- to be able to construct and sustain a complex argument
- to be able to present a sustainable counter-argument
- to be able to appreciate that conclusions might be interim and that one's evaluation of them might change with greater knowledge, understanding and experience
- to have the courage to take adventurous steps in learning
- to be able to use personal experiences and insights in your work
- to be able to raise questions
- to be able to recognise how one subject area relates to other subject areas (e.g. religion and science, religion and history, or religion and art)
- to avoid making generalised statements which you can't support (e.g. 'all christians believe' or 'religion is the cause of all evil')
Thursday 12 July 2007
Sunday 13 May 2007
"Explain how Christians may respond if they see other people being treated badly by the government?"
Example answer:
Christians believe that all people are equally valuable to God and therefore any form of injustice is wrong, especially by a government. The Christian response would be to speak out against this government's injustice towards its people. They might do this through protests, petitiions and marches to show the government that they believe they acting wrongly. For example Martin Luther King's campaign for civil rights in America. Some Christians believe in liberation theology, which is a movement that says God is on the side of the poor and the oppressed and that Christians should act to make the world a fairer place. This might sometimes result in the use of violence if Christians believe it might bring a more just society. Liberation theology started in South America in the 1970s and 80s where the governments in the different countries treated their people very badly.
Christians believe that all people are equally valuable to God and therefore any form of injustice is wrong, especially by a government. The Christian response would be to speak out against this government's injustice towards its people. They might do this through protests, petitiions and marches to show the government that they believe they acting wrongly. For example Martin Luther King's campaign for civil rights in America. Some Christians believe in liberation theology, which is a movement that says God is on the side of the poor and the oppressed and that Christians should act to make the world a fairer place. This might sometimes result in the use of violence if Christians believe it might bring a more just society. Liberation theology started in South America in the 1970s and 80s where the governments in the different countries treated their people very badly.
Wednesday 9 May 2007
stuff on liberation theology
Today's Independent newspaper's big question is all about liberation theology for those interested.
And someone else explains what it's all about here:
And someone else explains what it's all about here:
One of the major trends in contemporary theology 30 plus years ago was the rise of liberation theology, in various forms. I suppose that makes it no longer quite so contemporary. Of all the branches of this theology, its most influential form came out of Latin and South America and involved a variety of Catholic and Protestant writers, some of whose names are still very well known-- for example Leonardo Boff (Brazil), Gustavo Guttierez (Peru), Jon Sobrino (El Salvador). This theology arose as a response to the extreme poverty of many Christians and others in these regions, and the oppressive dictatorships and regimes that kept wealth in the hands of the few, while leaving millions of residents in these countries in abject poverty.
In essence, Latin and South American liberation theology had as its major theme that God had a special concern for the poor and oppressed, which is true enough, and that the church itself should reflect God's agenda which was understood to involve "a preferential option for the poor". But this theology was not content to simply deal in depth with what the Bible has to say about poverty and wealth. It welded such materials to a Marxist liberation schema, involving political action of various sorts, and in some cases even supported Marxist guerrillas in some countries, in their opposition to the governments of the region.
Tuesday 1 May 2007
Archbishop of Canterbury on Euthanasia
Last year in July the Archbishop of Canterbury wrote this letter with other Christian and Jewish leaders against a government bill that try to make legal some forms of euthansaia. I've highlighted the different arguments against euthanasia.
Sir,
Today the House of Lords will debate the Assisted Dying for the Terminally Ill Bill. We are opposed to this Bill and to any measure that seeks to legalise assisted suicide or euthanasia. We believe that all human life is sacred and God-given with a value that is inherent, not conditional. We urge legislators to withhold support for this Bill so as to ensure that British law continues to safeguard the principle that the intention to kill, or assist in the killing, of an innocent human being is wrong.
Compassion for the terminally ill is incumbent on all of us, but in that respect we believe that the Bill is misguided. Such a Bill cannot guarantee that a right to die would not, for society's most vulnerable, become a duty to die. Were such a law enacted, the elderly, lonely, sick or distressed would find themselves under pressure, real or imagined, to ask for an early death. Furthermore, there is no guarantee that economic pressures might not come to play a significant part in determining whether to treat or recommend assisted death.
...
We particularly acknowledge the opposition to a change in the law from disability groups and from the majority in the medical profession, especially those committed to providing palliative care (e.g. hospices). In helping the terminally ill to face their fears, and by relieving their pain and suffering, palliative care workers are integral to securing the dignity of those nearing death. We believe, therefore, that properly funded and universally accessible palliative care services are essential for meeting the needs - material, emotional and spiritual - of those with terminal illnesses, and we urge the government to recognise the need for greater funding for palliative care.
