Unit 8.5:Incarnation essay questions:Evaluate whether 'Son of God' is the best title for Jesus by considering arguments for and against, and reach a justified conclusion. Flashcards

(121 cards)

2
Q

What is the essay question asking you to do?

A

Evaluate whether ‘Son of God’ is the best title for Jesus by considering arguments for and against, and reach a justified conclusion.

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3
Q

Name at least four titles used for Jesus in Christian belief.

A

Son of God, Son of Man, Messiah (Christ), Saviour, Lord.

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4
Q

Why do many Christians believe ‘Son of God’ is the best title?

A

It shows Jesus’ divine nature, his unique relationship with God the Father, and his role in salvation.

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5
Q

Which Bible verses support the title ‘Son of God’?

A

Mark 1:11 – ‘You are my Son, the Beloved’; Mark 15:39 – ‘Truly this man was God’s Son!’; The Nicene Creed – ‘the only begotten Son of God.’

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6
Q

Why might some Christians prefer other titles like ‘Son of Man’?

A

‘Son of Man’ shows Jesus’ humanity, suffering, and his connection to people. It also appears more often in the Gospels and was used by Jesus himself.

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7
Q

What does Mark 8:31 say about the ‘Son of Man’?

A

Jesus says the Son of Man must suffer, be rejected, killed, and rise again — showing both humanity and divine mission.

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8
Q

What makes a strong evaluation in a 12-mark RE essay?

A

Clear arguments on both sides, use of scripture and beliefs, a justified conclusion that explains why one side is stronger, and avoiding just description or listing beliefs.

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9
Q

What is a strong final judgement for this essay?

A

‘Son of God’ is ultimately the best title because it expresses Jesus’ divine identity, his role in salvation, and his relationship with God — all central to Christian belief.

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10
Q

In Christian theology, what does the title ‘Son of God’ primarily affirm about Jesus?

A

His divine nature and authority.

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11
Q

Which specific title for Jesus is used in the Nicene Creed to show he is central to Christian doctrine?

A

The only begotten Son of God.

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12
Q

During Jesus’ baptism in Mark 1:11, what did the voice from heaven declare him to be?

A

My Son, the Beloved.

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13
Q

At his trial before the Sanhedrin, how did Jesus respond when asked if he was the ‘Son of the Blessed One’?

A

I am.

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14
Q

The phrase ‘I am’ used by Jesus at his trial is significant because it echoes God’s name revealed to _____.

A

Moses

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15
Q

Why is ‘Son of God’ considered the best title for explaining Jesus’ role in salvation?

A

Only the divine Son of God could die for humanity’s sins and rise again.

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16
Q

What does the title ‘Son of God’ suggest about Jesus’ relationship with God the Father?

A

He shares God’s nature and has a unique, close relationship with Him.

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17
Q

Which title did Jesus most frequently use for himself?

A

Son of Man

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18
Q

The title ‘Son of Man’ connects Jesus to humanity by highlighting his experience of _____.

A

Human pain, temptation, and death

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19
Q

According to Daniel 7, what does the title ‘Son of Man’ imply about Jesus’ status?

A

He is given divine power, glory, and authority by God.

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20
Q

What is a common misconception regarding the title ‘Son of Man’?

A

That it only emphasises Jesus’ humanity and excludes his divinity.

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21
Q

In Mark 8:31, Jesus uses the title ‘Son of Man’ to predict his own _____.

A

Suffering and death

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22
Q

What is the literal meaning of the title ‘Messiah’ or ‘Christ’?

A

The anointed one.

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23
Q

Why might a Christian prefer the title ‘Messiah’ over ‘Son of God’?

A

It connects Jesus to Jewish prophecy and his role as the promised saviour.

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24
Q

In Matthew 16:16, how did St Peter identify Jesus?

A

The Messiah, the Son of the living God.

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25
Q

Which title for Jesus focuses specifically on his role in the rescue of humanity from sin?

