Christian Theology: Divine Providence and Evil

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Questions and Answers

What state was the universe created in according to divine providence?

The universe was created 'in a state of journeying' toward an ultimate perfection yet to be attained.

How does God demonstrate his sovereignty in carrying out his plan?

God demonstrates his sovereignty by making use of the cooperation of his creatures to fulfill his divine plan.

What responsibility does God give to human beings concerning creation?

Humans are entrusted with the responsibility of 'subduing' the earth and having dominion over it.

According to Christian faith, what does the existence of evil highlight?

<p>The existence of evil highlights the goodness of creation, the drama of sin, and God's patient love toward humanity.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What distinction is made between moral evil and physical evil?

<p>Moral evil is considered incommensurably more harmful than physical evil.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What must intelligent and free creatures do to reach their ultimate destinies?

<p>They must journey toward their ultimate destinies through free choice and preferential love.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of divine providence in relation to the free actions of creatures?

<p>Divine providence involves guiding creation toward perfection while allowing for the free actions of creatures.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the Christian message relate to the problem of evil?

<p>Every aspect of the Christian message is, in part, an answer to the question of evil.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the first commandment emphasize regarding the worship of God?

<p>It emphasizes that one should not have strange gods before the Lord, acknowledging His unique Lordship.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do superstition and idolatry differ in their relationship to faith?

<p>Superstition involves attributing magical efficacy to rituals, while idolatry involves honoring creatures or entities in place of God.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are evangelical counsels and why are they important in spiritual life?

<p>Evangelical counsels are poverty, chastity, and obedience, and they are important as they are recommended for achieving perfection in spiritual life.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of the Shema, how are believers instructed to love God?

<p>Believers are instructed to love the Lord their God with all their heart, soul, and strength.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the rejection of divination and magic signify in terms of faith practices?

<p>It signifies the commitment to rely solely on God rather than seeking knowledge or power through forbidden practices.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the essence of the Christian's moral life animated by charity?

<p>It provides spiritual freedom and transforms the believer's relationship with God from that of a slave to a loving son.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What do the Beatitudes signify in relation to human happiness?

<p>They address the innate desire for happiness, which is a divine call drawing people toward God, who fulfills this longing.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does true wealth and happiness relate to following Christ?

<p>They stem from knowing, loving, and serving God, thus participating in His divine life.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does conversion and justification lead to, according to the text?

<p>They lead to authentic joy in one's life as a follower of Christ.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of eternal law in moral living?

<p>Eternal law serves as God’s guidance on how to remain in His love and achieve beatitude.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is natural law and its significance in moral discernment?

<p>Natural law is the inherent moral sense allowing humans to distinguish good from evil and is the basis for moral rules.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the challenges faced by sinful individuals regarding natural law?

<p>Sinful individuals may not perceive the precepts of natural law clearly and immediately, requiring grace and revelation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What teachings were revealed by God under the Old Covenant?

<p>The teachings include the law, commandments, and directives guiding moral conduct and worship in the context of God’s covenant with His people.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the concept of the Protoevangelium signify in the context of man's fall?

<p>The Protoevangelium signifies the first announcement of the Messiah and Redeemer, indicating hope for man's restoration after the fall.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why did the Word become flesh according to Christian belief?

<p>The Word became flesh to save humanity by reconciling them with God and to reveal God's love.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the incarnation of Christ serve as a model for holiness?

<p>The incarnation of Christ serves as a model for holiness by exemplifying love and the Beatitudes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by becoming 'partakers of the divine nature' according to the teachings?

<p>Becoming 'partakers of the divine nature' means entering into communion with God through the Word made flesh.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the dignity of the human person stem from in Christian theology?

<p>The dignity of the human person stems from being created in the image and likeness of God.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does love function in relation to human existence based on the content provided?

<p>Love is fundamental to human existence, as God created and sustains humanity through love.</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the Nicene Creed, what was the purpose of the Son of God becoming man?

<p>The purpose was for our salvation and to reconcile us with God by becoming incarnate.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does the concept of divine beatitude play in human dignity?

<p>Divine beatitude fulfills human dignity by calling individuals to a higher state of existence.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why does God permit moral evil, according to the content?

<p>God permits moral evil to respect the freedom of his creatures and to bring good from it, despite never being its cause.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What significant good emerged from the greatest moral evil as described?

<p>The glorification of Christ and our redemption emerged from the rejection and murder of God's only Son.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the ultimate goal of God's actions in relation to man, as stated by St. Catherine of Siena?

