CHIRISTIANITY NOTES

CAMBRIDGE RELIGIOUS STUDIES 0490 STUDY PACK GUIDE

TOPIC ONE: WORSHIP

THE CHURCH

-A church refers to a group of people who worship together as a community or the building used by
Christians for worshiping.

The Church as a group of People

-Paul describes the church bas the body of Christ. (1Corrinthians 12:12-14) -This is an important view on
how Christians view the worldwide church, of course Christians are split into various denominations but
the church is still a world-wide body family which is the body of Christ. - Christians are united by their
common belief in Jesus Christ and this idea of unity among all Christians is called Ecumenism. -The
church as the body of Christ includes Christians in the world today and those who lived in the past. -The
different body parts represent the different gifts that the church members have and must be used
collectively for the greater good. -Some might consider charity work that was done by mother Theresa.

The Impact of these beliefs on Christian Lifestyle

-Many Christians value baptism as it is a way of joining the church which is the body of Christ. -In their
local churches Christians use their talents and skills as functions of different parts of the body of Christ.
For example, some are singers, preachers, donors. -As the body of Christ, the church should show unity
and act together on important issues affecting the world today. -As a sign of unity, different
denominations often meet and worship together. For example Forward in Faith Ministry’s today’s
woman conference.

‘A person does not have to be a member of a church to be a good Christian.’ Discuss this statement.
Give your own opinion and show that you have thought about other points of view. You must refer to
Christianity in your answer.
Yes,Private prayer is a significant part of Christianity, and some people will worship at home, especially
those who cannot attend church services because of ill health or disability. -Some Christians might not
have access to a church or fear attending because of persecution. However, practising belief means
attending a church and playing a full part in services of worship and partake in church activities, to bear
witness to the Christian faith. -Many People benefit from the support of other Christians in the
community. -On special occasions/celebrations such as festivals. For instance, at Easter, need communal
worship.

The Church as a Building

-The place of worship for Christians is also called a church. –The different denominations design their
churches differently, but however, there are some most common and popular features which include
altar/communion table, font/baptistery, pulpit, lectern, cross and crucifix.

i. The Altar/Communion Table

-It is a table found in Christian churches which is used to prepare the Holy Communion or Eucharist, the
Priest reads the Gospel, prayers and blessings, burn candles, incense and offerings, place for the
Cross/crucifix. -It is well decorated and treated with respect.-The word altar is used to bring the
sacrificial sense because they believe that the death of Jesus was a sacrifice. -It is usually on the front
where the congregation can see it. -Items which can be found on the altar include the Bible, Candles,
Chalice, Plate (communion bread) / paten, Bread and wine, Collection plate / box, Altar cloth.

ii. The Font/Baptistery

-It is a pool or a container that holds water for the celebration of baptism. -Traditionally Christians used
natural water bodies for baptism but they were persecuted for their religion and that started worshiping
secretly. -They then constructed houses or buildings with fonts inside them. These buildings were called
baptistery.-Nowadays many churches have fonts inside them. Usually when they are not in use they are
emptied and covered.

iii. The Pulpit

-The pulpit is used by the preacher when preaching.it is usually well decorated. -In some churches the
pulpit is also used for reading the bible aloud to the congregation.

iv. The Lectern

-It is a tall stand with a sloping top to hold a book or notes. –The Lectern is used to put the bible when it
is being read aloud for the congregation. -In some churches it is also used by the preacher when
preaching.

v. The Cross

-It is the principal symbol of the Christian religion. -It recalls the crucifixion of Jesus and it is a sign that
Christian belief in the death of Jesus. -The death of Jess is the necessary part of salvation.

vi. The Crucifix.

-It is the representation of a cross with the figure or image of Jesus on it.-The crucifix emphasize Jesus
sacrifice on the cross which was necessary for salvation.
The Importance of the Church as a Building

-The church is used for worship, Christians can go there anytime to worship.-It is also used to keep and
display various sacred objects important for the religion and some are used during worship. -It is used as
a hall for social ceremonies like weddings. -It is used as a place of meeting for Christians. For instance,
when Christians want to go somewhere, then can agree to meet at the church first then depart together
as a group. -it is also used for festivals.

(c) ‘Churches should not be richly decorated.’ Discuss this statement. Give your own opinion and
show that you have thought about other points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer.

Yes, Jesus lived the simple life of a carpenter’s son from a humble background. In his teaching, he
condemned riches and pride, so may be the riches in some churches go against this. However, during
festivals such as Easter and Christmas churches are well decorated. -The time, money and effort
involved show religious commitment. -There is need for decoration to encourage spiritual reflection or
illustrate Biblical stories. For example, stained glass windows.

(c) ‘There are many methods of building a successful church.’ Discuss this statement. Give your own
opinion and show that you have thought about other points of view. You must refer to Christianity in
your answer.

Yes, churches can be situated in houses or adapted buildings or even in the open air or tents. -Some
features such as shelter, seats or a table (altar), decorations might be desirable and aid worship. -A
successful church depends upon its congregation and the faith and unity of those who wish to worship
together. - A successful church might be said to be totally independent from any kind of building and
could be evaluated in terms of a strong sense of community, good social relationships and an outward
looking mission. However, some might say ‘building a church’ often means ‘to evangelise’ and this is the
most important way to build and expand the church.

PUBLIC AND PRIVATE WORSHIP.

-Public worship is when people worship together as a community and private worship is when people
worship as individuals.

Public Worship

-Public worship can be liturgical or non-liturgical.

Liturgical Worship -
Liturgical worship is organized worship and use set patterns for the services. -The congregation will be
responding to the person leading the service, the bible is used for special readings and both the church
building and worship are highly symbolic. -There is the symbolic use of color. For example, white and
gold for special celebrations like Christmas and Easter, red to recall suffering and death of Christ and the
coming of the holy spirit, green ordinary time and Purple for advent and lent. -There are two main
services, Eucharist service and service of the word.

Non- Liturgical Worship

-This is practiced by many Pentecostal Churches. The church Services have a less organized form and
allows believers to experience the Holy Spirit. -There will be a mixture of music, drama poetry and
dance. -There may be a minister or leader but anybody can be involved.

Informal Worship

-Can be performed outside a church setting, often at home. For example, families may say grace
together before eating, or read the Bible together. - Informal worship may also take place at church, but
in a more relaxed setting than a church service. Some families may take their young children to ‘messy
church’, where there is the opportunity for play alongside prayer.

Book of Common Prayer

-The Book of Common Prayer was introduced by the Anglican Church in 1549 and is widely used in
Protestant Church services. - It helps the leaders of the worship to use prayers that are appropriate to
each service. - It is viewed as being very special, as it is written in a distinctive and poetic style that
draws on the language of Shakespeare.

Different Christian attitudes towards worship

-Catholic and Anglican churches generally prefer liturgical worship because following a set format helps
worship to become a repeated ritual with a clear place in people’s lives. Praying in this way connects
worshippers to the rest of the Church as everyone says and does the same things. This creates a sense of
belonging. -Pentecostal churches prefer non-liturgical worship because it is freer and more flexible. This
allows people to participate in a way that feels right to them and that reflects their mood.

