Excel Advanced Level Christianity & Islam
Excel Advanced Level Christianity & Islam
Excel Advanced Level Christianity & Islam
New
m
Curriculu
Course Book
Wilson Zivave
For ZIMSEC Form 5 and 6
Christianity and Islam
Course book
Wilson Zivave
Contents
Index ..................................................................................................................................................................195
References.........................................................................................................................................................197
iv Unit :
TENETS OF CHRISTIANITY
1
Unit objective have been revealed. Scripture has largely been associated
with Judaism, Christianity and Islam. In this context,
By the end of this unit, you should be able to: scripture refers to the Old Testament and New Testament
used by Christians.
•• evaluate the relationship between the Old Testament
and the New Testament. The two parts namely the Old Testament and the New
Testament books makes up what is called the Bible which
is scripture of Christians. The New Testament has twenty-
Introduction seven books that were written after the death of Jesus
Scripture refers to a written document. In this case, scripture Christ. The New Testament is of great significance to
refers to the Holy Bible. This means that Christianity is a Christians as it is seen as the new covenant between God
scripture religion. It believes that the Bible is the inspired and his people. The Bible is viewed differently by many
word of God as a whole. The Christian scripture is in two Christians, some believe that it is the true word of God and
parts namely, the Old Testament and the New Testament. cannot go wrong (infallible) while others believe that the
The purpose of this unit is discussing the authority of Bible is a book with spiritual truths and testimonies but is
scripture as well as evaluating the relationship between the not historical.
Old Testament and the New Testament. The unit also looks
In Christianity, scripture has had a long history which has
at how the scripture is viewed among different Christian
been characterized by debates, divisions and queries as
denominations.
to how particular verses should be interpreted. Christians
regard the books of the Hebrew Bible or the Old Testament
Key words as fully canonical basing their claim on 2 Timothy 3:16
which declares that, “all scripture is inspired by God.” In
Authority – the power or right to give orders, make this regard, Christians use the Old Testament together with
decisions, and enforce obedience. the New Testament as the inspired word of God. God used
human beings by inspiring them to write his word without
Scripture – the sacred writings of a religion.
error. The scripture in Christianity contains an inspired
Revelation – unknown fact that has been disclosed to doctrine. Inspiration means that the scripture has the
others. message that God wanted to be written down.
TENETS OF CHRISTIANITY 1
a perfect high priest. The old sacrifice is the shadow of the discontinuity of some Old Testament concepts like that of
new former which is Christ. According to Ezra 6:20 there is a the demi urge-creator of Old Testament and the God of love
Passover lamb which becomes the Lamb of God in the New in the New Testament. The Old Testament focuses on the
Testament (John 1:29). punishment of men by God with little hope of Grace while
the New Testament focuses on the everlasting love of God
The Old Testament cannot be understood without the New
and his mercy towards sinners.
Testament.
2. The New Testament is predicated in the Old
7. T
he similarity of the teachings of the Old
Testament
Testament and New Testament
The Old Testament lays the foundation of the coming of
The revelation in Scripture in Christianity is progressive.
Christ in the New Testament who would be a sacrifice for
Therefore, the New Testament lays bare the teachings that
people’s sins. Jesus is prophesied in the Old Testament and
were only alluded to in the Old Testament. For example,
the New Testament records the ministry of Jesus which
the Book of Hebrews describes how Jesus is the true High
all leads to the salvation of humankind. Jesus is described
Priest and how His one sacrifice replaces all of the previous
as both loving, holy, merciful and righteous by the two
sacrifices, which were mere portrayals. The Old Testament
testaments. The two testaments cannot be separated
provides the Law, which has two parts, the commandments
without destroying the importance of each testament.
and the blessing/curse that comes from obedience or
They stand and fall together. The two speaks similar issues
disobedience to God. The New Testament then clarifies that
in different terminology and historical stages. The New
God gave those commandments to show men their need
Testament is predicated on the Old Testament.
for salvation (Romans 3:19). The Old Testament lovingly
describes the sacrificial system God gave to the Israelites In conclusion, although there are some glimpses of
that was designed to temporarily cover over their sins. uniqueness between the Old Testament and the New
Testament, the Old Testament lays the foundation for,
The New Testament goes on to clarify that this system
and was meant to prepare the Jews for the coming of
alluded to the sacrifice of Christ through whom salvation
the Messiah who would sacrifice Himself to save the
is found (Acts 4:12; Hebrews 10:5-10). The Old Testament
world because of its sins (1 John 2:2). To add on, the New
witnessed how the paradise was lost and the New
Testament provides the life of Jesus Christ, looks back on
Testament shows how paradise is regained for all of us
what Jesus did for humanity and shows how humanity
through the second Adam (Christ) and how it will one
responded to salvation (Romans 12). Both the Old and
day be restored. The Old Testament declares that man
the New Testament reveal the same holy, merciful
was separated from God through sin (Genesis 3) and the
and righteous God who must condemn sin but who
New Testament declares that man can now be restored
simultaneously desires to bring Himself to a fallen human
in his relationship to God (Romans 3-6). There is a close
race of sinners through the forgiveness only made possible
relationship between the Old Testament and the New
through Christ’s atoning sacrifice. In both the Old and the
Testament. Many New Testament teachings have a firm
New Testament, God reveals Himself to humanity and how
foundation from the Old Testament. Although the New
humanity is to come to Him through Jesus Christ.
Testament is an autonomous revealed scripture, it is a
carbon copy of Old Testament. There is an indelible mark of How different Christians in Zimbabwe value the
the Old Testament in the New Testament teachings.
Old Testament and New Testament respectively
The disconnection of Old Testament and Zimbabwe is home to various Christian groups which
New Testament perceive and value the Old and New Testament differently.
The differences in valuing these components of Christian
1. The difference in objectives scripture namely the Old Testament and the New Testament
However, the Old and the New Testament have a distant emanates from various interpretation of the Bible as well as
relationship because the Old Testament focuses on the differences in understanding the meaning of salvation.
history of the Israelites from creation stories up to exiling The mainline conservative churches and African
of the Israelites then back to restoration, while on the initiated churches with regard to strict value of the Old
other hand the New Testament focuses on the person Testament
and work of Christ. Christology is at the centre of New
Main line Christians who are conservative like the Seventh
Testament narrative. Thus the Old Testament deals with the
Day Adventists, Johanne Marange Apostolic Church and
history of the Jews while the New Testament deals with the
African Apostolic Sabbath church all tend to value the Old
church from a universal perspective. There is a complete
Pentecostal churches like the Prophetic, Healing and In groups, debate on the claim that, without scripture
Deliverance Ministries, Christ Embassy and New Life Christianity would not have stood firm as a religion.” One
Ministry value the New Testament more than the Old group support the claim whilst the other group will be
Testament. They believe that the coming of Christ removed opposing the claim.
such barriers which has to do with dressing and dietary
issues. Whereas some churches value Old Testament, eating
of pork is strictly forbidden while in those which value the Summary of the unit
New Testament eating pork is not a problem but a sign of
•• The Christian Bible is an infallible word of God and
one being the child of liberty.
it is inspired by God using human authors to write
Main line churches his word.
