WAEC SSCE - Christian Religious Studies - 2003

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This statement was made when Jesus was teaching about anxiety. In Matthew 6:25-34, Jesus teaches his followers not to worry about their lives, reminding them that God takes care of the birds in the sky and the flowers in the field, and that they are of much greater value to Him than these. He then says, "And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these." This emphasizes the idea that God cares for His children and provides for their needs, so there is no need for worry or anxiety.

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Peter advised Christians who suffer persecution for their faith to be steadfast in their faith. In 1 Peter 4:12-13, he says "Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed." Peter is encouraging Christians to remain faithful and rejoice in their suffering, knowing that they are sharing in Christ's suffering and will ultimately be rewarded when Christ returns.

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The characteristic of a new life in Christ is "Lowliness." This means having a humble and modest attitude, recognizing our own limitations and weaknesses, and being willing to serve and put the needs of others before our own. It is a result of the transformative power of the Holy Spirit working within us when we accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. Lowliness is reflected in our actions, words, and thoughts as we seek to live a life that is pleasing to God and in accordance with His will.

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Jesus appeared to Cleopas on his way to Emmaus. According to the Gospel of Luke, Cleopas was one of the two disciples who were walking from Jerusalem to Emmaus on the day of Jesus' resurrection. They were discussing the events that had taken place when Jesus appeared to them, but they did not recognize him at first. They talked to him and he explained the Scriptures to them, and then he revealed himself to them when they broke bread together. (Luke 24:13-35)

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Among the options provided, the story of "The Prodigal Son" best illustrates God's love. In this story, a younger son asks his father for his share of the inheritance, which he then squanders on a life of wild living. When he realizes the error of his ways, he returns home, expecting to be punished. Instead, his father runs to greet him with open arms, embracing him and celebrating his return. This story highlights the unconditional and unwavering nature of God's love. No matter how far we stray from Him, He is always willing to forgive us and welcome us back into His arms. It emphasizes the importance of repentance and the power of forgiveness, even in the face of our mistakes and shortcomings. Overall, "The Prodigal Son" is a powerful reminder of God's boundless love and mercy, and it offers hope and encouragement to anyone who may be struggling with feelings of guilt or unworthiness.

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The first martyr among the disciples was Stephen. Stephen was one of the seven men chosen by the apostles to serve as deacons to take care of the needs of the poor in the early Christian church. He was a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, who performed many miracles and preached the Gospel boldly. However, some members of the Jewish community, who were opposed to the message of Jesus, falsely accused Stephen of blasphemy and brought him before the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council. Stephen boldly defended his faith in Jesus and spoke of the history of Israel, but his words angered his accusers, who stoned him to death. As he was dying, Stephen prayed for his killers and asked God to forgive them. His death marked the beginning of a wave of persecution against the early Christians, but it also inspired many believers to stand firm in their faith in Jesus, even in the face of persecution and death.

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Prophet Amos was from a hilly country town called Tekoa. Amos was a prophet who lived during the reigns of Jeroboam II in the Northern Kingdom of Israel. He was not a professional prophet, but a simple shepherd and farmer. However, God called him to prophesy against the people of Israel for their sins, including their social injustice, oppression of the poor, and worship of false gods. Tekoa was a small town in the hilly region of Judah, located about 10 miles south of Jerusalem. It was a poor and remote area where the people struggled to make a living from the rocky soil. Amos used his knowledge of the land and the people to deliver his message to the Israelites, using vivid images and metaphors drawn from everyday life in the countryside. His message was not well received by the people, who saw him as a threat to their way of life, but his words were later recognized as a powerful and prophetic indictment of the nation's sins.

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Jeremiah prophesied that when the Lord enters into a new covenant with Israel, there would be no need for anyone to teach his neighbor the knowledge of God. This means that everyone will have a personal relationship with God, and they will know Him intimately. They will not need to rely on others to tell them about God, because they will experience Him for themselves. This does not mean that studying the law of Moses, praying to God, or forgiveness of sins will no longer be necessary. Rather, it suggests that these things will become more personal and individualized under the new covenant.

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Abraham was 99 years old when God made a covenant with him in the land of Canaan.

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In the Early Church, the appointment of the seven deacons was to resolve the complaints of the Hellenist widows. The Hellenist widows felt neglected in the distribution of food compared to the Hebrew widows. So, the apostles appointed seven men full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom to oversee the distribution of food, ensuring that the Hellenist widows were not neglected. This act demonstrates the early Church's commitment to social justice and equality among its members.

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The main Christian virtue taught by Paul in his Epistle to Philemon is forgiveness. In the letter, Paul writes to Philemon, a Christian slave owner, about his runaway slave Onesimus who has become a Christian. Paul urges Philemon to forgive Onesimus and to receive him back not as a slave, but as a brother in Christ. Paul emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation between Christians, and highlights the transformative power of the gospel in bringing about forgiveness and unity between believers.

