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Question 1

What are the Christian views about death?

Answer 1

Death is not the end, there is a permenent soul. All Christians believe they will be resurrected, some believe physically; others believe spiritually.
All Christians believe that God will judge everyone after they die, some believe immediately after death; others(Roman Catholics) believe there will be a ‘Day of Judgment’ when the world ends. Some will go to heaven, others to hell.
Roman Catholics specifically also believe in prugatory, which is a process of where people atone for their sins.

Question 2

What are Christian views on Judgement based on?(2)

Answer 2

God will judge people after death - “Man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgment”(Hebrews 9).
Judgement will also take into account faith in God - “[Jesus]I am the resurrection, and I am the life, he who believes in me… shall never die”(John 11).

Question 3

What are Christian views on Resurrection based on?

Answer 3

Jesus was resurrected, hence it is possible for Christians to also be resurrected - “On the third day he rose from the dead”(The creed).

Question 4

What are Christian views on Heaven and Hell based on?(2)

Answer 4

Jesus speaking of heaven says - “My kingdom is not of this world”(John).
Hell is referred to as a place of fire and torture - “And throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth”(Matthew 13).

Question 5

What is Pascal’s wager?

Answer 5

If you assume that God exists and you are right, you are granted eternal life. If you are wrong; nothing happens, when you die you just cease to exist.
If you assume that God does not exist and you are right then you win nothing; but if you are wrong then you may end up in hell for eternity. Therefore it makes sense to wager on God existing because you will gain more if you are right.

Question 6

What is the idea of Liberation in Hinduism and Buddhism?(2)

Answer 6

This is the idea of being set free from the cycle of rebirth, which sets you free from suffering.
In Buddhism, the way to achieve liberation is by freeing the mind from all attachment; gaining good karma; and avoiding greed, hatred and ignorance - these are the three poisons which keep people attched to material things keeping them trapped in the cycle of Samsara.
In Hinduism, the way to achieve liberation is by reaching Moksha. Hindus believe that when an atman(soul) reaches Mosksha they are united with Brahman(the world spirit).

Question 7

What is the idea of Salvation and Christians’ purpose?(5)

Answer 7

Salvation - being released from the limitations of human existence and sin to eternal life with God. This is Christians’ ultimate purpose.
On earth they have to:
Reproduce - “Go forth and multiply”(Genesis 1:27).
Worship God - “[Jesus]The first commandement is this, love the Lord your God with all your heart with all your soul”(Mark 12:30).
Lead a good life, by showing love to others - “[Jesus]the second is this, love your neighbour as yourself. There are no other commandments greater than these”(Mark 12:31).
Proselytise - “[Jesus]Go and make disciples of all nations”.

Question 8

What are Christian teachings on Eternal Life and the Kingdom of God?(2)

Answer 8

The Kingdom of God refers to heaven; it is a place with God, a paradise like before the Fall, it is also a spiritual place.
Eternal life is gained through faith in Jesus, and it is a gift from God
No one deserves eternal life because people are sinners and deserve to be punished - “The wages of sin are death”(Romans 6:23)

Question 9

What are Christian teachings on the role of Jesus?(2)

Answer 9

Jesus is said to be God incarnate, this measn that it is God in his human form in order to save people from their sins. Jesus also acts as a redeemer; he pays the price of sin by dying on the cross. Jesus atoned for human sin, restoring the relationship between God and man.
This is why Jesus is often described as the mediator for God and man. Jesus is also described as savior because he saves people from sin, death and hell.

Question 10

What are Christian teachings on the Grace of God?(2)

Answer 10

All Christians believe that it is God’s action that saves people, not human action. However this does not mean that Christians should not try to do good; but it is not the good that gets them a place in heaven, no human can ever be good enought to actually say they deserve heaven. It is through God’s grace.

Question 11

Define the Sanctity of Life.

Answer 11

Life is a gift from God, and because God especially values human life; taking human life is forbidden - “Do not commit murder”(10 Commandments, Deuroteronomy 5:7).

Question 12

What are some non-religious beliefs about the value of life?(2)

Answer 12

Life is important and it is immoral to take life - murder is a serious crime in all societies and is viewed as one of the most serious crimes a person can commit.
Human life is arguably more valuable than animal life because humans are capable of more complex thought, they have a higher sentience hence they are more able to suffer.