•• Christianity uses the Holy Scripture.
Main line churches like the Catholics, Anglican and •• The Old and the New Testament are both regarded
Methodist value the New Testament than the Old because as scripture in Christianity.
they believe that Christ ushered in a new era which is •• Scripture is believed to be a result of inspiration in
based on faith rather than meticulous observance of the Christianity.
old laws found in the Old Testament. Christian behaviour •• The Bible is not a product of human authoring but
is regulated by faith rather than the law. It is because of a product of divine inspiration.
this that the New Testament is valued strongly than the Old •• Scripture is authoritative and the word in it is that
Testament. of God.
•• There is a close relationship between the Old and
the New Testament.
TENETS OF CHRISTIANITY 5
•• There are various theories which explains inspiration in Christianity.
•• Scripture is the most important document in Christianity as it contains the doctrine and practices of Christianity.
•• The value of scripture is not uniform in Christianity.
Revision Exercises
Essay Questions
1. Discuss how different Christians in Zimbabwe value the Old and New Testaments.
2. Discuss the nature of scripture in Christianity.
3. Examine the relationship between the Old and New Testament.
4. Analyse the importance of scripture in Christianity.
5. “The New Testament is the continuation of the Old Testament”. Discuss.
6. Analyse Christian views of scripture.
7. To what extent does Christian scripture promote good citizenship?
Unit Sin
2
Unit objectives and are considered synonymous. There are both natural
evil and social evil. Social evil and sin are directly related
By the end of this unit, you should be able to: while natural evil and sin are indirectly related. The
commandments and laws of God are the basis on which the
•• examine the biblical meaning of sin. basic Christian idea of sin is formed.
•• critique the various perceptions of sin among
Christians in Zimbabwe. The basic translation of the term sin in Greek is ‘hata’ which
means ‘to miss the mark’, ‘to lose’ or ‘to fail’ and through
all the terms used for sin there is the underlying idea of a
Introduction falling short of a norm given to man by God. This means
Sin is a problem which affects Christians and the term has that sin has its origin in the deliberate and conscious
several meanings which include transgression of God’s failure to conform to God’s law; in other words, sin is
law, failure to do what is right as well as doing what is bad fundamentally a responsible act of rebellion against God.
to other fellow human beings. The concept of sin is very
complex and has a wide variety of terminology which refers
Origins of sin in Christianity
to sin. It is within this context that this unit seeks to examine The origins of sin in Christianity is traced back to the time of
the biblical meaning of sin as well as offering a critique of the Adam during the creation of the universe. Man was created
perception of sin among contemporary Christians. in the image of God and was regarded with high esteem
before the coming of sin into the world. Adam and Eve were
Key words deceived by the serpent and this was against the instruction
which had been given to them by God. They rebelled
Ignorance – lack of knowledge or information. against God by eating the forbidden fruit (Genesis 3:1). This
shows that sin is attractive to human beings since Adam
Lawlessness – a state of disorder due to a disregard of the and Eve disobeyed by undermining the authority of God.
law. Sin involves the refusal by mankind to accept the position
of God as the creator and the one with all knowledge. It
Wickedness – the quality of being evil or morally wrong.
was the sin of the first human beings, Adam and Eve that
Sin alienated men from God.
The word ‘sin’ is used in the Bible to cover many different There was disharmony between God and the people
aspects of the idea of wickedness or opposition to the will because of the sins of Adam. Sin resulted in the punishment
of God. As such there are such variants such as injustice, of the serpent, Adam and Eve which affected the entire
lawlessness, evil, guilt and other terms used to refer to sin. humanity. Man was cursed because of sin and was expelled
Sin by definition refers to any deliberate act, by thought, from the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:21-24) and the penalty
word, or deed of a responsible individual, against the law of of sin was death. Sin in this case led to the great loss of
God. dignity, harmonious relationship with God and eternal life
for Adam and Eve as well as the entire humanity. According
The terms sin and evil are often used interchangeably
TENETS OF CHRISTIANITY 7
are attached to human race because of being human with unintentionally. In the New Testament in Hebrew 9:7 and
the origin from Adam. Hebrews 7:12, these sins can be forgiven through the blood
of Jesus Christ spilled on the cross.
2. Sin of commission
The meaning of sin in Christianity
Sins of commission are sins that people commit by
doing something which they are not supposed to do. It Sin is a riddle, a mystery and a reality that eludes definition
is a common sin among believers. For example, if a man and comprehension. It does not only involve wrongdoing
commits adultery on his wife whilst he knows that it is bad. or transgression of God’s law but also failure to do what is
A sin of commission is something someone do but he or right. Sin has the characteristic of offending other people;
she should not be doing. 1 Corinthians 6:10 summarises the being violent to others as well as an expression of lack of
sins of commission as it says: “Or do you not know that the love towards other people. It is a rebellion against God. This
unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be shows that sin is complex, and the terminology is large and
deceived; neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, varied.
nor effeminate, nor homosexuals, nor thieves, nor covetous,
nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit 1. Hata/Harmatiology
the kingdom of God”. The Greek word hamartia is employed to translate fifteen
different Hebrew words and this does not include different
Examples of sins of commission:
variations of the same verbal stem; adikia stands for
•• Sexual sins: Adultery, fornication, bestiality, thirty-six different Hebrew words; anomia for twenty-four.
homosexuality, bisexuality, molestation, It is within this context that, Hata is the other word of sin
pornography among others. which means to miss the mark, to lose or to fail to do what
•• Theft, covetousness. is expected. The term is used for sin with an underlying
•• Murder, physical abuse, bullying, mental abuse. idea of a falling short of a norm given to man by God. This
•• Gossip, slander, backbiting, among others. term ‘hata’ states that sin originated in the deliberate and
•• Lying, manipulating, and cursing. conscious failure to conform to God’s law. This word occurs
3. Sin of omission around 250 times in the New Testament to express the
concept of sin. The central meaning of this word is to “miss
Sins of omission refers to sins that people commit by not the mark.”
