Sin And Forgiveness Flashcards
What was St Augustine’s stance on the death penalty?
St Augustine was AGAINST the death penalty.
Why did St Augustine oppose the death penalty?
He believed that a person cannot change once they are dead and needs every chance to change while alive.
What evidence did St Augustine provide to support his view on capital punishment?
“There is no space to reform character except in this life”.
What was Pope John Paul’s suggestion regarding capital punishment?
Pope John Paul suggested that capital punishment should be avoided unless it is the only way to protect people from the criminal.
What evidence did Pope John Paul provide regarding the necessity of capital punishment?
“Punishment…ought not go to the extreme of executing the offender except in cases of absolute necessity”.
How have the Catholic Church’s teachings on the death penalty evolved according to Pope Francis?
Pope Francis stated that he is against the death penalty, saying it is no longer justifiable.
What is a key reason Pope Francis gives for opposing the death penalty?
There is a chance that the wrong person could be killed.
What do the Ten Commandments state regarding killing?
“Do not kill”.
What is the sanctity of life argument against capital punishment?
Life is special, holy, and belongs to God; only God can decide when life ends.
What evidence supports the sanctity of life argument?
“In the beginning, God created” - Genesis.
Why should life be cherished from conception to natural death according to Catholic teachings?
Any deliberate killing of an innocent person is always wrong because everyone is made in the image of God.
What evidence supports the idea that life should be cherished?
- “God made mankind in his image” - Genesis.
- “God breathed life into Adam’s nostrils” - Genesis.
What did Jesus teach regarding reform and capital punishment?
Jesus came to save (reform) sinners but you cannot reform a dead person.
What did Jesus say about revenge?
He taught that taking revenge is wrong and said, “to turn the other cheek”.
What is the Catholic Christian response to the death penalty?
They will attend peaceful marches against the death penalty being made legal.
What is capital punishment?
Capital punishment is the death penalty.
How do some Christians view the death penalty in relation to the commandment ‘thou shalt not kill’?
They argue that it upholds the commandment by showing the seriousness of murder as a crime.
What is the deterrence argument for capital punishment?
It is thought to deter people from murdering others.
What does the Old Testament teach regarding capital punishment?
It teaches that the death penalty should be used for some crimes.
What evidence from the Bible supports the Old Testament teaching on capital punishment?
“An eye for an eye”.
How might some Christians advocate for capital punishment in the UK?
They may write letters to their MP or start social media campaigns.
What is a key argument from humanists against capital punishment?
No court system can be sure to give the correct decision regarding guilt.
What is a consequence of wrongful conviction in capital punishment according to humanists?
Innocent people cannot be compensated if they are executed.
Why do humanists argue that capital punishment does not deter murder?
Many murderers do not expect to be caught and do not think about the punishment.
What is a fundamental human right that humanists believe prohibits capital punishment?
The right to life.
What slogan represents the humanist viewpoint on life and rights?
“My life, my body, my choice”.
How do humanists demonstrate their opposition to capital punishment?
They will attend peaceful marches against the death penalty being changed in the UK.
What is morality?
How people understand the difference between good and bad behaviour.
What are the two main approaches to morality?
- Absolute/Absolutism
- Relative/Relativism
What does absolute morality entail?
Some actions are always wrong, and what is right or wrong never changes.
Provide an example of absolute morality.
Abortion is always wrong since it is taking a life.
What is a key piece of evidence for absolute morality?
“Do not kill” - Ten Commandments.
How do Catholics support those considering abortion?
By campaigning for better parenting support and encouraging adoption.
What does relative morality suggest?
What is right or wrong can change depending on the situation and circumstances.
Provide an example of relative morality.
Abortion can be permissible to save the mother’s life.
What is a key piece of evidence for relative morality?
“Love thy neighbour” - The Gospels.
How do Humanists view abortion laws in England?
They campaign to maintain current laws making abortion safe and legal.
What is forgiveness in the Christian context?
The act of pardoning someone for the offences they have caused.
What is a parable?
A story told by Jesus with a deeper or hidden meaning.
What is the message of the parable of the unmerciful servant?
The importance of forgiving others to be forgiven ourselves.
What does Jesus say about forgiveness?
“I tell you, seventy-seven times”.
What are the main events in the story of the unmerciful servant?
- The master cancels the servant’s debt
- The servant refuses to pardon another man
- The master punishes the servant
What is the meaning of the parable of the unmerciful servant?
If people cannot pardon others, they cannot expect to be forgiven by God.
How do Catholics live out the example of Jesus regarding forgiveness?
By showing forgiveness to those who may have wronged them.
What is a crime?
An action that breaks a law made by people, such as speeding.
What is the key concept of sin?
