Church History Ch1-2 Study Guide

Vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts from Church History chapters 1–2.Each card defines a key term or idea from the notes.

Church History vs Regular History

God is ever by her side

The Church's role in human history

The Church participates in human history and its role surpasses human understanding.

Church and Jesus relationship

The Church is the continuation of the Incarnation; an intimate connection between Christ and the world.

Maintaining teachings during sin

Creeds, doctrines, and rituals preserve Church teaching even when members sin.

Ideal faith life

Faith should be both personal and communal.

Blessings Jesus gave to the Apostles

Authority to teach and baptize in Jesus' name.

Kingdom of God on earth

Fully realized at the Second Coming.

Holy Spirit and the Church (Pentecost symbols)

The Church was revealed by the Holy Spirit at Pentecost; wind and fire symbolize the Spirit; gifts enable sharing the Good News.

Apostles' Creed

A basic outline of the Christian faith compiled around AD 150.

Apostolic succession

Passing on of teaching, preaching, and office from the Apostles to their successors, the bishops, through laying on of hands.

Birthday of the Church

Pentecost; Greek for 'fiftieth day'; 50 days after Passover; first Pentecost when the Holy Spirit appeared as wind and fire.

Saul/Paul

A Pharisee who persecuted Christians, then converted to Christ and became Paul, a key author of Epistles; martyred under Nero.

Epistles

Letters in the Bible.

Persecution in early Church

Roman persecution; Christians faced threats and urged rejoicing in opportunities to suffer for Christ.

Unnatural parts of the Christian faith

Beliefs outsiders fear, such as Death and Resurrection and the Eucharist (body and blood of Christ).

Martyrs' contribution to the Church

Provided steadfast witness and inspiration to persevere amid persecution.

Early church initiation

Initiation into the Church in early Christianity, generally involving baptism and integration into the Christian community.