FREE Bachelor of Theology Faith & Catholic Tradition Questions and Answers
Which of the following describes the essence of tradition?
Tradition, in its essence, serves as a powerful force that binds a community together through shared customs, beliefs, practices, and values that have been passed down from generation to generation. It provides a sense of continuity and identity, connecting people to their past and the experiences of those who have preceded them.
Which character from the New Testament is crucial to the "creation" of Christian theology and is also the writer of the earliest writings?
Paul, originally known as Saul of Tarsus, was a Pharisee and a zealous persecutor of early Christians. However, his life was dramatically transformed when he had a profound encounter with the risen Jesus Christ on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:1-19). This encounter led to his conversion to Christianity and his subsequent mission as an apostle and missionary.
What is the "evolution" theory's main flaw in relation to Jesus' resurrection?
The Christian belief in Jesus' resurrection stands as a unique and foundational aspect of the Christian faith, setting it apart from other resurrection accounts or beliefs in the ancient world. It serves as a central tenet of Christian theology and provides the basis for the hope of eternal life and redemption through faith in Jesus Christ.
Which of the following best describes theology as shown by medieval figures?
Medieval figures approached theology as both a science and an art, seeking to study God and understand how all things relate to God. Theology was regarded as the highest and noblest of all branches of knowledge, often referred to as the "Queen of Sciences." Theologians of the medieval period believed in the harmony between faith and reason, acknowledging that faith is the starting point for theological inquiry, but reason is used to deepen and clarify one's understanding of the mysteries of faith.
Which of the following is NOT a Catholic tradition-based order?
Baptists are not a Catholic tradition-based order. Baptists are a Protestant Christian denomination, not part of the Catholic tradition. Baptists emerged during the 17th century as part of the larger Protestant Reformation movement. They are known for their emphasis on individual faith, believer's baptism (baptism upon a personal confession of faith), and the authority of the Bible as the sole rule of faith and practice.
What distinguishing quality may be identified in the theological roots of ancient Israel?
The distinguishing quality that may be identified in the theological roots of ancient Israel is that it begins with God's own speaking and is constituted above all by a relationship. In the theological perspective of ancient Israel, God is considered to be the initiator of the relationship with His chosen people. The foundation of Israel's theology is rooted in the belief that God revealed Himself to the Israelites and entered into a covenantal relationship with them.
What is the main purpose of thinking about the resurrection formula as stated in Chapter 15 of St. Paul's Letter to the Corinthians?
The main purpose of thinking about the resurrection formula as stated in Chapter 15 of St. Paul's Letter to the Corinthians is to demonstrate that there was a belief in the resurrection of Jesus very early on in Christian theology. Paul claims that the resurrection formula was given to him and was being recited or proclaimed by the early Christian community.
Which of the following best describes secularism?
Secularism refers to the principle or ideology that advocates for the separation of religious institutions and religious matters from the affairs of the state and public life. It upholds the idea of a neutral and impartial government that does not favor or promote any specific religion or religious beliefs.
Which statement best encapsulates tradition as it is understood in the Catholic Tradition?
In the Catholic Tradition, the concept of tradition refers to the passing down of beliefs, teachings, practices, and customs from one generation to another within the Church. It involves an ongoing process of transmitting the core teachings of the faith while also allowing for deeper understanding and development over time.
Which of the following sources regarding Jesus' historical existence is NOT extra-canonical?
St. Paul, also known as the Apostle Paul, is a canonical source regarding Jesus' historical existence. In the New Testament, the writings attributed to St. Paul are considered part of the Christian canon and are included in the Bible. His letters, known as the Pauline Epistles, form a significant portion of the New Testament.
What does the etymological definition of the word "theology" mean?
The etymological definition of the word "theology" is derived from the Greek words "theos" (meaning "God") and "logos" (meaning "study" or "word"). When combined, "theology" literally means the "study of God" or the "word about God."
Which of the following characteristics is specific to the Catholic tradition rather than to all of Christianity?
The belief in Apostolic succession and the papacy is a distinctive feature of the Roman Catholic Church. According to Catholic teaching, the apostles received their authority directly from Jesus Christ, and this authority has been passed down through the generations by the laying on of hands in the ordination of bishops, priests, and deacons. This uninterrupted passing down of authority is known as Apostolic succession.
What does it mean to refer to a source as "extra-canonical"?
Theology in the medieval period was characterized by its dual nature as both a science and an art, reflecting the deep commitment of medieval thinkers to explore and articulate the mysteries of faith and the relationship between God and humanity.
Of the following, which best describes the Middle Ages?
During the Middle Ages, which spanned approximately from the 5th to the 15th century in Europe, there was a prevailing worldview that viewed the entire cosmos and existence as divinely ordained and connected to God. This perspective, often referred to as the "Sacramental worldview" or "Medieval Christian worldview," held that everything in the world, both the natural and the spiritual, was a reflection of God's divine communication and purpose.
In the Catholic Tradition, what is the source of the highest teaching authority?
In the Catholic Tradition, the source of the highest teaching authority is a council of all Catholic bishops in the world in union with the Bishop of Rome (the pope). This authoritative council is known as an "Ecumenical Council." The highest teaching authority in the Catholic Tradition is found in an Ecumenical Council composed of all Catholic bishops in the world in union with the Bishop of Rome (the Pope). This authoritative body plays a crucial role in safeguarding and interpreting the deposit of faith handed down from the apostles and guiding the Church in matters of doctrine and moral teachings.
What does it mean that women were the first to discover the empty tomb in the Christian Scriptures?
In the Christian Scriptures, particularly in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, it is consistently recorded that women were the first to discover the empty tomb of Jesus after his crucifixion. This is a significant detail because, in the cultural context of the time, the testimony of women was generally considered less credible than that of men. Women were not typically seen as reliable witnesses in legal matters and other important testimonies.