The Most Reverend and Rt Hon Dr Rowan Williams, Archbishop of Canterbury
His Eminence Cardinal Cormac Murphy-O’Connor, Archbishop of Westminster
Sir Jonathan Sacks, the Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth
Sir,
Today the House of Lords will debate the Assisted Dying for the Terminally Ill Bill. We are opposed to this Bill and to any measure that seeks to legalise assisted suicide or euthanasia. We believe that all human life is sacred and God-given with a value that is inherent, not conditional. We urge legislators to withhold support for this Bill so as to ensure that British law continues to safeguard the principle that the intention to kill, or assist in the killing, of an innocent human being is wrong.
Compassion for the terminally ill is incumbent on all of us, but in that respect we believe that the Bill is misguided. Such a Bill cannot guarantee that a right to die would not, for society's most vulnerable, become a duty to die. Were such a law enacted, the elderly, lonely, sick or distressed would find themselves under pressure, real or imagined, to ask for an early death. Furthermore, there is no guarantee that economic pressures might not come to play a significant part in determining whether to treat or recommend assisted death.
...
We particularly acknowledge the opposition to a change in the law from disability groups and from the majority in the medical profession, especially those committed to providing palliative care (e.g. hospices). In helping the terminally ill to face their fears, and by relieving their pain and suffering, palliative care workers are integral to securing the dignity of those nearing death. We believe, therefore, that properly funded and universally accessible palliative care services are essential for meeting the needs - material, emotional and spiritual - of those with terminal illnesses, and we urge the government to recognise the need for greater funding for palliative care.
The Most Reverend and Rt Hon Dr Rowan Williams, Archbishop of Canterbury
His Eminence Cardinal Cormac Murphy-O’Connor, Archbishop of Westminster
Sir Jonathan Sacks, the Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth
Some possible answers to human relationship questions
Describe Christian beliefs about divorce:
Possible answers might include: different christian views; mention that divorce is never encouraged by christians, but some accept it is sometimes inevitable; might mention that some christians that marriage cannot be broken because it is a union made before God and blessed by God and can only be broken by death; might comment on Jesus permitting divorce on the grounds of adultery
Explain how a Christian marriage service might help a couple in their married life:
Possible answers might include: emphasis on marriage for life, on faithfulness and marriage blessed by God; might also discuss the expectation of the couple to have children as one of the purposes of marriage
Explain the importance of the vows made at a marriage service:
Possible answers might include: the significance of vows being made before God, how the vows emphasise faithfulness, support, love and how they might help the couple in the future, how the vows don't permit divorce ('until death do us part')
Possible answers might include: different christian views; mention that divorce is never encouraged by christians, but some accept it is sometimes inevitable; might mention that some christians that marriage cannot be broken because it is a union made before God and blessed by God and can only be broken by death; might comment on Jesus permitting divorce on the grounds of adultery
Explain how a Christian marriage service might help a couple in their married life:
Possible answers might include: emphasis on marriage for life, on faithfulness and marriage blessed by God; might also discuss the expectation of the couple to have children as one of the purposes of marriage
Explain the importance of the vows made at a marriage service:
Possible answers might include: the significance of vows being made before God, how the vows emphasise faithfulness, support, love and how they might help the couple in the future, how the vows don't permit divorce ('until death do us part')
Some possible answers to medical ethics questions
Describe Christian attitudes towards abortion:
Possible answers might include: Roman Catholic and other Christian views; biblical references in support; some consideration of issues to do with sanctity of life, ensoulment and quickening
Explain how a Christian might respond to someone who wants to commit suicide:
Possible answers might include: mention that people need support and help and not blame; arguments about compassion and sanctity of life (life is a gift, precious, not to be destroyed, treated with respect) might be made; might mention christian views on euthanasia; might mention traditional christian views on euthanasia (it's a sin)
Explain Christian attitudes to the use of animals in medical research:
Possible answers might include: consider issues of equality, benefits to humans; how christians should treat animals; might mention what the Bible says
Possible answers might include: Roman Catholic and other Christian views; biblical references in support; some consideration of issues to do with sanctity of life, ensoulment and quickening
Explain how a Christian might respond to someone who wants to commit suicide:
Possible answers might include: mention that people need support and help and not blame; arguments about compassion and sanctity of life (life is a gift, precious, not to be destroyed, treated with respect) might be made; might mention christian views on euthanasia; might mention traditional christian views on euthanasia (it's a sin)
Explain Christian attitudes to the use of animals in medical research:
Possible answers might include: consider issues of equality, benefits to humans; how christians should treat animals; might mention what the Bible says
Some example answers to poverty and wealth questions
Explain why a Christian might give to charity:
Possible answers to include: the command 'to love one's neighbour'; Jesus' teaching about wealth; duty to follow the example of Jesus in showing concern for the poor
Describe Christian teachings about money:
Possible answers to include: the story of the widow's mite, the rich young man. Answers might also mention the importance of not wasting money on luxuries and stress the idea of moderation
'It does not matter how you earn your money' Do you agree?