doing something that one is supposed to do. It is sin which
However, the word is used in several ways. It can refer to
comes by failure to perform what one is expected to do.
general sin or wrongdoing (John 8:21) or specific acts of sin
Examples of sins of omission that one may commit (Matthew 12:31; 1 John 5:16). The apostle Paul also used
it to personify an ungodly power that can control people
(a) F
ailing to pray regularly, or failing to pray for others in (Romans 6:6). It also refers to the inward element that
our lives. produces wrongdoing (Romans 3:9; 7:13). Hamartia entered
(b) Failing to tithe. the world by Adam (Romans 5:12). He disobeyed God and
(c) F
ailing to help another person when one has the disregarded His instruction. Adam missed the mark and
capacity. fell short. Ultimately, this mark (of perfection) is nothing
(d) Failing to provide for our family. short of the perfection of God’s character-the ultimate aim
of God’s spiritual children (Matthew 5:48). As sinners we
4. Sins of unbelief
“fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). God’s laws
This is a sin that is caused by wrong and evil attitudes gives us a knowledge of hamartia, or sin (Romans 3:20). We
in man’s heart. According to Hebrews 3:8, the major sin must not continue in such sin (Romans 6:1-2), but repent,
committed by the Israelites is the sin of unbelief which came be forgiven and have our sins blotted out (Acts 2:38; 3:19.
as a result of failing to trust in God and failing to obey God. From this context, sin is fundamentally a responsible act of
This sin occurs when people fails to obey God by lacking rebellion like living an immoral life which is against the will
faith in God. Lack of faith is a sin of unbelief. and demands of God. Sin takes into consideration the issues
of morality and ethical behaviour.
5. Sins of ignorance
Failure to acknowledge the role and teachings of the Holy
These are sins that are committed without realising that Spirit is also sin. The result of man’s failure to observe the
one has committed a sin. According to Leviticus 5:17-19 Divine law is regarded as sin.
there are sacrifices for the sins of ignorance. These sins
include matters in which a person violated God’s law
TENETS OF CHRISTIANITY 9
Causes of sin 2. Fasting
The Christian environment has always been punctuated by Fasting involves inflicting pain on human body as well as
sin. The causes of sin in Christianity are so many and it is depriving the human flesh of things which it constantly
believed that sin is caused by the devil, human nature that is wants. It is within this context that fasting draws a believer
sinful, bad influence and the need to satisfy sexual desires. closer to God. When a believer is closer to God, sin is distant
Below is a reflection of these causes of sin in Christianity. to the believer. God hates sin and the closeness to Him is a
solution to sin.
1. Devil
3. Prayer
The devil is the chief causer of sin in Christianity for it can
Some sins overpower people because of the absence of
enter into a person and influence the action of a person. For
prayer. Prayer is the best weapon to fight sin because
example, Judas was influenced to be greed and betray Jesus
prayer has the ability of creating a harmonious relationship
because the devil entered him (John 13:27). The devil is the
with God thereby driving away sin from the believer. The
greatest causer of sin in believers.
Lord’s Prayer is an indicator of how sin can be overpowered
2. Human nature which is sinful by prayer.
Human nature has been created in a way that it is receptive 4. Avoiding bad people
of sin. This leads to the satisfaction of human desires at Sin comes into people because of the environment in
the expense of the spiritual life. According to Romans 5:12, which one operates. If the environment is bad then the
“Therefore sin came into the world through one man and good person can be corrupted by the evil ones. Therefore,
death through sin”. This implies that Adam the ancestor of avoidance of corrupt people is a way of reducing sin or
all humanity brought sin into the world because from him avoiding sin.
his sinful nature was transferred to all other people.
5. Observing Christian ethics
3. Bad influence from others
The ethics of Jesus if put into practice have the power to
Sin is caused by bad influence from other people. If one is mitigate sin in Christian believers. From these ethics, Jesus
always in company of people who are drunkards, there is a believes that a true Christian believer should be humble,
high likelihood that such a person also becomes a drunkard. peace-loving, contended with what one has, avoid anger and
This shows that sin can be propagated into a person retaliation which are all virtues with the strong influence on
through people whom one socialises with. living a righteous life.
4. The need to satisfy fleshly desires How does sin affect good citizenship?
There are several things that human flesh requires that is Good citizenship refers to the life which upholds the norms
against the will of God. As a result of the need to satisfy and values of a particular society. In this context we refer
human greediness it leads to sin. Sins like sexual perversion, to the Zimbabwean society. It involves doing things which
food which defiles the body and thieving are a result of the positively affect humanity. Sin can affect one to become a
need to satisfy the fleshly desires. good citizen in a positive and negative sense.
Sin is a predicament which demands every believer to Sin can result in so many bad things which affect the norms
and values of the society. As such the negative impact of sin
overcome it. There are a plethora of mechanisms that are
on good citizenship includes:
in place in Christianity that are used to overcome sin. This
subunit deals with ways of overcoming sin in Christianity •• Oppression of others: rebellion against civil
which include the following the exemplary life of Christ, authority is an effect of oppression which is a
fasting, praying, avoiding sinful environment or bad sin. Therefore, sin can result in anarchy and
company as well as observance of Christian ethics. civil wars. This means that citizens will not be
obedient to ruling authority.
1. Living an exemplary life of Christ •• Witchcraft: is a sin which can cause conflicts
in family and society. Conflict is a mark of bad
Sin is avoided by following the model of Jesus Christ in the
citizenship since there will be no peace and
day to day living. Jesus lived a perfect life and faced several
harmony.
temptations which ultimately would have led any ordinary •• Vandalism: is a sin which can cause loss of life
man to sin but Jesus did not. He set an example for his and damage to property. A good citizen protects
followers to follow.
12 Unit 2: Sin
property and upholds the right to life. However, Activity 2
sin increases through vandalism which lead to
property damage as well as loss of life.
•• Homosexuality: sin like homosexuality can Discussion
result in one losing his or her identity. This
In groups, discuss on the perceptions of sin in society and
implies that sin makes one to be unaware of his
ways of overcoming sin. Present your findings to the class.
or her identity as man or woman.
•• Stealing or robbery: it hinders economic
development as thieves will be stealing
important asserts which lead to social and
Summary of the unit
economic development. For example those •• Sin came into the world at creation and it
who steal electricity cables leads to economic was mainly caused by disobedience to God’s
stagnation. commandments.
•• Murder: killing is a sin which infringes on other •• Sin is the main reason why Jesus died on the cross.
people’s rights. This means that sin can result •• The origins of sin is traced to Adam and Eve.
in the violation of the right to life and this •• There are five types of sin in Christianity namely the
affects good citizenship since the mark of good original sin, sin of omission, sin of commission, sin
citizenship is seen by respecting life. of disbelief and sin of ignorance.