Eucharist/Holy Communion

-The Holy Communion or Eucharist started Jesus had the last meal with his disciples before his
crucifixion. He told them that when they meet they should share bread and wine in memory of his body
being broken and his blood being spilled on the cross. -During Eucharist services, members partake
bread and wine in memory of Jesus’ sacrifice. -when the minister gives the bread and the wine to the
congregation during Holy Communion he says, Bread: The body of our Lord Jesus Christ which was given
for you (preserve your body and soul unto everlasting life).Take and eat this in remembrance that Christ
died for you (and feed on him in your heart with thanksgiving.)

Wine:

The blood of our Lord Jesus Christ which was shed for you (preserve your body and soul unto
everlasting life.), Drink this in remembrance that Christ’s blood was shed for you (and be thankful.)
 -There are different attitudes towards Eucharist, the Catholics believe in transubstantiation that’s the
bread and wine are actually transformed into Jesus’ body and blood. -The Anglicans believe in
consubstantiation that is the body and blood of Jesus will be spiritually present in the bread and wine.

Importance of Eucharist

-It reminds Christians of the sacrifice of Jesus and the salvation they received. - Holy Communion
(Eucharist/Mass) is an act of worship where what is said and done commemorates the sacrifice of Jesus
on the cross and celebrates the resurrection. The Priest or Minister repeats the words of Jesus at the
Last Supper when he shared the bread and wine and made a new covenant. -It also brings them closer
to the other members of the church and it is a connection between all Christians. -By Partaking the
Eucharist, Christians will be obeying a commandment set by Jesus himself. -After taking the Eucharist,
Christians may feel better and be in a position to face situations that may come their way.-Some
Christians believe in trans-substantiation/receptionism but others see the service as a memorial of what
Jesus did. Christians are following his instructions ‘do this in remembrance of me’. -The Eucharist is a
service of thanksgiving and confession of sins. It is central to Christian worship in most denominations as
an act of communal public worship, it strengthens the faith of Christians.

Sunday

-Sunday is the Christian holy day and most Christians worship on a Sunday because the gospels agree
that Jesus resurrected on a Sunday so from the onset Sunday was a very special day for the Christians.
-some passages in the New Testament suggest that early Christians started meeting on the first day of
the week which is Sunday. Acts 20:7 -Some Christians believe that Sunday is the new Sabbath.-Christians
believe that Sunday is the Lords day where they come together to worship and give thanks to God. -They
also rest and observe it as their Sabbath. Most Christians do not go to work on a Sunday. -Some organize
bible study classes.

Private devotion

-Christians also worship as individuals. They pray for themselves and other people they know or
charitable work they are interested in. -They also seek God’s help and guidance during time of needy. -
They also praise God telling him how wonderful He is. -Christians believe that God hears and responds
to their prayers. John 11:42. -They also read the bible as individuals as a way of trying to understand
God better and to do his word. -They can also sing hymns, read the bible and meditate. -Types of private
devotion include private prayer, meditation, private Bible reading and use of a rosary.

(c) ‘You do not need to go to church services to be a good Christian.’ Discuss this statement. Give your
own opinion and show that you have thought about other points of view. You must refer to
Christianity in your answer.

Yes, private prayer is a significant part of Christianity and that some people will worship at home,
especially those who cannot attend church services because of ill health or disability. -Some Christians
might not have access to a church or fear attending because of persecution. - Some might hold Christian
beliefs, but do not practise worship. However, others might say that practising belief means attending
church services of worship, to bear witness to the Christian faith and to benefit from the support of
other Christians in the community. -It is also necessary to attend church on festivals like Easter.

Blessings

-Blessings also called benedictions, many of which can be found in the Bible, are a great way to pray for
those we love, both when they can hear us and when they cannot. -They are a way of praying for others
and a very common in the Roman Catholic Church. -They were also part of the Jewish Tradition in the
Old Testament. -Below are some examples of blessings:

1) "May the Lord bless you and keep you; may He smile on you and be gracious to you; may He look
your way and give you peace." (Numbers 6:24-26, author’s paraphrase)

2) “May God give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed.” (Psalm 20:4, RSV)

3) “May God be gracious to you and bless you and make His face shine upon you.” (Psalm 67:1, RSV)

4) “May you experience the love of Christ, though it is so great you will never fully understand it, and
may you be filled with the fullness of life and power that comes from God.” (Ephesians 3:16, RSV)

5) “May Christ make His home in your heart through faith.” (Ephesians 3:17b)

(c) ‘Prayer should not be about asking for favours.’ Discuss this statement. Give your own opinion and
show that you have thought about other points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer.

Yes, Prayer should be about establishing a close relationship with God. -God knows people’s needs even
before they request. However, Prayer can serve different purposes, including making requests. -In many
Christian services of worship there are public prayers of supplication for the sick and the bereaved and
others responding to the needs of the community, asking for success for students, peace in war. -
Individual, private prayer and personal prayers of believers,ask for comfort or help in difficult times or
even the strength to deal with situations.

Bible Services

-They are also called services of the word. -They do not include the Eucharist they focus on bible
readings and the sermon. -The sermon will be longer and more developed that that often Eucharist
service.
Services of Reconciliation.

-The Catholic sacrament of reconciliation (also known as penance) has three elements: conversion,
confession and celebration. - By undertaking this sacrament, Catholic Christians find God’s forgiveness.
In turn, Catholics then speaks the words of absolution in the name of Jesus and the bond between the
confessor and God is rebuilt. -Jesus told the Parable of the Prodigal Son to help Christians understand
that they can receive the gift of forgiveness from God. In the Catholic Church, the sacrament of
reconciliation gives confessors the gift of forgiveness and lets them know that God will help Christians
are called to forgive others.-The sacrament of reconciliation is a sacrament of healing. The word
reconciliation means ‘to be at peace again’. -Catholic Christians believe in four stages of forgiveness: (i)
Contrition - the state of feeling remorseful. (ii)Confession - the priest helps Catholic Christians to
confess. They must say sorry and promise to change their ways. (iii)Satisfaction - the priest sets a task or
suggests prayers to be said in order to achieve forgiveness. This is sometimes called 'penance'. (iv)
Absolution - release from the feeling of guilt. -Catholics believe that they must seek to obtain
forgiveness in the hope that they can restore their relationship with God. -When satisfaction is given,
the priest gives the confessor a task that should, in some way, make up for the sin they have committed
and to which they have confessed. For example, they might be told to return stolen goods. -Penance
requires … the sinner to endure all things willingly, be contrite of heart, confess with the lips, and
practice complete humility and fruitful satisfaction. (Catechism of the Catholic Church 1450) -The priest
pray for them to change.

