1.
Which of the following might be Christian responses to the problem of evil?
Correct Answer
F. All of the above
Explanation
The Christian responses to the problem of evil include various explanations. One explanation is that evil exists because of the sin of Adam and Eve, who disobeyed God and brought evil into the world. Another explanation is that evil exists because of human actions and sins, and it can be reduced through good works and virtue. Additionally, some Christians believe that evil is a part of the creation and development of the world. Furthermore, it is believed that God suffers with those who suffer as a result of evil. Lastly, the response includes the belief that people who suffer should be patient and accepting, keeping their faith in God, and they will be rewarded with a place in heaven.
2.
Which of the following actions might a Christian consider to be morally good?
Correct Answer
I. A,B,C and E Only
Explanation
A Christian might consider giving to charity, volunteering/charity work, and protecting or helping to conserve the environment to be morally good actions. These actions align with the principles of compassion, selflessness, and stewardship that are often emphasized in Christian teachings. However, forcing others to become Christians or gambling to provide for their families may not be seen as morally good actions, as they can involve coercion or potentially harmful behavior. Therefore, the correct answer is A,B,C and E Only.
3.
Which of the following might be a definition of the term ‘suffering'?
Correct Answer
F. A and C only
Explanation
The term 'suffering' can be defined as physical or mental pain that a person or animal is feeling, as well as being uncomfortable. This means that suffering can encompass both physical and emotional discomfort/pain, making options A and C the correct choices.
4.
Which of the following might be Christian responses to the problem of evil?
Correct Answer
G. All of the above
Explanation
The given correct answer is "All of the above". This means that all of the statements mentioned in the options can be considered as possible Christian responses to the problem of evil. These responses include the belief that evil is a human responsibility, not God's responsibility, and that God knows the greater good that will result from evil and suffering. It also includes the belief that suffering is a test from God, that it leads people to a deeper understanding of God, and that it will ultimately end with death and life in heaven.
5.
Which of the following stories from the Bible can be seen as an example of how God allows apparently good and innocent people to suffer, perhaps as a test of their faith?
Correct Answer
A. The story of Job
Explanation
The story of Job can be seen as an example of how God allows apparently good and innocent people to suffer, perhaps as a test of their faith. Job was a righteous and blameless man who experienced immense suffering and loss, including the death of his children and the loss of his wealth and health. Despite his suffering, Job remained faithful to God and did not curse Him. In the end, God restored Job's fortunes and blessed him even more than before, demonstrating that his faith had been tested and proven. This story serves as a reminder that even in the face of suffering, it is important to remain faithful and trust in God's plan.
6.
Who wrote "I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed to us'?
Correct Answer
D. Paul
Explanation
Paul wrote the statement "I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed to us." This can be found in the book of Romans, specifically in Romans 8:18. Matthew, Mark, and Luke are not the authors of this statement. Therefore, the correct answer is Paul.
7.
Christians believe that the death of Jesus Christ was an offering of payment for human sin.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Christians believe that the death of Jesus Christ was an offering of payment for human sin. This belief is rooted in the concept of atonement, which states that Jesus sacrificed himself to reconcile humanity with God and to provide forgiveness for their sins. This belief is central to Christian theology and is supported by biblical teachings that emphasize Jesus' sacrificial death as the ultimate act of love and redemption.
8.
Which of the following best describes 'The Fall'?
Correct Answer
A. When Adam and Eve gave in to temptation and eat the fruit from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil
Explanation
The correct answer is "When Adam and Eve gave in to temptation and eat the fruit from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil." This answer accurately describes "The Fall," which refers to the biblical event where Adam and Eve disobeyed God by eating the forbidden fruit, resulting in their expulsion from the Garden of Eden. The other options mentioned in the question are not comprehensive enough to encompass the entirety of "The Fall."
9.
Satan was expelled from heaven after he repented of his sin against God.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
According to religious beliefs, Satan was not expelled from heaven after repenting of his sin against God. Instead, he was cast out of heaven for rebelling against God and leading a rebellion of angels. Therefore, the statement is false.
10.
While people can resist the devil, he still causes suffering that might test their faith.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The statement suggests that although individuals have the ability to resist the devil, they may still experience suffering that could potentially challenge their faith. This implies that the devil has the power to inflict suffering upon people, regardless of their resistance. Therefore, the statement is true.
11.
Who argued that the world was deliberately created with both good and evil in order that humans would be able to choose and learn what is right and good?
Correct Answer
C. Irenaeus
Explanation
Irenaeus argued that the world was deliberately created with both good and evil in order that humans would be able to choose and learn what is right and good.
12.
