Unit 3 - Sources of Wisdom & Authority

What is the Bible?

The Bible is the sacred text of Christianity, consisting of the Old Testament (Hebrew Scriptures) and the New Testament (life and teachings of Jesus). It is seen as the Word of God, inspired by the Holy Spirit, and used for teaching, guidance, and worship (2 Timothy 3:16).

What is the Old Testament?

The Old Testament is the first part of the Bible, containing 39 books (in Protestant Bibles) or 46 books (in Catholic Bibles). It includes the Hebrew Scriptures, such as the Law (Torah), Prophets, and Writings, and focuses on God’s covenant with Israel, creation, and the promise of a Messiah.

What is the New Testament?

The New Testament is the second part of the Bible, containing 27 books. It includes the Gospels (life of Jesus), Acts (early Church), Epistles (letters), and Revelation. It focuses on Jesus’ life, teachings, death, resurrection, and the establishment of the Church.

Why is the bible important to catholics?

• The book of stories allowing faith to survive

• Contains the history of human experience with god

• Ethical framework of laws to live by

• Written form of the word ensures that it cannot be changed

• Special revelation reveals god’s nature

• Connection to god

• Contains confirmation of god’s convenience

• The Bible is a means to salvation in that it should be read on how to please god

What are the Dead Sea Scrolls?

The Dead Sea Scrolls are ancient Jewish texts discovered near the Dead Sea (1947–1956). They include Old Testament manuscripts (e.g., Isaiah), apocryphal writings, and sectarian documents. They provide insight into Judaism during Jesus’ time and confirm the accuracy of biblical texts.

What is the Rylands Fragment?

The Rylands Fragment (P52) is the oldest known fragment of the New Testament, dating to around 125–175 AD. It contains part of John 18 and shows that the Gospels were written and circulated early, supporting their reliability.

Why does the bible have authority?

• Contains laws and commands that regulate society

• Inspired by God (words from him)

• Sources of truth and wisdom and guidance

• Reveals God’s nature to use and shows us how to please him by living well

• Allows to build a closer relationship with him

• Contains teachings of christ

Evangelical

Focus on spreading the good news

Literal

Word for word - Dictated by God

Liberal

The Holy Spirit inspired authors of the bible and therefore has spiritual importance, but parts of it aren’t relevant within a modern day context

Inspired

The Holy Spirit inspired the authors of the Bible (and teachings of the Bible should be understood as true)

Oration

Praying about the scripture, how the text has ‘spoken’ to you

Meditation

Meditating on the scripture, the same text will be read out at least a couple of times, the second time reading the individual might focus on words that “jump out”

Contemplation

Contemplating scripture, letting what you have read sink in

What is the Magisterium in Catholicism?

The Magisterium is the teaching authority of the Catholic Church, consisting of the Pope and bishops. It interprets Scripture and Tradition, ensures correct doctrine, and guides Catholics in faith and morals. It is seen as guided by the Holy Spirit.

What is the order of the Magisterium in Catholicism?

• Pope: Highest authority, teaches infallibly on faith and morals.

• Cardinals: Advise the Pope and elect new popes.

• Bishops: Teach in union with the Pope, lead dioceses.

• Priests: Celebrate sacraments, preach, and guide parishes.

• Deacons: Assist in liturgy, charity, and teaching.

• Laity: Live out faith, evangelise, and serve through ministries.
  This structure ensures unity and shared mission in the Church.

What is the Ordinary Magisterium?

The Ordinary Magisterium is the everyday teaching authority of the Pope and bishops. It includes encyclicals, homilies, and catechisms, guiding Catholics in faith and morals. It is not infallible unless universally affirmed.

What is the Extraordinary Magisterium (Conciliar)?

The Conciliar Magisterium is the infallible teaching authority exercised by bishops in an ecumenical council (e.g., Vatican II). It defines doctrines on faith and morals with the Pope’s approval.

What is the Extraordinary Magisterium (Pontifical)?

The Pontifical Magisterium is the infallible teaching authority exercised by the Pope when speaking ex cathedra (from the chair of Peter). It defines doctrines on faith and morals for the whole Church.

What is the role of the Magisterium in the Catholic Church?

The Magisterium is the teaching authority of the Church, led by the Pope and bishops. Its role is to:

1. Interpret Scripture and Tradition accurately.

2. Preserve and proclaim the deposit of faith.

3. Guide Catholics in faith and morals.

4. Ensure unity in doctrine and practice.
   It is guided by the Holy Spirit to prevent error.

What is apostolic succession?

Apostolic succession is the unbroken line of authority from the apostles to the Pope and bishops today. It ensures the Church’s teachings remain true to Christ’s original message. Bishops are ordained through this succession, preserving the Church’s unity and authority.