Religious Leaders

Hierarchy

– This is a description of a system that ranks its component parts according to relative status or
authority. In the context of Christianity this might refer to a hierarchical organisation of personal roles
within the clergy (Priest, bishop,) or to the organisation of church communities into parish, diocese. –
The organisational structures vary considerably among denominations. -For a community to function
some form of organisation is required. -A church might be perceived as the heart or focal point of a
community and any hierarchy it is part of is therefore likely to be significant to the surrounding
community. -At the level of individual churches, the priest is involved in the community activities in
which they and their church might be involved. -Hierarchy ensures that everyone is focused on the same
goals. -Consecrating the bread and wine for Holy communion,is central act of Christian worship is
dependent on the hierarchy.

Priest/Vicar

-Someone becomes a priest because he believes that he has vocation. Vocation is a calling from God. -
Priests are ordained by bishops. -Priestly roles include leading church services, administering sacraments
or ceremonies, hearing confessions and giving absolution, running a parish, chaplaincy, visiting the sick,
comforting the dying, counselling and consoling, organizing charity work, bible study and youth clubs. -
Priests are important they inherit the authority given to the apostles by Jesus. -They wear special
garments called Vestments to symbolize the authority that they have. -Priests are very important for the
welfare of the community and in return members of Christian community offer financial support to
them. -Non Christians may also benefit from the services of the priest especially on weddings and
funerals.

Bishops

-A Bishop is a senior priest in charge of parishes called diocese. -The roles of Bishops include ordaining
priest by laying hands on the priest’s head to transmit the power of the Holy Spirit. -They also take care
pastoral care of the clergy and they also confirm young people as they decide to become members of
the church.

Arch Bishops

-Some churches like Roman Catholic and Anglican have arch bishops. -Arch bishops usually heads the
church or denomination and are responsible for decision making. -In the Roman Catholic church there
are 5 arch bishops called cardinals and are responsible for electing the pope.

Ministers/Pastors

-Churches like baptism, Lutheran and many Pentecostal churches have pastors/ministers as ordained
leaders. -They can be male or female and they are trained. -Their roles are similar to those of priests.

‘A religious hierarchy is not necessary for an individual to have a relationship with God.’ Discuss this
statement. Give your own opinion and show that you have thought about other points of view. You
must refer to Christianity in your answer.
Yes, -Christians need a community within which to flourish. - The church and the Christian community
which constitutes it might be argued to represent the essence of Christian connection with God, with
the observation that Jesus told his followers he would be present whenever two or three gathered in his
name (Matthew 18:20). - The role of clergy shows that there is need for structures to worship,
interpretation of scripture and/or an intermediary between the individual worshipper and God. -The
Holy Communion is key in Christianity and the involvement of a member of the clergy might be
considered necessary. However, -anyone can form a relationship with God, through faith and intentional
practices such as reading the bible, meditation and prayer, and spending time alone becoming aware of
the presence of God. -Mystical experiences and the insights arising from them are examples of
connection with God achieved outside of a religious hierarchy.

‘Getting people to attend church services is a minister’s most important duty.’ Discuss this
statement. Give your own opinion and show that you have thought about other points of view. You
must refer to Christianity in your answer.
Yes, encouraging church/worship attendance as an important part of a priest’s ministry. -it is a natural
result of good spiritual leadership and that attendance at worship is often connected to the popularity of
religious leaders. -The ability of a minister to encourage and attract congregations by the style of
ministry and personal appeal and also by pastoral work is a virtue. However, Some may see other
duties of equal or more value e.g. spiritual advice, caring for the sick, working with the non-Christian
community. - The attendance at places of worship may not influenced by the priest or minister, but
depends on tradition and other factors. - An over-enthusiastic or too forceful attitude towards attending
worship might have the reverse effect and discourage people.

TOPIC TWO: BELIEFS AND SACRED WRITINGS.

THE TRINITY

-Christians believe that there is only one God who exists but This God is a trinity of ‘person” which
means he manifest in three different natures. -According to the Trinity, God manifests Himself as God
the Father, God the Son or God the Spirit. They are all aspects of one God but they are different and are
experienced in different ways. -These beliefs are also expressed in the Apostle’s creed. -The Trinity is
central to Christian belief and makes Christianity different from other monotheistic religions. -Christians
believe in one God. -The Trinity is a way of describing three aspects of God which believers experience.
-The one God is made up of God the Father, creator of heaven and Earth, God the Holy Spirit at work in
the world today and God the son.

i. God the Father

-He is the creator the giver of life who takes a father’s interest in the life of Humans.

-He is omnipresent which means he is everywhere at anytime

-He is omniscient which means he knows everything.

-He is omnipotent which means all powerful.

-He is omnibenevolent which means all loving and caring.

-He never changes.

ii. God The Son.

-He is Jesus who is God who presented himself on earth as a human being to die for the human sins.

-God the Son, who was born of the virgin, suffered, was crucified, was buried and rose again.

Crucifixion of Jesus.

-Christians believes that it is a historical event. -The message is that in the person of Jesus God shared
human pain, suffering and fear of death.-His crucifixion opened way for human salvation. -His death
makes up an opportunity to have eternal life -He is the sacrificial lamb.
Resurrection

-According to the Gospels Jesus’ tomb was found empty 3 days after he was buried. -Jesus resurrected
and appeared to various people for 40days before he went to heaven. -Resurrection demonstrates
Jesus’ power over death itself. -Jesus was free the original sin that leads to death and eternal separation
from God. -Resurrection was to prove that he was incarnate because no human being has power over
life and death.

The Ascension.

-Forty days after his resurrection, Jesus rose up to heaven while his disciples were watching him. -This
represents his success of good over evil and he live for forever.

The Impact of The belief In Jesus

-Christians are assured that if they accept Jesus’ sacrifice sin will not destroy their lives, where people
are truly sorry God forgives sins. -The death of Jesus shows that the Christians have to accept the
possibilities of suffering from death. However, those who suffer can know that God understands their
pain* -Christians should therefore no longer fear death because Jesus resurrected. -Jesus’ resurrection
shows that His atonement for sins has been accepted therefore Christians are assured that God will
forgive their sins. -Sunday is now the main day for worship because Jesus resurrected on a Sunday. -
Christians remember these events by prayer, church services and celebrating Easter and Christmas.

iii. God The Spirit.

-Christians believe that the Holy Spirit is the third “person” in trinity.it is the power of God at work in the
world today. -The Holy Spirit gave the disciples power to go in the world and preach the gospel, Marry
the other of Jesus was also pregnant by the Spirit. -The Holy Spirit empowers Christians today both in
their daily lives and during worship. -Christians also believe in the gifts of the Holy Spirit which are
wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, miracles, prophecy, distinguishing between spirits, speaking in
tongues and interpreting tongues. -The gifts of the Spirit must be used for the benefit of all.

The Apostle’s Creed

-A creed is a statement of faith. It affirms the major beliefs of a religious community. -The Apostle’s
creed was not written by the apostles,but it summarises the teachings of the Apostles. -It is important
because it acknowledges the belief in trinity.-It also summarises major Christian beliefs like the belief in
Jesus, Marry the mother of Jesus.