•• Prostitution: is a sin which leads to the spread •• The price of sin was paid by Jesus on the cross.
of diseases like STI’s as well as HIV and AIDS. •• Sin can be prevented by fellowship with Christ
A good citizen promotes the welfare of others •• Human beings were created to follow the
through proper human conduct. commandment of God but failed.
•• Today sin is caused by greediness, association with
Positive impact of sin on good citizenship
bad people as well as the needy to satisfy fleshly
Be that as it may, sin can positively build good citizenship. desires.
This is because: •• Sin can only be overcome through fasting, praying
and avoidance of people with sinful practices.
•• robbing/Stealing: it leads to self-enrichment
like Zacchaeus and this can promote social Revision Exercise
responsibility as one who become rich will assist
others, though this is debatable. Essay Questions
•• disobedience: awards people freedom of 1. Examine the Christian concept of sin and the causes of
expression. Freedom of expression is a feature sin today.
of good citizenship. 2. Compare and contrast the concept of sin from the Old
•• stealing and prostitution: it gives opportunities Testament and New Testament.
to the disadvantaged like women and the poor 3. To what extent does sin affect good citizenship?
as they can also survive through sin. 4. Critique various perceptions of sin in your society and
•• crimes: it allows punishment and rehabilitation ways of overcoming sin.
as those who commit crimes are jailed and 5. Discuss terms that are used to refer to sin in the New
are rehabilitated to become responsible good Testament.
citizens who are afraid of committing crime. 6. Evaluate various types of sin in the New Testament.
7. “Sin is caused by the devil in Christianity”. Assess the
validity of this assertion.
Activity 1 8. To what extent does sin violate human rights?
Research
TENETS OF CHRISTIANITY 13
TENETS OF CHRISTIANITY
Unit Salvation
3
Unit objectives and Greek languages contain a number of significant
cognitive words of salvation, which are synonymous to each
By the end of this unit, you should be able to: other. These terms are Nasal, Malat, Palat, Gaal, Hayah, Yasa,
Soteria and Sozo.
•• examine the concept of salvation in the New
Testament. Process of salvation in Christianity
•• analyse the different concepts of salvation across
denominations in Zimbabwe. Salvation in Christianity requires a simple process which
involves having faith in Jesus Christ that he died on the cross
for the remission of sin. This faith in Jesus Christ is seen by
Introduction repentance which leads to the forgiveness of sins. This then
leads to baptism of the believer who renounces sin and
This unit focuses on the Christian concept of salvation in
lives a Christ like life. One then has to live a life that pleases
the New Testament which is understood as the main theme
of biblical doctrines that is based on the redemptive acts God until judgement day. However salvation is not a human
revealed by God in the scriptures. It is this redemptive act effort but is given for free, it is given because of grace.
of God that sets Christians apart from other people who
Summary of the process of salvation
are non-believers. Christians uphold and emphasise the
importance of salvation through a statement of faith. One 1. Being called to salvation by God, the Father.
becomes a full member of Christianity after having declared 2. Proving that God does exist and that the Bible is his
her or his experience of salvation and living according to the written word put to print.
Holy Scriptures. The unit concludes by analysing the different 3. Believing in Jesus Christ and his perfect sacrifice.
concepts of salvation in some churches in Zimbabwe. 4. Repenting from violating God’s law.
5. Asking for forgiveness of sin and being baptised.
6. Receiving God’s spirit that transforms a person into a
Key words son of God.
7. Growing in the grace and knowledge of God’s truth,
Predicament – a difficult, unpleasant, or embarrassing
while overcoming the temptations of the flesh.
situation.
14 Unit 3: Salvation
3. Humanity should reflect God’s love. On the day of understanding of God’s saving acts of the Israelites.
judgement, people will be judged on the way they Soteria and sozo are two dominant Greek terms which are
related to their neighbours (Matthew 25: 31-36). frequently used to define the concept of salvation in the
4. Jesus showed God’s love (John14:6-7). New Testament. Both of these terms speak of salvation as
an inclusive act of God redeeming man from the penalty of
Jesus’ resurrection ushered in a new understanding of
sin and its consequences.
salvation of his death as the perfect sacrifice. It is God’s final
and decisive gift to humanity. His death is an act of suffering Salvation in the New Testament means liberation
in which he carried the consequences of human sin and
from sin (Romans 5:1 and 6:1-23)
took them away (2 Corinthians 5:21) and in the process has
reconciled people to himself. His death brings humanity to Sin enslaves people by making them live under the
a point of decision – believe and have salvation, reject and bondage of sin. Through the death of Christ on the cross,
face condemnation. The life and death of Jesus is seen as one is liberated from sin. Furthermore, baptism marks the
the activity of the one God entering into the sinful plight salvation of the Christian believer as all the sins are washed
of the world and bearing its painful consequences so that away. Sin has no power over the person who is liberated
believers might be delivered from its guilt and its power from sin and Christ rescues people from sin by making them
and share in the life of God himself (MacGrath, 2005: 333). righteous. The wages of sin is death and it is because of this
Romans 3:23 declares that ‘all have sinned and have fallen that salvation means freedom from sin.
short of the glory of God.’
Salvation also means deliverance from death
This for Christians means that all the people are sinners and
(Romans 8:1-8, 8:21)
therefore face judgement. The good news of the Christian
message lies in the fact that the same God is merciful Human beings were created to live forever but because of
and longs for the salvation of all, he has provided the way sin death came into the world. Romans 6:21 shows that the
of forgiveness and life in Jesus. In his resurrection, Jesus wages of sin is death, so it means that all people inherited
was exalted and therefore, became the Lord. Thus, to be this punishment of Adam. There was need for human
Christian is to make the confession “Jesus is Lord”. salvation to liberate him from eternal death. Christ through
his death managed to die for people who were supposed to
Salvation demonstrates a lot about the nature of
die. By so doing he gave life forever to humanity which had
God. Some of the key nature of God displayed by the probability of being destroyed by God.
salvation are:
Salvation also means deliverance from misery
1. It reveals the love of God. According to John 3:16, he
(Romans 7:24)
send his only begotten son to save people and this
demonstrates the love of God for his people. Because of sin human situation became miserable as he
2. Salvation is a manifestation of God’s grace. It shows lived under the context of perpetual suffering. Human
God’s unmerited favour as it is based on his grace beings had no joy and it is because if this that salvation
than works as compared to other religions of the means being saved from misery. Jesus lived a miserable life
world where works guarantee one of salvation. to redeem the miserable humanity. Furthermore, salvation
3. Salvation is a manifestation of God’s holiness. It comes means redemption from the curse of the law. The law
through the person and work of Christ because he is which was given through Moses created sin and so many
holy.