“Peter is the rock upon which the church was built” - New Testament

“Peter is the rock upon which the church was built” - New Testament

“Your word is the lamp to my path” - Psalms 109:119

“Your word is the lamp to my path” - Psalms 109:119

What does "One" mean in the context of the Four Marks?

The Church is united under one God, one faith, one baptism. It emphasizes the unity of believers in Christ and the Church's single foundation. Think: Unity, togetherness in belief and practice. Scripture: Ephesians 4:4-6 ("There is one body and one Spirit...one Lord, one faith, one baptism").

What does "Holy" mean in the context of the Four Marks?

The Church is set apart and consecrated to God. It is made holy by the presence of the Holy Spirit and strives for holiness in its members. Think: Sacred, set apart, dedicated to God, striving for moral perfection. Despite having sinful members, the Church itself is holy due to its origin and purpose.

What does "Catholic" mean in the context of the Four Marks?

The Church is universal, encompassing all people and all times. It is meant for everyone, everywhere. Think: Universal, worldwide, inclusive, for all people. It's not just about the Roman Catholic Church; "catholic" (lowercase 'c') refers to the wholeness and universality of the Christian faith.

What does "Apostolic" mean in the context of the Four Marks?

The Church is founded on the teachings of the Apostles and continues their mission. It maintains continuity with the early Church through Apostolic Succession (the unbroken line of bishops tracing back to the Apostles). Think: Rooted in the Apostles' teachings, authority passed down, connection to the early Church.

How can the Four Marks be used to evaluate a Christian community today?

Consider if the community demonstrates: Unity in belief and practice (One), dedication to God and moral living (Holy), openness to all people (Catholic), and faithfulness to the teachings of the Apostles (Apostolic). These marks act as a measuring stick for authenticity.

What’s the Laity?

Non ordained people of the Church living out their vocation

What’s the Clergy?

Ordained priests, bishops, and cardinals carrying on from the Apostles

Who are the Religious?

Nuns, monks, christian brothers

Why is Mary considered a model of the Church?

Mary exemplifies the virtues and characteristics the Church strives for: faith, obedience, humility, service, and prayerfulness. Her life provides an example for believers to follow.

What is the significance of Mary's "fiat" (Latin for "let it be")? (Luke 1:38)

Mary's acceptance of God's will ("Let it be done to me according to your word") demonstrates complete obedience and trust in God. This models the Church's role in submitting to God's plan and participating in his work. Connect this to the Church's role in spreading the Gospel and serving others.

What is the doctrine of the Immaculate Conception, and how does it relate to Mary as a model?

This doctrine states that Mary was conceived without original sin. While not directly related to the Church, it emphasizes Mary's purity and holiness, setting her apart as a special vessel for God's grace. Some might see this as reflecting the Church's ultimate destiny—to be fully united with God. Important: This is often confused with the Virgin Birth. The Immaculate Conception is about Mary's conception, not Jesus'.

Advantages of Mary being a role model for catholics

• Mary was entirely obedient when god called her to be mother of christ

• She accepted god’s will and handed herself over selflessly, dedicating her whole life to christ

• Mary was conceived without sin and remained sinless so christians should model themselves after her

• She remained with jesus throughout his whole life even standing at the foot of the cross

• She is a role model of faith, charity, and discipleship, she trusted god’s mission for her son and believed that death wasn’t the end

• She was the first disciple and the last, there with him

Disadvantages of Mary being a role model for catholics

• Mary had no choice but to give into god’s commands, it was going to happen anyway

• Protestant churches don’t revere Mary, so why should catholics?

• The commandments say not to worship false idols

• There is no empirical evidence that Mary stayed a virgin all her life, so worshipping her as a role model for women may not be worthwhile. Jesus refers to ‘my brothers and sisters’ in the gospel

What is the central focus of Virtue Ethics?

Developing good moral character through cultivating virtues, rather than simply following rules. Focuses on being good, not just doing good

What key question does Virtue Ethics ask?

"What kind of person should I be?" This emphasizes the importance of character development in moral decision-making.

Who were some key thinkers that influence Virtue Ethics?

Aristotle, a Greek philosopher. He emphasized virtues like courage, justice, and wisdom, achieved through practice and leading to eudaimonia (flourishing).

What is conscience?

What is conscience? Back: An inner sense of right and wrong, guiding moral decision-making. It's a process of discernment, not just a feeling.

How is conscience formed?

• Reason and Intellect: Critical thinking and understanding moral principles.

• Scripture and Tradition: Learning religious teachings and values.

• Experience and Reflection: Evaluating past actions and their consequences.

• Prayer and Guidance: Seeking spiritual wisdom and direction.