moses.
b) Jacob.
c) Abraham.
c) Abraham.
162
Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of the Sinai covenant?
a) It nullifies the Abrahamic covenant.
b) It is conditional.
c) It excludes Gentiles.
a) it nullifies the Abrahamic covenant
163
Abraham plays a pivotal role in Paul's Roman letter as an example...
a) of a great teacher of the law.
b) that man is justified by faith.
c) of how to pray.
b) that man is justified by faith.
164
Paul concludes that Israel's place in God's plan of salvation is that...
a) Israel will never accept God's salvation.
b) all Israel will be saved.
c) Israel will become an enemy of the gospel.
b) all Israel will be saved.
165
A. What are the main themes of the book of Matthew?
B. What are the unique features of the book of Matthew?
C. What contribution does the book of Matthew make to Christian belief?
A) lordship of Christ; coming of God's kingdom; road to the cross; way of discipleship; miracles of Jesus
B) alternates narrative stories and discourse; provides structure through repeated phrases ("when Jesus had finished all of these sayings"); bunches things into threes; has double witnesses (two angels, two demoniacs, two blind men, etc.); most Jewish of the gospels; talks a lot about the fulfillment of prophecy. (Continued questions: what does it really mean to keep law?) Jesus' authority emphasized throughout. many, many OT references. Portrays Jesus as the true Israelite who passes the test and gains salvation for us all. Extended discussions concerning the pharisees. Gentiles appear throughout. Only gospel in which the word "church" is used. Matt27/Ez37 parallels. Great commission at the end.
C) Because of Christ we all are heirs of the promise as well
166
A. What are the main themes of the book of Mark?
B. What are the unique features of the book of Mark?
C. What contribution does the book of Mark make to Christian belief?
A) Jesus' journey to the cross; mighty works; purity (Jairus' daughter, woman with issue of blood); hope; kingdom of God has come with Jesus; way of new exodus leads to Jesus' death; way of discipleship is to take up cross and follow Him
B) shortest gospel; "efficient" gospel; things happen rapid-fire; "suddenly"
C) Jesus is fulfillment of story of Israel which now includes us
167
A. What are the main themes of the book of Luke?
B. What are the unique features of the book of Luke?
C. What contribution does the book of Luke make to Christian belief?
Themes: Christ, Crisis, Community, Commission; Hospitality; Prayer; Food!; mission to the Jews and then to all nations; big Caesar vs. baby Christ; temple; song
Features: Gentile author; Gentile audience; part 1 of a 2-part work; community of the Spirit and community of prayer; big focus on prayer; highlights role of women throughout his gospel
Contribution: Holy Spirit available to us, also, so we should be living a life like Jesus. Prayer, prayer, prayer!!
168
A. What are the main themes of the book of John?
B. What are the unique features of the book of John?
C. What contribution does the book of John make to Christian belief?
A: Jesus is Messiah and Son of God; through his incarnation and crucifixion He both revealed God's love and redeemed humanity; discipleship means to remain in the vine and bear fruit; Holy Spirit will be given to continue work
B: interplay of signs, discourses and feasts, raising of Lazarus; much more movement between Judea and Galilee than in the Synoptics; upper room discourse, extended scene with Pilate; Mary, doubting Thomas, miraculous catch of fish at end of story instead of middle; spiritual gospel; no parables told by Jesus; "I am" statements; focus on Jesus' identity
Contribution: John's purpose in writing his gospel is primarily theological -- "that all might believe."
169
A. What are the main themes of the book of Acts?
B. What are the unique features of the book of Acts?
C. What contribution does the book of Acts make to Christian belief?
A) salvation for both gentile and Jew; go into all the world; Holy Spirit guides the church; nothing can hinder spread of Gospel
B) movement of Gospel, narrated in six parts, many speeches throughout narrative, connection between Jesus and Spirit, pronoun we, second part of two-part work (with Gospel of Luke)
C) salvation for all through Jesus Christ and Spirit. We should continue work of Great Commission
170
A. What are the main themes of the book of Romans?
B. What are the unique features of the book of Romans?
C. What contribution does the book of Romans make to Christian belief?
A) Jews and gentiles together as one people; role of Jews in God's salvation; salvation by grace alone; failure of law and success of the Spirit; need to be transformed in mind by the Spirit to live in unity
B) most influential book in Christian history; letter responds to tensions between Jewish and Gentile believers; style is argumentation patterned after ancient rhetoric technique called diatribe; imaginary partners in the diatribe
C) God's love for all has found expression in Christ's death and resurrection; the gift of the Spirit makes it work out in everyday life.
