Rome Flashcards
Explain 2 reasons the Council of Jerusalem in 49 AD was important
The Council of Jerusalem decided ‘THROUGH THE HOLY SPIRIT’ that Gentiles could be Christians without having to be circumcised/follow Moses’ laws. Christianity was also no longer tied down to Jerusalem and could spread. Was the template for future Ecumenical councils, for elders and bishops to meet over difficulties
Describe the work of the early Christian apologists
Worked in defense of the Church. They were Christians who argued the case for Christians to be given legal freedom. E.g St Athanasius opposed Arianism. Taught that the incarnation of God in Jesus Christ. Combined Reason and Faith. Greco-Roman philosophy and Judeo-Christian historical+biblical tradition. Science and Faith
Describe the difference between the city of God and city of man in St. Augustine’s City of God
Romans blamed the massive conversion to Christianity as the cause for the sacking of Rome. The City of Man is full of politics and war. While Christians should not care about things of this world, they should focus on attaining heaven, The City Of God.
Describe how the Church survived the Fall of the Roman Empire
Barbarians overwhelmed The Roman Empire. Leaders of the Church organised a parallel system next to the political structure. Missionaries converted barbarians, especially Celt monks from Ireland who were originally converted by St Patrick. The Christians destroyed pagan idols but sprinkled holy water,built altars and put relics in the pagan temples.
The Church allied with and helped Christian barbarian kings. Eg Clovis, king of Franks
Describe how Benedict lived the life of Jesus in his day.
Through Patience, Self-discipline, Moderation and Obedience. St. Benedict attempted to live a life of prayer away from the world, at Subiaco, Vicovaro, Subiaco again and finally successful at Monte Cassino. Benedict’s Rule divided a day into 3, 8 hour periods, being prayer, work and sleep. This allowed people of different ages to live together, being based on the body’s needs. To live in the community environment, these strict rules has to be kept. Although Benedict hoped to be alone, God called him to live with others.