Christians tried to avoid sinning by following the law which
4. Salvation restores the broken relationship between
led human into slavery to the law. Christ came to free
God and humanity. The coming of sin into the world
people from the law. The law was just a custodian of the
alienated people from God but the coming of Christ
people before the coming of Christ but after the coming of
offered another chance for God to restore the broken
Christ the law was removed. This implies that salvation is
relationship.
liberation from the curse of the law.
Meaning of Salvation in the New Lastly, salvation also means forgiveness of sins (Colossians
Testament 1:14). Forgiveness of sins is salvation per se because without
forgiveness of sins one cannot get salvation. Salvation starts
The two concepts of salvation, soteria and sozo are
by forgiveness of sins.
dominant in the New Testament. The two terms play a
pivotal role in the understanding of salvation in the New
Testament. Salvation in the New Testament is modelled
after the Exodus deliverance and finds its roots in the
18 Unit 3: Salvation
Summary of the unit
•• Salvation has various meaning in Christianity.
•• Soteria is the common word used for salvation in the New Testament which means redemption or deliverance.
•• The concept of salvation is borrowed from the Jewish understanding of salvation.
•• Salvation is the answer to sin.
•• Jesus’ death on the cross marked the salvation process of those who believe in Him.
•• Salvation has led to the restoration of the relationship between humanity and God.
•• The meaning of salvation in Christianity has created several challenges to the understanding of the phenomena.
•• Salvation has a past, present and future meaning or implication.
•• Salvation in most prophetic ministries means liberation from poverty, illness and sin.
Revision Exercise
Essay Questions
1. Examine the salient features of salvation process and show the meaning of salvation to contemporary Christians.
2. Discuss the idea of salvation according to Christian understanding.
3. Assess the problems associated with the Christian soteriology in your society today.
4. To what extent does the Christian concept of Salvation shape moral behaviour?
5. “Salvation is based on faith and works.” How valid is this assertion?
6. Analyse terms that are used to refer to salvation in the New Testament.
TENETS OF CHRISTIANITY 21
TENETS OF CHRISTIANITY
4
Unit objectives proceeded from the Father. In other sense, the Holy Spirit
is a person in divine form. According to John 14:16, “and he
By the end of this unit, you should be able to: will give another Counsellor, to be with you…” The phrase
another Counsellor means that the Holy Spirit is a person
•• explain the concept of the Holy Spirit. just like Jesus and is like God. Bright (2006:4) says the Holy
•• explore the function of the Holy Spirit in Christianity. Spirit is a person, the third person of the Trinity: Father, Son
and Holy Spirit; He is not a vague, ethereal shadow, nor an
Introduction impersonal force. He is a person equal in every way with
the Father and the Son. All the divine attributes ascribed
The Holy Spirit is central to New Testament authors because to the Father and the Son are equally ascribed to the Holy
of its vital role it played in the early church up to the present. Spirit. Jesus often regarded the Holy Spirit as parakletos or
This unit deals with the concept of the Holy Spirit by defining Paraclete which means an encourager or comforter which
the Holy Spirit, explain the functions and importance of the requires to be a person. Furthermore, the Holy Spirit has
Holy Spirit as well as analysing its role in the New Testament.
such attributes like teaching, guiding, revealing, convicting,
The unit ends with a discussion on the role of the Holy Spirit
get angry, possessing rational mind and pacified which
in the contemporary churches in Zimbabwe.
makes the Holy Spirit more of a person.
5
Unit objectives which was used to apply to an assembly of citizens called
out for a particular purpose. According to Matthew 16:
By the end of this unit, you should be able to: 13-18 Jesus promised to build his church and therefore
the term church refers to those who are called out for the
•• explain the concept of the church. gospel. The church is a congregation of believers or an
•• draw conclusions from Acts and relevant epistles assembly of believers who assemble for a religious purpose.
about the origins and development of the early
Those who believe that Christ’s blood redeemed them from
church.
curses are believers and are the church. In Antioch they
This unit focuses on the concept of the Church that is derived The concept of the church in the New
from the Greek word Ekklesia which literally means to be Testament
“called out”. The unit explains the various meanings of the
The concept of the church is explained in various ways in
church as used in the New Testament. Furthermore, the unit
deals with the origins and development of the church by the New Testament. The New Testament use of ekklesia to
looking at the factors which hindered and aided the church, refer to the church. The word “ekklesia” is used in the NT in
the organisation of the church, key stages in the development several senses. Paul employs it with three levels of meaning:
of the church and how the problems of the church were 1. He could designate as a church the Christians who
solved. assembled in a particular place, a local congregation
(as in the house churches mentioned in Philemon 2
Key words and Col 4: 15).
2. He could refer to all the Christians in a city, such as
Baptism – the Christian religious rite of sprinkling water the church of the Thessalonians (1 Thess 1: 1). He
on to a person’s forehead or of immersing them in water, sometimes used the plural to include all the churches
in a region (1 Thess 2: 14, Gal 1:2).
symbolizing purification or regeneration and admission to
3. He could use the singular to refer to all Christians
the Christian Church.
everywhere (Gal 1:13).
Evangelism – the spreading of the Christian gospel by 4. The universal church seems to be meant in Matthew
public preaching or personal witness. 16:18 and the local church in Matthew 18:17. Jesus
referred to the church in Matthew 16:18, “And I tell
Persecution – hostility and ill-treatment, especially because you, you are Peter, and on this rock, I will build my
of race or political or religious beliefs; oppression. church and the powers of death shall not prevail
against it”. In this context Peter is regarded as the
The concept “church” foundation of the church. Soon after the death of
Jesus, Peter became the foundation of the church
As previous adumbrated, the term church is derived from
in Jerusalem as he was the pillar of the church until
the Greek term ecclesia which means an assembly of
the taking over by James the brother of the Lord.
believers and the term church began as a political term
TENETS OF CHRISTIANITY 25
He was the first Christian martyr who was stoned to death into the church was a negation of the grand plan of God
because of his strong belief in Christianity. The death of that salvation was not only confined to the Jews but to all
Stephen was a signal of the general persecution which was humanity.
to follow. His persecution was blessing in disguise.