“I believe in God, the Father Almighty, Creator of Heaven and earth; and in Jesus Christ, His only Son Our
Lord, Who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was
crucified, died, and was buried. He descended into Hell; the third day He rose again from the dead; He
ascended into Heaven, and sit at the right hand of God, the Father almighty; from thence He shall come
to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Catholic Church, the communion of
saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body and life everlasting.”
(c) ‘Christians should know the gospel stories of the life of Jesus.’ Discuss this statement. Give your
own opinion and show that you have thought about other points of view. You must refer to
Christianity in your answer.

Yes, -Jesus is seen as the founder figure of Christianity and his life is the basis for Christian belief in the
Trinity. Therefore, the story of his birth, ministry and death, as told in the gospels, is important to all
Christians as a basic aspect of their religion. However, the four gospels have differences in their accounts
of the story of Jesus, which makes it confusing. -It is easier to learn and teach the story of the life of
Jesus if it is compiled and summarised in an easier more popular form. For example, in a book, a film,TV
programme or, interpreted by a minister or a Sunday school teacher.-Even if the story of the life of Jesus
is not learned directly from the Bible, it is still the same story as in the gospels.

Sin

-Sin is when people fail to trust God and became separated from Him. -Christians also believe that sin is
inherited from Adam and Eve who committed the first sin known as the original sin,because of this
Christians believe that everyone is born a sinner. -Christians also believe that Satan cause people to sin.
Satan was a leader of angels who disobeyed God and were thrown out of heaven. -According to Romans
6:23 the wages of sin are death so death entered the world through sin.

Salvation

-Salvation means to being saved from sin. -Christians believe that Jesus saved them through his
crucifixion and resurrection. -Jesus death atones for human sin and brought people closer to God so
Jesus is referred to as the Savior. -Salvation is not earned but it is a free gift from God. -Some Christians
believe that they are saved through baptism because baptism washes away sins of those who accept
Jesus as their Savior. -Christians belief that God forgives sins of those who are truly sorry for example
the parable of the prodigal son.

Heaven

-The righteous go to heaven/ paradise.

Hell

-Sinners go to hell

Purgatory

-Purgatory is a Roman Catholic Church belief. -They believe that if you die in a good spiritual state you
will go to heaven but if you are not pure you go to purgatory -Purgatory is purification to achieve
holiness. -Purgatory is different from hell because it is not internal punishment of souls but it’s where
souls achieve holiness. -If those in Purgatory achieve holiness, they will then go to heaven.
Impact of these beliefs on Christians.

-Christians try to do good to make sure that they are worth heaven. -They try to persuade others to
become Christians so that others will enjoy life with God and avoid hell. -Some Christian denominations
give absolution (forgiveness from God) to those who confess their sins when dying. -Some churches
practice intersession where they pray for the dead asking God for the salvation of the dead.

Ten Commandments

According to Christian belief, the Ten Commandments are important rules from God that tell Christians
how to live. The first four commandments are instructions about how humans should relate to God:

(1) Do not worship any other gods – Many Christians believe the first commandment is the most
important. Christians believe that there is only one God who is worthy of worship. (2) Do not make any
idols – The Bible actually says not to make any images of things from Heaven or Earth. (3) Do not misuse
the name of God – God’s name should be honoured and respected. (4) Keep the Sabbath day holy –
One day a week, known as the Sabbath, should be set aside for God. The Christian Sabbath is Sunday,
and on this day many people go to church and spend time with their families.

The last six commandments are about how people should treat each other:

(5) Honour your father and mother – Christians should love and respect their parents. (6) Do not
commit murder – For Christians, human life has a special status, and many believe that only God should
have the power to end a human life. (7) Do not commit adultery – A married person should not have a
sexual relationship with anyone except the person to whom they are married. (8) Do not steal – A
person should not take things that do not belong to them without permission. (9) Do not lie – A person
should be truthful and not tell lies. (10) Do not covet – To covet means to be jealous of what someone
else has. Christians should be content with what God has given them and not focus on wealth and
possessions.

The Two Greatest Commandments.

- Jesus’s disciples asked a question about which of all the Commandments was the most important and
this was his reply. -The Two Greatest Commandments are ( i) ‘Love the Lord your God with all your
heart and all your soul.( ii). Love your neighbour as yourself. There is no commandment greater than
these.’

-They are called the greatest commandments because they cover all the ten commmandments. -The
first one covers the first four which deal with the relationship between God and man.-The second covers
the last six which cover relationship between man and man.

The origin and authority of the Ten Commandments.

-Christians believe that the commandments were given by God to the prophet Moses, on Mount Sinai,
as recorded in the Book of Exodus (20:1– 17) in the Old Testament. - The Ten Commandments (the
Decalogue) are direct commands/the Word of God, and so have the highest authority. - The whole
content of the Ten Commandments was summarised by Jesus in the Two Greatest commandments and
that the commandments encapsulate Christian belief about duty towards God and duty towards one
another. -For traditional Christians they are the basic rules of God’s Law, and they endeavour to always
keep to them. -At the same time, most Christians try to keep in mind the principles and re-
interpretations of these commandments that Jesus explained in his teaching e.g., in the Sermon on the
Mount, in Matthew’s Gospel in the New Testament.

Importance of the Ten Commandments

-They are a guide for Christian living today. -God will judge Jews on how well they have observed these
commandments. -Following the commandments helps Christians to become better people today. -The
commandments help Christians to treat other people with respect. -The commandments guide
Christians to love and worship God effectively.

‘Believers need guidance to help them to understand how to obey the Ten Commandments.’ Discuss
this statement. Give your own opinion and show that you have thought about other points of view.
You must refer to Christianity in your answer.

Yes, the Ten Commandments are not standalone rules that can be understood without further
guidance. -The Ten Commandments are over three thousand years old and intended for a different
people at a different time and perhaps Christians should be given more guidance on how to follow these
rules in accordance with the challenges in life today. -Commandments such as ‘do not murder’ might
need interpreting; does this refer to the killing of animals? Some would argue that guidance is needed
from a minister. - There might also be a view the commandments on duty to God require more
guidance or interpretation than the ones that are regarded as straightforward rules about a Christian’s
responsibilities towards others. However, the commandments as expressed in some of the more
popular versions of the Bible or as taught to Christians today are straightforward and do not need
further interpretation. -God guides and there is no need for further guidance.

(c) ‘Forgiving others is the most important Christian duty.’ Discuss this statement. Give your own
opinion and show that you have thought about other points of view. You must refer to Christianity in
your answer.

Yes, forgiving others is an important Christian duty as it is part of the command to ‘love your
neighbour as yourself. -The teaching to forgive others is explicitly expressed in the Lord’s Prayer. -
though it is difficult to forgive, forgiving others is a requirement if Christians wish themselves to be
forgiven by God. However, others might argue that there are other Christian duties as important as
forgiving others. For example,loving God, charity or prayer. - It is difficulty to forgive serious sins. For
instance, having a beloved one murdered and only God can forgive certain sins.
‘Christians need strict rules to help them live the way God wants.’ Discuss this statement. Give your
own opinion and show that you have thought about other points of view. You must refer to
Christianity in your answer.