A

Saviour

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26
What does the title 'Lord' highlight about Jesus in the context of Christian worship?
His supreme authority and power.
27
According to the mark scheme, what is a common misconception about calling Jesus the 'Son of God'?
That it just means he was a righteous man rather than sharing God's nature.
28
Why is the title 'Son of Man' considered 'relatable' for Christians?
It shows that Jesus experienced the same physical and mental torment as humans.
29
How does the title 'Son of God' provide a foundation for the doctrine of the Trinity?
It identifies Jesus as the Second Person of the Trinity.
30
What did the centurion at the crucifixion exclaim in Matthew 27:54?
Truly this man was God's Son!
31
In an RE evaluation essay, what must the conclusion include to achieve high marks?
A justified judgement that reaches beyond a simple summary.
32
What is the primary purpose of using 'logical chains of reasoning' in a 12-mark essay?
To show deep understanding by explaining the meaning and significance of key ideas.
33
According to the 15-minute strategy, how much time should be spent planning a 12-mark essay?
2–3 minutes.
34
What evaluative phrase can be used to indicate that one argument is stronger than another?
This outweighs the opposing view because...
35
True or False: In a 12-mark RE essay, you should describe titles without forming an argument.
False
36
Why might 'Saviour' be considered more relevant to Christian life than 'Son of God'?
It focuses on what Jesus does for humanity rather than just who he is.
37
The title 'Son of Man' in Mark 8:31 specifies that Jesus must be rejected by which groups?
The elders, the chief priests, and the scribes.
38
In the context of Mark 14:61, what does Jesus' claim to be the 'Son of the Blessed One' lead to?
Accusations of blasphemy and his eventual condemnation.
39
How does the 'Son of Man' title in Daniel 7 differ from its usage in Mark 8:31?
Daniel 7 focuses on glory and authority, while Mark 8:31 focuses on suffering.
40
What is the 'Step-by-Step Essay Plan' thesis for the 'Son of God' question?
That 'Son of God' is the best title because it expresses his divine nature and unique relationship with God.
41
Which title is best associated with the fulfilment of Old Testament expectations?
Messiah (or Christ).
42
Why is 'Son of God' described as the 'theologically significant' title in the sample essay?
It makes Jesus' teachings, miracles, and resurrection meaningful through his divine identity.
43
What does the title 'Son of God' imply about Jesus' authority compared to a prophet?
He has divine authority as God incarnate, not just the authority of a messenger.
44
In a 12-mark essay, what should the second paragraph typically focus on?
The counter-argument or alternative viewpoints (e.g., why other titles might be better).
45
Which title is most linked to the Christian belief in the Incarnation?
Son of God
46
According to the mark scheme, what does the title 'Son of Man' show about Jesus' physical needs?
He experienced hunger and thirst like any other human.
47
Concept: 'Justified Conclusion'
Definition: A final judgement that explains *why* one side of the argument is more convincing than the other.
48
Cloze: Peter's declaration 'You are the Christ' shows that _____ title fully captures Jesus' identity.
no single
49
Why is it an error to say 'Son of Man' *only* shows Jesus was human?
It ignores the title's scriptural roots in Daniel 7 regarding divine power.
50
What exam-smart tip is given for using Bible references in an essay?
Use them meaningfully to support points rather than just mentioning them.
51
How does the title 'Son of God' relate to Jesus' role in the Trinity?
It identifies him as the Second Person of the Trinity.
52
In the sample essay, why is 'Son of God' argued to 'outweigh' other titles?
Because without his divine identity, the foundation of salvation would be incomplete.
53
Which title is primarily used in the context of Jesus being the 'Beloved' of the Father?
Son of God
54
According to the feedback sheet, what must a student do with 'key terminology' in their essay?
Use it and, if possible, paraphrase scripture accurately.
55
What is the main focus of the title 'Lord' in early Christian declarations like 'Jesus is Lord'?
