Religion Exam Questions - Coursework Example

? RELIGION EXAM QUESTIONS Latasha R. Lee 30th September, Religion Exam Questions Question In the Council of Chalcedon (451) and Councilof Ephesus (431) the relationship between the two natures of God is defined. The Councils also explain that Jesus is the only Son of God, a true God, and man1. Jesus is, therefore, one person present in two forms without doubt, division, change or separation2. Christ then has a rational soul; He respected humanity and divinity3. Christology controversy developed as an attempt to understand Christ. However the shift from Jewish to Hellenistic civilization was not undemanding as numerous hermeneutical disparities emerged. A good example is a situation whereby some individuals interpreted the scriptures in relation to Christ as a being; thus, assumed his ontological feature4. In this case, this group visualized God as the Father and that there was no difference between the two5. In the contemporary society, a lot of individuals failed to understand the two natures of God and can barely explain Jesus. This can then be related to the Christological errors that saw differences in the Church. More differences were to arise in the Church, as no tangible conclusion was reached in a discussion of God, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. I, however, believe in the Holy Trinity due to my strong conviction in the doctrines of Christology that emphasizes on the forms of Jesus. Question 2 Christendom may simply be referred to as a Christian world that entails social and political polities6. Christendom created a subtle division of power between the state and the church as medieval Christendom aimed at creating a government that would uphold Christian doctrines and values7. The clergy were then given a lot of political authority- what was acceptable throughout Europe- though politicians and clergymen differed in function. In the Middle Ages in Europe, religion and politics were linked, as both were western and Christian concerns8. It was argued that religious authorities were to limit their powers if law enforcement had to be implemented by the state institutions9. A good example can be the rivalry between the Pope and the Emperor in Europe. At times the government may use its powers excessively; thus, hinder the contribution of the Church in the society, and its autonomous operation. The vice versa would also happen if the Church almost takes over the roles of the government forcing the government to submit. In the country today, there is clear separation of power between the Church and the State, and each operates independently. This prevents a situation where either of the parties will be forced to work under the mercies of the other. Question 3 Luther’s theology aimed at reforming the practice and theology of the Catholic Church. According to Noll, Luther believed in faith and grace of God10. Additionally, Luther’s theology upheld respect for authority of the Roman Catholic, and other practices of the Catholics such as participation in Eucharist11. Luther advocated for justification by faith where belief in Jesus Christ would spare one from the wrath of destruction. He also believed in the sufficiency of the Scripture as the binding authority of Christians12. The word of God can then be equated to a golden chance in a Christian’s life. Lastly, Luther appreciated the sovereignty of God, and that God gave to human kind on a free will13. Human beings are then under the mercies of God and God uses us as He pleases. Luther’s theology questioned the medieval conception of Christendom. This explains why his theology of the cross is factual of the Christian Heritage. Christians, therefore, believe as being one body of believers, and that Christians are ministers of God’s word. Christians also believe that Jesus Christ was crucified, died for our sins and rose again for the sake of the human race. Question 4 As argued by Bettenson and Maunder, culture plays an immense role in the life of an individual in relation to religion14. At times culture may pose a major threat to Christianity. Christians believe in the fact that God is the sole law maker. However one’s culture, for instance African culture may question the validity of the interpretation of the Bible by the missionaries, and who commissioned them to spread religion to the Africans. In this case, Bettenson and Maunder, indicate that the missionaries tend to rely on their culture and will interpret facts based on their community ideals; hence, may cause misinterpretations that are not stipulated in the religion in question15. My cultural perspectives influence my study of Christianity. I believe in doing what my conscience says is right. This may hinder my study on Christianity that indicates that Jesus is the only truth. I also question what absolute truth entails and whether that truth has ever existed. In line to this argument, I am completely at pains to explain the issues of ‘truth’ and ‘right’ as Christianity dictates. I, therefore, live with the fact that common right and wrong does not exist in the present day society. FINAL EXAM Question 1 As argued by Noll, God has been in command of the history and development of Christianity as can be evidenced in the Great Commission. The author indicates that the Council of Chalcedon was a vital turning point in Christianity as it clarified the orthodox teachings of Christianity16. Through the Council of Chalcedon, there occurred Christological debates that saw the separation of western Roman church. As argued by most Protestants and Anglicans, the Council of Chalcedon may be considered ecumenical17. Though there were numerous forms of opposition from the Pope, the Council managed to come into play. As seen in the