Question 13

Why is it important to relieve suffering in Christianity?(2)

Answer 13

Jesus set the example, healing people was an important part of his ministry - Parable of the Paralysed Man(Mark 2: 1–12)
Jesus also told the story of the Good Samaritan(Luke 10:25-37) when asked about who your ‘neighebour’ is; in this story the healing and recovery of the man is key. Jesus states to “go and do likewise”, portraying that it is important to relieve those around us of suffering.

Question 14

What are two different methods of abortion?

Answer 14

Medical abortion - pill taken to cause miscarriage.
Vacuum aspiratoin - contents removed by suction, performed as a surgery while under anaesthetic.

Question 15

What are UK laws on abortion through the years?(3)

Answer 15

Bourne Case 1938 - A doctor was prosecuted for carrying out an obortion on a 14 year old girl who had been gang raped. He argued it would ruin her life otherwise; judge agreed and he was not convicted.
Abortion Act 1967 - Decriminalised abortion when a woman was less than 28 weeks pregnant and two doctors had to agree there was risk to mental or physical health of mother, or existing children, or risk of the child.
Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990 - Reduced 28 to 24 weeks.

Question 16

What are the main arguments against abortion?(4)

Answer 16

The foetus has a right to life; hence taking the foetus’ life is murder. However this depends when ‘life’ begins - some believe it begins at conception, but others may say that life does not begin until later; when the foetus can survive outside the womb.
Foetus might feel pain during abortion. However, most doctors would argue that they don’t feel pain until after 24 weeks - even so anathsetic can be given.
Psychological harm; the mother might be upset by the abortion. However, it depends on the case; sometimes the mother is better off psychologically by having an abortion.
No baby should be unwanted; God has a plan for everyone, a baby can be given up for adoption rather than abortion. However, only truly works if you believe in God.

Question 17

What are the main arguments for abortion?(4)

Answer 17

Whether abortions are legal are not they will still happen; furthermore back street abortions are done in unsanitary conditions and might be dangerous. However, the same argument could be made for legalising all types of drugs; there are effective ways of preventing back street abortions.
Quality of life is more important than quantity of life; a foetus may live but be severly disabled and will die or suffer after being born. However, there is the slipperly slope argmuent - could it lead to designer babies. Also this implies disabled lives are not worth living.
Women should have the choice to decide whether or not to have children as it is her body that will go through labor and pregnancy. However, if a women chooses to have unprotected sex then they should live with the consequences.
If a woman gives birth to a rapist’s child then psychologically she will be harmed as it grows up, the child may also feel guilty and hence suffer. However, it is a minority of women who are raped and even smaller minority who get pregnant for it; while the point is true it is not a sustained argument for abortion in general.

Question 18

What are varying Christian views on abortion?(3)

Answer 18

Roman Catholics believe that it is always wrong to have an abortion - even in the case of rape; “Great appreciation must be show to those women who, with heroic love for the child, proceed with a pregnancy resulting from the injustice of rape… In this case the choice to have an abortion always remains a grave moral sin.”(Pope John Paul II, 1995). Except for the doctrine of double effect.
Church of England is not in favor of abortion, but recognises that in some situations it is the lesser of two evils; “In an imperfect world the ‘right’ choice is sometimes the lesser of two evils.”(Church of England statement 1988).
Methodist Churches agree with the church of England, especially in the case where severe disability of the foetus or the circumstances of the mother; “Termination of pregnancy may be the right course because of the social circumstances of the existing family, or the mental or physical health of the mother.”(The Methodist Church - What the Churches Say CEM 1995)

Question 19

What are four different methods of euthanasia?(4)

Answer 19

Active Euthanaisa; patient is giving something by a doctor that directly ends their live.
Passive Euthanasia; Withholding treatment which might otherwise save someone’s life.
Indirect Euthanaisa; Giving a parient a treatment to treat a sympton which may have the side effect of shortening life. For example, high doses of morphine to alleviate pain can lead to an increased risk of respiratory failure.
Physician Assisted Suicide(PAS); Doctor provides the means for a patient to end their own life, the patient takes it themselves.