Yes, Moses and the Israelites show that God needed to impose strict rules upon humans. -Humans are
naturally evil and therefore might be a need for rules. However, others may argue that the Ten
Commandments are too simplistic to stand alone, without further guidance. -Others may also argue that
more general rules are better. For example, the Two Great Commandments. -Basing on God’s
forgiveness and love, rules need not to be too strict. - Christians might also need to be allowed to make
their own decisions/rules.

The Bible

-The religious book for Christians is the Bible. Christians believe that it is the word of God. -It is the
source of Christianity’s beliefs and practices. -The bible has two major sections which are Old Testament
and New Testament.

i. Old Testament

-Testament means agreement or covenant, Old Testament refers to the old agreement between God
and Humanity. -It refers to the first 39 books of the bible. -It has three main parts which are the law,
writings and prophets. -The law refers to the first five books of Moses also called Pentateuch. They
contain the history of the origins of the world and those of Israel as a nation. They also contain various
laws. For example, the Ten Commandments. -Writings are books that were written by various individual
about their experiences and encounter with God. For instance, Esther, Psalms, Proverbs, Isaiah. These
contain various messages from God to the people through prophets.

ii. New Testament

-It is the new agreement between God and Humanity -It has 27 books that are divided into 4 categories
which are gospels, Acts of the Apostles, epistles and revelation. -The gospels contain the stories about
Jesus’ life, ministry, death and resurrection. -Acts of the apostles is just one book which contains history
of the church and how Jesus’ disciples preached to various communities. -Epistles are letters that were
written to various Christian communities by the apostles. Most of them were written by Paul and are
called Pauline Epistles. -Revelation is also one book which records a series of events about what is going
to happen at the end of time including Jesus” return on earth.

‘Only the New Testament is relevant to Christians.’ Discuss this statement. Give your own opinion
and show that you have thought about other points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your
answer.

Yes, -Some candidates might agree with this statement as it is the New Testament that contains the
teachings of Jesus and the early church. - This is when Christianity began and so the Old Testament is
irrelevant as it relates to Judaism. -All the ethical teaching and general guidance required to live a
Christian life is in the New Testament. However,some might disagree with the statement saying that
there is much in the Old Testament that is relevant to Christians, such as the Ten Commandments and
what is said about the Messiah. -Although the Old Testament is about the people of Israel, it talks
about the origins of Christianity too and there are many lessons which Christians can learn.

Various types of Literature found in the Bible.

-These include History, Myth, Songs, Psalms, Prophecy, Books of Law, Poetry, Gospels, Epistles, Wisdom,
Revelation.

The Importance of the Bible

-Christians use the Bible for prayer.it contains many prayers that are often used during services and
private worship. For example, the Lord’s Prayer. -The bible is also used for study,many denominations
organize bible study sessions whereby Christian learn more about the bible. -The bible is central in
Christian act of worship, preachers read verses before preaching.-The bible also shapes the doctrines of
churches. -It also helps Christians to shape their character.

(c) ‘The teachings in the Bible are only meant for Christians.’ Discuss this statement. Give your own
opinion and show that you have thought about other points of view. You must refer to Christianity in
your answer.

Yes, there are different races and cultures in the world this means that inevitably different religions
have different Holy Books and scriptures. For instance, Quran for Muslims. -The New Testament is
specifically Christian teaching and exclusive to Christianity because of the beliefs about Jesus. However,
others may say that Christians believe the teachings in the Bible are universal. For example, do not kill,
therefore, though there are different races and cultures in the world, there is also a core of ethical and
moral teaching in them all that is the same as in the Bible. There is a universal code of conduct. - The
first five books of the Bible are also the Torah, so Jews as well as Christians follow the teachings of the
Old Testament (Bible).

‘Religion should affect every part of life.’ Discuss this statement. Give your own opinion and show
that you have thought about other points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer.

Yes, a Christian might find it impossible to act in any aspect of life without reference to religious
principles. For example, caring for others, maintaining peace, not killing, being truthful and honest in
business. However, others may argue that areas such as education or business/trading, politics or wars
must be aspects of life where the influence of religious belief should be minimal because people have
the right to be free from religious indoctrination and to make decisions without considering whether
they offend Christian beliefs. For example, teaching about evolution.
TOPIC THREE : FESTIALS, FEASTS, PILGRIMAGE AND HISTORIC PLACES.

i. Advent

-Advent means coming. It starts on the Sunday closet to 30 November. -Christians will be preparing to
celebrate the birth of Jesus. -It remembers three comings:

i)the coming of John the Baptist to announce the Messiah.

ii)the coming of Jesus as the Messiah and great judge who will last forever.(Isaiah 4:17)

iii)the second coming of Jesus. Christians has different view on the second coming of Jesus. Some
believe that it will be on the judgement day, some believe at already happened at Pentecost and others
believe that it is not an event but the acceptance of Jesus into one’s life. -Advent is a festival of great
anticipation, it anticipates the beginning of the story of Jesus, the change of the world from darkness to
light. -It is also a time of sorrow because people are reminded of the long years of darkness hence they
fast. -A Carol service is held, Christians arrive in a darkened church they are given candles which are lit
one by one until the church is full of light. -Christmas songs are sung and readings about the coming of
the Messiah. -Carol means Christian religious songs that are sung at Christmas. -The alter cloth will be
violet or purple which signifies repentance. -The central theme of Jesus as the light of the world is fully
developed in the candles of the advent wreath or crown. -The crown has five candles, the central candle
represents Jesus while the other four represents his forerunners who are early Jewish leaders, prophets,
John the Baptist and Mary. -During Advent Christians pray, fast and repent.

ii. Christmas

-It means Christ’s Mass. -it is widely celebrated as the festival of light and love. -Nobody knows the
birthday of Jesus but it is celebrated on the 25th of December because it was originally the Roman feast
celebrating the birthday of their sun God Mithras. -The angel Gabriel visited Mary, a virgin pledged to be
married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David and said: “Greetings, you who are highly
favoured; the Lord is with you; do not be afraid; found favour with God; be with child; give birth to a
son; name him Jesus; he will be great; called Son of the Most High; God will give him the throne of
David; reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end; Holy Spirit will come upon you;
holy one will be called the Son of God; Elizabeth is to have a child; nothing impossible with God.
Paraphrasing is acceptable”.

Jesus’ birth

In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be enrolled. This was
the first enrollment, when Quirinius was governor of Syria. And all went to be enrolled, each to his own
city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David,
which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be enrolled with Mary,
his betrothed, who was with child. And while they were there, the time came for her to be delivered.
And she gave birth to her first-born son and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a
manger, because there was no place for them in the inn. And in that region there were shepherds out in
the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the
glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear. And the angel said to them, "Be not
afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy which will come to all the people; for to you is
born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will
find a babe wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger. "And suddenly there was with the angel
a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth
peace among men with whom he is pleased!" When the angels went away from them into heaven, the
shepherds said to one another, "Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened,
which the Lord has made known to us." And they went with haste, and found Mary and Joseph, and the
babe lying in a manger. -Christmas celebrates the incarnation of Jesus. - He was born in Bethlehem not
his home town Nazareth. -Before Christmas, Christians decorate their homes to show joy, many families
have ever green trees with lights to represent eternal light and life in Jesus. -Churches also do the same.
-Churches are also decorated with a crib representing the manger surrounded by small models of his
parents, stable animals and the shepherds. -Some churches will organize plays to act out the birth of
Jesus. -Some churches have a midnight service on Christmas Eve. Most churches will have services on
Christmas. -Christmas is important because it celebrates the incarnation and Jesus was coming as the
messiah to save the world. -It is a turning point in human history as humans from all walks for life had a
savior. -It is a time of joy and giving and Christians take this time to give to the less privileged. -It is a
time of joy, feasting and giving each other presents. Christian artefacts and aids to worship used only at
Christmas.