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The disciple in Damascus that God commissioned to restore the sight of Saul was Ananias. When Saul was on his way to Damascus, he was struck down by a blinding light and heard the voice of Jesus Christ. Jesus instructed him to go to the house of Judas on Straight Street in Damascus, where he would be told what to do. Ananias was the one who received a vision from God, instructing him to go to Saul and lay his hands on him so that he might regain his sight. Despite his initial fears, Ananias obeyed God's command and went to Saul, and his sight was restored.

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According to Paul in Romans, civil authorities who punish wrongdoers are acting as the agents of God's wrath. In other words, God has given them the responsibility to enforce justice and maintain order in society by punishing those who break the law. This does not mean that civil authorities are always right or just, but that they have a divine responsibility to carry out their role as agents of justice.

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When David became the King of Israel, he moved the capital from Hebron to Jerusalem. David conquered the city of Jerusalem from the Jebusites and made it his capital, thus uniting the tribes of Israel under one central government. Before this, Hebron was the capital of Judah, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, and David had been reigning from there for seven years. However, after conquering Jerusalem, David established it as his capital and made it the center of his government and religious activities.

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Pilate referred Jesus to Herod for trial because Jesus lived in the jurisdiction of Herod. When Jesus was brought before Pilate for trial, Pilate realized that Jesus was from Galilee and therefore, under the jurisdiction of Herod. Pilate sent Jesus to Herod, who was in Jerusalem at that time, hoping to shift responsibility for the trial to him.

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In the story of Jesus calming the raging sea, as recorded in Mark 4:35-41, Jesus rebuked the wind and said to the sea, "Peace, be still!" and the wind ceased and there was a great calm. The main reason Jesus calmed the sea was to manifest his divinity to his disciples. The disciples were filled with great fear because of the storm and their lack of faith, but when Jesus calmed the sea, they marveled and realized that they were in the presence of someone truly divine. The act of calming the sea was also a demonstration of Jesus' power and authority over nature, further emphasizing his divinity.

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In John's gospel, Jesus healed the man born blind to show that He is the "light." Jesus used this miracle to demonstrate that just as He had given physical sight to the blind man, He could also give spiritual sight to those who were spiritually blind. This was symbolic of the fact that Jesus came into the world to bring light to those who were living in darkness, and to help them see the truth about God and His love for them. The healing of the blind man was a powerful illustration of Jesus' power and authority, and it was a sign that He was the long-awaited Messiah who had come to save His people.

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The contest on Mount Carmel between Elijah and Baal prophets was organized to prove the supremacy of God. Elijah challenged the Baal prophets to call on their god to send fire to consume a sacrifice, and he would do the same. Despite the Baal prophets' pleas and self-mutilation, their god did not respond. However, when Elijah prayed, God sent fire that consumed the sacrifice, wood, stones, dust, and even the water in the trench. This event demonstrated the power and supremacy of the God of Israel over Baal and the false gods worshipped by the Israelites.

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"The gods have come down to us in the likeness of men" was a statement made after Paul had cured a crippled man from birth in Lystra. In the book of Acts, we read that Paul and Barnabas were on a missionary journey to Lystra, a city in modern-day Turkey. While preaching in Lystra, Paul noticed a man who had been crippled from birth and had never walked. Paul was filled with compassion for the man and commanded him to stand up and walk in the name of Jesus. The man was healed instantly and began to walk, leap, and praise God. The people of Lystra were amazed by the miracle and began to worship Paul and Barnabas as gods, thinking that they had come down from heaven. They even brought sacrifices to offer to them. Paul and Barnabas tried to explain that they were only human beings, but the people were convinced that they were divine. The incident shows the power of God working through Paul and Barnabas to perform miracles and spread the Gospel, but also the danger of idolizing human beings and mistaking them for gods.

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During the Israelites' journey in the wilderness, God led them in the day in the form of a cloud. According to the book of Exodus, after the Israelites left Egypt, God led them through the wilderness by going before them in a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. The cloud was a visible sign of God's presence and guidance, and it provided shade and protection from the heat of the desert sun. When the cloud moved, the Israelites followed it, and when it stopped, they camped and set up their tents. The cloud also played a role in the dedication of the tabernacle, which was the portable sanctuary that the Israelites carried with them in the wilderness. When the tabernacle was completed, the cloud covered it, and the glory of the Lord filled it, signifying that God's presence was with his people. Overall, the cloud was a powerful symbol of God's protection, guidance, and presence with the Israelites during their difficult journey through the wilderness.

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According to the first council at Jerusalem, it was not binding on a Christian to pray five times daily in the temple. The council, as recorded in the book of Acts in the Bible, discussed several issues, including the question of whether Gentile converts to Christianity should be required to follow Jewish customs such as circumcision and following dietary laws. The council concluded that Gentiles did not need to follow these customs but should instead abstain from eating meat that had been sacrificed to idols, from consuming blood or meat from strangled animals, and from sexual immorality. The council did not address the issue of praying five times daily in the temple, as this was not a requirement for Christians.

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According to the Bible, the land, the sea, and vegetation were created on the third day of the creation narrative. This is described in the book of Genesis in the Old Testament. On the first day, God created light and separated it from darkness, and on the second day, God created the firmament or sky. On the fourth day, God created the sun, moon, and stars, and on the fifth day, God created birds and sea creatures.

