Theology

Redemption (definition)

The restoration of man from the bondage of sin to the liberty of the children of God through the satisfactions and merits of Christ

Redemption (concept)

Christ redeemed humanity by his blood

Conversion (definition)

A turning of heart and mind away from sin and toward God

Conversion (etymology)

From Latin “convertere

Metanoia (definition)

A deep interior conversion; a complete change of heart oriented toward God

Avenues to Moral Truth

The ways God reveals moral truth: Sacred Tradition

Sacred Tradition (definition)

All the apostles received from Christ’s teaching

Sacred Tradition (etymology)

From Latin “traditio

Capital ‘T’ Tradition

The essential teachings handed down from Christ and the apostles

Lowercase ‘t’ tradition

Man-made customs and practices that can change over time

Sacred Scripture (definition)

The written Word of God inspired by the Holy Spirit

Sacred Scripture as witness to Tradition

Scripture is a monument or testimony to the Tradition passed down from the apostles

Divine Revelation

God’s self-communication revealing His plan of salvation

Canon (definition)

The official list of books recognized by the Church as Sacred Scripture

Characteristics of Scripture

Inerrant

Ten Commandments / Decalogue (definition)

The moral law given by God to Moses; means “ten words”

Fulfillment of the Commandments by Christ

Jesus perfects the law by raising the moral standard and calling for deeper love and holiness

Twofold Commandment of Love

Love God with your whole heart

Beatitudes (definition)

Teachings of Jesus showing the way to true holiness and happiness

Beatitudes (literal meaning)

Means “blessings” or “supreme happiness”

Christ as New Moses

Jesus gives a New Law through the Beatitudes as Moses gave the Law on Mt. Sinai

Scripture as Motivation (Imitation Model)

Scripture motivates us to act by imitating Christ

Scripture as Motivation (Eschatological Model)

Scripture motivates us by reminding us of eternal life and judgment

Scripture as Motivation (Peace & Happiness)

Scripture shows that following God brings peace and true happiness

Norms (definition)

Standards or rules that guide moral behavior

Formal Norms

Norms that describe how someone should be (example: be honest)

Material Norms

Norms that describe specific actions (example: do not steal)