The advent candle.

-This is still burning up until Christmas Day. It marks the approach and preparation for the celebration of
the Birth of Jesus. Nativity scenes -These are set up in churches, homes and schools, etc. They depict
all the elements of the nativity, e.g. the stable, the angels, Mary and Joseph, the shepherds and Kings.
Christmas carols/hymns. - Songs of praise which retell the story of the birth of Jesus or reflect Christmas
traditions. -Bible readings from the Old Testament about the birth/coming of the Messiah. From the
New Testament gospel stories of the event of the birth.

Vestments and altar clothes.

- These are usually changed to white to signify that it is Christmastide.

Christmas Bells.

-Special arrangement of bell ringing might be organised to bring in the good tidings of the birth and call
people to the services. For example, Midnight Eucharist/Mass on Christmas Eve.

(c) ‘All Christians should believe the Bible stories about the birth of Jesus.’ Discuss this statement.
Give your own opinion and show that you have thought about other points of view. You must refer to
Christianity in your answer.
 Yes, the Bible stories are of the central importance to Christianity as proof of the identity of Jesus.
Without belief in the birth stories there would be no Christmas celebration -the Bible is the true word of
God and there is no need to doubt what it says However, others might argue that there are only two
accounts of the birth in the New Testament .That is in Luke and Matthew and they differ. - The birth
stories are less important than other beliefs. For example, the resurrection (and the importance of the
Easter stories).

iii. Epiphany

-It is celebrated on 6 January. It remembers the visit of the wise men (magi) to infant Jesus. -Magi from
the east; came to Jerusalem; asked where king of Jews to be born; saw star in east and come to worship.
- Herod and all Jerusalem disturbed; Herod asked chief priests and teachers of the law where Christ to
be born; -They said in Bethlehem in Judea as prophet wrote. - Herod secretly called Magi and found
when star appeared; sent Magi to Bethlehem; report back to him so can worship. -The magi left and
followed star to place where child was; saw child with Mary and bowed down and worshipped;they gave
Mary gifts of gold, incense and myrrh; -They were warned in dream not to go back to Herod; returned
to their country another way. -The visit reminds Christians that Jesus came to save everybody even non-
Jews. -The wise men gave Jesus gifts the symbolized events that were to happen in his life.

i) Gold symbolizing that Jesus was the king.it represents wealth and power

ii) Frankincense which symbolizes that Jesus was Devine.

iii) Myrrh an ointment used to embalm corpses a sign that Jesus was going to die.

-Most churches there will be a special Eucharist service and bible readings that show that Jesus was the
incarnate Son of God. -Epiphany is important because it shows that Jesus was for all the people because
the wise men where not Jews. -Christians will also think of life as a journey because the wise men
journeyed behind a star. -Christians meditate on the gifts of the wisemen.

“The teachings in the story of Christmas should be shared with everyone.’ Discuss this statement.
Give your own opinion and show that you have thought about other points of view. You must refer to
Christianity in your answer.

Yes, -the universal message of Christmas (of love) and Jesus as Saviour should be shared with all faiths.
-The principle of universality and common brotherhood is one shared by all religions. - The message of
Christmas is one of love and goodwill and can be shared irrespective of individual, religious or cultural
beliefs. - Beliefs about Mary (Mariam) and the birth of Jesus (the Prophet Isa) are also present in Islam.
-Also, the Old Testament history behind the predictions in the birth story is shared by the Abrahamic
religions Islam and Judaism. - The commercialisation of religious festivals has made them universal in
other ways, in terms of holidays and the exchange of presents. So, in December, in many parts of the
world, Christmas is acknowledged and celebrated, and it is not isolated to predominantly Christian
countries. However, Christian beliefs about Jesus as Son of God/Christ the Saviour are not shared by
others. Just as christians do not share certain beliefs with others. - Traditionalists in all religions prefer
to observe their celebrations separately.

iv. Lent

-It is a period of six and half weeks before Easter and the last week is called the Holy Week. -It Begins on
Ash Wednesday.-Lent remembers Jesus in the wilderness when he was tempted by Satan after 40 days
of fasting. -He was tempted three times.

i) To give in to the needs and desires of the body.

ii) To give in to the desire for power.

iii) To give in to the temptation of getting what he wanted by using his authority.

-Jesus managed to overcome all these temptations. -During Lent Christians will be preparing for Easter
and the holy week. -It begins on Ash Wednesday whereby the priest rubs people’s forehead with ash in
sign of the cross saying you a dust and unto dust you shall return. -Ash represents death, destruction
and repentance. -During lent people will be fasting and praying. -Some will also take this time to donate
to charity and might organize hunger lunches. -Lent reminds Christians that they are going to die. -It is
attest of Christian character and determination to follow Jesus. -It’s also a time for bible study.

Holy Week

-It is a week where Christians celebrate some important festivals. During the holy Christians celebrate
Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday and Good Friday.

Palm Sunday

-It is the first day of the holy week. It celebrates Jesus triumphal entry into Jerusalem riding on a donkey.
-Jesus was among the pilgrims who went to Jerusalem for the Passover feast, when the people heard
about his coming they awaited him with palm tree branches and when he approached they shouted
Hosanna in the highest. -The pilgrims were anticipating that Jesus would bring the kingdom of David,
they were welcoming him as the Messiah who would save his people and this was a direct challenge to
the religious leaders who later that week got him arrested and crucified. -Christians celebrate Palm
Sunday by receiving palm crosses symbolizing that at the end of the week Jesus will die. -Some churches
act out Jesus riding on a donkey and pilgrims welcoming him with Palm tree branches. -Palm Sunday is
important because Christians see Jesus as a peaceful Messiah because he was riding on a donkey which
is a peaceful animal.

Maundy Thursday

-It is the fifth day of the Holy week. -Maundy means commandment and it represents the Ten
Commandments and the new commandment that Jesus gave to his disciples that is to love one another.
-Jesus washed his disciples’ feet as a sign of love and this task was fit for the lowest servant. -Jesus also
had the last supper with his disciples and gave them bread and wine representing his body and blood
respectively and commanded his disciple to eat bread and wine in memory of him. -Churches organize
services of foot washing and there is a service of Holy Communion to remember the last supper. -The
church is bare and in darkness to symbolize the absence of hope and despair felt by the disciples. -
Maundy Thursday teaches Christians about serving others through foot washing services. -Christians
also think about the strength of their commitment because during this time disciples proved to be week.
-The last supper is the origin of the Eucharist/ Holy Communion.