The doctrine of the church was shaped by Paul especially
the requirements for one to be saved. Paul boldly stated
The death of Stephen opened a chapter of unprecedented
that salvation was based on faith, belief in Jesus Christ that
importance as it prevented the conversion of Christianity
he is the saviour and son of God. Orthodox Jews wanted
into one of the Jewish sects. Furthermore, his death
to influence Christian doctrine in a way that advanced
contributed to the success of the gospel instead of checking
the interests of Judaism thereby making Christianity a
it. Philip is the product of Christian scattering after the
carbon copy of Judaism. It was at the Jerusalem council
death of Stephen. The fleeing of Philip led to the spread of
that the trajectory of the Christian doctrine was shaped.
Christianity into areas that were despised by Jews, Samaria.
Believing that salvation was gained through the observance
The contribution of Paul to the early church of the Mosaic Law and circumcision was a fallacy and
misrepresentation of the Christian doctrine.
The success and growth of the church cannot be complete
without mention the contribution of Paul. Paul had a great The church was able to grow from being a small religion to
influence in the development of the church from being a a universal religion because of unity. Paul united the church
Jewish appendage to a distinct religion. His conversion, by the presentation he made at the Jerusalem council.
background, education and missionary activities all helped The shrewdness of Paul as a unifier is seen by admitting
in the mission of the early church. the recommendations that were made at the council.
Contentious issues that led to the Jerusalem council had the
The development of the church to become a universal
ability of causing permanent fissures in the early church. As
religion was done by Paul. It was through his tragic
such Paul united Jewish Christians and gentile Christians.
persecution of the church that led to the progress of the
Even in his missionary activities Paul condemned divisions
church instead of checking it. As a radical Jew taught under
like those that were happening at Corinth where the church
Gamaliel, Paul was a fervent Jew whose allegiance to the
was like a spiritual fan club. For Paul Christians are body
Jewish cultural and religious heritage was undoubted. He
parts of Christ and they function together.
was infuriated with the manner the Christian movement
was growing and he asked for a permission to kill all The missionary work of Paul led to the development of the
Christians. He was granted the permission and began to church. Christianity became a universal religion because of
persecute the church. Stephen was the victim of Paul’s the work done by Paul. He went to various places during the
persecution and his martyrdom due to persecution led to 1st missionary journey, second missionary journey and third
Christian dispersion. As Christians were running away from missionary journey. It was through these journeys that Paul
the Persecution which was done by Paul and other Jews, the established churches at Ephesus, Colossae, Corinth, Philippi,
Christian gospel went to places like Samaria. Thessalonica, Galatia and other places found throughout
the Roman Empire.
Miracle working is a contribution of Paul to the church.
He healed the seven sons of Sceva and he exorcised the Early church leaders as models of good
slave girl who had the spirit of divination (Acts 16:16). It
citizenship
was through his miracles that the church grew as a great
number of converts believed after seeing some acts of Good citizenship refers to law abiding dwellers of a country
wonder being performed by Paul. By performing miracles, and doing what is good for the nation as whole by the
it shows that Paul was now under the influence of the God resident of the country. It is within this context that early
and it justified that he was a new creature in Christ. Christian leaders who include Peter, Stephen, Paul and
others were examples of good citizenship. Below is an
The Gentile mission that was established by Peter was
exposition of how they were good citizens.
under threat from orthodox Jews who opposed the
admission of gentiles without following the Mosaic Law and A good citizen is law abiding and does not break the law
being circumcised first. It was Paul’s radical stance that saw, even if they are opportunities to do so. In Acts 16: 1-34, Paul
gentile mission being rubber stamped as the plan of God and Silas remained in prison when he was arrested and
with no human effort to stop it. At the Jerusalem council, put in prison despite the fact that prison was opened by an
Paul argued that gentiles were part of God’s grand plan angel. This is a mark of good citizenship because Paul did
of salvation and their reception of the Holy Spirit was a not want to portray himself and Christianity as subversive.
testimony of approval of gentiles into the church. As such
Non-retaliation is a feature of good citizenship which
forcing gentiles to become Jew first before being accepted
lead to peace settlement and avoidance of conflict. When
TENETS OF CHRISTIANITY 29
the language barrier, the limitation of language by and 6. Divisions
large was great challenge to the church. This is the reason
why many Jerusalem apostles were confined within the The church also faced the problem of divisions like at
parameters of Palestine and areas which required other the church of Corinth. There was factionalism related to
language was difficult to penetrate. Paul had an advantage the person who had propagated the gospel. Some who
of being well conversant with the native language and the were legalistic belonged to the Petrine party, those who
common language of the empire, Greek. This was caused by were liberal belonged to Paul, and the educated belonged
his educational background. to Apollos and others to Jesus. The church was now like
spiritual fan clubs and this affected the progress of the
4. Conflicts due to Gentile admission church.
The issue of gentile admission destabilised the church. Factors which aided the church
This emanated from the relevance of the Jewish law and
circumcision in the salvation process. It is one of the Issues 1. Holy Spirit
which led to the Jerusalem council, for it was a serious issue
The Holy Spirit is major factor which contributed to the
which threatened the unity of the church. At the centre
development of the church. Firstly, it removed the language
of this problem was the Jewish belief that the law and
barrier at Pentecost which enabled the apostle to preach
circumcision were prerequisite requirements for one to be
the word of God despite differences in languages among
a Christian. This was now a burden for Christians and it led
people who were found throughout the Roman Empire.
Paul to argue that the law was not necessary for human
Thus, the Holy Spirit empowered apostles to speak other
salvation but faith was important. Thus, there was no need
languages. Secondly it removed fear among apostles who
to restrict gentiles from joining the church. The death of
were hiding in an upper room in Jerusalem and after the
Christ had broken barriers to salvation.
reception of the Holy Spirit apostles could go outside the
5. Heresies room and start preaching the word of God. It gave courage
to the apostles to proclaim the gospel without fear like
The church met the challenge to its beliefs which was as a what Stephen did during his martyrdom. It also disciplined
result of heresies. There were heresies such as stoicism, believers as well as solving church disputes. All these
Gnosticism and Epicureanism. They claimed that one contributed to the growth of the church. The Holy Spirit
has to acquire a certain kind of knowledge. The thrust of was the heartbeat of the church, the soul of the church and
Gnosticism as a heresy was centred on hidden knowledge engine of the church without which the church would have
which is believed that the material world is evil and they encountered a still birth.
rejected the incarnation of Christ. Furthermore, they also
believe that certain angelic powers had control over human 2. Persecution
lives and these angels needed to be worship. Heresies
Although persecution was bad in that it led to the
taught that acquiring secret knowledge was key to salvation.