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Namaan, the commander of the Syrian army, had leprosy and was seeking a cure. He was told by a young Israelite servant girl that there was a prophet in Samaria who could heal him. Namaan traveled to Israel and went to see the prophet, Elisha. Elisha instructed Namaan to go wash himself in the Jordan River seven times. Namaan was initially skeptical and upset that Elisha did not come out to meet him personally, but his servants convinced him to try it anyway. When Namaan followed Elisha's instructions and washed himself in the Jordan River seven times, he was miraculously healed of his leprosy. Namaan was overjoyed and offered to pay Elisha for his services, but Elisha refused to accept any payment. Namaan then declared that he would only worship the God of Israel from then on, recognizing that it was the power of God that had healed him. The story of Namaan's healing is a powerful reminder of God's power to heal and transform lives, even in the most unlikely circumstances. It also highlights the importance of faith and obedience, as Namaan had to trust in Elisha's instructions and follow them in order to receive his healing.

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The question "How is it that you a Jew ask a drink of me, a woman of Samaria?" indicates that there was a strained relationship between the Jews and the Samaritans. In the context of the Bible, Jews and Samaritans had a long-standing history of enmity and mistrust due to religious and ethnic differences. Jews considered themselves to be the true worshippers of God and did not associate with Samaritans who they regarded as impure and heretical. Therefore, the fact that Jesus, a Jew, was asking for water from a Samaritan woman was surprising and went against the norms of Jewish-Samaritan relations.

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By the statement "I am the door of the sheep," Jesus means that all believers come to God through Him. In John 10:9, Jesus says, "I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture." Jesus is using the imagery of a sheepfold to describe the relationship between Himself and His followers. In the ancient world, a sheepfold was a protected area where the sheep would be kept safe from predators. The sheepfold would often have only one entrance, and the shepherd would lie down at the entrance to protect the sheep from harm. In the same way, Jesus is the only entrance to eternal life, and only through faith in Him can believers come to God and be saved. He is the only way to find safety and security in God's love and protection.

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Nebuchadnezzar's statement "Blessed be the God of Shedrach, Meshach, and Abednego" acknowledges the supremacy and greatness of God. This is because the three Jewish youths, Shedrach, Meshach, and Abednego, had refused to worship the golden image that the king had set up and instead chose to worship their God. Despite facing the punishment of being thrown into a fiery furnace, their faith and courage in God never wavered. Miraculously, they emerged unscathed from the furnace, which led Nebuchadnezzar to acknowledge the power and greatness of their God. Thus, his statement implies that God is worthy of praise and adoration because of His miraculous intervention in the lives of these three young men.

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At Shechem, God appeared to Abram and told him that the land would be given to his descendants. This promise was part of the covenant that God made with Abram, which included the promise of many descendants and that he would be the father of many nations. This promise was fulfilled later when Abram's name was changed to Abraham and he became the father of Isaac, who was the father of Jacob, and the twelve tribes of Israel.

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In his first letter to the Corinthians, Paul taught that various spiritual gifts work for one body in Christ. Paul explained that each individual Christian has been given different spiritual gifts by God to be used for the benefit of the church as a whole. He emphasized that the church is like a body, and just as the different parts of the body have different functions, so do the members of the church. Each member of the church has a unique gift or ability that is important for the proper functioning and growth of the body of Christ as a whole. Therefore, it is necessary for the members of the church to work together in unity, with each person contributing their gifts and abilities for the good of the whole body.

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Peter's general outlook towards Gentile converts was significantly changed by the conversion of Cornelius the Centurion. Prior to his encounter with Cornelius, Peter and many other Jewish Christians believed that salvation was only available to Jews who followed the Law of Moses. However, in a vision, God showed Peter that Gentiles were also eligible for salvation, and he was instructed to go and visit Cornelius, a Gentile who had received a vision from God. When Peter arrived at Cornelius' home, he saw that the Holy Spirit had already come upon the Gentiles gathered there, and he baptized them in the name of Jesus Christ. This experience was a turning point for Peter, and he realized that the Gospel was intended for all people, regardless of their ethnicity or background. This new understanding paved the way for the spread of Christianity to the Gentile world.

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The religious reform of King Josiah was triggered off by the discovery of the law book in the temple. The book is believed to have been the Book of the Law, possibly the book of Deuteronomy. This discovery was made during the repairs that Josiah ordered to be made to the temple in Jerusalem. When the book was read to Josiah, he realized how far the people of Judah had strayed from the commands of God and was deeply moved. He then initiated a religious reform to turn the people back to God and to follow His commands as stated in the book.

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The parable of the Wheat and Tares emphasizes the final judgment of God. The parable describes a field where wheat was planted, but an enemy came and planted tares (weeds) among the wheat. The tares were not uprooted immediately because they looked very similar to the wheat, and it was difficult to distinguish between them. The parable teaches that at the end of time, God will separate the righteous (symbolized by the wheat) from the wicked (symbolized by the tares). The wicked will be punished and cast into eternal fire, while the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. The parable emphasizes the importance of leading a righteous life and being prepared for the final judgment of God.

