the importance of the bible and church

GCSE Religious Studies (Philosophy & Ethics)

RE: Christian Guidance

Year 11 Christians Perspectives: Unit 1 Background

The Importance of the Bible

Activity 1

Write out the Ten C’s and explain why they are considered to be so significant

You shall have no other Gods but me.
You shall not make for yourself any idol, nor bow down to it or worship it.
You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God.
You shall remember and keep the Sabbath day holy.
Respect your father and mother.
You must not kill.
You must not commit adultery.
You must not steal.
You must not give false evidence against your neighbour.
You must not be envious of your neighbour's goods. You shall not be envious of his house nor his wife, nor anything that belongs to your neighbour.

The Ten commandments express moral duties in a minimal and most general form, thus allowing maximum freedom in the arrangement of one's life's affairs. They are aimed at setting those boundaries which, when transpassed, can damage family and community life. Our Lord Jesus Christ in His sermons often referred to the Ten commandments and explained their deep spiritual meaning. The Ten commandments, which contain the most fundamental principles of moral life, without which the very existence of human society becomes impossible, were retained and even reinforced in the New Testament. It was because of such importance and inviolability that ...

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Activity 2

Explain why the New Testament and its teachings are so important to Christians

The New Testament is also important as they include the Gospels from Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. Matthew 5 is the Sermon on the mount where Jesus taught us how to live a good Christian life and what you have to do/be to be holy and good in Gods eyes. This is important to Christians as during times of trouble, confusion and sin they can read this and remember and become a better person by following Jesus’ words. Also in Matthew 22:34-40 are the greatest commandments that Jesus gave us. It was the new covenant; promise/agreement with God. They could be considered as a summary of the 10 commandments as, as long as you follow these you are following the previous covenant. Parables such as: The Prodigal Son and The Good Samaritan, are also sources of guidance. They show good deeds put into actions and how we can apply it to our daily lives. These are a few of the many reasons of why Christians look into the new testament for guidance, which is also why it is so important.

The Role of the Church

Bible study: Help understand the bible better through others opinions and also give in your thoughts to guide others
Listen at mass: listen to the gospel- teaching us how to be a good christian
Minister/Priest; talk; pray- The homily that the priest says teaches us how to apply the bible teachings and parables into our daily lives. Also during times of trouble the priest always can offer advice/help or even just be there to listen and console.
Confession- Can help us deal with our moral problems/issues and how to cleanse our sins. Renew our soul from our previous mistakes. Confession can help relieve and the priest can respond with moral support.
Support Groups; Aged Groups e.g. Youth clubs, over 60’s; bible study; sunday school (for young children); caring groups. . . etc... – people who have something in common with you can offer you support and understand your situation better. They can help you become a better Christian or teach you new things about the Christians faith.
Statements from the church; Pope/Bishop – Papal Encyclicals*; Priest; Congregation

*Roman Catholic Church. a letter intended for circulation addressed by the pope or the bishop to the church.