Introduction to Basic Spiritual Theology
48 Questions
4 Views

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

Which area of theology focuses on interpreting scripture to understand its historical setting and modern relevance?

  • Biblical theology (correct)
  • Spiritual theology
  • Systematic theology
  • Practical theology
  • What concept does the phrase 'Fides quarens intellectum' express?

  • The intellectual journey of a believer to understand their beliefs. (correct)
  • The idea that faith can exist without understanding.
  • The notion that faith and understanding are contradictory.
  • The endeavor of reason seeking faith.
  • Which theological discipline is concerned with organizing Christian beliefs into understandable and coherent categories?

  • Practical theology
  • Spiritual theology
  • Biblical theology
  • Systematic theology (correct)
  • In the context of the provided text, what does the term 'theology' fundamentally mean?

    <p>An exploration of God through reasoned thought, words, and meanings.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The application of theological concepts to daily life, particularly within the church, is the primary focus of which field of study?

    <p>Practical theology</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What primarily enables human knowledge of God?

    <p>God's self-manifestation, or revelation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Prior to the Council of Trent, how were sacred doctrines generally viewed?

    <p>As possessing a remarkable unity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What historical event led to the diversification of sacred doctrines and the emergence of fields like spiritual theology?

    <p>The Council of Trent</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is 'Christ' described as the 'fullness of divine revelation' in the context of Christian theology?

    <p>Because in him, God revealed all that is possible to reveal about himself, without remainder.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary focus of study in 'historical theology' as described in the text?

    <p>The evolution of the Church and its theological developments.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    From which broader theological area did Spiritual Theology initially emerge during the seventeenth century?

    <p>Systematic theology</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Based on the text, which of the following best represents the relationship between 'faith' and 'understanding' in theology?

    <p>Faith is a prerequisite for, and prompting of, the seeking of understanding.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Besides dogmatic theology, which other area is part of systematic theology, according to the content?

    <p>Moral theology</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the main reason for the development of Spiritual Theology in the 17th century?

    <p>To foster a deeper reflection on the meaning of Christian faith</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the text suggest about the limitations of using theology to understand God?

    <p>Though God is a mystery, theology can attempt to grasp what can be revealed.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of 'Logos' in the term 'theology'?

    <p>It represents reason and organized thought.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key distinction between Dogmatic theology and Moral theology?

    <p>Dogmatic theology emphasizes Christian belief, while Moral theology focuses on actions in light of that belief.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why did Spiritual theology emerge as a distinct specialization from Moral theology?

    <p>To provide a more extensive study of Christian spirituality that Moral theology could not fully provide.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What terms were previously used before the term 'Spiritual theology' became common?

    <p>Asceticism and Mysticism</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In its narrow sense, what does Spiritual theology primarily focus on?

    <p>The life of the individual in relation to God.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What two sources does Spiritual theology draw its knowledge from?

    <p>Divine revelation and practical experience.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does Spiritual theology prevent Christian practice from becoming 'mere activism'?

    <p>By focusing on personal spiritual growth and alignment with one's motives.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does Spiritual theology mean by the concept of living 'in the spirit'?

    <p>Focusing on spiritual growth and alignment with the Holy spirit</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the definition provided in the text weigh 'religious experience' in comparison to 'divine revelation' in Spiritual theology?

    <p>Religious experience is given equal weight to divine revelation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the primary difference between Jesuit and Carmelite spiritualities?

    <p>Jesuit spirituality is characterized by a more active approach, whereas Carmelite spirituality is more inclined towards contemplation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the text define 'Christian spirituality'?

    <p>A lived experience of Christian belief, involving participation in the mystery of Christ through an interior life of grace activated by faith, charity and the virtues.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the ultimate goal of Christian spirituality?

    <p>To attain an ever more intense union with the Father through Jesus Christ by living in the Spirit.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is considered a primary source of Christian spirituality, according to the text?

    <p>The Bible, serving as a source for religious language to interpret the Jesus Story.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what manner does 'tradition' contribute to Christian spirituality, according to the text?

    <p>It serves as a means of transmitting the apostolic teachings which are not found in the Scriptures.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of virtue, according to the text?

    <p>To offer an internal judgment on motives and outward actions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement best describes the origin of the theological virtues, as presented in the text?

    <p>They are gifts from God, infused into us, beginning with Baptism.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the specific function of the theological virtues in a Christian context?

    <p>To adapt humanity’s faculties for participation in the divine nature and a relationship with the Trinity.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does a 'disposition' differ from an 'impulse' according to the text?

    <p>A disposition is basic, lasting and pervasive while an impulse is a reaction to a stimulus.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do the theological virtues impact the human virtues, according to the text?

    <p>They increase the strength and stability of existing human virtues.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the relationship between virtue and a person's character?

    <p>Virtues are general character traits deeply linked to who we are as persons.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, what does a virtuous person 'freely practice'?

    <p>Morally good actions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary distinction between general understanding of virtue and Christian virtue, according to the text?