171
A. What are the main themes of the book of 1 Corinthians?
B. What are the unique features of the book of 1 Corinthians?
C. What contribution does the book of 1 Corinthians make to Christian belief?
A) the cross is God's wisdom and power; Christian behavior conforming to the gospel; true nature of life in the Spirit; future bodily resurrection of the Christian dead
B) letter of correction; letter to people in a city that had quickly become large and cosmopolitan; strategically located for commerce; both very religious and very decadent
C) God calls a people to Himself to be conformed to His likeness; in the end He will overcome death by resurrection and transformation
172
A. What are the main themes of the book of 2 Corinthians?
B. What are the unique features of the book of 2 Corinthians?
C. What contribution does the book of 2 Corinthians make to Christian belief?
A) suffering in the spirit; Christian ministry is servanthood, reflecting that of Christ; greater glory of new covenant compared to old; glory of gospel reflected in weakness of its ministers; gospel as reconciliation; giving to poor out of generosity, not obligation
B) probably two letters combined into one; Paul wrote, assisted by Timothy;
C) loving grace expressed through weakness -- only true expression of discipleship
173
A. What are the main themes of the book of Galatians?
B. What are the unique features of the book of Galatians?
C. What contribution does the book of Galatians make to Christian belief?
A) Paul's apostleship and gospel come directly from God, not man; death of Jesus has brought to an end ethnic religious observances; Spirit produces the righteousness that the law can't; Spirit enables believers not to yield to sinful desires; one receives the Spirit through faith in Christ Jesus.
B) this is a 3-sided letter, from Paul, to the Galatians, against the agitators; very forceful letter; only letter to a church that did not include a thanksgiving or a prayer -- feels abrupt; assumes role of a prophet
C) clarifies our understanding of our Christian faith; serves as our own charter of freedom
174
A. What are the main themes of the book of Ephesians?
B. What are the unique features of the book of Ephesians?
C. What contribution does the book of Ephesians make to Christian belief?
A) calling; fullness; cosmic scope of the work of Christ; reconciliation of Jew and Gentile through cross; Christ's supremacy over powers; Christian behavior that reflects unity of the Spirit
B) Trinitarian experience of God lies behind what he writes; circular letter
C) Church should be a place of reconciliation
175
A. What are the main themes of the book of Philippians?
B. What are the unique features of the book of Philippians?
C. What contribution does the book of Philippians make to Christian belief?
A) progress and work -- pursue the prize; joy even in suffering; unity through humility and love; Paul and Philippians' partnership in the gospel; Christ is the key to all life
B) this letter reflects a close friendship with the Philippians on a whole different level from any of the other letters. Paul bares his soul.
C) letter is dominated by the story of Christ -- how we are to be also.
176
A. What are the main themes of the book of Colossians?
B. What are the unique features of the book of Colossians?
C. What contribution does the book of Colossians make to Christian belief?
A) supremacy and sufficiency of Christ; Christ forgives sin and removes us from fear of the "powers;" religious rules and regulations count for nothing but ethical life reflecting Christ counts for everything; Christ-like living affects all relationships
B) a letter of encouragement to new believers and a warning against outside influences; written to mostly Gentile believers; Paul is writing to people he has never met; emphasis on false teaching, esp. regarding Judaism; preparing church to receive Onesimus back
C) reminder to us that behavior only counts insofar as it is a reflection of Christ's own character and redemption
177
A. What are the main themes of the book of 1 Thessalonians?
B. What are the unique features of the book of 1 Thessalonians?
C. What contribution does the book of 1 Thessalonians make to Christian belief?
A) comfort; hopeful expectation of Jesus' return; suffering as part of Christian life; holiness regarding sexual matters; doing one's own work and not living off of others; resurrection of the Christian dead; readiness for the resurrection
B) probably the earliest document in the NT; letter written to very new Gentile believers, full of encouragement and thanksgiving and information and exhortation; Paul had not been able to stay with them long because of opposition, hence, the letter
C) encouragement for the building up of relationships within our Christian community as we wait the return of The Lord.
178
A. What are the main themes of the book of 2 Thessalonians?
B. What are the unique features of the book of 2 Thessalonians?
C. What contribution does the book of 2 Thessalonians make to Christian belief?
A) encouragement in the face of suffering; warning against being misled regarding of the coming of The Lord; exhortation against slackers; sure salvation of believers and judgment of persecutors; day of The Lord is still ahead and will be preceded by rebellion
B) written in response to false teaching; thanksgiving to narrative to prayer
C) Christ alone holds key to the future and we can trust Him; don't sponge off others
179
A. What are the main themes of the book of 1 Timothy?
B. What are the unique features of the book of 1 Timothy?
C. What contribution does the book of 1 Timothy make to Christian belief?
A) truth of the gospel as God's mercy shown to all people; character qualifications for church leadership; Timothy should hold fast to gospel and model genuine Christian character and leadership
B) written to an individual (Timothy), but letter fluctuates between words for Timothy and words for the church through Timothy; even though a personal letter, it is all-business; abrupt ending, reflecting urgency