Which of the following theodicies is know as 'the soul-making theodicy' because it basically suggests that it is through suffering that we learn and develop spiritually, just as it is through good and bad experiences that a child learns to be a responsible adult.
Correct Answer
A. Irenaean theodicy
Explanation
The correct answer is Irenaean theodicy. This theodicy suggests that suffering is necessary for spiritual growth and development, similar to how a child learns and becomes a responsible adult through both positive and negative experiences.
13.
Irenaeus believed that God would not interfere with human decisions because this would affect human free will.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Irenaeus believed in the concept of human free will and argued that God would not interfere with human decisions because it would undermine this free will. He believed that God allows humans to make their own choices, even if they result in negative consequences, in order to preserve their autonomy and ability to grow spiritually. This aligns with the idea that God respects and values human agency, allowing individuals to exercise their own free will in shaping their lives. Therefore, the statement is true.
14.
St. Augustine argues that God did not intervene to stop Adam and Eve from sinning because if He did so, humans would no longer have free will and would become like robots
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
St. Augustine's argument suggests that if God had intervened to prevent Adam and Eve from sinning, it would have negated the concept of free will in humans. By allowing them to make their own choices, including the choice to sin, humans retain their autonomy and are not controlled like robots. Therefore, the statement is true.
15.
Which of the following help did Christians know how to respond to the problem of evil and suffering?
Correct Answer
E. A and B only
Explanation
The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-30) and the parable of the sheep and goats (Matthew 25) both provide guidance to Christians on how to respond to the problem of evil and suffering. In the parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus teaches about the importance of showing compassion and helping those in need. The parable of the sheep and goats emphasizes the significance of caring for the less fortunate and treating others with kindness. The story of Ruth, on the other hand, does not specifically address the problem of evil and suffering. Therefore, the correct answer is A and B only.
16.
John Hick ( a 20th-century theologian) argued that evil and suffering bring out the best in people and are necessary if humans are to develop the qualities of selflessness and compassion.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
John Hick argued that evil and suffering are necessary for humans to develop qualities such as selflessness and compassion. According to him, these experiences bring out the best in people, as they are forced to confront and overcome challenges, leading to personal growth and the development of empathy towards others. Therefore, it can be concluded that the statement is true based on Hick's perspective.
17.
Which of the following are types of evil?
Correct Answer
H. B and C Only
Explanation
The correct answer is B and C Only. This means that the types of evil mentioned in the options are natural and internal. Moral and mortal are not considered as types of evil according to the given answer.
18.
Which of the following help Christians to cope with the problem of evil and suffering?
Correct Answer
E. A and B Only
Explanation
Christians believe that faith in God helps them to cope with the problem of evil and suffering because they trust in God's plan and believe that He is ultimately in control. The example of the suffering of Jesus is also significant because it shows Christians that even in the midst of suffering, there is hope and redemption. The suffering of Lucifer, on the other hand, does not provide the same level of comfort or guidance for Christians. Therefore, the correct answer is A and B Only.
19.
Which of the following could be used to explore the statement ‘Sometimes an evil action is the best choice’?
Correct Answer
E. All of the above
Explanation
The statement "Sometimes an evil action is the best choice" can be explored through the consideration of moral dilemmas, where individuals are faced with difficult choices that involve conflicting moral principles. It can also be explored through experiments where two unpalatable options are offered, forcing individuals to make a choice between the lesser of two evils. Additionally, one can consider whether any actions are irredeemably evil and reflect on what possible courses of action could be taken in situations where one must choose between two "evil actions." Therefore, all of the options mentioned (A, B, and C) can be used to explore the statement.
20.
Which of the following could be used to explore the statement ‘Sometimes an evil action is the best choice’?
Correct Answer
E. All of the above.
Explanation
The statement "Sometimes an evil action is the best choice" can be explored through all of the given options. Option A suggests that any choice is better than committing a mortal sin, which implies that sometimes an evil action may be the best choice. Option B argues that God is capable of forgiving anyone who truly repents, which implies that even if an action is considered evil, it can still be the best choice if repentance is possible. Option C states that the evilness of an action depends on its consequences, suggesting that a subjectively less evil choice can always be made. Option D acknowledges that there are situations where the consequences cannot be known in advance, indicating that different criteria must be applied, which implies that sometimes an evil action may be the best choice. Therefore, all of the above options can be used to explore the statement.
21.
Which of the following could be used to explore the statement ‘Sometimes an evil action is the best choice’?
