IBS Mid-Term Study Guide

Is it possible to prove without a doubt that the Bible is the inspired word of God?

This question encourages exploration of theological arguments and perspectives on biblical inspiration.

What is the Apocrypha?

The Apocrypha refers to a collection of books considered canonical by some Christian traditions but not by others.

What tradition of the Church includes the Apocrypha?

The Catholic Church includes the Apocrypha, while the Protestant tradition typically does not.

What does 'oral tradition' mean?

Oral tradition refers to the practice of passing down stories and teachings verbally, which is important for understanding early Christian teachings.

When was the early Church certain about which gospels were inspired by God?

The early Church became certain about the inspired gospels by the end of the 2nd century.

Was the KJV the first English Bible?

No, the King James Version (KJV) was not the first English Bible; earlier translations existed, such as the Wycliffe Bible.

Were ancient manuscripts sometimes written on animal skins?

Yes, ancient manuscripts were often written on animal skins, known as parchment.

How many ancient copies of the NT do we have?

There are thousands of ancient manuscripts of the New Testament that have been discovered.

What were some reasons the Apostles waited to write the NT?

Some reasons included the expectation of Christ's imminent return and the oral tradition's strength.

What is the earliest manuscript of a NT document?

The earliest manuscript is the Rylands Library Papyrus P52, dated around 125 AD.

What does the word 'canon' mean?

Canon refers to a collection of books that are accepted as authoritative scripture.

What is the Dead Sea Scrolls?

The Dead Sea Scrolls are ancient Jewish texts discovered near the Dead Sea, important for biblical studies.

According to Church tradition, where did Mark get most of his source material for his gospel?

Traditionally, Mark is believed to have drawn much of his material from the teachings of Peter.

What does 'inerrancy' refer to?

Inerrancy is the doctrine that the Bible is without error in its teachings.

What are the Synoptic Gospels?

The Synoptic Gospels refer to Matthew, Mark, and Luke, which share similar perspectives and content.

What is Textual Criticism?

Textual Criticism is the study of manuscripts to determine the original text of the biblical writings.

What is the Masoretic Text?

The Masoretic Text is the authoritative Hebrew text of the Jewish Bible.

What is General Revelation?

General Revelation refers to God's revelation of Himself through nature and creation.

What is Special Revelation?

Special Revelation refers to God's communication found in specific historical events and scripture.

What does 'Plenary Inspiration' mean?

Plenary Inspiration is the belief that all parts of the Bible are equally inspired by God.

What are the four instruments that lead to faith (Wesleyan Quadrilateral)?

The four instruments are Scripture, Tradition, Reason, and Experience.

What is the Vulgate?

The Vulgate is a Latin translation of the Bible that was widely used in the Western Church.

What does the term 'Pseudepigrapha' refer to?

Pseudepigrapha refers to ancient texts attributed to authors who did not actually write them.

What are three factors scholars consider in textual criticism?

1. Variants in manuscripts, 2. Historical context, 3. Authenticity and credibility of sources.

What can doubt help us in our faith?

Doubt can lead to deeper understanding and personal growth in faith.

What cannot general revelation answer?

General revelation cannot answer specific questions about salvation and relationship with God, thus necessitating special revelation.