Christian Responses to Jesus' Teachings

Flashcards about Christian responses to Jesus' teachings.

According to Matthew's Gospel, what are Christians expected to do?

Christians must do nothing to resist an evil person who attacks them, give freely more than is asked to anyone who makes a demand of them, lend without expectation of being paid back, love their enemies, and be perfect.

Why are many Christians pacifists?

Many Christians are pacifists because they accept the teaching of Jesus as authoritative, so they will not resist attack and will try to show love towards those who might be their enemy.

What is the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers)?

A Christian organization which puts the teaching of non-resistance into practice, by refusing to bear arms or engage in conflict.

How do some Christians justify not being pacifists?

Some Christians interpret Jesus' teachings in the light of other teachings where he appears to allow or encourage conflict, such as Luke 22:36.

Regarding the command not to resist attackers, how might a liberal Christian interpret Jesus' teachings?

Liberal Christians might point out that Jesus was speaking in the context of the Roman rule of Palestine, where resistance to the Romans could lead to crucifixion as a punishment.

How might the command 'You must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect' be interpreted?

Jesus is probably using hyperbole, which is deliberate exaggeration to achieve an effect, to encourage people to be as near to perfect as possible since the end of the world was believed to be near.

What is a possible interpretation of Jesus' commands regarding non-resistance, giving freely, and loving one's enemies?

Continued violence and hatred have a habit of rebounding on people; moreover being generous in money matters and giving freely in all walks of life is likely to be more productive for individuals than keeping all your assets for yourself.

According to Matthew's Gospel, what are Christians expected to do?

Christians must do nothing to resist an evil person who attacks them, give freely more than is asked to anyone who makes a demand of them, lend without expectation of being paid back, love their enemies, and be perfect.

Why are many Christians pacifists?

Many Christians are pacifists because they accept the teaching of Jesus as authoritative, so they will not resist attack and will try to show love towards those who might be their enemy.

What is the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers)?

A Christian organization which puts the teaching of non-resistance into practice, by refusing to bear arms or engage in conflict.

How do some Christians justify not being pacifists?

Some Christians interpret Jesus' teachings in the light of other teachings where he appears to allow or encourage conflict, such as Luke 22:36.

Regarding the command not to resist attackers, how might a liberal Christian interpret Jesus' teachings?

Liberal Christians might point out that Jesus was speaking in the context of the Roman rule of Palestine, where resistance to the Romans could lead to crucifixion as a punishment.

How might the command 'You must be

Jesus is probably using hyperbole, which is deliberate exaggeration to achieve an effect, to encourage people to be as near to perfect as possible since the end of the world was believed to be near.