Correct Answer
H. All of the above
Explanation
The question asks for possible ways to explore the statement "Sometimes an evil action is the best choice." The options listed all provide different perspectives and approaches to examining this statement. Option A suggests focusing on the philosophical implications of the phrase "the best," which could involve discussing different theories of ethics and moral decision-making. Option B suggests distinguishing between absolutist and relativist decision-making processes, which could involve considering whether moral judgments are universal or dependent on individual or cultural perspectives. Option C suggests exploring the concept of two kinds of sin, mortal and venial, which could involve discussing different levels of moral wrongdoing. Option D suggests arguing that the "evilness" of an action depends on its consequences, which could involve considering the ethical theory of consequentialism. Option E suggests exploring how pre-existent moral codes can offer guidance on making the "better" choice, which could involve discussing the role of religion and law in moral decision-making. Option F suggests exploring the refusal to make a choice when the options are morally negative, which could involve considering the ethics of inaction. Option G suggests considering whether inaction carries its own responsibilities and whether there are circumstances where inaction could be considered "evil." Since all of the options provide different ways to explore the given statement, the correct answer is "All of the above."
22.
The existence of evil and suffering is perhaps one of the greatest barriers to belief in God for many people.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The statement is true because many people struggle to reconcile the existence of evil and suffering with the idea of a benevolent and all-powerful God. They find it difficult to understand why a loving God would allow such pain and injustice in the world. This contradiction often leads to doubt and disbelief in God's existence.
23.
Some Christians argue that...
Correct Answer
F. All of the above
Explanation
The answer "All of the above" is correct because the given statements are all perspectives that some Christians argue in relation to suffering. They believe that suffering has a purpose, that it is a result of the sinful nature of humans, and that it presents an opportunity to share in the suffering that Jesus experienced. Additionally, they argue that natural disasters provide an opportunity for people to show their love for others. Therefore, all the statements mentioned in the options are valid arguments made by Christians regarding suffering.
24.
Mackie's inconsistent triad shows the problem of evil.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Mackie's inconsistent triad is a philosophical argument that highlights the problem of evil, which suggests that the existence of evil is incompatible with the existence of an all-powerful, all-knowing, and all-good God. The inconsistent triad consists of three propositions: 1) God is omnipotent, 2) God is omnibenevolent, and 3) Evil exists. Mackie argues that these three propositions cannot all be true simultaneously, thus creating a logical inconsistency. Therefore, the statement "Mackie's inconsistent triad shows the problem of evil" is true.
25.
Theodicies are proposed Christian responses to the problem of why an omnipotent and omnibenevolent God allows evil and suffering to exist.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Theodicies are indeed proposed Christian responses to the problem of why an omnipotent and omnibenevolent God allows evil and suffering to exist. These responses aim to reconcile the existence of evil with the belief in a loving and all-powerful God. Theodicies can take various forms, such as arguing that evil is necessary for the development of human character or that it is a result of human free will. Overall, theodicies seek to provide an explanation or justification for the presence of evil in a world governed by a benevolent deity.
26.
Irenaeus argued that if God gives people the freedom to choose between right and wrong, they will sometimes choose evil - but they will learn from it and choose the better path in the future.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Irenaeus believed that God allows people to have free will, which means they have the ability to choose between right and wrong. According to him, it is possible for individuals to choose evil at times, but through the consequences and lessons learned from those choices, they will eventually make better decisions in the future. Therefore, the statement is true according to Irenaeus' perspective.
27.
Mackie's inconsistent triad argues that...
Correct Answer
C. All of the above
Explanation
The correct answer is "All of the above." Mackie's inconsistent triad argues that if God is omnibenevolent, then he would care enough to stop the suffering caused by evil. However, since suffering exists, it suggests that either God is not omnipotent or not omnibenevolent. If God is omnipotent and has the power to stop suffering but hasn't, it implies that He doesn't care enough, thus not being omnibenevolent. Therefore, the triad concludes that all three possibilities - God not being omnibenevolent, not being omnipotent, or both - are plausible explanations for the existence of suffering.
28.
Who argued that 'as long as people are open to learning from their actions they can get to heaven'?
Correct Answer
B. Irenaeus
Explanation
Irenaeus argued that as long as people are open to learning from their actions, they can get to heaven.
29.
Who argued that 'evil is when something good becomes corrupted and lacks its intended perfection'?
Correct Answer
A. St. Augustine
Explanation
St. Augustine argued that 'evil is when something good becomes corrupted and lacks its intended perfection'.
30.
Some people think of evil as a force that works against everything good and have personified it in the form of the Devil/Satan.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Some people believe that evil is a powerful entity that opposes all that is good, and they have given it a human-like form, often referred to as the Devil or Satan. This belief suggests that evil is not just a concept or a result of human actions, but an actual force that actively works against goodness. Therefore, the statement "Some people think of evil as a force that works against everything good and have personified it in the form of the Devil/Satan" is true.