C) emphasizes good leadership for sake of people of God
180
A. What are the main themes of the book of 2 Timothy?
B. What are the unique features of the book of 2 Timothy?
C. What contribution does the book of 2 Timothy make to Christian belief?
A) saving work of Christ; loyalty to Christ by persevering through suffering and hardship; loyalty to Paul by recollecting longterm relationship; loyalty of the gospel; spread and demise of false teaching; final salvation of those who are in Christ
B) written primarily to Timothy and secondarily to the church; partially a last will and testament since Paul has been arrested again and will soon die; Paul's final letter
C) we should heed appeals to loyalty in this letter
181
A. What are the main themes of the book of Titus?
B. What are the unique features of the book of Titus?
C. What contribution does the book of Titus make to Christian belief?
A) God's people must be and do good, especially those in leadership; gospel of grace vs. false teachings based on Law
B) personal letter to Titus, a Gentile; in some ways seems to be a smaller version of 1 Timothy, but Titus setting up new churches instead of old
C) Paul's insistence that grace and doing good belong together, as long as latter is not confused with religious observances
182
A. What are the main themes of the book of Philemon?
B. What are the unique features of the book of Philemon?
C. What contribution does the book of Philemon make to Christian belief?
A) gospel reconciles people to one another, not only Jew and Gentile but slave and master
B) sole purpose is to achieve forgiveness for a runaway slave named Onesimus; personal letter; shortest letter, but very delicate to write
C) example of the anecdotal way in which God's story is often told
183
A. What are the main themes of the book of Hebrews?
B. What are the unique features of the book of Hebrews?
C. What contribution does the book of Hebrews make to Christian belief?
A) listen to Christ; Jesus is superior to everything that went before; to abandon Christ is to abandon God; God's people can have full confidence in God's Son.
B) unknown author, but someone with an excellent command of Greek; written to a community discouraged because of suffering; written as a long, sustained argument w/7 expositions of key OT texts
C) shows continuity of old with new -- old has been fulfilled, new is newly constituted
184
A. What are the main themes of the book of James?
B. What are the unique features of the book of James?
C. What contribution does the book of James make to Christian belief?
A) practical faith on the part of believers; joy and patience in midst of trials; nature of wisdom; attitudes of rich toward poor; use and abuse of tongue
B) most realized/extensive piece of wisdom literature in the NT; closely reflects the teachings of Jesus; James has an excellent command of Greek and of rhetorical practice; written by the brother of Jesus and one of the important figures in the early Church; a group of short, moral essays
C) first thing one does with one's faith is to live by it
185
A. What are the main themes of the book of 1 Peter?
B. What are the unique features of the book of 1 Peter?
C. What contribution does the book of 1 Peter make to Christian belief?
A) sojourner's suffering; sojourner's truth; submit to unjust suffering the way Christ did; live righteously at all times, especially in the face of hostility; our hope for future is based on Christ's resurrection
B) letter progresses in an elliptical fashion
C) importance of being like Christ in the face of hostility
186
A. What are the main themes of the book of 2 Peter?
B. What are the unique features of the book of 2 Peter?
C. What contribution does the book of 2 Peter make to Christian belief?
A) grow and exhibit godliness; sure judgment on false teachers; certainty of the Lord's coming
B) "farewell speech" written as a letter; written in four parts
C) Peter's last will and testament declaring the certainty of Christ's coming
187
A. What are the main themes of the book of 1 John?
B. What are the unique features of the book of 1 John?
C. What contribution does the book of 1 John make to Christian belief?
a) The Incarnation, love for the brothers and sisters (especially those in need), and the relationship between sin and being God's children. Full assurance that when we sin we receive forgiveness; by being God's children, we are assured of eternal life
b) simple writing style with basic vocabulary; lots of repetition; use of stark contrasts
c) Whole Biblical story stands on God's love for us.
188
A. What are the main themes of the book of 2 John?
B. What are the unique features of the book of 2 John?
C. What contribution does the book of 2 John make to Christian belief?
A) the role of the incarnation; the role of love
B) personal letter, written to an unknown lady; very brief; "mini 1 John"
C) reinforces role of incarnation and love in the Biblical story
189
A. What are the main themes of the book of 3 John?
B. What are the unique features of the book of 3 John?
C. What contribution does the book of 3 John make to Christian belief?
A) the obligations of Christian hospitality, especially toward approved itinerant ministers
B) shortest book in the Bible. Not written to a church or community of people, but rather, both a personal letter and also a private letter (unlike Philemon).
C) it gives us insight into Christian community and hospitality.
190
A. What are the main themes of the book of Jude?
B. What are the unique features of the book of Jude?
C. What contribution does the book of Jude make to Christian belief?
A) certain judgment on those who live carelessly and teach others to do so; importance of holy living; God's love for and preservation of His faithful ones
B) written by a brother of Jesus
C) importance of holy living
191
A. What are the main themes of the book of Revelation?
B. What are the unique features of the book of Revelation?
C. What contribution does the book of Revelation make to Christian belief?
A) God is in complete control of history; suffering in the present, but salvation in the long-term; God's judgment will come on those responsible for the Church's suffering; in the end, God will restore what has been lost or distorted
B) Christian prophecy written in apocalyptic style and in letter form; lots of apocalyptic imagery; important to have historical understanding of background; groups of sevens
C) climax of God's story; picks up all OT strands and places them in the context of the NT
192
What are the pastoral epistles?
1 Timothy
2 Timothy
Titus
