Theology 11B: Module 2 Study Guide

Question 1

What is the relationship between Eternal Law and all other laws?

Answer 1

Eternal Law is the unchanging order established by God, governing all creation. It is the source of all other laws.

Natural Law: The part of eternal law that can be understood through reason
Divine Law: Direct revelation from God, such as the Old and New Law
Human Law: Laws made by societies to uphold justice, ideally based on Natural Law.

Question 2

Relationship between Natural Law and the Ten Commandments

Answer 2

The Ten Commandments are a direct expression of Natural Law, revealing moral truths that can also be known through reason. Natural Law provides the foundation, while the Ten Commandments clarify and reinforce its principles.

Question 3

Relationship between the Old Law and the New Law

Answer 3

Old Law (Mosaic Law): Given to Israel through Moses, including the Ten Commandments and ritual laws, It was a preparation for salvation.

New Law (Law of Christ): Fulfills and perfects the Old Law, emphasizing love, grace, and interior transformation rather than external observance.

Question 4

Why don’t Christians follow the ritual prescriptions of the Old Law?

Answer 4

Jesus fulfilled the Old Law, and the ritual and dietary laws were specifically for Israel to prepare for he Messiah. The moral laws, however, remain valid.

Question 5

The Five Precepts of the Chruch

Answer 5

1. Attend Mass on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation
2. Confess your sins at least once a year
3. Receive that Eucharist at least once during the Easter season.
4. Observe fasting and abstinence as prescribed by the Church.
5. Provide for the material needs of the Church.

Question 6

Difference between mortal and venial sin

Answer 6

Mortal Sin is a grave offense that separates a person from God’s grace. it requires grave matter, full knowledge, and deliberate consent. Venial Sin is a lesser offense that weakens, but does not break, one’s relationship with God.

Question 7

Difference between a Sin of Commission and a Sin of Omission

Answer 7

A Sin of Commission is doing something sinful, a Sin of Omission is failing to do something good (i.e. fail to help someone in need).