<p>The ultimate goal of God's actions is the salvation of man, as everything comes from love and is ordained for this purpose.</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to St. Thomas More, how should one perceive events that seem bad?

<p>St. Thomas More believed that whatever happens, even if it seems bad, is ultimately willed by God and is for the best.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of Christians being called 'children of God'?

<p>Being called 'children of God' signifies that Christians are partakers of the divine nature and are called to lead a life worthy of the gospel.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is the desire for God considered inherent in the human heart?

<p>The desire for God is inherent in the human heart because man is created by God and for God, seeking truth and happiness.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the dignity of man rest upon, according to the content?

<p>The dignity of man rests upon the fact that he is called to communion with God.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is implied by the belief that the ways of God's providence are often unknown?

<p>It implies that human understanding of God's actions is limited, and full comprehension will only occur when seeing God face to face.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does consulting horoscopes and astrology reflect about a person's desires?

<p>It reflects a desire for power over time, history, and other human beings.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is the practice of magic or sorcery viewed as contrary to religion?

<p>It attempts to tame occult powers for personal gain, even for health restoration.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by 'tempting God' in the context of faith?

<p>It refers to testing God's goodness and power through words or actions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Define simony and its implications in religious practice.

<p>Simony is the buying or selling of spiritual things, undermining the sanctity of faith.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does practical materialism express a form of atheism?

<p>It limits needs and aspirations solely to the material world, neglecting spiritual dimensions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What constitutes heresy in the context of faith?

<p>Heresy is the obstinate post-baptismal denial of truths essential to divine and catholic faith.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is apostasy in relation to the Christian faith?

<p>Apostasy is the total repudiation of the Christian faith.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Explain schism and its relationship with the Church.

<p>Schism is the refusal to submit to the Roman Pontiff or to maintain communion with the Church.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

First Commandment

The first and greatest commandment, reminding us to put God above everything else. It emphasizes that God is the ultimate source of meaning and worth.

Gentiles

Non-Jewish people.

Decalogue

The ten commandments, a set of moral guidelines given by God to Moses.

Idolatry

The practice of attributing power or significance to things other than God, like idols, money, or even ourselves.

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Divination

The act of trying to predict the future or gain knowledge through supernatural means, often involving magic or contacting spirits.

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Divine Providence

The Creator's ongoing plan to guide creation towards its ultimate perfection.

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Creation 'in a state of journeying'

God's plan for creation is not static but involves a journey towards an ultimate state of perfection.

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God protects and governs all things

God guides creation towards its ultimate perfection through his active involvement in every detail.

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God uses his creation's co-operation

God's use of his creation's cooperation to fulfill his plan indicates his greatness and goodness, not weakness.

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Humans responsible for 'subduing' the earth

Human beings are given the responsibility to care for and develop creation, reflecting God's plan.

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Why does evil exist?

The existence of evil is explained by the Christian faith as a whole, including God's goodness, human free will, and the redemptive work of Christ.

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Moral evil arises from free will

Intelligent and free creatures like humans and angels have the ability to choose their direction and make choices that lead to both good and evil.

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Moral evil, more harmful than physical evil

Moral evil, stemming from intentional wrong choices, is considered more significant than physical evil, which may occur through natural processes.

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Protoevangelium

The first announcement of Jesus Christ as the Messiah and Redeemer, found in Genesis 3:15. It promises victory over evil and humanity's restoration.

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God's Love for Humanity

The belief that God created humans out of love and continues to sustain them through love. This love is essential for a fulfilling and truthful life.

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Incarnation

Jesus Christ becoming human, taking on flesh, to reconcile humanity with God and save us from sin.

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God's Love Made Manifest

The reason why Jesus became human was to show us God's love. This is the ultimate expression of God's love for humanity.

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Jesus as Model of Holiness

Jesus Christ serves as the model for holiness, teaching us how to live a life of love and follow God's teachings.

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Partakers of the Divine Nature

Through Jesus Christ, we have the potential to share in the divine nature, becoming children of God.

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Dignity of the Human Person

Human beings are inherently dignified because they are created in the image and likeness of God. This dignity is fulfilled through our vocation to eternal happiness in heaven.

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God's Permission of Evil

God does not cause moral evil; He allows it to occur because He respects the free will of His creation and ultimately knows how to bring about good from it.

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God's Providence

God ultimately guides His creation towards eternal rest through a process that can involve suffering and sin.

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Evil and Goodness

God is the origin of goodness and never condones evil, even if He permits it to allow for human free will.

