The Mystery of Redemption: Chapter 3

Questions and Answers

What is the essence of 'the gospel of Jesus Christ'?

God sent forth his son to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons and daughters of God

What act of cooperation made it possible for the Son of God to enter human history?

Mary saying 'yes' to being the mother of Jesus Christ

What did the redemption of human beings begin to unfold finally?

From the moment of his conception in the virginal womb of the Blessed Virgin Mary

What kind of savior were many Israelites hoping would arrive at the time of Christ?

Many Israelites looked for a political or military messiah who would liberate them from their oppressors and restore the Kingdom of Israel to its former glory. Signup and view all the answers

In what town did the Annunciation and the Nativity occur?

Bethlehem Signup and view all the answers

What is the Paschal Mystery, and when did it begin?

It's Christ's suffering, death, resurrection, and ascension of Christ and it started in Nazareth Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'the fullness of time' describe?

The moment at which God's promises of a Redeemer would be fulfilled. Signup and view all the answers

What was necessary for 'the fullness of time' to be reached?

The Incarnation could not take place until the people of God were sufficiently prepared to receive their Messiah. Signup and view all the answers

If 'the fullness of time' means that the time had come when Israel was finally prepared to accept her savior, why did many of these same people reject and kill him?

They were blinded by sin Signup and view all the answers

Why did God want the Blessed Virgin Mary to play a vital role in his plan of salvation?

He needed Mary to cooperate freely so that he might be conceived Signup and view all the answers

What does the name Jesus mean?

God saves Signup and view all the answers

Why did every act of Christ on earth have a redemptive value for the salvation of human beings?

He would be the savior of the world, the Redeemer of humanity Signup and view all the answers

Why is the Blessed Virgin Mary called the New Eve?

Because her complete obedience to God stands in contrast to Eve's disobedience to God Signup and view all the answers

What does the Greek 'kecharitomene', or 'full of grace,' mean when applied to the Blessed Virgin Mary?

It stands to reason that Mary would have indeed been filled with God's grace, for it was God who chose her from before all time to bear Christ in her womb Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean when the Scriptures call St. Joseph a 'just man'?

It means he's someone who is faithful to God's will Signup and view all the answers

What was betrothal at the time of Christ?

A formal and legally binding period of engagement that ordinarily would last up to 12 months before the marriage was finalized Signup and view all the answers

How did St. Joseph react when he learned that his betrothed, Blessed Virgin Mary, was with Child?

He was greatly troubled and considered breaking off the betrothal Signup and view all the answers

Why did St. Joseph resolve to divorce Mary quietly?

So Mary wouldn't have to deal with the embarrassment and shunning from society Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

The Gospel of Jesus Christ

God sent His Son to redeem those under the law, allowing adoption as sons and daughters of God.

The Role of Mary

Mary's "yes" to being the mother of Jesus enabled the Son of God to enter human history.
The redemption process began with the conception in Mary’s womb.

Expectations of a Messiah

Many Israelites anticipated a political or military messiah to free them and restore Israel's glory.

Significant Events

The Annunciation and Nativity both occurred in Bethlehem.

The Paschal Mystery

Refers to Christ's suffering, death, resurrection, and ascension.
The Paschal Mystery commenced in Nazareth.

Fulfillment of God's Promises

"The fullness of time" describes the moment when God's promise of a Redeemer was fulfilled.
Preparation of God's people was essential for the Incarnation to occur.

Acceptance and Rejection

Although Israel was prepared for her savior, many rejected Him due to being blinded by sin.

Mary’s Cooperation

God's plan required the Blessed Virgin Mary's free cooperation for Jesus' conception.

Divine Child

The Archangel Gabriel emphasized the divinity of Mary's child, Jesus.
The name "Jesus" means "God saves".

Redemptive Nature of Christ's Actions

Every act of Christ on Earth held redemptive value, establishing Him as the savior of humanity.

Mary's Role in Redemption

The Blessed Virgin Mary’s obedience contrasts with Eve's disobedience, earning her the title "New Eve".

Virgin Birth Doctrine

The doctrine of the Virgin Birth is central to Christianity, affirming Jesus’ divine nature.

Kecharitomene

Mary, referred to as "full of grace," reflects God's choice and the grace bestowed upon her.

Immaculate Conception

Declared a dogma of faith, the Immaculate Conception teaches Mary's sinlessness.

St. Joseph's Character

Described as a "just man," St. Joseph exhibited faithfulness to God’s will.

Betrothal in the Time of Christ

Betrothal was a formal, legally binding agreement lasting about 12 months prior to marriage.

St. Joseph's Reaction to Mary's Pregnancy

Troubled by Mary's pregnancy, he contemplated breaking off their betrothal quietly.

Joseph's Decision to Divorced Mary

To spare Mary from societal embarrassment, St. Joseph resolved to divorce her quietly.

Change of Heart

An angel's message changed St. Joseph's mind about marrying Mary, affirming his role in God’s plan.

Heroic Faith of St. Joseph

Joseph's willingness to take Mary and raise Jesus demonstrates his heroic faith.

Human Role in Redemption

Human cooperation is integral to Christ's redemption, emphasizing the partnership between divine and human effort.

St. Joseph’s Vocation

St. Joseph exemplifies following one's God-given vocation through his acceptance of his role.

Prophetic Fulfillment

The Incarnation fulfilled multiple Old Testament prophecies regarding the Messiah’s coming.

Recognition of Christ

St. John the Baptist was the first to recognize Christ, acknowledging His significance in God's plan.

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Test your understanding of key concepts from Chapter 3 of 'The Mystery of Redemption'. This quiz covers essential elements like the gospel of Jesus Christ and Mary’s cooperation in the Incarnation. Perfect for those studying theology or religious texts.