Question 20

What are UK, Holland and Swiss Laws on euthanasia?(4)

Answer 20

In the UK Active Euthanasia has been illegal since the 1961 Suicide Act - which includes people who take relatives abroad for PAS. Also in 2006 the Govt. refused to pass the Assisted Dying Bill which would have allowed PAS under certain circumstances.
In the Netherlands Euthanaisa has been legal since 2002 but with these guidelines; Patients must face a future of unbearable, interminable suffering. Request to die must be voluntary and well considered. Doctor and patient must be convinced there is no other solution. A second medical opinion must be obtained and life must be ended in a medically appropriate way.
In Switzerland assisted suicide is legal. Patients take a pentobarbital(sleeping drug).

Question 21

What are the main arguments for euthanasia?(3)

Answer 21

People should have the right to decide when they die, because it is their own body; no one else’s choice. However, other people will always be involved. The rights of family and doctor need to be considered.
Many people are often afraid of the process of death rather than death itself, hence euthansia can make people fear death less. However, palliative care can also remove the fear of death and maybe the fear of death is a good thing. An important stage in someone’s relationship with God.
If a person is in pain or no longer finds life worth living then it is cruel and almost torture to deprive them of the chance to die. However, again palliative care can be given which can make a person comfortable.

Question 22

What are the main arguments against euthanasia?(4)

Answer 22

Only God has the right to take life. However, only convincing if you believe in God.
Makes murder easier, especially in doctors who could take the advantage of the laws to hide murders. However, this is unlikely to happen(although it has done) because there are strict controls on how and when euthanasia can happen.
It makes taking life seem normal; there is a loss of respect for human life. However, arguably it encourages the respect for life by giving people back their dignity.
Slippery slope argument; people who are solely old or depressed may want to take thier life, should they be allowed to take their life.

Question 23

What are varying Christian views on euthanasia?(2)

Answer 23

Roman Catholics believe that human life is God’s gift - “No man has power of the wind to contain it; so no one has power over the day of his death.”(Ecclesiastes 8). Hence in the same line of thought as abortion, it is always wrong(except for Doctrine of Double Effect).
Church of England is also against euthanasia for similar reasons - “the current drift towards a more accpeting attitude to assisted suicide and euthanasia in some quarters gives me a great deal of concern.”(Archbishop of Canterbury Dr. Rowan Williams 2005).

Question 24

What are the Christian views on the purpose of sex?(3)

Answer 24

Procreation. “Go forth and multiply”(Genesis 1:27). Idea of Natural Law; God creates sex for reproduction.
Uniting the couple. “This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called ‘woman’, for she was taken out of man.”(Genesis 2:19)
Most Christians believe that sex should only occur within marriage, based on love. Augustine believed that sex should be based on a rational decision not uncontrolled lust.

Question 25

What are the Christian views on the purpose of sex?(3)

Answer 25

Procreation. “Go forth and multiply”(Genesis 1:27). Idea of Natural Law; God creates sex for reproduction.
Uniting the couple. “This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called ‘woman’, for she was taken out of man.”(Genesis 2:19)
Most Christians believe that sex should only occur within marriage, based on love. Augustine believed that sex should be based on a rational decision not uncontrolled lust.

Question 26

What are Christian views on homosexuality?(3)

Answer 26

Roman Catholics are very much opposed to homoesexuality - “to lie with a man as to lie with a woman is an abomination”(Leviticus 18:22). Furthermore, the argument of Natural Law; sex is designed for procreation, homoesexual sex cannot achieve this.
More liberal Christians however may argue that Biblical teachings prohibiting homosexuality are outdated, pointing out that Jesus accepted everyone; esepcially those regarded as outcasts in society.
The Quakers for example released a recent statement saying “We affirm the love of God for all people, whatever their sexual orientation”(Wandsworth Preparative Meeting, 1989).

Question 27

How has the relationship between the sexes changed through the years?

Answer 27

Traditionally Christianity has said that although man and woman are equally valuable they are created for a different purpose. Women are also taught to obey man - “Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the ehad of the church”(Ephesians 15:22-24)

However, more recently women are not just seen as housewives and mothers and that women should not promise to obey their husbands. Some Christians would argue that Jesus treated women in way radical for his day - “In Christ there is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus”(Galatians 3:28).