Jesus' power and sovereignty over all things.
56
What does 'Son of Man' suggest about Jesus' emotional life?
He felt compassion, sorrow (wept for friends), and mental agony.
57
Cloze: The 12-mark RE question is an _____ essay, requiring a balance of viewpoints and a judgement.
evaluation
58
Why is the title 'Son of God' considered a 'declaration of authority'?
It claims Jesus shares in the very power and name of God.
59
What does the feedback sheet suggest regarding 'Depth of explanation'?
You must explain the meaning and significance of key ideas, not just state them.
60
Which title is most associated with Jesus fulfilling the role of the 'promised saviour of the Jewish people'?
Messiah
61
In the context of the essay, what is the 'foundation of salvation' dependent upon?
Jesus being God incarnate (the Son of God).
62
How can a student 'check their work' in the final 2 minutes of an exam?
Ensure the question is answered, the judgement is clear, and at least one Bible reference is included.
63
What is the literal Latin meaning of the term 'Incarnation'?
To put on flesh
64
What theological term describes the union of Jesus's fully human and fully divine natures in one person?
Hypostatic Union
65
According to the Catholic Church, what was the primary purpose of the Incarnation?
To show God's love to humanity and bring salvation from sin.
66
Which biblical verse states: 'And the word became flesh and dwelt among us'?
John 1:14
67
In Matthew's account of the Annunciation, how does the angel communicate with Joseph?
Through a dream
68
What is the meaning of the name 'Emmanuel' as used in Matthew's Gospel?
God is with us
69
In Luke's Gospel, which angel announces the birth of Jesus to Mary?
Gabriel
70
What title does Luke's Gospel use for Jesus to emphasize his eternal nature?
Son of the Most High
71
According to John's Prologue, what was the role of the 'Word' in relation to creation?
The Word was the one through whom all things were brought into being.
72
In the context of the Incarnation, what does the title 'Son of Man' signify when Jesus refers to his authority to judge?
A human being who has been given God's power and authority.
73
At which event did a voice from heaven say: 'You are my beloved Son, in You I am well-pleased'?
Jesus's Baptism
74
Which heresy rejected Jesus's divinity, claiming he was merely an ordinary human 'adopted' by God?
Adoptionism
75
Which heresy claimed Jesus only had the appearance of a human body and did not truly suffer?
Docetism
76
According to St Irenaeus, who is the 'meeting point' between God and humanity?
Jesus
77
What does the Second Vatican Council document 'Dei Verbum' teach about Jesus's relationship to the Father?
To see Jesus is to see the Father.
78
According to 'Verbum Domini', why did the eternal Word become 'small' enough to fit into a manger?
So that humans could experience God's love.
79
How does the Catholic Church distinguish 'veneration' of images from 'adoration'?
Veneration is respectful honour paid to a person represented, while adoration is worship due to God alone.
80
In the Ichthus symbol, what does the acronym represent in English?
Jesus Christ, Son of God, Saviour
81
What do the Greek letters $\alpha$ (Alpha) and $\omega$ (Omega) symbolize when applied to Jesus?
Jesus is the beginning and the end of all things, signifying his eternity.
82
What are the first two letters of the Greek word for 'Christ' used in the Chi-Rho symbol?
$\chi$ (Chi) and $\rho$ (Rho)
83
In Catholic art, what does the fire surrounding the 'Sacred Heart' represent?
God's burning love for all of humanity.
84
What do the outstretched arms of the 'Christ the Redeemer' statue in Rio de Janeiro symbolise?
God's continuing love and the idea that Jesus excludes no one.
85
According to the Catechism, what is the definition of 'Grace'?
The free and undeserved help that God gives us.
86
How did St Augustine define a 'Sacrament'?
An outward and visible sign of an inward and invisible grace.
87
What is meant by an 'efficacious' sign of grace?
A sign that actually brings about the change it symbolises.
88
Which three sacraments are known as the 'Sacraments of Initiation'?
Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist
89
Which two sacraments are categorised as 'Sacraments of Healing'?
Reconciliation and Sacrament of the Sick
90
