Theology: Faith, Reason, and Knowledge of God Study Guide

What is human intellect?

A spiritual power given by God to human persons that gives us the ability for rational thought.

What distinguishes humans from animals?

Our intellect, which allows us to discern observable truths and make conclusions about them.

What is the definition of the virtue of faith?

A virtue that enables a person to believe in God and the truths revealed by Him, submitting one's intellect and free will.

Do faith and reason contradict each other?

No, they are simply two different ways in which we arrive at truth.

What are examples of truths known by reason alone?

Physical, observable facts like having blonde hair, wearing jewelry, or having blue eyes.

What are examples of truths known only through revelation?

Personal interior truths that must be shared, like being shy, favorite TV show, or favorite artist.

What does the word "argument" mean in Western theology and philosophy?

A set of propositions used to establish a logical conclusion (not a fight or disagreement).

How far back do arguments for God's existence date?

To the time of ancient Greek philosophers Plato and Aristotle (circa 400 B.C.).

Who was St. Thomas Aquinas?

A 13th-century priest, philosopher, theologian, and Doctor of the Church who wrote famous arguments for God's existence.

What do St. Thomas Aquinas's Five Ways rely on?

Logic, reason, and observable truths in nature (they do not rely on faith).

Why are Aquinas's arguments helpful for non-believers?

Non-believers lack faith, but everyone possesses an intellect and the ability to follow logic and reason.

What is Aquinas's Argument from Motion (Proof 1)?

Nothing moves itself, so tracing movement back requires an "Unmoved Mover" who started all motion, which is God.

What is Aquinas's Argument from Causation (Proof 2)?

Nothing causes itself to exist, so tracing causes back requires an "Uncaused Cause" that brought everything into existence, which is God.

What is Aquinas's Argument from Design (Proof 3)?

Nature exhibits order and purpose rather than chaos, requiring an intelligent designer, which is God.

What is the only realistic conclusion about God at the end of Aquinas's proofs?

That God exists.

How does a person come to know God more after accepting His existence?

Through what God reveals to us (Divine Revelation) and having faith in that revelation.

Who was Blaise Pascal?

A 17th-century mathematician, philosopher, inventor, and Catholic thinker.

What is the main purpose of Pascal's Wager?

To argue why a person should believe and live as though God exists, rather than logically proving God exists.

According to Pascal's Wager, what happens if you believe in God and He exists?

You gain true happiness and reward in the afterlife.

According to Pascal's Wager, what happens if you believe in God and He does NOT exist?

You gain true happiness in life, and face no harm or afterlife consequences.

According to Pascal's Wager, what happens if you DO NOT believe in God and He exists?

You experience a lack of true happiness and face possible punishment in the afterlife.

According to Pascal's Wager, what happens if you DO NOT believe in God and He does NOT exist?

You experience a lack of true happiness, with no harm or afterlife consequences.