elimination of believers, it also led to the development
There were also some heresies coming from Jews which
of the church through Christian dispersion. Christian
advocated for the observance of special days, Jewish law
dispersion is the fleeing of Christians from the place
and circumcision. There was a lot of idol worship which also
of residence to other places for security reasons. The
threatened the church. Everett Ferguson (1993) notes that
martyrdom of Stephen led to massive Christian dispersion
the deeply ingrained religious beliefs and practices in both
as Christians fled from Jerusalem to other places where they
Greece and Rome were associated with the traditional
proclaimed and witnessed Jesus as the saviour. This was
civil cult. The state both funded and profited by these cults.
after Saul who was later named Paul became overzealous
Each city had its patron deity. For example, Ephesus (Acts as a radical Jew exterminate all believers because they
19) was associated with Artemis, the goddess of nature were opposing the Jewish tradition which they represented.
and childbirth. Deities such as Artemis were honoured with There was great persecution in Jerusalem which led many
festivals, prayers and sacrifices. Presence of such belief believers to flee to other places. One Christian who fled
system hindered growth and development of the church. away from this persecution was Philip the deacon who
The idolatrous nature of the city of Ephesus made it difficult went to Samaria where he continued to witness Jesus as the
for Paul to preach within the city. risen Christ. By so doing it led to the spread of Christianity
to places outside Jerusalem thereby justifying the great
All this threatened the church as it jeopardised the position
commission made by Jesus.
of Christ in the salvation of mankind.
TENETS OF CHRISTIANITY 31
3. Sharing of property Stages in the growth of Christianity
The church required believers who were selfless who could
sponsor church activities through the selling of personal
property for the benefit of the church. Ananias and Saphira
sold their property for the benefit of the church. However,
they were dishonest as they kept some of the proceeds
which were meant to benefit the church for themselves.
They were punished by the Holy Spirit. Barnabas also sold
his field for the benefit of the church. This funding helped
in the development of the church as the required economic
support for it to grow.
4. Pax Romana
Discussion
In groups, compare the New Testament concept of the church to contemporary understandings of the church. Present your
findings to the class.
Activity 3
Research
Research on the challenges associated with the mission of the church in society. Present your findings to the class.
Revision Exercise
Essay Questions
TENETS OF CHRISTIANITY 37
TENETS OF CHRISTIANITY
Unit Eschatology
6
Unit objectives Realised eschatology
The eschatological message of Jesus did not refer to a future
By the end of this unit, you should be able to:
event, but the present time. The term realised eschatology
•• explain eschatology. stresses the present salvation being received in the present
•• examine biblical view of the last things. life. Thus, entry into the “Kingdom” is not a future event; it
•• develop a logical view of death and life after death. transcends time. Those who accept God’s word are already
in the Kingdom. Living in the right way and aiming to
Rapture – transport of a believer from earth to heaven at The coming of Christ led to the realisation of his kingdom
the Second Coming of Christ. as he performed several miracles and cast out demons to
show that the kingdom of God is a present reality. Jesus
The concept of eschatology even testified that the “kingdom of God is in the midst of
you” which means that eschatology is a present reality.
The term eschatology is a term that is derived from the
According to John 5:24, Colossians 1:13 and Luke 17:21, the
Greek word eschaton or eschatah meaning last things and
Kingdom of God has already been inaugurated and anyone
about the end (telos). The crux of the matter of the New
who believes in Christ is already in the Kingdom of God. It
Testament is about the end of time. Everything points to
is because of this, Dodd argued that the Kingdom of God is
the end and the main objective of human history is to reach
a present reality rather than a future event. As such, any
the end. Eschatology is seen in ambivalent way as it means
reference to a future based eschatology is to be interpreted
judgement on one end and salvation on the other end.
symbolically, not as physical events.
Stagg (1962) states that human history is moving towards
one going when judgement and salvation will be brought to The Kingdom of God is not a physical place and being in
consummation. Eschatology is associated with judgement, ‘the Kingdom’ is not a promise of a place in Heaven but
resurrection of the dead, the second coming of Jesus and a moral attitude, living in the right way in the present life
inauguration of the New Kingdom. thereby making eschatology a present reality. Those who
38 Unit 6: Eschatology
the context of the resurrection of the saints: “Behold, I tell and it recognizes a fundamental theological
you a mystery; we shall not all sleep, but we shall all be distinction between Israel and the church.
changed, in a moment in the twinkling of an eye, at the last
trumpet; for the trumpet will sound and the dead will be
raised imperishable, and we shall be changed”. The word Activity 1
translated changed in this verse is the Greek verb allasso,
meaning to change the form or nature of a thing.
Research
It is connected with resurrection. Rapture and resurrection
are very closely related, yet still completely separate Conduct a research on the view of Pentecostal churches on
and distinct concepts. Therefore, Jesus’ resurrection and eschatology.
ascension (rapture) at the beginning of the Church Age,
is the type, model, or precedent for the resurrection and
Rapture of His Body (the Church) at the end of the Church Activity 2
Age.
In groups, compare the Christian view of death and the
9. Secret rapture here-after with similar concepts in society. Present your
findings to the class.
The rapture belief makes the Second Coming of Christ to
be seen as a two-stage affair. The rapture is the secret
snatching away of the Church prior to the Tribulation to
Summary of the unit
complete its task of bringing in the great final tribulation.
This secret catching-away will cause the disappearance of •• Eschatology is a key feature of Christian belief and
millions of Christians who will vanish and meet the waiting expectation.
Christ in the clouds. In so doing, they will avoid the ‘Great •• Eschatology is a concept that is borrowed from the
Tribulation’ which would follow their disappearance. Old Testament where the Jews expected the day of
the Lord in which Israel was going to be uplifted
Assuming that the rapture begins the Parousia, several
above other nations.
characteristics important in the discussion the history of the •• Eschatology is associated with judgement,
rapture should be noted. resurrection of the dead, the second coming of
•• The coming of Christ at the rapture is imminent, Jesus and inauguration of the New Kingdom.
in the sense that he will come any moment. •• Matthew’s parables are about eschatology.
Though there are no signs for the rapture, there •• Paul anticipated eschatology to happen in his life
are signs of the second coming to follow and time.
these may appear before the rapture. Phil 3:20- •• Eschatology is also marked by the resurrection of
21; 1 Thess 1:10; 4:16; Titus 2:13; Jas 5:7-9 the body.
•• The coming of Christ at the rapture is literal and
Revision Exercise
visible. Rev 1:7 states “Every eye shall see Him.”
•• The coming of Christ at the rapture is for all Essay Questions
church saints, deceased or living. First Thess
1. Discuss the concept of eschatology as used in the
4:14, 17 and 1 Cor 15:51 record the order of this
Gospels and Pauline letters.
great event.
