Biblical Covenants, Jewish Groups, Gospels

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Questions and Answers

Explain how the concept of 'covenant' is central to understanding the relationship between God and humanity in the Old Testament. Briefly describe one specific covenant and its significance.

The concept of covenant establishes a binding agreement and mutual commitment between God and humanity. The Sinai covenant is one example and signifies a promise to abide by the 10 commandments for the status of chosen people.

Compare and contrast the roles of the Pharisees and the Sadducees in the context of Jewish society during the time of Jesus.

The Pharisees focused on strict adherence to Jewish law and tradition, while the Sadducees were more aligned with the Temple, wealthy, and rejected certain teachings like the resurrection. Pharisees held more sway with the common people, while Sadducees held power in the Sanhedrin.

Describe the significance of the 'Resurrection' in Christian theology and its impact on the beliefs of Jesus' followers.

The Resurrection is central to Christian faith as it signifies Jesus’ victory over death and sin, offering hope for eternal life. It transformed Jesus' followers, instilling boldness and faith in his message. The resurrection is proof that he is the messiah.

What is the 'Davidic Covenant,' and how did it shape Jewish expectations about the Messiah?

The Davidic Covenant is God's promise to King David that his descendants would rule Israel forever, establishing the expectation of an eternal kingdom. This led to the Jewish belief that the Messiah would be a descendant of David who would restore Israel's glory. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the role of an 'evangelist' and how they contributed to the spread of Christianity in the early years after Jesus' death.

An evangelist is someone who preaches the word of God and spreads the Gospel message. In the years after Jesus' death, evangelists like the Apostles traveled to different regions, sharing Jesus' teachings, performing miracles, and establishing new Christian communities. Signup and view all the answers

The structure of Mark’s Gospel is partly geographical. How does the Gospel use geography in portraying the good news?

Mark's Gospel uses geography to show the spread of the message from Galilee to Jerusalem. Galilee is where Jesus began his ministry and Jerusalem is where he faced opposition and ultimately was crucified. Signup and view all the answers

How was Jesus’ attitude toward women different than the Jewish understanding of the time?

Jesus treated women with respect and dignity, as equals, which differed from the prevailing Jewish views that often marginalized them. He included them as followers and valued their contributions. Signup and view all the answers

Discuss how Jesus identifies Himself as a servant in Mark’s Gospel, using a specific example.

Jesus identifies himself as a servant through his actions and mission to serve others. An example is Mark 10:45, where he says, <code>The son of man did not come to be served but to serve</code>. Signup and view all the answers

Why did Jesus instruct those who recognized him to keep his identity a secret?

To control how his mission was understood, preventing premature conflict and allowing people to come to faith authentically. Signup and view all the answers

Beyond the physical abuse, what was the significance of the Roman soldiers dressing Jesus in a purple robe and crown of thorns?

It was a mocking imitation of royalty, challenging his claim to kingship and degrading his messianic identity. Signup and view all the answers

What did the Roman Centurion mean when he recognized Jesus as the Son of God, and why was this significant?

It showed that even a Gentile recognized that Jesus was devine. This is significant because it shows Jesus' message was for everyone, not just the Jewish nation. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the symbolic importance of the tearing of the Temple curtain at the moment of Jesus' death.

It symbolized that the way to God was open, that his sacrifice bridged the gap between God and humanity. Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean to 'take up you cross and follow Him'?

It means turning away from selfish desires to serve others. Signup and view all the answers

How does the New Covenant fulfill the promises made in the Davidic Covenant?

Jesus, as a descendant of David, establishes an eternal kingdom and fulfills the promise of a king whose reign will never end. Signup and view all the answers

In what ways does Luke's Gospel emphasize Jesus's ministry to marginalized groups?

By portraying Jesus as a compassionate figure who actively seeks out and includes the poor, women, and Gentiles in his ministry. Signup and view all the answers

How does Mark's emphasis on the urgency of Jesus's mission reflect his portrayal of Jesus as a suffering servant?

The urgent pace emphasizes the limited time Jesus has, highlighting his dedication to serving and sacrificing himself for others. Signup and view all the answers

Why might someone choose to follow Jesus even if it means facing suffering and hardship?

Because Jesus offers a deeper purpose based on forgiveness, peace, and love of God and others. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the importance of Peter, James, and John being present at the Transfiguration and what it signifies about their role among the apostles.

Their presence suggested that they would be leaders for the church. Signup and view all the answers

How does the healing of Bartimaeus demonstrate a key aspect of Jesus' ministry?

It shows Jesus wanted to reveal physical and spiritual health not just to Israel, but the world. Signup and view all the answers

How did the Roman rule affect the Jewish people?

They followed Jewish laws, went to the synagogue, and celebrated religious festivals while under Roman rule. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the political climate. Who was in charge?

Pilate was the Roman governor who crucified Jesus. Signup and view all the answers

Besides his betrayal, what is Judas known for?

Judas is known as being one of Jesus' 12 apostles. Signup and view all the answers

How might the differences between the gospel accounts of Jesus’s life and ministry actually strengthen the overall witness to Jesus?

Each Gospel contributes a different perspective, together providing a fuller picture of who Jesus is. Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Covenant

An agreement between God and His people defining their relationship.

Covenant with Abraham

God's promise that Abraham would be the father of a great nation, Israel, and blessings would come through his descendants.

Sinai Covenant

The agreement made by God with the Israelites at Mount Sinai, including the giving of the Ten Commandments.

Davidic Covenant

God’s promise to King David that his descendants would rule Israel forever, signaling an eternal kingdom.