Theology Terms Flashcards
What is Imago Dei?
The concept that humans are created in the image and likeness of God.
What is Original Sin?
The inherited sinful nature passed down from Adam and Eve.
What is the debate between Dualism and Holistic Views?
The debate on whether the body and soul are separate (dualism) or integrated (holistic).
What is Eschatological Hope?
The ultimate Christian hope of resurrection and eternal life.
What is Soteriology?
The study of salvation, emphasizing the transformation of human nature from sin to grace.
What is the Argument from Motion?
Everything in motion is moved by something else, necessitating a first unmoved mover (God).
What is the Argument from Causation?
Every effect has a cause, leading to a first uncaused cause.
What is the Argument from Contingency?
Distinguishes between possible beings (can exist or not exist) and a necessary being (God).
What is the Argument from Degrees of Perfection?
The existence of varying degrees of qualities (e.g., goodness) implies a perfect being.
What is the Argument from Design (Teleological Argument)?
The order and purpose in nature point to a designer (God).
What is Natural Theology?
Knowledge of God derived from reason and observation of the natural world.
What is the Unmoved Mover?
A concept from Aristotle, adopted by Aquinas, referring to the first cause of motion.
What is Contingency?
The state of being dependent on something else for existence.
What are Degrees of Perfection?
A concept that things are compared to an ultimate standard of perfection.
What is the Prime Mover?
Aristotle’s term for the first cause, similar to Aquinas’ unmoved mover.
What is Theodicy?
The explanation of why evil and suffering exist in a world governed by a good and omnipotent God.
What is the relationship between Faith and Doubt?
Explored by authors like Dostoevsky, who grapple with the moral weight of suffering.
What is Personal Suffering as Insight?
Shakespeare and other writers use suffering as a catalyst for self-discovery or moral reflection.
What is Grace?
Divine assistance given to humans for their regeneration and sanctification.
What are Justification and Sanctification?
Processes in Christian theology leading to salvation.
What is Teleology?
The study of purpose or design in the natural world.
What is Free Will?
The ability of humans to make moral choices, central to debates on sin and responsibility.