Possible answers to include: occupations that Christians see as immoral or why some against working on a Sunday. Other views might include the importance of providing for a family, which might be more important than how money is earnt
Possible answers to include: the command 'to love one's neighbour'; Jesus' teaching about wealth; duty to follow the example of Jesus in showing concern for the poor
Describe Christian teachings about money:
Possible answers to include: the story of the widow's mite, the rich young man. Answers might also mention the importance of not wasting money on luxuries and stress the idea of moderation
'It does not matter how you earn your money' Do you agree?
Possible answers to include: occupations that Christians see as immoral or why some against working on a Sunday. Other views might include the importance of providing for a family, which might be more important than how money is earnt
Past paper GCSE RE Questions
See how many of the questions are the same with slightly different wording.
Topic 5 – Good and Evil
From 2003 paper
(a)Describe Christian beliefs about the Devil (Satan) [8]
(b)Explain the ways in which a Christian might try to find out the right answer to a difficult moral problem. [7]
(c)‘If people suffer, it is usually their own fault’. Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
(a)Describe how Christians might try to find out the right way to behave [8]
(b)Explain how Christians might cope with suffering [7]
(c)‘If you believe in God, suffering doesn’t matter.’ Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
From 2005 paper
(a) Describe Christian beliefs about good and evil [8]
(b) Explain the ways in which a Christian might try to find the answer to a moral problem [7]
(c) 'When people suffer they are being punished for something they have done'. Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
From 2006 paper
(a)Describe Christian beliefs about God and the Devil [8]
(b)Explain how these beliefs might help people who are suffering [7]
(c)‘If God was really good then people who not suffer.’ Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
Topic 6 – Religion and Human Relationships
From 2003 paper
(a)Describe Christian beliefs about divorce [8]
(b)Explain how a Christian marriage service might guide a couple in their married life [7]
(c)‘Divorce is never the best way to solve problems with a marriage.’ Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
From 2005 paper
(a) Describe Christian beliefs about divorce [8]
(b) Explain how a Christian marriage service might help a couple in their married life [7]
(c) 'Divorce is never right.' Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
From 2006 paper
(a)Describe the roles of men and women in a Christian family [8]
(b)Explain Christian attitudes towards divorce [7]
(c)‘Every Christian should get married.’ Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. [5]
Topic 7 - Religion and Medical Ethics
From 2003 paper
(a)Describe Christian teachings about euthanasia [8]
(b)Explain why Christians might be opposed to suicide [7]
(c)‘All life is worth living.’ Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
From 2005 paper
(a)Describe Christian attitudes to abortion [8]
(b)Explain how a Christian might respond to someone who was thinking about suicide.
