Christology: The Study of Jesus
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How did Jesus' interactions with sinners contradict the norms of his time?

  • He condemned sinners publicly for their actions.
  • He prioritized societal rules over the needs of individuals.
  • He actively sought out sinners to offer them forgiveness and communion. (correct)
  • He avoided public displays of affection towards sinners.

What is the central message of the cross, according to the International Theological Commission (1979)?

  • The cross represents Jesus' sacrifice to redeem the world from sin.
  • The cross is a symbol of passive suffering and acceptance of injustice.
  • The cross represents a rejection of Jesus and the failure of his mission.
  • The cross is an act of obedience and love that culminates in the resurrection. (correct)

Which of these perspectives on the cross emphasizes the role of misunderstanding and misinterpretation?

  • Bultmann's understanding of the cross as a misinterpretation of Jesus' message. (correct)
  • Scholastic understanding of the cross as salvific.
  • The understanding of the cross by early Christian communities.
  • Schillebeeckx's understanding of the cross as a rejection of Jesus.

Why is the resurrection of Jesus considered the 'crowning truth' of the Christian faith (CCC 638)?

<p>It represents the victory of good over evil and the triumph of God's love. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of sharing a meal in Middle Eastern culture today, and in Judaism of Jesus' day?

<p>It is a sign of communion and fellowship. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about Jesus' interactions with sinners is true?

<p>He challenged the traditional view that conversion should precede communion. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between the cross and the resurrection?

<p>The cross and the resurrection are interconnected events that together represent the 'Christ-event'. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the text characterize the cross in contemporary society?

<p>As a sign of power, authority, and religious leadership. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary theological issue addressed at the Council of Nicea in 325?

<p>The divinity of Christ (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which concept did the Church affirm regarding Jesus at the Council of Constantinople in 381?

<p>Jesus had a human soul (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the key outcomes of the Council of Ephesus in 431?

<p>The claim of two persons in Christ was dismissed (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

At the Council of Chalcedon in 451, which belief did the Church uphold regarding the natures of Christ?

<p>The two natures are united without confusion or separation (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which contemporary issue raises questions about Jesus' knowledge?

<p>Humanity and knowledge of Jesus (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the first element in the three-fold pattern of the parables as suggested by John Dominic Crossan?

<p>Advent (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the parables of the hidden treasure and the pearl of great price, what emotion follows the discovery?

<p>Joy (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the element of 'Reversal' in the parables refer to?

<p>Turning worldly values upside down (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which parable emphasizes an encounter with mercy and forgiveness?

<p>The prodigal son (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What do the miracles performed by Jesus symbolize in relation to the Reign of God?

<p>Breaking the power of evil (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why are meals significant in the ministry of Jesus?

<p>They signify Table Fellowships and community (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which parable reflects the theme of new praxis and transformative action?

<p>The talents (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of the Reign of God do the healings represent?

<p>Symbolic anticipations of fulfillment (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the focal point of Christology 'From Above'?

<p>Incarnation (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which heresy arises from an over-emphasis on Christology 'From Below'?

<p>Arianism (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What do the Synoptic Gospels share in common?

<p>They derive from the same sources. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why do many theologians today prefer the 'From Below' approach?

<p>It allows a deeper understanding of Jesus' humanity. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What term best describes the essence of 'basileia tou theou'?

<p>Reign of God (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary source for the life and teachings of Jesus according to Biblical Christology?

<p>The Gospels. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which stage of Gospel development comes first?

<p>Words and deeds of Jesus (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'already but not yet' refer to in the context of Jesus' message?

<p>The duality of God's reign being present and future. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Christology

The study of the nature and role of Jesus Christ.

Christology 'From Above'

An approach focusing on the pre-existent Word and the Incarnation of Jesus.

Christology 'From Below'

An approach focusing on the historical life of Jesus, from birth to resurrection.

Docetism

A belief denying Christ's full humanity, viewing physical aspects as illusion.

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Arianism

A belief rejecting the full divinity of Jesus, viewing Him as a created being.

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Synoptic Gospels

Gospels of Mark, Matthew, and Luke that have similar content and perspective.

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Testimonies of faith

Gospels combine historical events with faith interpretations, not strict histories.

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Basileia tou theou

Best translated as 'reign of God', indicates God's dynamic rule.

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Homoousios

The term meaning 'of the same substance' used to describe the relationship between Jesus and the Father at the Council of Nicea.

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Theotokos

A title for Mary, meaning 'Mother of God', affirming the divine and human natures of Christ.

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Monophysitism

The belief that in Christ there is only one divine nature, diminishing humanity.

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Apostolic Succession

The method of maintaining church authority and doctrine through bishops tracing back to the apostles.

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Ecological Christology

The exploration of how faith in Christ relates to environmental stewardship and challenges.

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Communion in Middle Eastern culture

Sharing a meal signifies communion and fellowship with God.

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Jesus' approach to sinners

Jesus offered communion to sinners, prompting their repentance instead of tolerating sin.

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Meaning of the cross

Understanding the cross as salvific, contrary to passive suffering interpretation.

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Salvific nature of the cross

The cross signifies Jesus' obedience leading to redemption, not mere suffering.

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Misinterpretation of Jesus' message

Jesus' teachings were misunderstood as a threat to authority, leading to his crucifixion.

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The role of the resurrection

The resurrection is central to Christian faith, affirming the truth of Jesus' teachings.

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Empty tomb tradition

The belief in the resurrection began with the empty tomb and appearances to followers.

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First Christian communities' belief

The resurrection was seen as the central truth by the first Christians, crucial for faith.