work of Noll, the Council of Chalcedon works on the notion on single character of Christ, who exists in twofold, both God and Human18. This is to indicate that Jesus has both complete spirituality and humanity. As the author emphasizes, the concept of the two natures of Jesus cannot be delinked from a discussion of the Holy Trinity- God, the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit19. The Holy Trinity, therefore, formed the basis of the Orthodox principle, which Christians uphold to date. Of essence, one would term the Council of Chalcedon as a landmark towards Christian virtues, and a form of protection against deviation from orthodoxy to heretical doctrines20. Noll emphasizes that through the Council of Chalcedon, errors in the church were eliminated; Christianity gained an upper hand over cultural divisions, as well as embracing of theological reasoning21. However, the Council of Chalcedon was not devoid of consequences from different groups of people. The major effect revolved around schisms between those people who declined embracing the teachings of the Council and the ones who believed in the teachings. The Oriental orthodox – decliners of the Council- remained persistent with their teachings and aimed at influencing the masses22. A church known as the Jacobites, that included the monophysites and Nestorians, was formed and spread throughout the world23. However, the Council of Chalcedon remains a major pillar in the study of Christianity despite the numerous differences and variations of power in the church throughout history. The Council of Chalcedon succeeded in benchmarking its doctrines to the persons who believed in its truth. Conclusively, thanks to the Council of Chalcedon, Christians successfully fought the battle of the times and overcame all barriers ranging from culture to varying opinions by individuals. The fact remains that Jesus Christ was crucified, died and resurrected for the sake of human kind. The Council can then be credited a major turning point to the lives of Christians who come up together in oneness, just like the Christian doctrines advocate. Despite the present days’ difficulties, Christians have an obligation to assist each other. This is a good example of the love of Jesus Christ and the spirit of compassion in the human race. It is justified, for that reason, to indicate that God has been the major regulator and manager of the history and growth of Christianity as evidenced in the Council of Chalcedon. Question 2 The Great Schism of 1054 Noll argues that the Great Schism of 1054 was an important turning point in the study of Christian history24. The Great Schism of 1054 was the reason behind East-West cultural disengagements, ecclesiastical thoughts and theological disparities25. The author continues to argue that this Schism signified isolation that saw a great percentage of the Eastern churches embrace the decay. The East and the West- Eastern orthodoxy and Roman Catholicism- disintegrated26. The major difference between Eastern orthodoxy and Roman Catholicism revolved around the issue of authority, where the East did not embrace the papal affirmations of universal authority and the mandate over the Ecumenical Synod27. On the other hand, the Churches of the Old and New Rome were also splitting on the basis of their practices. Among the differences revolved around the issue of sacraments of leavened and unleavened bread, the Sabbath day, the appearance of the priests- whether bearded or shaven, marriage for the clergy, consumption of meat with blood, Pope’s authority and inclusion of Filioque to the Creed28. After Italy was conquered by the Normans, Latin practices were imposed on the exited Orthodox clergy29. Some churches were closed in the event of non compliance to the rule. By 1054, Patriarch Cerularius’ portrait of ex-communication was placed in the church at St. Sophia during Divine Liturgy celebrations30. Patriarch Cerularius was keen to expose the ills of Latin through Archbishop Leo. In his letter, Leo responds by indicating that it was not wrong to consume meat with blood, fasting in Lent took place on Saturdays, Alleluia was only sang during Easter, celibacy was not compulsory for the clergy or Filioque31. Noll continues to indicate that unleavened bread was also used in Eucharist32. Patriarch Cerularius of the East was not happy with these practices and opted to expose them in 1046. Pope Leo IX was to fight back the move by Patriarch Cerularius by sending a delegation to Constantinople to deliberate on the issues33. Patriarch Cerularius was accused of ascending to the throne unfairly, and was also termed as a neophyte whose aim was to outdo other patriarchs34. By 1056, King Henry of Germany took over Sicily, Calabria and Apuleia of Southern Italy. He then promotes Leo IX to throne who he worked closely with35. Conclusively, the Great Schism of 1054 is meaningful and interesting one as it did not resolve the conflicts in the church. The conflicts were however to take many years to resettle. Just like in the present day situation, the church attempts to strive for unity, but cannot, due to the different fronts in the Church. However, the common aspect is that unity is finally achieved despite the period taken. The Great Schism of 1054 can then be described as an important turning point in the study of Christian history as it set the base for the reorganization of the modern day church. Despite the distortions, order was finally achieved. Bibliography Bettenson, Henry, and Maunder, Chris. eds. Documents of the Christian Church. 4th edition. London: Oxford University Press, 2011. Noll, Mark A. Turning Points: Decisive Moments in the History of Christianity. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books, 1997. Read More