(c)‘Only God has the right to take away life.’ Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
From 2006 paper
(a) Describe Christian attitudes towards abortion [8]
(b) Explain why some Christians might be against fertility treatment. [7]
(c) ‘It is up to God to decide if a woman is going to have a baby.’ Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
(c) ‘Life comes from God and only God should be allowed to take life.’ Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
(c) ‘People who are suffering should be allowed to take their own lives.’ Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
Topic 9 – Religion, poverty and wealth
From 2003 paper
(a) Describe the main causes of hunger in the world [8]
(b) Explain why a Christian might give money to charity [7]
(c) 'It does not matter how you earn your money, as long as you make enough to live on.' Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
From 2005 paper
(a) Describe the main causes of hunger in the world [8]
(b) Explain why a Christian might regularly give money to charity [7]
(c) 'It does not matter how you earn your money.' Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
From 2006 paper
(a)Describe Christian teachings about concern for the poor [8]
(b)Explain why a Christian might give money to charity [7]
(c)‘People must look after their family before they worry about the poor.’ Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
Topic 10 – Religion, Peace and Justice
(a)Describe Christian teachings about ‘Just War’ [8]
(b)Explain Christian attitudes towards pacifism. [7]
(c)‘Violence is always wrong.’ Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
From 2003 paper
(a) Describe what Christians mean by a 'Just War' [8]
(b) Explain how Christians might respond if they see other people being treated very badly by a government [7]
(c) 'Sometimes using violence is the only way to solve a problem.' Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
From 2005 paper
(a) Describe what Christians mean by a 'Just War' [8]
(b) Explain Christian atittudes to the treatment of criminals [7]
(c)'Violence is never the best way to solve a problem.' Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
From 2006 paper
(a)Describe Christian teachings about war [8]
(b) Explain why a Christian might work for peace [7]
(c) 'Violence is sometimes necessary.' Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
Topic 5 – Good and Evil
From 2003 paper
(a)Describe Christian beliefs about the Devil (Satan) [8]
(b)Explain the ways in which a Christian might try to find out the right answer to a difficult moral problem. [7]
(c)‘If people suffer, it is usually their own fault’. Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
(a)Describe how Christians might try to find out the right way to behave [8]
(b)Explain how Christians might cope with suffering [7]
(c)‘If you believe in God, suffering doesn’t matter.’ Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
From 2005 paper
(a) Describe Christian beliefs about good and evil [8]
(b) Explain the ways in which a Christian might try to find the answer to a moral problem [7]
(c) 'When people suffer they are being punished for something they have done'. Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
From 2006 paper
(a)Describe Christian beliefs about God and the Devil [8]
(b)Explain how these beliefs might help people who are suffering [7]
(c)‘If God was really good then people who not suffer.’ Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
Topic 6 – Religion and Human Relationships
From 2003 paper
(a)Describe Christian beliefs about divorce [8]
(b)Explain how a Christian marriage service might guide a couple in their married life [7]
(c)‘Divorce is never the best way to solve problems with a marriage.’ Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
From 2005 paper
(a) Describe Christian beliefs about divorce [8]
(b) Explain how a Christian marriage service might help a couple in their married life [7]
(c) 'Divorce is never right.' Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
From 2006 paper
(a)Describe the roles of men and women in a Christian family [8]
(b)Explain Christian attitudes towards divorce [7]
(c)‘Every Christian should get married.’ Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. [5]
Topic 7 - Religion and Medical Ethics
From 2003 paper
(a)Describe Christian teachings about euthanasia [8]
(b)Explain why Christians might be opposed to suicide [7]
(c)‘All life is worth living.’ Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
From 2005 paper
(a)Describe Christian attitudes to abortion [8]
(b)Explain how a Christian might respond to someone who was thinking about suicide.
(c)‘Only God has the right to take away life.’ Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
From 2006 paper
(a) Describe Christian attitudes towards abortion [8]
(b) Explain why some Christians might be against fertility treatment. [7]
(c) ‘It is up to God to decide if a woman is going to have a baby.’ Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
(c) ‘Life comes from God and only God should be allowed to take life.’ Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
(c) ‘People who are suffering should be allowed to take their own lives.’ Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
Topic 9 – Religion, poverty and wealth
From 2003 paper
(a) Describe the main causes of hunger in the world [8]
(b) Explain why a Christian might give money to charity [7]
(c) 'It does not matter how you earn your money, as long as you make enough to live on.' Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
From 2005 paper
(a) Describe the main causes of hunger in the world [8]
(b) Explain why a Christian might regularly give money to charity [7]
(c) 'It does not matter how you earn your money.' Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
From 2006 paper
(a)Describe Christian teachings about concern for the poor [8]
(b)Explain why a Christian might give money to charity [7]
(c)‘People must look after their family before they worry about the poor.’ Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
Topic 10 – Religion, Peace and Justice
(a)Describe Christian teachings about ‘Just War’ [8]
(b)Explain Christian attitudes towards pacifism. [7]
(c)‘Violence is always wrong.’ Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
From 2003 paper
(a) Describe what Christians mean by a 'Just War' [8]
(b) Explain how Christians might respond if they see other people being treated very badly by a government [7]
(c) 'Sometimes using violence is the only way to solve a problem.' Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
From 2005 paper
(a) Describe what Christians mean by a 'Just War' [8]
(b) Explain Christian atittudes to the treatment of criminals [7]
(c)'Violence is never the best way to solve a problem.' Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
From 2006 paper
(a)Describe Christian teachings about war [8]
(b) Explain why a Christian might work for peace [7]
(c) 'Violence is sometimes necessary.' Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. [5]
Wednesday 18 April 2007
Christian views on euthanasia
The different Christian views are:
- Life comes from God. It is sacred. It is God's gift to us and therefore we have a responsibilty to live
- Christians should show compassion. Jesus said 'treat others as you would want to be treated'
- God gives life but also gives us free will to choose right and wrong. The dying person whould be able to determine when they die.