Good Friday

-It is the 6th day of the Holy week and it remembers the crucifixion and death of Jesus. -It was a
demonstration of God’s love for humanity (john 3 vs 16). -Christians celebrate Good Friday by having
special services in churches that are bare and dark to symbolize the isolation of Jesus during his death. -
There is no holy communion some have services starting at 12 noon to symbolize the time that Jesus
was on the cross. -They sing hymns about crucifixion and read the stories about Jesus” death, they pray
Silent prayers and meditate. -In Jerusalem, Christians walk the via dolorosa which is the way travelled by
Jesus to the crucifixion point. -In their homes, Christians eat hot cross buns symbolizing the death of
Jesus. -Good Friday is important because it shows that sins can be forgiven through Jesus” death. -Also,
the death of Jesus means life to humans. -It also teaches Christians to obey God as Jesus obeyed God by
being crucified.

Easter

-It is the most important day on the church calendar, it celebrates God raising Jesus from the dead.-
Christians attends Easter vigil which begins just before mid-night. -Congregants gather in darkness
around a bonfire outside the church symbolizing the light of Jesus that despises darkness and death. -
The priest will also light a candle and the candle will be used throughout the year for other festivals like
baptism. -The priest inserts 5 pieces of incense to represents Jesus wounds on the cross. -Easter is
important because it symbolizes the return to life of Jesus and it is the main focus of the gospel. -The
resurrection proved that Jesus was really the Messiah hence attained the tittle Christ. -It also signifies
Jesus” power over death hence Christians can hope for eternal life. - Items used in Christian worship
that are related to the death of Jesus include the Cross, crucifix, bread, wine, stations of the Cross,
Sorrowful mysteries of the rosary ,pictures/icons.

Why a church service on Easter Sunday is a joyful occasion.

-Easter is considered to be the most important festival in the church year because it celebrates the
resurrection of Jesus after the crucifixion. -Christians believe the occasion is a joyful one (in contrast to
Good Friday) because although they remember the suffering of Jesus and his sacrifice on the cross, they
believe that because of the death of Jesus sins can be forgiven and there is a promise of salvation and
eternal life. -The resurrection proves in the minds of Christians that Jesus was the Messiah. - The Easter
story confirms Christian belief that good will triumph over evil. -Church services on Easter Sunday
contain hymns and prayers of thanksgiving. Churches are decorated in white and ministers wear white
vestments. All is bright and clean in celebration. The Paschal candle is lit. -Bells are rung to herald the
Resurrection. - Some perform Passion plays. -Some celebrate the Resurrection with the rising of the
sun, in a dawn Mass.

‘Easter celebrations are no longer about religion.’ Discuss this statement. Give your own opinion
and show that you have thought about other points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your
answer.

Yes, -for some, Easter is more about having a few days off work and celebrating the new life which
comes with spring. - Many people exchange Easter eggs. -Some people celebrate the end of Lent by
enjoying something that they gave up for Lent. However, others might disagree that Easter is all about
the death and resurrection of Jesus. - It is at Easter when we remember the sacrifice that Jesus made,
giving his life for the saving of everyone. -The death of Jesus was the real purpose of Jesus being born. -
The Resurrection both confirms redemption and emphasises the promise of eternal life.

(c) ‘Christian festivals are not celebrated enough today.’ Discuss this statement. Give your own
opinion and show that you have thought about other points of view. You must refer to Christianity
in your answer.

Yes, many societies today are becoming increasingly non-religious and so although religious festivals
are recognised as holidays. For instance, Christmas and Easter many people do not participate in any
religious activities at all at these times. -Attending church or observing fasts and festivals has declined in
many countries and many children and adults have only a sketchy knowledge of why there is a holiday
on a religious festival, usually shops are open. - Moreover, over-commercialisation means that the main
festivals are celebrated but for the wrong reasons. However,other might argue that important festivals
like Christmas and Easter are usually celebrated, to some extent, in a religious way even in a secular
society, in schools and families. - The reason for the festival is usually known by non-Christians as well as
Christians.

(c) ‘It helps us to become better people if we spend time thinking about suffering.’ Discuss this
statement. Give your own opinion and show that you have thought about other points of view. You
must refer to Christianity in your answer.

Yes, -thinking about the suffering of Jesus and meditating and making sacrifices in one’s own life might
lead Christians to think more seriously about the plight of others, especially people who suffer for their
faith or who regularly do not have sufficient food. -Thinking about the suffering others are experiencing
is important and direct consequence of this should be action to relieve suffering. -Attitude and personal
experience might encourage action to treat others as we might wish to be treated. However, it is
important not only to think about the suffering, but to intervene to rescue them.

‘Expectations that people should practise self-denial at certain times of the year are not realistic
today.’ Discuss this statement. Give your own opinion and show that you have thought about other
points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer.

Yes, the tradition of self-denial and fasting is an unrealistic practice for some people today. - To expect
Christians to go against the trend in society for self-gratification and indulging in luxuries is asking too
much. -Work and lifestyles are very different now than in the past. -Only believers who are fully
dedicated to a religious life (for example, monks) should be keeping these traditions. However, the
expectation is realistic because many Christians do not consider it necessary to observe Lent as e.g. the
traditional strict fast involving total abstinence from meat and fats. - There are many different ways that
Christians can demonstrate self-denial – and even children can be involved. -Some may argue that the
expectation is realistic just because it only occurs at certain times of the year and is limited to these
times.

Ascension

- After Jesus’ resurrection he spent time with the apostles and told them that God would send down the
Holy Spirit to them just as he had promised. -He sent them out to tell people about him and the Word of
God. He led them out to Bethany, outside of the city and blessed them. -He was then taken up in a cloud
into Heaven. Two men then appeared clothed in white robes and asked why they were watching the
heavens. They said “Jesus has been taken from you into heaven, but someday he will return from
heaven in the same way you saw him go!” (Acts1:11) -The ascension shows Jesus returning to his Father
and also it shows that Jesus never died again hence Christians worship Him as the living Messiah. -
Because of the Ascension Christians also hope for eternal life.

Pentecost.