31.
Which of the following is used to describe Satan (in the Bible)
Correct Answer
J. All except D
Explanation
The correct answer is "All except D". This means that all of the given descriptions are used to describe Satan in the Bible except for the description "the great dragon" (Revelation 12:9). The Bible describes Satan as a roaring lion seeking someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8), the leader of a host of demons who help him in his attacks against God's people, a murderer from the beginning (John 8:44), the serpent (2 Corinthians 11:3), the accuser (Revelation 12:9-12), and the god of this world (2 Corinthians 4:4). However, it does not specifically describe Satan as "the great dragon".
32.
Theodicies are arguments justifying why there is evil in the world if God is good.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Theodicies are indeed arguments that attempt to explain why there is evil in the world despite the belief in a good and all-powerful God. These arguments aim to reconcile the existence of evil with the existence of a benevolent deity by proposing various explanations, such as free will, soul-building, or the greater good. Therefore, the statement "Theodicies are arguments justifying why there is evil in the world if God is good" is true.
33.
Original Sin is the sin that was brought into the world at the Fall.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Original Sin refers to the belief that all humans inherit a sinful nature as a result of Adam and Eve's disobedience in the Garden of Eden. This sin is believed to have been brought into the world at the Fall, which refers to Adam and Eve's expulsion from the Garden after eating the forbidden fruit. Therefore, the statement "Original Sin is the sin that was brought into the world at the Fall" is true.
34.
Some Christians argue that we are not born with a desire to sin.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
Some Christians argue that we are born with a desire to sin. They believe that due to the original sin committed by Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, all humans are born with a sinful nature. This sinful nature is seen as a result of the Fall and is believed to be inherited by all humanity. Therefore, according to these Christians, we are born with a natural inclination towards sinning.
35.
The idea that all people are born with a natural inclination to do wrong is called 'Original Sin.'
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The concept of "Original Sin" refers to the belief that all human beings are inherently inclined towards committing sinful actions from the moment of their birth. This idea is commonly associated with certain religious beliefs, such as in Christianity, where it is believed that every person inherits the sin of Adam and Eve's disobedience to God. Therefore, the statement "The idea that all people are born with a natural inclination to do wrong is called 'Original Sin'" is true, as it accurately describes this theological concept.
36.
Some Christians believe that unless the price of the sin of Adam and Eve is paid, a person has no hope of eternal life in heaven with God.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Some Christians believe in the concept of original sin, which states that all humans are born with a sinful nature inherited from Adam and Eve. According to this belief, the price for this sin must be paid in order to attain eternal life in heaven with God. Therefore, it is true that some Christians hold the belief that without the payment of this price, a person has no hope of eternal life in heaven with God.
37.
All Christians agree that...
Correct Answer
G. All except E
Explanation
The correct answer is "All except E". This means that all Christians agree with statements A, B, C, and D, but they do not agree with the statement E, which states that God created the world in six literal 24 hour days. This is because there are different interpretations among Christians regarding the creation account in the Bible, with some believing in a literal six-day creation and others interpreting it differently, such as a longer period of time or a symbolic representation.
38.
Creationists reject any science that suggests that the world was not made in six days
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Creationists believe in the literal interpretation of the Bible, including the account of creation in the book of Genesis. According to this belief, God created the world in six literal days. Therefore, any scientific evidence or theories that contradict this literal interpretation are rejected by creationists. This includes scientific theories such as evolution and the Big Bang theory, which suggest a much longer timeline for the development of the universe and life on Earth.
39.
Many Christians interpret the Genesis stories as myths.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Many Christians interpret the Genesis stories as myths because they believe that these stories are not meant to be taken literally, but rather convey deeper truths and lessons. They view the creation account and other stories in Genesis as allegorical or symbolic narratives that teach theological and moral lessons, rather than historical or scientific accounts. This interpretation allows for a more metaphorical understanding of the text and aligns with the belief that the Bible contains different genres of literature, including mythological elements.
40.
Some Creationists argue that the world is approximately 5,700 years old.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Some Creationists believe in a literal interpretation of the Bible, which states that the world was created in six days, with each day representing a 24-hour period. Based on calculations from the genealogical records in the Bible, they estimate that the world is around 5,700 years old. This belief is rooted in religious faith rather than scientific evidence and is not widely accepted by the scientific community.
41.