Question 28

What are Christian teachings about Love?(2)

Answer 28

God is a loving God, because humans are made in his image by acting with love they are imitating God. In the sermon on the mount Jesus said “You have heard that it was said ‘Love your friends and hate your enemies’, but now I tell you: love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you…you must be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect”(Matthew 5: 43 & 47)
Jesus also said; “love one another: just as I have loved you”

Question 29

What are Christian purposes of Marriage?

Answer 29

Roman Catholics specifically believe that it is a sacrament; an ‘outward and visible sign of an inward invisible grace’. A sacrament is therefore also a God given gift.
Marriage is also supposed to last and be based off love; hence it is the most suitable environment for bringing up children.
However, some Christians may choose not to marry to devote their life to God. “The unmarried man is anxious about the things of the Lord, how to please the Lord. But the married man is anxious about worldly things, how to please his wife, and his interests are divided.”(1 Corinthians 2:32-34)
He also does state, although, that it is not sin to marry and it is better to marry than to give in to sexual temptation outside marriage.

Question 30

What is a civil partnership?(3)

Answer 30

Civil Partnerships Act 2004(UK) permitted same sex partnerships. While it is not called a ‘marriage; it is legally very similar:
It must be legally recognised by a registrar and have two witnesses; It is a legally recognised union between two people; Couples partnered have the right to the same legal treatment as a married couple for - Inheritance, Pensions, Immigration.
The original Civil Partnerships Act also specifically stated that the ceremonies should not include any religious elements.

Question 31

What are differing Christian views on civil partnerships?(3)

Answer 31

Quakers have said that they recognise same sex ‘marriages’.
Roman Catholics are against the idea of same sex marriage.
The Church of England - “the House of Bishops has consistently been clear that the Church of England should not provide services of blessing for those who register civil partnerships.”
However, in 2009 the Bishop of Salisbury, the Dean of Southwark and five former bishops wrote to the Times stating that gay couples are denied equality in the marriage sector.

Question 32

What are opposing Christian views on pre-marital sex?(2)

Answer 32

Some christians would argue that sex is still an important gift from God and should be saved for a special person - after marriage. They could refer to Deuteronomy 22 which states that a woman can be stoned if she was not a virgin on her wedding day.

Other christians would argue that provided sex is taken seriously, it is legitimate outside marriage. They could argue with the increased availability of contraception that some of the Bible’s teachings on premarital sex may be outdated.

Question 33

What are Christian views on promiscuity, adultery, and monogamy?(3)

Answer 33

Most if not all Christians would be against promiscuity and agree that it ignores the fact that sex is a gift from God and intended for the production of children.

All Christians are opposed to adultery. One of the Ten Commandments is “Do not commit adultery”. Jesus reinforces this Matthew 5:28 by stating that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery in his heart.

God created one woman for one man, Christianity therefore does not condone polygamy - 1 Corinthians 7 “Each man should have his own wife, and each woman her own husband”.

Question 34

Outline some marriage vows and what they reflect?(2)

Answer 34

“For richer for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death to us part,” - Marriage should be persevered even when things get difficult; ideally until death.
“Husband and wife belong to one another, and they begin a new life together in the community. It is a way of life that all should honour; and it must not be undertaken carelessly” - Marriage is for procreation, between two people, and should be taken seriously.

Question 35

Outline some marriage vows and what they reflect?(2)

Answer 35

“For richer for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death to us part,” - Marriage should be persevered even when things get difficult; ideally until death.
“Husband and wife belong to one another, and they begin a new life together in the community. It is a way of life that all should honour; and it must not be undertaken carelessly” - Marriage is for procreation, between two people, and should be taken seriously.

Question 36

What is the Roman Catholic position on Divorce and Remarriage?(2)

Answer 36

Since Roman Catholics believe that marriage is a sacrament, they believe it cannot be undone. They would even say that if a couple has divorced they are still married in the eyes of God.
Therefore, they oppose remarriage because it is considered adultery; unless the husband/wife has died. Mark 10:11 “Anyone who divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery against her.”

Question 37

What is the Protestant position on Divorce and Remarriage?(2)

Answer 37

Protestants allow divorce because they do not see marriage as a sacrament. Jesus accepted divorce under some circumstances. Protestants understand that some things must come to an end, but they believe that a couple should try to make the marriage work before divorce.
Therefore, the Church of England accept remarriages. However, it is up to individual priests if they decide to take the service for a divorced person.