- Roman Catholic 'double effect' - the effect of helping a person in pain by giving pain-relief drugs, might have a double effect. first, to take away the pain, and second, bringing death sooner. This is ok, because the primary aim is to provide pain-relief and not end life.
- Life comes from God. It is sacred. It is God's gift to us and therefore we have a responsibilty to live
- Christians should show compassion. Jesus said 'treat others as you would want to be treated'
- God gives life but also gives us free will to choose right and wrong. The dying person whould be able to determine when they die.
- Roman Catholic 'double effect' - the effect of helping a person in pain by giving pain-relief drugs, might have a double effect. first, to take away the pain, and second, bringing death sooner. This is ok, because the primary aim is to provide pain-relief and not end life.
Wednesday 4 April 2007
Christian pacifism
Some Christians are pacifists. They believe that the Christian principle of love means that fighting and killing is never allowed, even during war. They would use the example and words of Jesus like‘Love your enemies’ and ‘Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the cheek, turn to him the other also’ to support their belief. Jesus also said ‘Blessed are the peacemakers, they will be children of God'. Examples of Christian pacifists are Martin Luther King and Dietrich Bonohoeffer. Quakers are a type of Christians who believe in pacifism. Other types of Christians, like Anglicans or Methodists, leave it up to individual conscience.
How to answer part (b) questions
An example question: ‘Explain why a Christian might regularly give to charity’
An example answer:
All Christians try and follow the teachings of the Bible because they believe it contains how God wants them to live. The Bible says a lot about God’s heart for the poor. In the Bible, St. Paul says that God likes a cheerful giver and that people should set aside money on a regular basis to give to the church to help the poor. The Bible also teaches that you can’t claim to love God and ignore those in need, that loving God and loving other people are the same thing. Elsewhere Jesus teaches that God will judge people on the basis of whether they care for the poor or not.
This answer gives reasons behind why a Christian might do this or that, in this case, give to charity.
An example answer:
All Christians try and follow the teachings of the Bible because they believe it contains how God wants them to live. The Bible says a lot about God’s heart for the poor. In the Bible, St. Paul says that God likes a cheerful giver and that people should set aside money on a regular basis to give to the church to help the poor. The Bible also teaches that you can’t claim to love God and ignore those in need, that loving God and loving other people are the same thing. Elsewhere Jesus teaches that God will judge people on the basis of whether they care for the poor or not.
This answer gives reasons behind why a Christian might do this or that, in this case, give to charity.
christian responses to social injustice
social injustice is the term given to any occasion when members or groups of a society are given fewer rights and privileges than others. Where they are treated unfairly. This could be the treatment of ethnic minorities and immigrants, prisoners and especially those unjustly imprisoned, people with learning difficulties or the physically disabled, etc.
Christians believe all people are equally valuable to God (every person is made in the 'image of God'). Christians believe they should try and make the world a fairer place. The Bible teaches that is wrong to mistreat the ‘poor’ and the ‘weak’. Some Christians are part of a movement called 'liberation theology'. Liberation theology says that God wants to liberate or set free people from oppression and injustice and Christians should take action to help this happen. Liberation theology says you can't read the Bible without seeing that God is on the side of the poor and down-trodden. God wants the world to be a place where people are treated equally and fairly.
Christians believe all people are equally valuable to God (every person is made in the 'image of God'). Christians believe they should try and make the world a fairer place. The Bible teaches that is wrong to mistreat the ‘poor’ and the ‘weak’. Some Christians are part of a movement called 'liberation theology'. Liberation theology says that God wants to liberate or set free people from oppression and injustice and Christians should take action to help this happen. Liberation theology says you can't read the Bible without seeing that God is on the side of the poor and down-trodden. God wants the world to be a place where people are treated equally and fairly.
Monday 2 April 2007
Bible quotations for peace and justice
Christian beliefs about pacifism
‘Do not commit murder’ (10 Commandments, Old Testament)
Jesus said ‘Love your enemies’ (Sermon on the Mount)
Christian beliefs about the treatment of criminals
Jesus said ‘Forgive those who have sinned against you’ (the Lord’s Prayer)
How many times shall I forgive my brother? Up to seven times? Jesus answered ‘I tell you not seven times, but seventy-seven times’ (Matthew’s gospel)
Christian responses to social injustice
‘The spirit of God is upon me to bring good news to the poor, freedom to the prisoners and sight to the blind; to set free the oppressed …’ (Jesus at the beginning of his ministry)
‘Do not commit murder’ (10 Commandments, Old Testament)
Jesus said ‘Love your enemies’ (Sermon on the Mount)
Christian beliefs about the treatment of criminals
Jesus said ‘Forgive those who have sinned against you’ (the Lord’s Prayer)
How many times shall I forgive my brother? Up to seven times? Jesus answered ‘I tell you not seven times, but seventy-seven times’ (Matthew’s gospel)
Christian responses to social injustice
‘The spirit of God is upon me to bring good news to the poor, freedom to the prisoners and sight to the blind; to set free the oppressed …’ (Jesus at the beginning of his ministry)
absolute and relative morality
What is absolute morality?