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Three-fold pattern of parables

The common structure in parables: advent, reversal, and action.

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Advent in parables

The coming of the Reign of God, seen as a joyful gift beyond expectations.

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Reversal in parables

How the Reign of God changes worldly values and priorities upside down.

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Action in parables

The need for transformative responses to the Reign of God, not just information.

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Hidden treasure parable

A parable illustrating the joy in discovering the Kingdom of Heaven.

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Miracles as symbols

Jesus' healings symbolize the breaking of evil's power and the future of wholeness.

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Importance of meals in Jesus' ministry

Meals frequently symbolize community and fellowship in Jesus' teachings.

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Different focuses of parables

Some parables highlight discovery, others indicate change, or call for action.

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Study Notes

Christology: Who is Jesus?

  • Christology is the study of Jesus.
  • Jesus is God's response to human longings.

Course/Subject Outline

  • The course covers Introduction, Biblical Christology, Conciliar Christology, and Contemporary Christology.

Introduction

  • Jesus' importance arises from being God's response to humanity's deepest yearnings.

Basic Approaches to Christology

  • Christology "From Above": This approach focuses on the pre-existent Word's descent to become incarnate in Jesus. Its starting point is the Church's doctrine. The central theme is Incarnation.
  • Christology "From Below": This approach examines the human Jesus of Nazareth, tracking his life from birth to mission, culminating in his death and resurrection. Its basis is historical accounts of Jesus. The crucial element is Resurrection.

What is the better approach?

  • An overemphasis on "From Above" can deny Jesus' humanity (Docetism).
  • An overemphasis on "From Below" could reject Jesus' divinity (Arianism).

Approach Preferred by Theologians Today

  • The preferred approach is "From Below," as it emphasizes the full humanity of Jesus, fostering discipleship in a world more attuned to stories than dogma.

Biblical Christology

  • The Gospels are the primary source for Jesus' life and teachings.

  • Other historical resources are sparse and often questionable in authenticity.

  • Gospel accounts range from Mark (60-70 AD) to John and Revelation (90 AD).

  • Synoptic Gospels (Mark, Matthew, and Luke) are thought to be based on common source material.

  • The Gospels are not strictly modern histories or biographies..

  • They are testimonies of faith, meaning they reflect Jesus' teachings with the believers' interpretations.

  • Jesus' teachings are conveyed through stories(Parables).

The Reign of God ("basileia tou theou")

  • This term signifies God's dynamic reign, present in the person and message of Jesus..
  • It's a situation where God's will prevails, encompassing both the present and future aspects.
  • It is "already but not yet" - present in Jesus' person and ministry, but its full manifestation is to come.

Parables

  • Parables convey the Reign of God in memorable and nuanced language.
  • John Dominic Crossan offers a framework for studying parables: advent, reversal, action.
  • Parables reveal themes of the Reign of God like Advent, Reversal and Action.
  • Examples from Matthew's Gospels provide paradigmatic instances of these themes (e.g., the hidden treasure, pearl of great price).
  • Some parables center on discovery (lost sheep, lost coin).
  • Others highlight reversal and change (e.g., rich man and Lazarus, prodigal son).
  • Still others emphasize actions (talents, unmerciful servant).

Miracles and Healings

  • Sickness and infirmity in Jesus' era were often interpreted as stemming from demonic power or sin.
  • Jesus' healings showcased the breaking of evil's grip on humanity.
  • Miracles anticipated a world transformed in holistic ways (e.g., with holiness, healing, and liberation).

Table Fellowships

  • Sharing meals held significant importance in Middle Eastern culture—mirroring fellowship with God.
  • In the context of first-century Judaism, sharing meals symbolized fellowship with God.
  • Jesus' meals with sinners signified God’s mercy and forgiveness..
  • Jesus’ openness to sinners didn’t equate to tolerance of sin but a catalyst for repentance.
  • Repentance happened through the experience of communion with Jesus.

The Death of Jesus

  • The cross is sometimes misinterpreted as a scandal, a symbol of torture.
  • Instead, it's seen as a mark of episcopal authority, or even an ornament.
  • The cross, according to theological interpretations, doesn't mean acceptance of suffering. It's rather God's way of overcoming negativity.
  • The cross represents a salvific event that redeemed the world.
  • Some interpretations of Jesus’ death include:
    • Jesus' death as an act of redemption.
    • Jesus' religious message, misconstrued as a threat to Roman rule.
    • Jesus' purposes misrepresented as a non-salvific/reemptive act.

The Resurrection of Jesus

  • The resurrection of Jesus is a central doctrine of the Christian faith.
  • It signifies triumph over death and offers hope for eternal life.
  • The resurrection builds on evidence like the empty tomb and accounts from witnesses.

Conciliar Christology

  • Early Christian theology refined Christ's nature through councils.
  • Crucial concepts like "homoousius" or shared substance were formulated to define Jesus' equality with God.
  • Issues surrounding these concepts (e.g., the two natures of Christ) were debated and decided by significant councils.
  • This involved theological language with concepts like "hypostasis", "substantia", etc.

Contemporary Christology

  • Contemporary Christological discussions address pertinent issues like: the nature and extent of Jesus' knowledge, the problem of sinlessness, and the intersection of faith and ecological crisis.
  • Also, if Jesus is the redeemer of all mankind including non-Christians.

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Christology: Who Is Jesus? PDF

Description

Explore the nature and significance of Jesus Christ through various approaches in Christology. This quiz covers Biblical, Conciliar, and Contemporary perspectives, examining Jesus as both divine and human. Understand the implications of each approach and their impact on the understanding of Christ.

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