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The true statement about the birth of Jesus is that He was "laid in a manger after His birth." According to the biblical account, Mary and Joseph were unable to find a place to stay in Bethlehem, so Jesus was born in a stable and laid in a manger, which is a feeding trough for animals. This humble beginning was fitting for the Son of God, who came into the world to serve and save humanity. The manger symbolizes the simplicity and humility of Jesus' birth, as well as His mission to reach out to the poor and marginalized. The fact that there was no room for Jesus in the inn also emphasizes the rejection that He would later face from His own people, who failed to recognize Him as their Savior.

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On the occasion of the Transfiguration, Peter suggested to Jesus the construction of three booths. The Transfiguration was a significant event in the life of Jesus, in which He was transformed in appearance and spoke with Moses and Elijah. Peter, along with James and John, witnessed this event and was awestruck by what he saw. In his excitement, Peter suggested building three booths, or temporary shelters, one for Jesus, one for Moses, and one for Elijah. It was a common Jewish custom during the Feast of Tabernacles to construct such booths to commemorate the time when the Israelites lived in temporary shelters during their journey in the wilderness. However, Peter's suggestion was not necessary, as the Transfiguration was a divine event and not something that required human intervention. The event confirmed Jesus' divine nature and His authority over the Law and the Prophets, and it was a significant moment in the disciples' understanding of Jesus' mission on earth.

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Peter advised the elders of the early Christian communities to lead those entrusted to them by their good example. This means that the elders should act as role models for the members of the church by living according to the teachings of Jesus Christ and following His example. They were expected to exhibit good character, compassion, and love towards their members, to help and support them in their spiritual journey. The elders were also encouraged to teach the Word of God and to guide the members of the community to live according to its teachings.

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In his letter to the Galatians, Paul taught that Christians become sons of God through adoption. This means that through faith in Jesus Christ, believers become part of God's family and are given the right to call God their Father. This adoption is not based on one's ethnicity, social status, or personal merit, but solely on God's grace and mercy. By becoming God's adopted children, Christians are also heirs to his promises and blessings.

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The words "Has the Lord great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord?" were directed to King Saul. The statement was made by the prophet Samuel to King Saul, after Saul had disobeyed the Lord's instructions regarding the Amalekites. The Lord had instructed Saul to completely destroy the Amalekites and all their possessions, but Saul disobeyed and spared some of the spoil. In response, Samuel rebuked Saul and asked him if the Lord really delighted in burnt offerings and sacrifices more than obedience to His commands. This event is recorded in the book of 1 Samuel in the Old Testament of the Bible.

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These words were spoken by Eli in the Old Testament book of 1 Samuel. The context of this statement is when the Philistines had captured the Ark of the Covenant, a symbol of God's presence among the Israelites. Eli's two sons had died in battle, and upon hearing the news of the capture of the Ark, Eli fell backward off his chair, broke his neck, and died. Before he died, Eli uttered the words "It is the Lord, let Him do what seems good to Him," acknowledging God's sovereignty and accepting His will, even in difficult circumstances. Eli recognized that God is in control and that His ways are higher than human understanding. These words reflect a deep trust and faith in God, despite the difficult circumstances. Eli's statement shows that even in times of great sorrow and uncertainty, we can trust that God is in control and that He works all things together for good.

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The book that demonstrates God's continual love for unfaithful Israel is the book of Hosea. The prophet Hosea was commanded by God to marry an unfaithful woman, which represented Israel's unfaithfulness to God. Despite Israel's disobedience and idolatry, God continued to love them and call them back to Him through the prophet's message. Hosea's message emphasizes the theme of God's love and mercy towards Israel, despite their unfaithfulness, and his desire for them to repent and return to Him.

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The correct answer is: Ahab to Prophet Elijah. This statement was made by King Ahab of Israel to Prophet Elijah. Ahab accused Elijah of being the "troubler of Israel" because Elijah had challenged the worship of the false god Baal and had predicted a drought that affected the land. Ahab's statement reflects his frustration with Elijah's prophetic message and his unwillingness to accept responsibility for his own actions as king.

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According to James, faith must be practiced with works. This means that faith is not just about believing in something, but it must also be accompanied by action. James believed that faith without works is dead, meaning that if one has faith but does not show it through action, then it is not genuine faith. Therefore, James emphasized the importance of not just believing in God, but also putting that belief into practice by doing good works and helping others. In summary, James believed that true faith involves both belief and action, and that these two aspects cannot be separated.

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At the final trial before Pilate, the notorious robber who was released instead of Jesus was Barabbas. According to the New Testament, at the trial of Jesus, Pilate offered to release one prisoner as a goodwill gesture towards the Jewish people. The crowd, incited by the religious leaders, demanded the release of Barabbas instead of Jesus, and Pilate granted their request. Barabbas was known to have taken part in a rebellion and committed murder, which made his release a surprising decision.