What is the primary spiritual effect of the Sacrament of Baptism?
It washes away original sin and makes the person a member of the Church.
91
What is the purpose of the 'Sacrament of the Sick'?
To give strength, comfort, and forgiveness to those who are ill.
92
What does the 'sacramental nature of reality' suggest about the world?
The whole of reality can be seen as an outward sign of God's inward love.
93
At what point does the Catholic Church believe human life begins?
The moment of conception
94
What does the concept of 'Imago Dei' imply about human life?
All humans are created in the image of God and their life is therefore sacred.
95
In the abortion debate, what is meant by the 'primitive streak'?
The development of the central nervous system at 14 days, signifying individual life.
96
How does the 'Principle of Double Effect' apply to Catholic views on pregnancy?
A medical treatment to save a mother's life is permitted even if the unintended side effect is the death of the foetus.
97
What is the primary mission of SPUC (Society for the Protection of Unborn Children)?
To campaign for the legal protection of the unborn and support those with unplanned pregnancies.
98
Where in the Bible are the Beatitudes found?
The Sermon on the Mount in Matthew's Gospel.
99
What did Jesus mean when he said he came to 'fulfill' the law?
He was returning the law to its original meaning focused on internal attitudes of love.
100
According to the Beatitudes, what is the reward for those who are 'pure in heart'?
They will see God.
101
In the Parable of the Sheep and the Goats, what is the basis for God's judgment?
How people treated those in need, such as the hungry or the sick.
102
According to the Parable of the Sheep and the Goats, who does a person serve when they feed the hungry?
Jesus
103
What moral lesson does Jesus teach regarding anger in Matthew 5:21-22?
Internal anger is as spiritually dangerous as the outward act of murder.
104
Why does the Catholic Church consider the Incarnation an argument for the use of religious art?
Since God took on human form, it is possible and acceptable to portray God in that form.
105
What does the 'Sacred Heart' statue use to represent Jesus's sacrificial death?
The crown of thorns wrapping the heart and the wounds in the hands.
106
What is the specific effect of the Sacrament of Holy Orders?
It consecrates a person as a deacon, priest, or bishop to do the work of God.
107
What does the Latin phrase 'Imago Dei' mean in English?
Image of God
108
In the context of abortion, what is the significance of 'viability'?
The stage at which a foetus can survive outside the womb, usually around 24 weeks.
109
Which biblical figure in Luke's Gospel 'leapt for joy' in the womb at the presence of Jesus?
John the Baptist
110
What is the 'Greatest Commandment' that Jesus said summarises the purpose of the law?
To love God and love your neighbour as yourself.
111
Which sacrament involves a 'contrite confession' and the absolution of sins?
Reconciliation
112
How does the 'Chi-Rho' symbol specifically remind Christians of Jesus's death?
The symbol's shape resembles a cross.
113
According to St Irenaeus, what is the 'vision of God' for human beings?
Life in man
114
What is the reward for the 'meek' according to the Beatitudes?
They will inherit the earth.
115
In the Catholic tradition, who must usually administer the sacraments?
An ordained person, such as a deacon, priest, or bishop.
116
What is the reward for the 'merciful' according to the Beatitudes?
They will receive mercy.
117
What does the water flowing from the wound of the crucified Jesus symbolise for Catholics?
The Sacrament of Baptism
118
In Matthew's Gospel, why is the duty of naming the child given to Joseph?
To show that God is the true father, as the name was provided by God's messenger.
119
What is the specific grace given in the Sacrament of Marriage?
The joining of two people as one in a lifelong covenant.
120
According to the video transcript, what does the Greek word 'Christos' mean?
Christ
121
What is the primary Protestant argument against the use of statues in worship?
It breaks the second commandment against making idols.
122
What does the phrase 'the Word was with God' in John's Prologue imply about the Trinity?
The Word (Jesus) and God the Father are distinct persons co-existing together.