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Christian Life

Christians are called to live a life worthy of the Gospel through their connection to God through the sacraments and through prayer.

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Christian Sacraments

The sacraments of baptism and confirmation mark a Christian's new life as a child of God, through which they receive the grace of God.

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Desire for God

Humans are created with an inherent yearning for God, a desire for truth and happiness that can only be fulfilled through a connection with Him.

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Human Dignity and God

Human dignity comes from being called into communion with God. This invitation is offered to every person from the moment of their existence.

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Purpose of Human Existence

The ultimate goal of human life is to achieve eternal love and happiness with God in Heaven.

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Magic or Sorcery

A practice that seeks to control unseen powers, including health, for personal advantage.

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Tempting God

Putting God's goodness and power to a test, usually through actions or words.

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Sacrilege

Disrespecting or mishandling sacred things, like sacraments, holy places, or consecrated objects.

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Simony

The act of buying or selling spiritual things, like positions in the Church.

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Atheism

A rejection of the existence of God, often stemming from a misinterpretation of human autonomy.

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Incredulity

A lack of belief or a refusal to accept revealed truth, despite evidence or reason.

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Heresy

Persistently rejecting a truth that must be believed according to the Catholic faith.

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Apostasy

A complete abandonment of the Christian faith.

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Response of love

The practice of living morally, driven by love for God, leads to spiritual freedom. It transforms us from slaves to God's beloved children, free from fear and seeking not rewards, but responding to His love.

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Beatitudes and Happiness

The Beatitudes are a response to our innate desire for happiness. This desire is implanted by God, leading us to seek fulfillment only in Him.

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Beatitude: Entering God's Rest

The Beatitudes describe attaining the Kingdom of God, seeing God, experiencing God's joy, and entering His rest. It's about knowing, loving, and serving God, ultimately entering into His life.

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True Follower of Christ

Being a true follower of Christ involves understanding the meaning of baptism, which symbolizes divine filiation, becoming a child of God. It requires a life focused on Him, leading to conversion and justification, resulting in genuine joy.

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Eternal Law: God's Instruction

God governs the universe with wisdom and guides its divine fulfillment. Eternal law is His fatherly instruction, revealing how to remain in His love and achieve beatitude. It's based on the rational order of human beings.

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Natural Moral Law

Natural law refers to our inherent moral sense, allowing us to discern good and evil, truth and falsehood through reason. It stems from our desire for God and our submission to Him.

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Basis for Moral Rules

Natural law provides the foundation for moral rules and civil law. It enables us to understand right and wrong based on our inherent moral sense.

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Revelation & Natural Law

The precepts of natural law are not always immediately clear to everyone. We need God's grace and revelation, particularly in a world marked by sin, to understand moral and religious truths with certainty. Revelation builds upon the foundation laid by natural law.

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Study Notes

Morality and the Christian Vocation

  • Morality and Christian vocation are explored within the context of life in Christ.
  • God's plan for creation involves an ongoing process of perfection, guided by divine providence.
  • God protects and governs all creation.
  • God's plan includes the cooperation of God's creatures.
  • God gives humans the power to share in His providence, enabling them to subdue the earth and complete creation's harmony.
  • The question of evil's existence is addressed through the entirety of Christian faith.
  • God, through His plan, guides humanity toward their ultimate destinations.
  • God respects the freedom of His creatures.
  • God's plan brings good from evil.

God's Plan for Us

  • Creation possesses inherent goodness but is incomplete.
  • Divine providence describes God's guidance toward ultimate perfection.
  • God protects and directs all creation.
  • All aspects of creation are known to God, even those yet to come about through free will.
  • God uses the cooperation of His creatures to achieve His plan.

Evil and Free Will

  • Moral evil is separate from and more harmful than physical evil.
  • God is not directly or indirectly responsible for moral evil.
  • God permits moral evil due to His respect for individual freedom.
  • God's providence can derive good from moral evil.

Romans 8:28 and the Saints

  • Saints like Catherine of Siena and Thomas More emphasize God's love and purpose in all events.
  • God's providence guides history, even through struggles.
  • Humans gain a full understanding of God's plan only at the culmination of their lives.

Real Talk

  • Through sacraments, Christians become children of God, partakers of divine nature, and are called to live lives worthy of the Gospel.
  • Grace from Christ and the gifts of the Holy Spirit empower them for this life.

Why and How We Exist

  • God created humans to share in eternal love and happiness in Heaven.
  • God created humans in His image and likeness.