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A "Cheerful giver" is he who gives out of freewill. This means that the person chooses to give willingly and happily without feeling forced or obligated to do so. The giver is motivated by a desire to help or make a positive impact, rather than any external pressures. In essence, a cheerful giver gives because they want to, not because they have to.

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In James' epistle, fulfillment of the royal law is loving one's neighbour as oneself. This commandment to love one's neighbour as oneself is referred to as the "royal law" and is considered one of the most important commandments in Christianity. It is based on the principle that all people are made in the image of God and should be treated with respect, love and kindness. By fulfilling this commandment, Christians demonstrate their love for God and their desire to follow in the footsteps of Jesus Christ.

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The statement "the spirit entered into me and set me upon my feet" implies that Ezekiel was empowered by a divine spirit and was given the strength to stand on his feet. This suggests that he was willing to do as he was directed by God and was ready to listen to His words.

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(a) How Jesus healed the Demoniac (Mark 5:1-20; the Gerasene/Gadarene demoniac)

• Jesus and His disciples crossed to the other side of the Sea of Galilee, to the country of the Gerasenes (Gadarenes).
• As Jesus came out of the boat, a man with an unclean spirit met Him coming out of the tombs.
• The man lived among the tombs and could not be bound, not even with chains. He had often been bound with fetters and chains, but he wrenched the chains apart and broke the fetters in pieces; no one had the strength to subdue him.
• Night and day among the tombs and on the mountains he was always crying out and cutting himself with stones.
• When he saw Jesus from afar, he ran and worshipped Him, crying with a loud voice, "What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I adjure you by God, do not torment me." for Jesus had said, "Come out of the man, you unclean spirit!"
• Jesus asked, "What is your name?" He replied, "My name is Legion, for we are many." The demons begged Jesus not to send them out of the country.
• A great herd of swine was feeding nearby on the hillside. The demons begged Jesus, "Send us to the swine, let us enter them."
• Jesus gave them permission. The unclean spirits came out and entered the swine, and the herd, numbering about two thousand, rushed down the steep bank into the sea and were drowned.
• The herdsmen fled and told it in the city; people came and found the former demoniac sitting, clothed and in his right mind, and they were afraid. The healed man begged to follow Jesus, but Jesus told him to go home and tell his friends how much the Lord had done for him. He went and proclaimed it in the Decapolis.

(b) Two reasons why the devils were sent into the swine

1. To grant the demons' own request: The demons pleaded not to be driven out of the country but to be allowed to enter the swine; Jesus permitted this, so their destruction into the sea was a result of their own petition.
2. To provide visible proof of the deliverance: The drowning of the herd demonstrated publicly the reality, number and destructive power of the demons that had left the man, confirming beyond doubt that he had been truly and completely healed by the authority of Jesus.

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(a) Events leading to Elijah's pronouncement of drought in Israel (1 Kings 16:29 - 17:1)

• Ahab, son of Omri, became king over Israel and reigned in Samaria. He did evil in the sight of the Lord more than all who were before him.
• Ahab married Jezebel, daughter of Ethbaal king of the Sidonians, a foreign princess devoted to the worship of Baal.
• Under Jezebel's influence, Ahab served Baal and worshipped him. He built a house and an altar for Baal in Samaria and made an Asherah pole.
• Baal was regarded by his worshippers as the god who controlled rain, fertility and harvest, so Israel abandoned the Lord and turned to this fertility cult.
• Ahab thereby provoked the Lord God of Israel to anger more than all the kings of Israel before him, leading the nation into idolatry and covenant unfaithfulness.
• In response, God raised up the prophet Elijah the Tishbite, of Tishbe in Gilead.
• Elijah came before Ahab and declared: "As the Lord the God of Israel lives, before whom I stand, there shall be neither dew nor rain these years, except by my word."
• This pronouncement directly challenged Baal's supposed power over rain and fertility, demonstrating that the Lord alone controls nature.

(b) Two lessons from the action of Elijah

1. Courageous stand for God: Elijah shows that a true servant of God must boldly confront evil and idolatry, even before powerful rulers, without fear of the consequences.
2. God alone is sovereign over nature: The drought proves that the Lord, not Baal or any idol, controls the forces of nature; genuine faith must be placed in God alone, and sin and idolatry bring divine judgement upon a nation.

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Isaiah's prophecy on the worthlessness of empty rituals (Isaiah 1:10-20)

Isaiah addressed the rulers and people of Judah and Jerusalem, whom he pointedly called the "rulers of Sodom" and "people of Gomorrah" because their conduct had become as corrupt as those wicked cities, even while they maintained an outward show of religion.