This is when a person believes that there is a right course of action in a moral dilemma that is true for all situations, regardless of culture, religious tradition, time or age. For example 'it is always wrong to kill'.
What is relative morality?
This is when a person believes that they are different courses of action needed in different situations. For example, 'it is usually wrong to kill, but sometimes it might be necessary for a particular reason'
How to use it an exam answer?
If you get a question on Christian attitudes or beliefs about war, you could say
Some Christians are always against war, because they are pacifists. This position is an example of absolute morality. Other Christians, believe it is usually wrong to fight, but recgonise there are some situations where it might be necessary. Before going to war they would argue the Just War criteria must be met. This position is an example of relative morality.
If you get a question on Christian attitudes or beliefs about contraception, you could say.
Some Christians, like Roman Catholics, believe that the use of contraception is wrong because they believe sex was created primarily for the creation of children and contraception interferes with God's plan for a couple. This is an example of absolute morality. Other Christians, like Anglicans or Methodists, believe that the use of contraception is sensible and responsible, because it allows a couple to decide when and how many children they have and so every child is wanted. This is an example of relative morality.
This is when a person believes that there is a right course of action in a moral dilemma that is true for all situations, regardless of culture, religious tradition, time or age. For example 'it is always wrong to kill'.
What is relative morality?
This is when a person believes that they are different courses of action needed in different situations. For example, 'it is usually wrong to kill, but sometimes it might be necessary for a particular reason'
How to use it an exam answer?
If you get a question on Christian attitudes or beliefs about war, you could say
Some Christians are always against war, because they are pacifists. This position is an example of absolute morality. Other Christians, believe it is usually wrong to fight, but recgonise there are some situations where it might be necessary. Before going to war they would argue the Just War criteria must be met. This position is an example of relative morality.
If you get a question on Christian attitudes or beliefs about contraception, you could say.
Some Christians, like Roman Catholics, believe that the use of contraception is wrong because they believe sex was created primarily for the creation of children and contraception interferes with God's plan for a couple. This is an example of absolute morality. Other Christians, like Anglicans or Methodists, believe that the use of contraception is sensible and responsible, because it allows a couple to decide when and how many children they have and so every child is wanted. This is an example of relative morality.
Wednesday 28 March 2007
(a) describe Christian beliefs about why there is evil in the world
An example answer:
Christians have different views about the existence of evil in the world. For many Christians evil is a mystery, which they struggle to explain.
Some Christians would argue that much that is evil in the world is a result of people being deliberately cruel and uncaring. This kind of evil is called moral evil. Some Christians believe that evil is a result of the Fall of Adam and Eve, who chose to disobey God and as a a result bring evil into the world. The other kind of evil is natural evil, which includes floods, earthquakes, hurricanes and disease. Natural evil is that which does not happen because of human action.
Other Christians believe that evil in the world comes from the Devil. The Devil is believed to be the enemy of God, who was created good, but grew jealous of God and decided to fight against him. The Devil, some Christians say, tries to turn humanity away from goodness and cause them to do evil. In the Bible the Devil is found tempting people, including Jesus, to turn against God.
christian views on the use of animals in medical research
Animals were made for humans to control and rule (Genesis 1)
Animals deserve respect and value as part of God’s creation
It’s okay to use animals in medical research if it helps save lives
Animals are not human beings and do not have rights, but they should shown respect
The Roman Catholic Church emphasises we should be more concerned about human suffering than animal suffering
If we don’t respect animals, we don’t respect ourselves
Scientists should never test on animals whether it helps save lives or not
Treating animals with cruelty is a misuse of God's command to care for creation
Animals deserve respect and value as part of God’s creation
It’s okay to use animals in medical research if it helps save lives
Animals are not human beings and do not have rights, but they should shown respect
The Roman Catholic Church emphasises we should be more concerned about human suffering than animal suffering
If we don’t respect animals, we don’t respect ourselves
Scientists should never test on animals whether it helps save lives or not
Treating animals with cruelty is a misuse of God's command to care for creation
Monday 26 March 2007
(a) describe Christian views on abortion
This is an extract from an answer written in Mrs. T year 10 class today:
Because Christian interpret the Bible in different ways there is no uniformed Christian teaching on abortion (this applies the same to euthanasia / divorce / homosexuality / and war).