Desire and Longing for God

  • The desire for God is inherent in humans, stemming from their creation by and for God.
  • God continually draws humans to Himself.
  • Humans' dignity arises from their communion with God.
  • Man's existence is predicated on God's love and creation.

The Fall and the Promise of Redemption

  • God did not abandon humanity after the Fall.
  • God's plan for humanity includes restoring them from their fall.
  • The First Promise is the protoevangelium.

Why Did the Word Become Flesh?

  • God became human to reveal His love and save humanity.
  • The incarnation, by the Holy Spirit, through the Virgin Mary restored humans through reconciliation with God.
  • God's love led Him to redeem humanity.

Why Did the Word Become Flesh?

  • God's love became manifest through His Son, who embodies divine holiness.
  • Jesus serves as a model of holiness.
  • Humans are partakers of divine nature through a relationship with Christ's actions and life.

Dignity of the Human Person

  • Human dignity originates from creation in God's image.
  • Dignity entails God's vocation, and humans fulfilling their purpose.

Dignity of the Human Person

  • Individuals are created in the image and likeness of God.
  • Christ reveals the full extent of this inherent dignity.
  • Humans recognize God's image, through the communion of persons.

Reason, Intellect, and Free Will

  • Humans are spiritual and immortal.
  • Humans have the capacity for eternal beatitude.
  • God has endowed humans with reason and free will.
  • Humans find fulfillment in seeking and loving truth and good.

Reason, Intellect, and Free Will

  • Humans are endowed with freedom and the potential for outstanding manifestation of the divine image.
  • Human reason acknowledges the moral order divinely established, and people recognize God's voice.
  • Humans can live morally, demonstrating their inherent dignity.

Our Response to God's Plan

  • Christians animated by charity live freely.
  • They are not slaves, but children to God.

Called to Beatitude/Joy

  • The Beatitudes describe characteristics of those who experience true happiness.
  • The Beatitudes lead to a deeper relationship with God.
  • Matthew 5:3-10 outlines the characteristics and meaning of the Beatitudes.

Effects of the Beatitudes

  • Beatitudes respond to the innate desire for happiness that comes from God.
  • Beatitudes lead individuals in the right direction towards God's happiness, and the kingdom of God.
  • Beatitudes direct the individual to know God, love God, and serve God.

Being a True Follower of Christ

  • Baptism signifies divine affiliation, leading to a life centered on Christ.
  • Conversion and justification lead to authentic Christian joy, highlighting God's declaration of righteousness.

God Has Taught us How to Live a New Life in Christ

  • God directs all creation's fulfillment.
  • Eternal Law guides how believers remain in God's love.
  • The nature of humanity and rational understanding are essential to understanding God's Law.

The Natural Moral Law

  • Natural law encompasses human's innate ability to discern good and evil with reason.
  • Natural law arises from God's design, rooted in the desire and submission to God's will.
  • Natural law establishes a foundational basis for all moral and civil rules.

Revelation

  • Old Covenant teachings are found in the context of the Decalogue (CCC 2052-2074).

Commandments

  • The first commandment is about acknowledging God as the only true God, and not having other gods or other things of worship before Him.

Vocab

  • Gentiles= non-Jews
  • Decalogue= 10 Commandments
  • Evangelical counsels= Gospel virtues (poverty, chastity, and obedience) promoting spiritual perfection
  • Shema= Jewish affirmation of God's oneness and the subsequent obligation to love Him.

Sins against Faith

  • Sins against faith include (but are not limited) to superstition, idolatry, divination, and magic, temptation, sacrilege, and simony.

Superstition and Idolatry

  • Superstition misattributes power to objects, rites, or practices rather than God alone.
  • Idolatry worships something other than the one true God, including evil and secular things.

Divination and Magic

  • Divination and magic reject God's sovereignty and wisdom.
  • These practices tempt humans to gain power over others or situations.
  • God established the moral order—human intervention is irrelevant.

Other Sins Against Faith

  • Tempting God involves testing or violating His will.
  • Sacrilege dishonors sacred sites, objects, or rituals.
  • Simony involves exchanging a spiritual good for worldly gain.

Atheism

  • Atheism encompasses various forms (e.g., practical materialism, atheistic humanism, nihilism).
  • Atheist viewpoints often reject God's existence and role in human affairs.

Sins Against Faith

  • Those who refuse to believe or are in doubt towards God, or those who outright reject the Christian faith or the church's leadership, are considered to be engaging in infractions against the faith.

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