• God is weary of their sacrifices: The Lord asks, "To what purpose is the multitude of your sacrifices to me?" He declares that He has had enough of burnt offerings of rams and the fat of fed beasts, and takes no delight in the blood of bulls, lambs and goats.
• Their worship attendance is meaningless: When they come to appear before God, trampling His courts, God has not asked this of them. Their offerings are described as a vain oblation.
• Their festivals are a burden to God: Incense is an abomination to Him; He cannot endure their New Moons, Sabbaths and appointed feasts, calling them iniquity. His soul hates their appointed feasts; they have become a burden that He is weary of bearing.
• God will not hear their prayers: When they spread out their hands in prayer, God hides His eyes; even when they make many prayers, He will not listen, because their hands are full of blood (violence and injustice).
• The real requirement is righteousness and justice: Rituals are worthless without ethical living. God commands them: "Wash yourselves; make yourselves clean; put away the evil of your doings; cease to do evil, learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression, defend the fatherless, plead for the widow."
• An offer of cleansing and a warning: God invites them to reason together with Him: though their sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow. If they are willing and obedient, they shall eat the good of the land; but if they refuse and rebel, they shall be devoured by the sword.

The core message is that sacrifice, feasts and prayers are worthless when divorced from justice, mercy and moral obedience. God desires righteousness of heart and conduct, not mere religious ceremony.

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(a) David's reaction to the death of the child born by Bathsheba (2 Samuel 12:15-23)

After the prophet Nathan confronted David over his sin with Bathsheba and the murder of Uriah, the Lord struck the child that Bathsheba had borne to David, and the child became gravely ill.

• While the child was still alive, David pleaded with God on behalf of the child. He fasted, went in and lay all night upon the ground.
• The elders of his household stood beside him and tried to raise him up from the ground, but he refused and would not eat food with them.
• This continued for seven days, during which David humbled himself before God in earnest prayer, hoping God would be gracious and let the child live.
• On the seventh day the child died. The servants were afraid to tell David, reasoning that if he behaved so intensely while the child lived, he might harm himself when told of the death.
• David perceived from their whispering that the child was dead and asked them; they confirmed it.
• To their surprise, David then arose from the ground, washed, anointed himself, changed his clothes and went into the house of the Lord to worship.
• Afterward he returned to his own house, requested food and ate.
• When his servants questioned this strange reversal of behaviour, David explained: while the child was alive he fasted and wept, thinking God might be gracious and spare the child. But now that the child was dead, fasting could not bring him back. He said, "I shall go to him, but he will not return to me."
• David then comforted Bathsheba his wife, and she later bore Solomon, whom the Lord loved.

(b) Two lessons that can be learnt from this reaction

1. Sincere repentance and prayer: David teaches that when we are in trouble, especially trouble resulting from sin, we should humble ourselves before God in fasting and prayer, trusting in His mercy rather than despairing.
2. Acceptance of God's will: When the outcome cannot be changed, we must accept God's decision with faith and dignity instead of endless grief. David shows the wisdom of resigning to the will of God and moving on to fulfil life's remaining responsibilities.

Détails de la réponse

(a) Paul's views on interpersonal relationships in the Christian family (Colossians 3:18-21; 3:12-14)

In his letter to the Colossians, Paul set out the duties that members of a Christian household owe one another, so that the family reflects the character of Christ. He first urged all believers to put on compassion, kindness, humility, meekness and patience, to bear with one another, to forgive one another, and above all to put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. He then addressed each member:

• Wives: "Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord." The wife is to respect and be subject to her husband in a manner befitting Christian conduct.
• Husbands: "Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them." The husband must love his wife genuinely and never be bitter, cruel or overbearing toward her.
• Children: "Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord." Children are to give obedience and honour to their parents.
• Fathers (parents): "Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged." Parents must not exasperate or embitter their children but train them with fairness and encouragement.

Paul's central view is that each member has mutual, reciprocal duties, all to be carried out "in the Lord," with love, respect and consideration so that peace reigns in the home.

(b) Four ways of avoiding conflicts in the family

1. Mutual love and respect: Every member should genuinely love and respect the others, treating them with kindness and consideration.
2. Effective communication and understanding: Family members should discuss issues openly, listen to one another and seek to understand different viewpoints rather than quarrel.
3. Forgiveness and tolerance: Members should be ready to forgive offences, bear with one another's weaknesses and not hold grudges.
4. Fulfilling one's responsibilities and submitting to God: Each person should faithfully carry out his or her God-given role and keep the family devoted to prayer and the fear of God, which promotes unity and peace.

Détails de la réponse

(a) The second creation story (Genesis 2:4-25).

1. In the day that the Lord God made the earth and the heavens, no plant of the field was yet in the earth and no herb had yet sprung up, for the Lord God had not caused it to rain upon the earth, and there was no man to till the ground; but a mist went up from the earth and watered the whole face of the ground.
2. Then the Lord God formed man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and man became a living being.
3. The Lord God planted a garden in Eden, in the east, and there He put the man whom He had formed.
4. Out of the ground the Lord God made to grow every tree that is pleasant to the sight and good for food, and in the midst of the garden the tree of life and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. A river flowed out of Eden to water the garden, and there it divided into four rivers: Pishon, Gihon, Tigris and Euphrates.
5. The Lord God put the man in the garden of Eden to till it and keep it.
6. The Lord God commanded the man that he might freely eat of every tree of the garden, but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil he should not eat, for in the day that he ate of it he would surely die.
7. The Lord God said that it was not good that the man should be alone, and He would make him a helper fit for him.
8. The Lord God formed out of the ground every beast of the field and every bird of the air and brought them to the man to see what he would call them; whatever the man called each living creature, that was its name. But for the man there was not found a helper fit for him.
9. So the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon the man, and while he slept took one of his ribs and closed up its place with flesh. From the rib the Lord God made a woman and brought her to the man.
10. The man said, "This at last is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man." Therefore a man leaves his father and mother and cleaves to his wife, and they become one flesh. The man and his wife were both naked, and were not ashamed.