Christians quote sanctity of life arguments in all matters of life and death. They believe life is sacred, meaning it is God-given and deserves respect.
Some Christians believe in certain circumstances such as pregnancy as a result of rape that abortion is acceptable. This is known as relative morality. Other Christians, like Roman Catholics believe in absolute morality. This means that abortion is never acceptable under any circumstance.
Some of these sentence constructions can be used in writing other answers.
Because Christian interpret the Bible in different ways there is no uniformed Christian teaching on abortion (this applies the same to euthanasia / divorce / homosexuality / and war).
Christians quote sanctity of life arguments in all matters of life and death. They believe life is sacred, meaning it is God-given and deserves respect.
Some Christians believe in certain circumstances such as pregnancy as a result of rape that abortion is acceptable. This is known as relative morality. Other Christians, like Roman Catholics believe in absolute morality. This means that abortion is never acceptable under any circumstance.
Some of these sentence constructions can be used in writing other answers.
Wednesday 21 March 2007
christian beliefs about god
Christians believe in one God (they are monotheists)
They believe :-
God is eternal (no beginning and no end)
God is omnipresent (everywhere at all times)
God is the creator of the world
God is perfectly good and all-loving
God wants people to treat each other properly
God has given people moral guidelines to follow, which are recorded in the bible
God is omnipotent (all-powerful)
God is omniscient (all-knowing)
Jesus is the Son of God
God cares about people when they suffer
God knows what it is like to suffer because Jesus suffered and died
God listens when people pray
God loves all human beings unconditionally
All people are equally valuable to God, because they are made in the 'image of God'
God wants everyone to live in peace
Some Christians believe that your conscience is a way in which God speaks to you about what is right and wrong
They believe :-
God is eternal (no beginning and no end)
God is omnipresent (everywhere at all times)
God is the creator of the world
God is perfectly good and all-loving
God wants people to treat each other properly
God has given people moral guidelines to follow, which are recorded in the bible
God is omnipotent (all-powerful)
God is omniscient (all-knowing)
Jesus is the Son of God
God cares about people when they suffer
God knows what it is like to suffer because Jesus suffered and died
God listens when people pray
God loves all human beings unconditionally
All people are equally valuable to God, because they are made in the 'image of God'
God wants everyone to live in peace
Some Christians believe that your conscience is a way in which God speaks to you about what is right and wrong
Tuesday 20 March 2007
practice exam questions 1
Medical ethics questions. If you want to try answering any of them, post your answer in the comments.
(a) Describe Christian towards euthanasia (8)
(b) Explain how and why a Christian might support the work of an organisation which tries to prevent suicide (7)
(c) 'Human life should be preserved in all circumstances' Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. (5)
(a) Describe Christian towards euthanasia (8)
(b) Explain how and why a Christian might support the work of an organisation which tries to prevent suicide (7)
(c) 'Human life should be preserved in all circumstances' Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. (5)
Wednesday 14 March 2007
The Bible
The Bible is the holy book of Christianity.
It has two halves the Old Testament and the New Testament.
The Old Testament is the same as the Jewish holy book. It contains 39 different books of stories, poems, laws and history, myths, prophecy and songs. You will find the 10 commandments in the Old Testament.
The New Testament contains 27 books. The first four are called the gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John). These are biographies of Jesus. You will find the Sermon on the Mount, and parables like the Good Samaritan, the Sheep and the Goats, etc in the gospels.
The other books are letters to different churches. Most of them are written by St. Paul. These letters give lots of advice to new Christians on how to live and what Christians believe.
Christians believe the Bible is inspired by God and they and put its teachings into practice in their daily lives. Christians will read the Bible to help them when making moral decisions about what is the right thing to do.
Christians will read the Bible regularly at home and at church. The Bible will also be read at weddings, funerals and other important occasions.
It has two halves the Old Testament and the New Testament.
The Old Testament is the same as the Jewish holy book. It contains 39 different books of stories, poems, laws and history, myths, prophecy and songs. You will find the 10 commandments in the Old Testament.
The New Testament contains 27 books. The first four are called the gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John). These are biographies of Jesus. You will find the Sermon on the Mount, and parables like the Good Samaritan, the Sheep and the Goats, etc in the gospels.