An action that goes against the will of God, e.g., adultery.
Give an example of an action that is both a crime and a sin.
Murder.
What does retribution in punishment mean?
A punishment equal to the crime committed.
What is an example of retribution?
The death penalty for murder.
What is the aim of deterrence in punishment?
To discourage people from committing crimes.
What is an example of deterrence?
The death penalty.
What is the biblical basis for retribution?
“An eye for an eye” - The Bible.
What is the purpose of rehabilitation in punishment?
To help criminals make positive changes in their lives.
What is an example of rehabilitation?
Educating people in prison.
How do people campaign for rehabilitation in prisons?
By advocating for educational programs to gain qualifications.
What is the relationship between forgiveness and punishment for Christians?
They can work together to ensure justice is done.
How can punishment reinforce morality?
By helping a person change themselves.
What does Jesus say about God’s punishment?
It is up to God to judge, and He will forgive those who are truly sorry.
What is a key piece of evidence regarding forgiveness in Christianity?
“And forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.” - The Lord’s prayer.
How do Catholics demonstrate forgiveness?
By trying to live out the example of Jesus.
What is the key concept of salvation in Catholic belief?
The belief that through Jesus’ death and resurrection, people can live forever with God.
What do Catholic Christians believe Jesus saved humans from?
The consequences of sin, which are a damaged relationship with God and the possibility of separating themselves from God’s love forever.
Why did God the Father send His Son Jesus among humans?
To show them how best to live through teachings like ‘love thy neighbour’.
What were the death and resurrection of Jesus part of?
God’s plan to save his people.
What biblical evidence supports the belief in salvation?
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” - John’s Gospel.
How do Catholics express gratitude for salvation?
By praying to God, thanking him for sending his Son Jesus for the chance of eternal life in Heaven.
What is the definition of redemption in Catholicism?
The payment for salvation - Jesus paid the ransom for our sins by giving his life on the cross.
What does redemption mean in the context of sin?
Being saved from sin and its consequences.
What is seen as proof that Jesus conquered sin and death?
Jesus’ resurrection.
What did the angel at the tomb say about Jesus’ resurrection?
“He is not here; he has risen, just as he said.” - Matthew 28:6.
How does knowing Jesus has redeemed them affect Catholics?
It gives them hope and comfort, especially in difficult times.
What are Catholics encouraged to do in response to Jesus’ example?
Help others and show love and compassion.
What does the Paschal Mystery refer to?
The events of Jesus’ death, resurrection, and ascension to Heaven which save people from sin.
What does the mystery in the Paschal Mystery signify?
The act of resurrection defies human understanding of how the world works.
What are the three key events in the Paschal Mystery?
- Death - Jesus was sentenced to death by crucifixion. * Resurrection - Jesus was raised from the dead three days after crucifixion. * Ascension - Jesus rose to Heaven after having been resurrected.
What do Catholics believe about God’s actions towards humanity?
They were a result of his love and omnibenevolence.
What is Hell in Catholic belief?
Where people who have rejected God and his forgiveness live.
What is the contradiction many people see regarding Hell and God’s nature?
If God is omnibenevolent and merciful, it is hard to believe that Hell exists or that God would allow people to go to Hell.
What do Catholics believe about choices made at the time of death?
They reflect whether a person has taken them closer to God (Heaven) or removed them from God (Hell).
What does the statement ‘They ate the fruit’ refer to?
The argument that humans use their free will to make choices leading to sin.
How do Catholics use their free will according to their beliefs?
To make good decisions, informed by the teachings of Jesus.
What are the Four Marks of the Church?
One, holy, catholic, and apostolic
These marks are found in the Nicene Creed.
What does ‘one’ signify in the context of the Church?
A single, united, and global Church based in Christ Jesus.
Why is the Church considered holy?
It was created by the Son of God, Jesus, and sacraments like baptism help make the faithful holy.
What does ‘catholic’ mean?
Universal; the Church’s role is to spread the Word of God universally.
What does ‘apostolic’ refer to?
The origins and beliefs of the Church that started with the apostles at Pentecost.
What is the significance of the Nicene Creed in relation to the Church?
‘I believe in one, holy, catholic, and apostolic church.’
How do Catholics express gratitude to God?
Through prayers and celebrating the sacrament of the Eucharist.
What is meant by the Body of Christ?
Catholic Christians continue the work of Jesus through the Church community.
Why is each member of the Church important?
Each person has their own role, similar to parts of a human body.
What is evangelisation in the context of the Church?
The mission to spread Jesus’ message, continuing the work of the disciples.
Who stated ‘Christ has no body now but yours’?
St Teresa of Avila.
Who said ‘You are the body of Christ’?
