Questions pour l'exame finale Flashcards
Literal vs Contextual Approach when Reading the Bible
The literal approach to reading the Bible focuses on understanding the text exactly as it is written, taking the words at face value. For example, interpreting the Creation story in Genesis as a literal seven-day creation. In contrast, the contextual approach considers the historical, cultural, and literary context of the text, understanding that the message may be symbolic or metaphorical. An example is reading the Parable of the Good Samaritan not as a historical event but as a lesson on compassion and loving one’s neighbor, taking into account its context in Jesus’ teachings.
Differences between Literary Forms in the Bible: Myth, Legend, Fable, and History
In the Bible, different literary forms are used to convey messages in unique ways. A myth is often a symbolic story that explains natural phenomena or human experiences, like the Creation story, which can be seen as a myth explaining the origins of the world. A legend typically tells a story with a kernel of truth but often includes exaggerations, such as the story of David and Goliath. A fable is a short tale with a moral lesson, like the parables of Jesus. History, on the other hand, refers to factual accounts of events, such as the historical narrative of the Exodus or the life of Jesus. Each form serves a different purpose in conveying spiritual truths.
The Cycle of Creation, Decreation, and Recreation
The cycle of Creation, Decreation, and Recreation reflects the ongoing process of life and spiritual renewal. Creation represents the original order and goodness of the world, as seen in the Genesis creation narrative. Decreation occurs when humanity sins or falls away from God, leading to disorder, destruction, or separation, like the Fall of Adam and Eve or the flood during Noah’s time. Recreation is God’s act of restoring and renewing the world, whether through the covenant with Noah or the salvation offered through Jesus Christ. In our lives, we continue to experience this cycle—moments of spiritual creation and growth, followed by times of challenge or sin, and the ongoing opportunity for redemption and recreation through faith.
Difference Between Charity and Social Justice
Charity and social justice are both essential in Christian teachings but serve different purposes. Charity is the act of giving to those in immediate need, such as donating food or helping the homeless. It is often seen as a temporary solution. Social justice, on the other hand, focuses on addressing the root causes of poverty and inequality, seeking to change systems and structures that perpetuate injustice. Both are important because charity alleviates immediate suffering, while social justice works toward long-term solutions. For example, providing meals to the hungry through charity is valuable, but advocating for policies that address hunger and poverty on a larger scale is part of the work of social justice.
The Christian Mission and the Love of Jesus
The Christian mission is the calling to spread the Gospel and live out the teachings of Jesus, particularly His message of love, forgiveness, and salvation. The characteristics of Jesus’ love include selflessness, compassion, and sacrifice. For instance, Jesus’ healing of the sick, His forgiveness of sins, and His ultimate sacrifice on the cross are examples of His unconditional love. The Christian mission involves not only preaching the Gospel but also serving others and demonstrating love through action. This is seen in the example of the Good Samaritan, where Jesus teaches love for one’s neighbor through acts of kindness and compassion.