When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. And suddenly a sound came
from heaven like the rush of a mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there
appeared to them tongues as of fire, distributed and resting on each one of them. And they were all
filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. Now
there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men from every nation under heaven. And at this sound
the multitude came together, and they were bewildered, because each one heard them speaking in his
own language. And they were amazed and wondered, saying, "Are not all these who are speaking
Galileans? And how is it that we hear, each of us in his own native language? Par'thians and Medes and
E'lamites and residents of Mesopota'mia, Judea and Cappado'cia, Pontus and Asia, Phryg'ia and
Pamphyl'ia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyre'ne, and visitors from Rome, both Jews and
proselytes, Cretans and Arabians, we hear them telling in our own tongues the mighty works of God."
And all were amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, "What does this mean?" But other mocking
said, “they are filled with new wine”. Peter stood up and defended the Apostles saying that they were
not drunk, it only the third hour. He said it was the fulfilment of the prophecy of Joel concerning the
coming of the Holy Spirit. After his speech, many people believed and were baptised, about 3000 new
converts. -The Pentecost celebrates the coming of the Holy Spirit as promised by Jesus to the disciples.
-Signs which showed the coming of the Holy Spirit were: (i) Wind/sound like a rush of wind (ii)
Fire/flames (iii) Speaking in other languages / tongues. -Disciples were gathered in the upper room
when the Spirit descended like a dove and a sound like a harsh wind was heard. -They also received
tongues of fire and many were converted to Christianity, (please read acts chapter 2) -Pentecost is
important because it means receiving God’s power. -Christians believe that they have God’s power
through the Holy Spirit which gives them courage to witness their faith to others. -Christians also use the
gifts of the Holy Spirit in everyday life and in worship. -Christians also believe that the Holy Spirit directs
their lives. -It marks the birth of the Church. -It marks the first fruits of the Church

‘Church leaders no longer pay attention to the Holy Spirit.’ Discuss this statement. Give your own
opinion and show that you have thought about other points of view. You must refer to Christianity in
your answer.

Yes,it’s now the leaders that make all the decisions. Some of the decisions do not agree with what is in
the Bible. Some of the leaders believe that they have the power to lead their church where they want to
and do not listen to the Holy Spirit. However, successful churches are led by the Holy Spirit and run as
God wants them to be. -They are based on what is said in the New Testament. They are full of people
who have and use the fruits of the Spirit such as prophets. -The leaders listen to the Holy Spirit and
guide the church according to him.

SUNDAY

-Most Christians regard Sunday as their Holy Day and they worship on a Sunday for many reasons. -The
first Christians were Jews and observed Sabbath and they continued to do so after being converted to
Christianity but later they were chased away from the synagogues and missionaries to the gospel to
gentile communities were Sabbath did not mean anything to them hence there was need for changes. -
Sunday is the Christian Sabbath and one of the Ten Commandments is about keeping one day for rest
and worship. The religious reason, given in the Bible, for observing the Sabbath is that it is a weekly
celebration of the completion of Creation. In Genesis it says that God created the World in six days and
on the seventh day he rested. Sabbath means ‘resting day’. So observing Sunday as a Sabbath is in
obedience to the Ten Commandments.

-Christians also started to observe Sunday as their holy day because some passages in the bible suggest
that early Christians started worshiping on a Sunday. (Acts 20:7) -They believed that Sunday was the
new sabbath because Jesus resurrected on a Sunday. -On a Sunday Christians come together for
worshiping. -They may take the holy communion, confess their sins, preach, teach, go to bible classes
and thanks giving. -On thanks giving, many churches have Harvest Thanksgiving service. At this service,
members of the congregation might bring gifts of food and flowers to decorate the church building as a
sign of their thanks to God. These gifts may later be taken to needy or elderly people in the
neighbourhood. -Most Christians do no go to work on a Sunday. -In the past Christians were responsible
for closing shops and leisure facilities on a Sunday but it was challenged by non-Christians and today
Sunday is like any other day.

‘Christian attitudes to Sunday are out of date.’ Discuss this statement. Give your own opinion and
show that you have thought about other points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer.

Yes,the strict keeping of rules, such as no work, no music or dancing are out of step with the way
people want to use leisure time today. -Also it is possible to worship on Sunday and acknowledge it as a
day for religion without shops and places of entertainment being closed. -The time and cost involved in
attending places of worship every Sunday is not in line with modernity. However,many Christians still
observe Sunday as a special day and the day they attend worship. -The benefits today are still the same
as they have always been. -Sunday services strengthen the community and enable Christians to share
their faith. - An entitlement to a time of reflection and recreation and a break from work (which is
sometimes the law) ensures people are treated fairly and is different from slavery.

‘Too many Christian festivals are ignored today.’ Discuss this statement. Give your own opinion and
show that you have thought about other points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer.

Yes, -Many societies today are becoming increasingly non-religious and so although religious festivals
are recognised as holidays e.g. Christmas and Easter, many people do not participate in any religious
activities at all at these times. -Attending church or observing fasts and festivals has declined in many
countries and many children and adults have only a sketchy knowledge of why there is a holiday on a
religious festival, usually shops, etc. are open. However, -most important festivals like Christmas and
Easter are usually celebrated in a religious way to some extent. -all festivals have an importance but
they are not all equally important. Some Christians deliberately choose not to celebrate some festivals
for some reasons

‘Easter is the only festival that Christians should celebrate.’ Discuss this statement. Give your own
opinion and show that you have thought about other points of view. You must refer to Christianity in
your answer.

Yes, Easter is the most important festival because it celebrates the resurrection. So Easter is the
fulfilment of God’s promise to redeem sins through the sacrifice of Jesus. -Easter might be seen as the
feast that celebrates the central belief of Christianity, that Jesus rose from the dead. However,without
the incarnation, celebrated at Christmas, the events of Easter could not have happened and none of the
other festivals would be celebrated. So, some responses may argue for the importance of Christmas. -
All the festivals are important in terms of what they commemorate in the life of Jesus, or, as with
Pentecost, the birthday of the church. So, Christians would wish to celebrate all the festivals. -Festivals
in general are also important for creating family time and community time.

(c) ‘Christians need to be concerned with today’s world, not the past.’ Discuss this statement. Give
your own opinion and show that you have thought about other point of view. You must refer to
Christianity in your answer.
 Yes, the future survival of a religion is more important than what happened in the past, and too much
concentration on historical events prevents Christianity modernising and appealing to people today. -
There are many problems of suffering and starvation in the world today and that Christians should not
be spending time and money on preserving historical sites or making money from commercialising
them. However,some may say that there are lessons to be learned from reflecting on what has
happened in an individual’s past and this can make Christian faith stronger. -Reflecting on the past
events of a religion reinforces tradition and belief. -Rituals and festivals are often based on historical
events. - Events of the past, For example, at Christmas and Easter, are at the centre of the faith.

PLACES OF PILGRIMAGE

Lourdes

-It is in France, in 1858 a 14-year-old girl called Bernadette claimed to have seen visions of Marry near
Lourdes in an area of a cliff known as the GROTTO OF Massabielle. -Bernadette also claimed that a water
spring would appear in the grotto and it did. -It was reported that the spring had healing powers and a
Roman catholic church was built there (Basilica of our lady of the rosary). -Since then, many Christians
visit the place for prayer and healing purposes and many miracles have been claimed.

Rome

-It is the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church. -St Peters which is the largest church in the worlds
is built there on the remains of St Peter. -Peter died in Rome initially he had decided to flee but saw a
vision of Jesus going to be crucified in Rome, then Peter stayed in Rome until he was crucified upside
down. -Also, Paul the missionary was also killed in Rome. Rome is also the home of the pope. -Christians
visit Rome to visit Holy Places and to attend a Mass being led by the Pope.

Local Places.

There are also local places which are important for specific denominations eg the Mbungo Shrine for
Zion Christian Church in Masvingo Zimbabwe, Rufaro Conference Centre for AFM in Zimbabwe, Guta
RaJehova in Gombakomba Mutare.