St Paul.
How do Catholics live out Jesus’ teachings?
By supporting charities like CAFOD and living out principles like ‘love thy neighbour.’
What is Mary’s role in the Catholic faith?
She is the mother of Jesus Christ and a model of faith.
What does the Hail Mary Prayer signify?
A call for Mary to pray for sinners.
What does faith mean in the context of Mary?
Total trust in God’s plan, exemplified by her acceptance of becoming the mother of Jesus.
What is an example of charity shown by Mary?
Showing compassion and kindness to others.
What does discipleship mean in relation to Mary?
Dedication to Jesus throughout her life, especially during his crucifixion.
How do Catholic Christians follow Mary’s example?
By working for the common good and supporting charitable causes.
What is the belief about salvation?
Through Jesus’ death and resurrection, people can live forever with God.
What was the traditional teaching of the Catholic Church regarding salvation?
Only believers and members of the Catholic Church could be saved.
What is Pope Francis’ view on salvation?
The sacrifice of Jesus was made for all humanity, not just Christians.
What did the Second Vatican Council state about salvation?
Even those ignorant of the faith can achieve eternal life if they live good lives.
What did Jesus say about the way to the Father?
‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’
How do Catholic Christians spread the word of God?
By creating informative content, like videos, to share the message respectfully.
What are sarcophagi?
Large stone coffins often carved with scenes from the suffering and death of Jesus
Symbolizes belief in resurrection and hope of eternal life with God
What does the crown of thorns represent?
Jesus being mocked as ‘King of the Jews’
Full of jewels to symbolize Jesus’ true Kingship as the Son of God
Where is the evidence for the crown of thorns found?
The Gospels
What does the Chi-Rho symbolize?
The belief that Jesus is the Christ, the anointed one, and it is the ancient symbol of resurrection
What is the key concept of salvation in Catholicism?
The belief that through Jesus’ death and resurrection, people can live forever with God
What is the font in a Catholic church?
A stone basin filled with water used for baptism, which washes away Original Sin
Why is baptism necessary according to the Gospels?
‘Baptism is necessary for salvation’
What is the altar used for in a Catholic church?
Where the sacrament of the Eucharist (Holy Communion) is celebrated
What does the sharing of bread and wine at the altar represent?
The body and blood of Jesus in his crucifixion
What direction do churches usually face, and why?
East, symbolizing Jesus as the light of the world
What is the Paschal Candle?
A large candle lit during Church services, symbolizing Jesus’ victory over death
What do the alpha and omega symbolize?
Christ as the beginning and end of all things
What does the cross symbolize in Christianity?
The crucifixion made the resurrection possible
How do Catholics use the Paschal Candle at funerals?
To show Jesus as a light in dark times and to remind them of their loved one’s safety in God’s presence
What happens during the baptism ceremony related to the Paschal Candle?
The smaller baptism candle is lit from the large Paschal candle
What do water and white clothes symbolize in baptism?
The washing away of Original Sin and new life in Jesus
What is the Eucharist also known as?
Holy Communion
What does ‘Eucharist’ mean?
‘Thanksgiving’
What commandment do Catholics follow by sharing the bread and wine?
Jesus’ command from the Last Supper
What is the significance of the Eucharist for the Catholic community?
It brings the community together
What is the goal of Catholics regarding the sacraments?
To celebrate them in their lifetime to grow in faith and strengthen their connection with God
What is Evangelism?
Spreading the ‘good news’ which we translate as Gospel. The sharing of the Gospel and life of Jesus with others.
What does Evangelism mean for Christians?
Christians sharing and talking about their faith with others.
What biblical evidence supports the call to evangelise?
‘Go therefore and make disciples of all nations’ - Jesus in Matthew’s Gospel.
What is one benefit of sharing faith according to some Christians?
To fulfil your Christian duty as the disciples were given the mission to tell everyone about Jesus.
What challenges do Christians face in sharing their faith?
Increasing numbers of people without faith who feel they can exist without one.
How can Catholic Christians spread the word of God?
Using modern communication, such as TikTok videos, to explain their faith.
What is Evangelii Gaudium?
A letter written by Pope Francis encouraging Catholics to become involved in evangelisation.
What does Evangelii Gaudium mean?
‘The Joy of the Gospel’.
What does Pope Francis want the Church to do according to Evangelii Gaudium?
Move from being in a ‘comfort zone’ to engaging with the world by showing love for all people.
What is a notable quote by Pope Francis regarding the Church’s mission?
‘I prefer a Church which is bruised, hurting and dirty because it has been out on the streets.’
How should Catholics respond to the message of Evangelii Gaudium?
By taking the Good News to everyone and following the example of Jesus to love everyone.
