1.
What early church event created a greater separation between Christianity and Judaism?
Correct Answer
B. The death of StepHen
Explanation
The death of Stephen created a greater separation between Christianity and Judaism because it was the first recorded martyrdom of a Christian. Stephen was stoned to death for his beliefs, which marked a turning point in the early church. This event intensified the hostility between the Jewish religious leaders and the followers of Jesus, leading to a greater divide between the two faiths.
2.
One of the things that created hostility towards the Christians was when Nero blamed the Christians for setting Rome on fire.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
During the reign of Nero, a great fire broke out in Rome causing widespread destruction. In order to divert blame from himself, Nero falsely accused the Christians of starting the fire. This led to increased hostility towards the Christians and further persecution of the Christian community. Therefore, the statement that Nero blamed the Christians for setting Rome on fire is true.
3.
Who said this: “Eighty-six years, I have served Christ, and he has done me no wrong. How can I blaspheme my king, the one who has saved me?”
Correct Answer
D. Polycarp
Explanation
Polycarp said this statement. He expressed his loyalty to Christ and his unwillingness to blaspheme against his king who had saved him.
4.
Would it be true to say that the formation of Christian theology largely took place because of the heresies that arose?
Correct Answer
A. Yes
Explanation
The formation of Christian theology largely took place because of the heresies that arose. Heresies challenged the established beliefs and doctrines of the early Christian church, forcing theologians to articulate and defend orthodox teachings. This led to the development of theological doctrines and concepts such as the Trinity, Christology, and the nature of salvation. The response to heresies played a crucial role in shaping and solidifying Christian theology throughout history.
5.
One of the most diabolical of all the heresies was Gnosticism because
Correct Answer
F. All the above
Explanation
Gnosticism was considered one of the most diabolical heresies because it had several similarities to Christianity. It sounded like Christianity, which made it deceptive and confusing for believers. Additionally, there were numerous variations or strains of Gnosticism, further complicating the understanding and identification of this heresy. Despite its deviations from orthodox Christianity, Gnosticism did recognize Jesus as the Son of God and believed in the concept of resurrection. Therefore, all of the given options accurately describe reasons why Gnosticism was considered a significant heresy.
6.
One of the early heretics was Marcion, he believed that anything purely spiritual in nature had to be evil.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
He believed that anything physical in nature had to be evil.
7.
Which of the following was NOT a way the early church established orthodoxy?
Correct Answer
D. By establishing the criteria for what truly was a miracle
Explanation
The early church did not establish orthodoxy by establishing the criteria for what truly was a miracle. Instead, they established orthodoxy through other means such as establishing a list of authoritative writings, creating a creed called The Rule of Faith, and establishing apostolic succession.
8.
The Muratorian Canon was a huge canon the Jews used against the Romans in the battle at Masada in AD 70
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The Muratorian Canon was a list of authoritative New Testament books of the bible in AD 190.
9.
Montanus and the two prophetesses named Prisca and Maximilla were so filled with the Holy Spirit that they’re revelations were considered on the same level as the New Testament writings by the majority of the bishops and added to the scriptures.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
Montanus and the two prophetesses named Prisca and Maximilla were not considered on the same level as the New Testament writings by the majority of the bishops and their revelations were not added to the scriptures.
10.
Which of the following is NOT considered a ‘serious sin’ by the early Catholic church?
Correct Answer
A. Grand Larceny
Explanation
The early Catholic church considered murder, sexual immorality, and denial of Christ (apostasy) as serious sins. However, grand larceny, which refers to the theft of a significant amount of money or property, was not considered a serious sin by the early Catholic church.
11.
One of the most difficult situations the church had to handle was what to do about those who, in the face of persecution, denied Christ. The Bishop of Carthage decided to
Correct Answer
D. Make them do penance
Explanation
The Bishop of Carthage decided to make those who denied Christ do penance. This means that they would be required to perform certain acts of repentance or make amends for their denial. This decision suggests that the church recognized the seriousness of denying Christ but also believed in the possibility of redemption and forgiveness through acts of penance.
12.
Under which emperor did the last and worst persecution take place?
Correct Answer
A. Galerius
Explanation
The last and worst persecution took place under Emperor Galerius.