religion

What is the central belief of early Christian communities?

Jesus as the Messiah and the Son of God.

What practices characterized the early Christian communities?

Community gatherings for worship, breaking bread, and prayer.

What challenges did early Christian communities face?

Persecution and internal conflicts.

How did early Christians rely on their faith?

Through a shared faith and scriptures for cohesion.

When were the Gospels written?

In the first century AD.

What historical context surrounded the writing of the Gospels?

A time of social and political upheaval.

What process was involved in the development of the Gospels?

Oral traditions were collected, interpreted, and eventually written down.

Who are traditionally attributed as the authors of the Gospels?

The Evangelists: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.

What is the significance of the Synoptic Gospels?

Mark is a primary source for Matthew and Luke according to the Q source theory.

What type of tradition influenced the Gospels?

Oral Tradition.

What are some possible written sources used in the Gospels?

Other texts or collections of Jesus’ sayings.

What core feature distinguishes each Gospel?

Each Gospel has a distinct narrative structure.

What common themes are found in the Gospels?

Salvation, faith, the Kingdom of God, and Jesus’ teachings.

What literary devices are prevalent in the Gospels?

Parables, miracles, and symbolism.

How does Mark portray Jesus?

As the Suffering Messiah, emphasizing Jesus’ humanity and suffering.

How does Matthew present Jesus?

As the Teacher, focusing on Jesus as a new Moses who fulfills Jewish prophecy.

What is Luke's portrayal of Jesus?

The Compassionate Savior, highlighting care for the marginalized.

What is John's emphasis regarding Jesus?

The Divine Son, emphasizing Jesus’ divine nature and eternal life.

What is the significance of the Suffering Messiah in Mark's Gospel?

It reflects Jesus’ prediction of his passion and implications for early Christians facing persecution.

What is the Messianic Secret in Mark's Gospel?

Jesus instructs others to keep his identity a secret.

What are the key questions posed in Mark’s Gospel?

'Who is Jesus?' and 'What does it mean to follow him?'

How is Jesus’ divine sonship revealed in Mark?

Through his actions and authority, particularly in miracles and resurrection.

How should a response to an exam question be structured?

Start with an introduction outlining your argument, focus on specific aspects in paragraphs.

What is important when integrating stimulus in an extended response?

Refer back to any given stimulus or prompts provided in the exam.

Why are biblical quotes important in responses?

They support your points and strengthen your argument.

What ensures cohesion in an exam response?

Using transition phrases to maintain flow and coherence.

Why is proofreading important?

To check for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors, enhancing clarity.

What is Mark 8:31 significant for?

It highlights the Suffering Messiah and Jesus’ prediction of his passion.

Why is the theme of persecution important in early Christianity?

It reflects the challenges faced by early Christians and their reliance on faith.

What role does community play in early Christian practice?

It fosters support and shared beliefs among believers.

How did oral traditions contribute to the Gospels?

They were the basis for the teachings of Jesus before being written down.

In what way did the political context affect the writing of the Gospels?

The social and political upheaval may have influenced the message and urgency of the Gospels.