Theology: The Purpose of Our Creation and How We Fulfill It Study Guide

What is theology's understanding of how God created all things?

God created all things good, out of nothing, and did not need to create anything.

What is the special relationship and ultimate purpose for which God created humans?

To know, love, and serve God and others in this life so that we may spend eternal happiness with God in the next.

What component of the human person gives us the capacity to know and grasp truth, including truths revealed by God?

Intellect

What capacity allows human beings to choose or reject God?

Free Will

What is the immortal soul?

The spiritual component of the human person that allows us to live forever with God or separated from Him.

What is the definition of sin?

Any thought, word, or action against God and His will.

Who experienced complete happiness with God before disobeying His will?

The first man and woman, Adam and Eve.

What were the consequences of Adam and Eve disobeying God's will?

Their perfect relationship with God was ruptured not only for them, but for all of us as their descendants.

How does God react when human beings fall into sin?

God never gives up on us and is constantly seeking to draw us back into a right relationship with Him while respecting our choice.

How did God address human sin through Jesus Christ at a specific moment in history?

God sent His Son to become incarnate of the Virgin Mary and sacrifice His life to atone (pay the price) for our sins.

Why did God give us the Church and the Sacraments?

To continue the mission of salvation and allow us to encounter God and His grace in a transformative way to become more holy.

What is "Head Knowledge" in theology?

Studying theology and reading Scripture to learn WHO God is and what He is like.

What does reading Sacred Scripture provide us with?

The story of how God has intervened and acted in human history.

What is "Intimate Knowledge" of God?

Knowledge gained through prayer, contemplation, Mass, Adoration, and Sacraments that helps develop a personal relationship with God.

What five practices help build Intimate Knowledge of God according to the notes?

Conversing in prayer, contemplation/meditation, attending/participating in Mass, spending time in Adoration, and participating in the Sacraments.

Are Head Knowledge or Intimate Knowledge mutually exclusive?

No, both forms of knowledge are good and necessary.

What is Divine Revelation?

God's communication of Himself by which He makes Himself more fully known.

What can human reason accomplish on its own without Divine Revelation?

Reason can tell us that God exists, but it cannot tell us what God is like.

What is Sacred Scripture?

A written account of how God has encountered His people in human history.

What is Sacred Tradition?

The oral transmission of the faith and God's revelation.

Why is Jesus Christ considered a revelation of God?

Because He is fully God.

Does Divine Revelation only occur through Scripture, Tradition, and Jesus?

No, sometimes God reveals Himself in everyday encounters as well.

What does an authentic response to God's call require beyond mere belief?

Living one's life according to faith and making good moral decisions.

What does God offer us to help us live out our call to holiness and make good moral decisions?

His grace.

What is the theological definition of grace?

The free and undeserved help God gives us to respond to His call.