Question 38

What is annulment?(2)

Answer 38

Roman Catholics do not accept divorce but they do accept annulment. If a marriage is annulled then it is ‘made void’, basically stating that it never happened.
The first stage of annulment is the petition, which is followed by gathering of evidence. An argument both for and against the marriage is written which leads to the judgement.

Question 39

Outline the responsibilities within the family?

Answer 39

Parents - educate children, i.e teaching them about Christianity. Give them a stable environment and security; also providing material needs.
Deuteronomy 6:7 “Impress them [the commandments] on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road.”
Children - obey parents, and should look after them in old age.
Exodus 20:12 “Honour your father and mother, so that you may live long”

Question 40

What are the rights of Children?(3)

Answer 40

Declaration of Human Rights - Article 25: “Motherhood and childhood are entitled to special care and assistance. All children, whether born in or out of wedlock, shall enjoy the same social protection.” Article 26 states that everyone has a right to an education.
Since 1992 there has also been the Convention of the Rights of the Child which applies to children under 17:
the right to life, survival and development - the right to a name and nationality - right to education - right to health and welfare.

Question 41

How do Christians teach that children should be brought up?(3)

Answer 41

Baptism - many parents see it as their duty to baptise their child, because it cleanses them from original sin.
Confirmation - this does not usually occur before the age of 12. The point of this is that the child/adult remakes for them the promises made at their baptism.
Family Prayer + Church - Saying grace before meals, reading bible stories, praying before bed time may all be involved in raising a Christian child. Taking the child to church regularly is important for them because it enables the child to become part of the church family.

Question 42

What are Christian ideas on infertility/childlessness?(2)

Answer 42

Some Christians may say that it is God’s will if someone is infertile, although Christians could pray for the gift of children.
Other Christians would argue that God gave us intelligence for a reason and if we can use it to end the suffering of childlessness then we should.

Question 43

What are technologies that can help an infertile couple, what are religious views on these?(4)

Answer 43

IVF - ‘in vitro fertilisation’. This is when egg and sperm are combined in a petri-dish and resulting embryos implanted. An example of when it might be used it when the woman had blocked Fallopian tubes.
Roman Catholics may argue that this is ‘playing God’ - Roman Catholics also oppose masturbation and so would be concerned about how the sperm is collected. Protestants would be generally in favour.
AIH - ‘artificial insemination by husband’. Husband’s sperm is collected and placed at the neck of a womb. Used if the men has a low sperm count. Roman Catholics oppose this again for masturbation and it is unnatural. Protestants would accept it.
AID - ‘artificial insemination by donor’. Same as AIH except a donor sperm is used. Maybe used if man does not have viable sperm or by lesbian couples. Roman Catholics might consider it to be like adultery.

Question 44

What is embryo screening, and gene therapy?(2)

Answer 44

Embryo screening could be used to choose which embryos to implant, this might happen if a couple knows that they have a genetic disease that could be passed on. Slippery slope towards ‘designer babies’.
Gene therapy could be used to replace defective genes. For example if an embryo has the defective genes which cause cystic fibrosis. Reducing suffering, also ‘playing God’.

Question 45

What are the different methods of contraception?(4)

Answer 45

Natural - Abstinence, Rhythm, Withdrawal.
Barrier - Condon, cap, diaphragm.
Medical - Contraceptive implant, emergency contraception(morning after pill)
Surgical - Vasectomy, hysterectomy, contraceptive coil.

Question 46

What are differing Christian views on contraception?(2)

Answer 46

Roman Catholics are opposed all forms of contraception with the exception of abstinence and rhythm method. This is because they believe that life begins in the sperm.
Protestants mostly would be in favour of contraception as it prevents unwanted pregnancies and STDs.

Question 47

What are Christian views on Celibacy?(3)

Answer 47

Roman Catholic priests, monks and nuns remain celibate; this is because they focus on God rather than earthly relationship. Those who are celibate are ‘married’ to God.
“[Paul]The unmarried man is anxious about the things of the Lord, how to please the Lord. But the married man is anxious about worldly things, how to please his wife, and his interests are divided.”. 1Corinthians 7
On the other hand Church of England priests are not celibate, but married couples may take a temporary vow of celibacy during lent for example.