Christians who accept the view of Theistic Evolution believe that evolution is a process started by God and is a mechanism by which God brings about life.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The explanation for the given correct answer is that Christians who accept the view of Theistic Evolution believe that evolution is not in conflict with their faith. They believe that God initiated the process of evolution and used it as a mechanism to bring about life. This perspective allows them to reconcile their religious beliefs with the scientific theory of evolution.
42.
Which of the following have led some Christians to interpret the Genesis accounts of creation as myths?
Correct Answer
C. All of the above
Explanation
Some Christians interpret the Genesis accounts of creation as myths due to apparent differences between the style and order of the accounts given in Genesis 1 and 2. Additionally, scientific evidence that shows the universe is billions of years old conflicts with the belief that it is only several thousand years old, leading some Christians to view the Genesis accounts as symbolic or metaphorical rather than literal. Therefore, the correct answer is "All of the above."
43.
Many Christians argue that any attempts to match the Genesis accounts-which were written hundreds of years before science had developed- is unhelpful and unnecessary.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The explanation for the given correct answer is that many Christians believe that the Genesis accounts were written long before the development of science, and therefore should not be interpreted as a scientific explanation of the origins of the universe. They argue that trying to match the Genesis accounts with scientific findings is not helpful or necessary, as the purpose of the Genesis accounts is to convey theological and spiritual truths rather than scientific facts.
44.
Christians often refer to 'the problem of evil' because it is difficult for them to accept that a good God could create a world where there is so much evil.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The explanation for the given correct answer is that Christians do often struggle with the concept of evil and how it can exist in a world created by a good God. This is known as the problem of evil, and it is a philosophical and theological issue that has been debated for centuries. Many Christians believe that God allows evil to exist for a greater purpose, such as the opportunity for growth, free will, or the testing of faith. However, it remains a challenging concept for many to reconcile.
45.
For hundreds of years, theologians have tried to present arguments to help Christians come to terms with the question of how a perfect, omnipotent, omniscient, all-loving God could allow people to suffer.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The explanation for the given correct answer is that theologians have indeed been grappling with the question of how a perfect, omnipotent, omniscient, all-loving God could allow people to suffer for centuries. This question, known as the problem of evil, is a significant theological and philosophical dilemma. Various arguments and theories have been proposed to reconcile the existence of suffering with the belief in a benevolent and all-powerful deity. Therefore, the statement "For hundreds of years, theologians have tried to present arguments to help Christians come to terms with the question of how a perfect, omnipotent, omniscient, all-loving God could allow people to suffer" is true.
46.
Which one do you like?
Correct Answer
A. Option 1
47.
Which of the following can be used to explain how redemption is linked to Christian concepts of good and evil?
Correct Answer
E. All of the above
Explanation
The concept of redemption in Christianity is linked to the belief that Jesus Christ's death served as a payment for human sin. By accepting Jesus' sacrifice, individuals can have assurance that their sins will be forgiven. Additionally, through baptism and acceptance of Christ, the stain of original sin can be redeemed. Furthermore, the concept of free will plays a role in redemption as it allows individuals to choose whether or not to accept the redemption offered by Jesus Christ. Therefore, all of the given options (A, B, C, and D) provide explanations for how redemption is linked to Christian concepts of good and evil.
48.
Which of the following describe Christian teachings about the existence of good and evil?
Correct Answer
G. A, B and D only
Explanation
The Christian teachings about the existence of good and evil include the belief that free will is a gift from God, but it also carries the risk of people making bad moral choices. The Fall of Adam and Eve is seen as an example of an act of free will that brought evil into the world. Additionally, God is believed to be wholly good, and things that may seem evil, such as the Devil, can only happen because they are part of God's plan. Therefore, the correct answer is A, B, and D only.
49.
Which of the following could be used to explain how Christian beliefs might help a person to cope with suffering?
Correct Answer
E. All of the above
Explanation
Christian beliefs can help a person cope with suffering in multiple ways. Firstly, the suffering and death of Christ on the cross serves as an example for Christians on how to face suffering. Secondly, it assures them that their own suffering is understood and shared by a God who also suffered. Additionally, Christian beliefs teach that all suffering will ultimately be redeemed, providing hope and comfort. Lastly, those who maintain their faith and trust in God are promised a reward. Therefore, all of the above options can be used to explain how Christian beliefs might help a person cope with suffering.
50.
Which of the following could be explored when answering the question ‘Bad people can never do good things'?
Correct Answer
F. A,B and C only
Explanation
The correct answer for this question is A, B, and C only. This means that when answering the question "Bad people can never do good things," one could explore the possibilities that all people contain the potential for both good and evil, that God expects goodness even from those who have sinned, and that human nature is fallible and God is forgiving.