Philosophy And Ethics Flashcards
What is the definition of ‘revelation’ in a religious context?
The idea of God making himself known to humanity
This concept is central to understanding how different religions perceive divine communication.
What is natural revelation?
The idea that you can look at the world and see signs of God
Religious believers see life as both spiritual and material.
What is special revelation?
The idea that God has revealed himself in special ways, such as sending his word in the Bible
Why do Christians believe the Bible proves the existence of God?
- It is inspired by the Holy Spirit
- The Church teaches that God speaks through both the Old Testament and New Testament
- It contains God’s laws on how to behave
- It can bring people into a closer relationship with God
What culminated God’s revelation according to Catholics?
The Incarnation
This refers to God making a complete revelation of himself through the life of Jesus.
What does the Church teach about further revelation after Jesus?
There can be no further revelation of God after Jesus
God’s message to humanity reached its highest point in Jesus.
What are some characteristics of God as revealed in Jesus Christ?
- God is love
- God forgives
- God meets people where they are
- God brings healing
- God wants people to have eternal life
What does ‘culminated’ mean in this context?
Reached a point of highest development
What is the Incarnation?
The belief that God became man in Christ
What is the definition of natural revelation?
The revealing of God in the nature of the universe
What is the definition of special revelation?
The revealing of God in such things as holy books, for example the Bible
What does the Catechism say about God’s revelation through Christ?
It pleased God to reveal himself through Christ, the Word made flesh
What does the letter to the Hebrews state about God’s communication?
God spoke in the past through the prophets, but has now spoken finally through his Son
What does the Catechism teach about understanding God’s nature?
There is much about God’s nature that Christians will not fully understand until they are in heaven