(b) Four ways God provided comfort for man.

1. He planted a beautiful garden in Eden with pleasant, fruit-bearing trees and placed man in it to enjoy.
2. He provided food by allowing man to eat freely of every tree of the garden except one.
3. He gave man meaningful work by putting him in the garden to till it and keep it.
4. He provided companionship by creating the woman as a suitable helper, so that man would not be alone.
5. He provided water through the river that flowed out of Eden to water the garden.

Détails de la réponse

How Paul proved to the Galatians that Christians are children of God (Galatians 3:23 - 4:7)

Paul argued against those who insisted that Gentile believers must keep the Law of Moses to be accepted by God. He proved that all who believe in Christ, whether Jew or Gentile, are already the children of God through faith, not through the Law.

• Sonship comes through faith in Christ, not the Law: Paul declared, "You are all sons of God, through faith in Christ Jesus." Before faith came, people were held captive under the Law, kept under restraint. The Law served as a custodian (schoolmaster/paidagogos) to lead them to Christ, that they might be justified by faith. Now that faith has come, they are no longer under the custodian.
• Baptism into Christ makes them one: All who were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. In Him there is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for all are one in Christ Jesus. And if they belong to Christ, then they are Abraham's offspring, heirs according to the promise.
• From slaves to sons and heirs: Paul used the illustration of an heir who, while still a child, is no different from a slave, being under guardians and trustees until the date set by the father. Likewise, while they were children, they were enslaved to the elemental spirits of the world.
• God sent His Son to redeem them: But when the fullness of time came, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, so that they might receive adoption as sons.
• The Spirit of the Son confirms sonship: As proof that they are sons, God sent the Spirit of His Son into their hearts, crying, "Abba! Father!" The very presence of the Holy Spirit prompting them to address God as Father is evidence of their adoption.
• Sons and therefore heirs: Paul concluded, "So you are no longer a slave, but a son, and if a son, then an heir through God."

Thus Paul proved through faith, baptism into Christ, God's redemptive act of adoption, and the witness of the indwelling Holy Spirit that Christians are truly the children of God and heirs of His promise.

Détails de la réponse

(a) The miracle of "walking on the sea" according to Mark (Mark 6:45-52)

• Immediately after feeding the five thousand, Jesus made His disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, to Bethsaida, while He dismissed the crowd.
• After taking leave of them, Jesus went up on the mountain to pray.
• When evening came, the boat was out on the sea, and Jesus was alone on the land.
• He saw that the disciples were distressed in rowing, for the wind was against them.
• About the fourth watch of the night (between 3 and 6 a.m.), Jesus came to them, walking on the sea. He meant to pass by them.
• When the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they thought it was a ghost and cried out, for they all saw Him and were terrified.
• Immediately Jesus spoke to them: "Take heart, it is I; have no fear."
• He got into the boat with them, and the wind ceased.
• The disciples were utterly astounded, for they did not understand about the loaves, because their hearts were hardened.

(b) Two ways this miracle is significant

1. It reveals the divine nature and lordship of Jesus: Walking on the sea and calming the wind shows that Jesus has mastery over the forces of nature, a power that belongs to God alone, confirming His identity as the Son of God.
2. It teaches faith and reassurance in the midst of trouble: Jesus' words, "Take heart, it is I; have no fear," show that He is present with His followers in their difficulties and delivers them from danger; believers should therefore trust Him rather than give in to fear.

Détails de la réponse

How Paul used the case of Onesimus to emphasize the concept of forgiveness (Philemon 1-25)

Onesimus was a slave belonging to Philemon, a wealthy Christian of Colossae in whose house the church met. Onesimus had run away from his master, and it appears he had also wronged or robbed him. In the course of his flight he met the imprisoned Paul, was converted to Christianity, and became very useful to Paul in prison. Paul then wrote this personal letter to Philemon appealing for the forgiveness and kind reception of the returning slave. He used Onesimus' case to teach forgiveness in the following ways:

• An appeal based on love, not command: Though as an apostle Paul could have ordered Philemon, he chose instead to appeal for love's sake, asking Philemon to act freely and willingly rather than by compulsion.
• Onesimus as a transformed man: Paul reminded Philemon that Onesimus, whose name means "useful," was formerly useless to him but had now become useful to both of them. Conversion had changed the runaway slave into a profitable brother.
• Receive him as a beloved brother: Paul urged Philemon to receive Onesimus back no longer as a slave but more than a slave, as a beloved brother, both in the flesh and in the Lord. Christian fellowship transcends the master-slave relationship.
• Paul's fatherly and personal bond: Paul called Onesimus his own child, whom he had begotten in his imprisonment, even his "very heart," and would have liked to keep him. He appealed to Philemon to welcome Onesimus as he would welcome Paul himself.
• Willingness to bear the cost of the wrong: Paul offered to pay back personally whatever Onesimus owed or had wronged Philemon: "If he has wronged you at all, or owes you anything, charge that to my account... I will repay it." This shows that true forgiveness may involve bearing the cost of another's offence, reflecting Christ's own atoning work.
• Confidence in Philemon's obedience: Paul expressed confidence that Philemon would do even more than he asked, gently reminding him that he owed Paul his very self.