    <p>Christian virtue is colored with Christian principles, whilst general virtue is not.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What do Christian virtues help a Christian to do?

    <p>Respond freely to situations in a manner that reflects conformity to Jesus Christ.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does St. Gregory of Nyssa say is the goal of a virtuous life?

    <p>To become like God.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the underlying ontological root of Christian virtue, as described in the text?

    <p>The grace of God through the atonement of Christ.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the role of prudence?

    <p>It perfects the intellect, guiding actions with right reason.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the provided text, what is a key aspect of justice as it relates to interpersonal interactions?

    <p>Establishing equity and harmony in human relationships by respecting individual rights.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguishes justice in the context of human relationships from simply following the law?

    <p>Justice has a foundation in morality, while law can be arbitrary.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of fortitude, as described in the text?

    <p>To strengthen one's ability to overcome obstacles and resist moral temptations.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what way does the concept of 'taking courage' (tharseite) relate to the virtue of fortitude?

    <p>It encourages resilience in the face of tribulations and moral challenges.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the text define "justice towards God", and what is it also known as?

    <p>The fulfilling of moral obligations to God; also known as the 'virtue of religion'.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the central idea behind the concept of temperance, according to the text?

    <p>The practice of self-control.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the text, what is a primary aim of justice in a legal and societal context?

    <p>To ensure that similar cases are treated in similar ways and to avoid bias.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Introduction to Basic Spiritual Theology

    • Spiritual theology examines the fundamentals of spiritual meaning, Christian and cardinal virtues, and theological virtues.
    • Theology is the study of God, derived from the Greek words "theos" (God) and "logos" (reasoning).
    • This involves exploring God's meaning and reasoning, and is often referred to as "faith seeking understanding."
    • Christian theology specifically focuses on God's self-revelation in the Bible, especially through Jesus Christ, the fullness of God's revelation.

    Historical, Biblical, Systematic, and Practical Theology

    • Historical theology studies the history of the Church, including theological movements, teachings, and practices.
    • Biblical theology explores scriptural truth within its historical context for application today.
    • Systematic theology analyzes God's Word in a rational and orderly way, formulating doctrines like the Trinity and Incarnation.
    • Practical theology examines the implications of Christian beliefs in everyday modern life.

    Meaning, Nature, and Scope of Spiritual Theology

    • Spiritual theology investigates the concept, characteristics, and subject matter.
    • It traditionally was part of systematic theology encompassing dogmatic and moral theology.
    • Spiritual theology, as a distinct discipline, seeks to understand how God's Word can be applied to a life of Christian perfection through experience and practice.
    • It concerns how a person grows and develops spiritually.
    • To attain Christian perfection in spiritual life one must follow stages: purgative (overcoming passions), illuminative (control over passions), and unitive (state of perfection).

    Characteristics of Good Christian Spiritual Theology

    • Recognizes the complexities of the world and authentic expression of the Gospel.
    • Faithful to the Christian story of Jesus Christ's life, death, and resurrection.
    • Embraces charismatic reality – God's work in surprising and unpredictable ways.

    Faithfulness to the Christian Story

    • Openness to the Christian past (prayer links past to eternity)
    • Christ's presence in the community (not just in special relationships).
    • Significance of experience within Christian spiritual life.

    The Essence of Evangelical Spirituality

    • Focuses on God's coming in Jesus Christ to the believer with evangelistic experience.
    • Church as a community of Christ's presence (different from presence in the world).
    • Importance of cultivating a relationship with God and living for Christ, involving self-sacrifice.

    Sources of Christian Spirituality

    • The Bible – provides the basic language for understanding Jesus and messianic salvation.
    • Tradition – the transmission of teachings from the apostles not directly recorded in the Bible.

    Theological Virtues

    • Theological virtues (faith, hope, and charity) are gifts from God, essential for relating to the Holy Trinity.
    • They increase the stability and strength of human virtues.
    • Faith involves believing in God with complete trust.
    • Hope is the expectation of eternal life through Christ.
    • Charity (love) is the greatest virtue uniting individuals in common good.

    Cardinal Virtues

    • Prudence: the virtue of good judgment, applying moral principles.
    • Justice: the virtue of fairness in dealing with others and God.
    • Fortitude: the virtue of courage in pursuing good despite difficulties.
    • Temperance: the virtue that controls and channels natural appetites.

    Human Virtues

    • The cardinal virtues, including prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance, are essential to living a moral life.
    • These qualities, rooted in reason, allow for self-control and enable humans to live justly, with courage and wisdom.

    Studying That Suits You

    Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

    Quiz Team

    Related Documents

    Description

    Explore the fundamentals of spiritual theology, including Christian and cardinal virtues alongside theological insights. This quiz covers the essential aspects of God’s self-revelation, church history, and the implications of Christian beliefs. Test your understanding of key concepts in both biblical and systematic theology.

    More Like This

    Use Quizgecko on...
    Browser
    Browser