The other books are letters to different churches. Most of them are written by St. Paul. These letters give lots of advice to new Christians on how to live and what Christians believe.
Christians believe the Bible is inspired by God and they and put its teachings into practice in their daily lives. Christians will read the Bible to help them when making moral decisions about what is the right thing to do.
Christians will read the Bible regularly at home and at church. The Bible will also be read at weddings, funerals and other important occasions.
How to answer part (c) questions
Part (c) questions always have a statement and then ask
Some example answers:
A
Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and how that you have thought about more than one point of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer. (5 marks)How to structure your answer to achieve 4 or 5 marks:
Some people will agree that ... because ...In either the 'some people' or 'other people' you need to think whether a Christian would agree or disagree.
Other people will agree that ... because ...
In my opinion I think that ... because ...
Some example answers:
A
Some Christians, like Quakers, would agree that it is never right to fight in a war because they believe violence is never acceptable. They believe that Jesus taught Christians to be peacemakers and to love their enemies. Other Christians would disagree and say that there are times when the only option is to fight in a war. For example to overcome evil or to protect the weak. In my opinion I think that war is sometimes a necessary evil, which we should always try and avoid, but sometimes we are left with no other choice. For example in World War II, Britain and other allies had little other choice but to resist the evil of Hitler and Nazi Germany.B
Most Christians would disagree with this statement because they would argue that God made us in his image. Christians believe God is good and if we are made in his image, we should also be good. Some Christians might believe that if they are good in this life, they will be rewarded after death in heaven. Other people might agree with this statement because they would argue that life is all about being happy and its impossible to be good all the time. They would say that we should do whatever makes us happy and as long as it doesn't make other people unhappy. In my opinion I think that we should try be both happy and good. The good thing to do is try and make other people happy and by doing this I think we will be happy ourselves.
Useful key words for GCSE RE
Church of England – led by the Archbishop of Canterbury, generally not as strict as Roman Catholics
Roman Catholic Christians – led by the Pope, against abortion, euthanasia, contraception, divorce, homosexuality
Quakers – pacifists, liberal Christians
Evangelical Christians – take the Bible very seriously, against homosexuality
Sermon on the Mount – a famous sermon by Jesus. It includes the Beatitudes and other instructions for Christians on the right way to live.
Parables – stories Jesus told with a moral or religious message
Sacrament – a ritual which is a sign of something holy and special done by God which cannot be undone, e.g. marriage
Annulment – means the marriage never existed. This is different from divorce
Irenaeus – a Christian thinker from the 2nd century who argued that we would be robots if we never suffered or had to choose between right and wrong
Thomas Aquinas – a monk from 13th century who created the Just War Theory
Elizabeth Fry – a Quaker from the 18th century, who campaigned for better conditions for prisoners
Ensoulment – the time or point at which a person is believed to receive a soul from God.
‘double effect’ – this is the principle that euthanasia can be allowed if it is the side effect of a good action such as pain relief
Liberation theology – the belief that God is on the side of the poor and the oppressed and so Christians should fight against injustice
Oppressed - people who a treated harshly or unjustly (unfairly) by a government or another group
Palliative Care – this is medical care which involves pain control
Hospice – a place where terminally ill people can go for nursing and respite care
Respite care – giving people who are carers for a family member a break
Roman Catholic Christians – led by the Pope, against abortion, euthanasia, contraception, divorce, homosexuality
Quakers – pacifists, liberal Christians
Evangelical Christians – take the Bible very seriously, against homosexuality
Sermon on the Mount – a famous sermon by Jesus. It includes the Beatitudes and other instructions for Christians on the right way to live.
Parables – stories Jesus told with a moral or religious message
Sacrament – a ritual which is a sign of something holy and special done by God which cannot be undone, e.g. marriage
Annulment – means the marriage never existed. This is different from divorce
Irenaeus – a Christian thinker from the 2nd century who argued that we would be robots if we never suffered or had to choose between right and wrong
Thomas Aquinas – a monk from 13th century who created the Just War Theory
Elizabeth Fry – a Quaker from the 18th century, who campaigned for better conditions for prisoners
Ensoulment – the time or point at which a person is believed to receive a soul from God.
‘double effect’ – this is the principle that euthanasia can be allowed if it is the side effect of a good action such as pain relief
Liberation theology – the belief that God is on the side of the poor and the oppressed and so Christians should fight against injustice
Oppressed - people who a treated harshly or unjustly (unfairly) by a government or another group
Palliative Care – this is medical care which involves pain control
Hospice – a place where terminally ill people can go for nursing and respite care
Respite care – giving people who are carers for a family member a break
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