Through this appeal Paul demonstrated that Christian forgiveness means receiving back the offender without resentment, restoring him in love as a brother, and being willing to bear the cost of the wrong done, just as God in Christ forgives and reconciles sinners to Himself.

Détails de la réponse

(a) Events on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:1-42)

• When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, the disciples were all together in one place in Jerusalem, in obedience to Jesus' command to wait for the promise of the Father.
• Suddenly there came from heaven a sound like the rush of a mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting.
• There appeared to them tongues as of fire, distributed and resting on each one of them.
• They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues (languages) as the Spirit gave them utterance.
• Devout Jews from every nation under heaven were dwelling in Jerusalem. When the sound was heard, the multitude gathered and were bewildered, because each one heard them speaking in his own native language the mighty works of God.
• They were amazed and perplexed, asking, "What does this mean?" But others mocked, saying they were filled with new wine.
• Peter, standing with the eleven, lifted his voice and addressed the crowd. He explained that they were not drunk, since it was only the third hour of the day.
• He declared that this was the fulfilment of the prophecy of the prophet Joel, that God would pour out His Spirit on all flesh.
• Peter preached about Jesus of Nazareth, crucified and killed, whom God raised from the dead, exalted at His right hand, and made both Lord and Christ.
• The listeners were cut to the heart and asked what they should do. Peter replied, "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit."
• About three thousand souls were added to the Church that day. They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread and prayers.

(b) Two ways the Holy Spirit still influences the life of Christians today

1. Empowerment for witness and service: The Holy Spirit gives believers boldness, gifts and power to preach the gospel, testify about Christ and serve God effectively, just as He emboldened Peter and the apostles.
2. Guidance and transformation of character: The Spirit convicts of sin, guides Christians into truth, comforts them, and produces the fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience and so on), thereby transforming their conduct and helping them live godly lives.

Détails de la réponse

(a) Jesus' teaching in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 6:19-24)

(i) Treasures

• Jesus taught, "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal."
• Instead they should lay up treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and thieves cannot break in and steal.
• He gave the reason: "For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." A person's affections and priorities follow whatever he values most.

(ii) The sound eye

• Jesus said, "The eye is the lamp of the body."
• If the eye is sound (single/healthy), the whole body is full of light.
• But if the eye is bad (evil), the whole body is full of darkness. And if the light in a person is actually darkness, how great is that darkness.
• This teaches that one's inner outlook and intentions determine whether the whole life is filled with light (goodness) or darkness (evil).

(iii) Serving of two masters

• Jesus declared, "No one can serve two masters."
• Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other.
• He concluded: "You cannot serve God and mammon (money/wealth)." Ultimate loyalty must be given to God, not to material wealth.

(b) Two reasons why misuse of earthly wealth can lead to serious consequences for a nation

1. It breeds corruption and injustice: When wealth is misused through embezzlement, bribery and greed, national resources are diverted from development, the poor are oppressed, and this leads to social unrest, poverty and the collapse of public trust.
2. It displaces God and true values: Making wealth the master turns a nation to materialism and idolatry of money, eroding moral and spiritual values; such a nation loses justice and the fear of God and invites divine judgement and eventual ruin.

Détails de la réponse

(a) Why Peter advised Christians to rejoice despite their trials (1 Peter 1:3-9)

• God, in His great mercy, had given them a new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, so they had cause for joy even in suffering.
• They were kept for an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled and unfading, reserved in heaven for them, which no trial on earth could destroy.
• The trials were only for a little while, temporary and passing, and therefore not to be compared with the eternal reward ahead.
• The trials served a purpose: they tested and refined the genuineness of their faith, just as gold is refined and purified by fire, so that their faith might prove precious.
• The tested faith would result in praise, glory and honour at the revelation (second coming) of Jesus Christ.
• Though they had not seen Christ, they loved and believed in Him, and so were filled with an unspeakable and glorious joy.
• The outcome of their faith was the salvation of their souls, the ultimate reason for rejoicing.

(b) Two virtues Christians should manifest to show their joy

• Holiness / holy living: as God is holy, believers should be holy in all their conduct, reflecting inward joy through pure lives.
• Brotherly love: sincere love for one another from a pure heart demonstrates the joy and new life they possess.

(Other acceptable virtues include hope, self-control, sobriety, obedience and patience.)