Study Notes on Christian Concepts

Apostles

  • The Twelve Apostles are selected disciples of Jesus.

  • Purpose: Chosen to be companions of Jesus and to proclaim his message.

  • Terminology: Later, they were referred to as 'apostles' by the four evangelists (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John).

Resurrection

  • Definition: The event when Jesus rose to life again three days after his death.

The Bible

  • Definition: A collection of holy writings consisting of the Old Testament and the New Testament.

  • Content: It contains God's word, teachings on faith, life, and guidelines on how to live.

Sacrament

  • Definition: A visible and effective sign of God's grace.

  • Characteristics:

    • Acts as a sign of God's presence in the world.

    • Celebrates the new life that Jesus brings to believers.

The Church

  • Definition: A community formed by Jesus from his followers.

  • Purpose: Known as the Body of Christ and serves as a special community of believers.

Salvation

  • Definition: The promise made by Christians to participate in the life of God.

  • Human Condition: Addresses the healing of human weakness, freeing humanity from sin and evil.

  • Process: This healing is referred to as salvation.

Disciples

  • Definition: Followers of Jesus.

Successor

  • Definition: An individual who follows another in a role or position.

  • Role: Continues the work or mission of the predecessor.

Evangelist

  • Definition: Those in the early church who documented the life of Jesus.

  • Gift: Recognized as having a special gift of the Holy Spirit to record the good news of Jesus Christ.

Transfiguration

  • Definition: A significant moment when Jesus' appearance transformed, radiating glory.

  • Significance: Revealed Jesus' divine nature to his disciples.

Incarnation

  • Definition: The doctrine affirming that Jesus is both fully human and fully divine.

  • Concept: The Son of God assumed human nature.

Trinity (The Holy Trinity)

  • Definition: The belief in one God manifesting in three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

The Kingdom of God

  • Definition: Exists wherever God's will is in action.

  • Nature: Brought about by God; considered a divine gift.

  • Centrality: Represents the heart of Jesus' teachings and life.

Visitation

  • Event: The occasion when Mary visited her cousin Elizabeth after learning she would give birth to Jesus.

Repentance

  • Definition: The act of feeling regret for wrongdoing and resolving to act rightly in the future.