2. Examine the key features of eschatology.
•• This coming of Christ occurs before the
3. Examine the Christian view of life after death.
outpouring of the great trial upon the earth.
A literal translation of Rev 3:10 states that the 4. Compare eschatology as presented in 1 Thessalonian
believer is kept in “a continuing state outside of” 4 and 1 Corinthians 14.
the hour of testing upon the earth. 5. “Eschatology deals with the last things”. Discuss.
•• This coming of Christ is premillennial, that
is, before Christ returns to fight the battle of
Armageddon and set up the 1,000-year kingdom,
and judge unbelievers. First Cor 15:23-24 along
with Dan 12:1-2 places the coming of Christ
before these events.
•• This coming of Christ assumes a literal, normal
hermeneutic in the interpretation of Scripture,
TENETS OF CHRISTIANITY 41
JESUS’ LIFE
Unit Birth
7
Unit objectives secret. He did not want Jesus to be known as the Messiah.
Furthermore, the main purpose of the narrative of omission
By the end of this unit, you should be able to: was to make readers understand that Jesus’ Messiahship is
not defined by his birth or his family background but by his
•• examine the birth narratives in the gospels. ministry which begins with his baptism. This is the reason
•• investigate challenges associated with the birth of why Mark omitted the birth narratives of Jesus. Jesus’ role
Jesus.
as the messiah is defined by his mission which his followers
should emulate rather than his birth.
Introduction Matthew, in stark contrast to Mark’s “narrative of omission”
This unit focuses on analysing the birth narratives found begins his account with an elaborate genealogy that places
in the gospel. It gives reasons why the birth narratives are Jesus as an ancestor of King David and Abraham as the
found in Matthew and Luke. The unit further discusses the king and great ancestors of the Jews. Here already Matthew
challenges associated with the birth narratives like the place shows his special interest of showing Jesus as a Jewish
of birth, date of birth as well as the virginal conception. Messiah and the intended audience for his Gospel are Jews
The unit concludes by giving the possible solutions to the as well who would accept his view that Jesus is the king of
challenges associated with the birth narratives. the Jews. He is writing to the Jews and presents Jesus as a
King, better than David and a teacher greater than Moses.
Key words Matthew’s birth narratives focus on the role of Joseph, who
is “a just man” in Matthew’s words of this event. Joseph is
Genealogy – a line of descent traced continuously from an
contrasted with Herod, an unjust and wicked ruler. Matthew
ancestor.
takes great care to show how the birth event of Jesus fulfils
Universalism – the belief that all humankind will eventually prophecies made in the Old Testament and makes use of
be saved. these prophecies to present Jesus as a governor, the ruler of
Israel, a prince and as God’s Son.
Birth narratives in the gospels It is in Matthew accounts like the wise men that came to
The gospel according to Mark was the first gospel to be worship, bringing gifts fit for a king; the murderous acts of
written but it records nothing concerning the birth of Jesus. the bad king Herod; records the journey of the holy family
Mark starts his gospel with the baptism of Jesus and the to and back from Egypt (in no small part to illustrate how
birth narrative are absent from his gospel. The removal Jesus’ life mirrors that of the people of Israel); and of the
of the birth narratives by Mark is what is known as the angels who in dreams direct Joseph are found. Matthew, in
narrative of omission. It was done for a specific purpose to his powerful birth account, presents Jesus as the fulfilment
suit Mark’s purpose of writing his gospel. of the Old Testament prophecies and presence Jesus as the
King of the Jews who has been given all authority in Heaven
The “narrative of omission” by Mark serves the unique
and Earth. He is Emmanuel which means God with us.
purpose of Mark’s Gospel of maintaining the messianic
42 Unit 7: Birth
JESUS’ LIFE
Unit Baptism
8
Unit objectives term baptism is derived from the verb baptein which means
to dip. So, baptism means to be dipped in water, one has
By the end of this unit, you should be able to: to be immersed in water. In the New Testament, it is used
in its proper sense which means to dip in Luke 16:24 and
•• explain the rite of baptism in the New Testament. John 13:26. So baptism refers to the physical immersion of
•• assess the significance of baptism to Jesus, the early the body in water. The mode of baptism that is advanced by
church and Christians today.
the New Testament is that of the immersion of the body in
water.
Introduction Origin of baptism
Baptism is one of the most Christian rites which marks the
Many Christians argue that baptism by immersion is traced
change of a person from old personality to new personality.
back to the period of John the Baptist though the practice
In this unit, the origins of the rite of baptism is explained,
which was inherited from Judaism. Christianity cannot be
the baptism of Jesus is also discussed together with the
understood in isolation from Judaism and it is because of
reasons why Jesus was baptised. Forms of baptism in the
this that Christianity is an offshoot of Judaism that was
contemporary are also explained. The unit concludes by
cradled in Judaism. John the Baptist adopted the Jewish
exploring the significance of baptism to Jesus, the early
proselyte baptism and transformed it to be a new Christian
church and the Christians today.
rite. As a matter of fact, there are many Jewish illustrations
of baptism which were regarded as ritual cleansing (Isaiah
Key words 1:16, Ezekiel 36:25).
JESUS’ LIFE 47
1. Immersion of the old sinful nature and live a new life. One dies of the
old self and resurrects with the new look.
Immersion is the most popular form of baptism that is used
in churches today. By definition, immersion is the process The significance of baptism to Christians
of being deepened in water for the cleansing of sins. It is today
usually done in rivers, dams and in some urban churches in
swimming pools or fish ponds. The churches that use this Baptism is an important Christian rite which is done
form of baptism include the Seventh Day Adventist Church, for several reasons like washing away of sins, sign of
Apostolic Faith mission, Johanne Masowe Apostolic Church repentance, it enables one to be the member of the church
and ZAOGA FIF among other churches. Immersion is the and it strengthens one to overcome sin. This section will
original form of baptism which was used by John the Baptist deal with importance of baptism as a Christian rite.
to baptise Jesus in river Jordan (Matthew 3:13-17). However,
1. Cleansing of sins
on this form of baptism there is confusion on how many
times is one supposed to be deepened in water. Some deep The importance of baptism is that it cleanses one of his or
once in water as a symbol of death and resurrection of her own sins. Christians believe that through baptism one
Christ while other deep three times to symbolise the Father is symbolically cleansed of his or her sins. The immersion in
(God), the Son (Jesus) and the Holy spirit. Jesus was baptised water is way of washing away sins from a believer as water
by John the Baptist to show that he was to die and resurrect. can cleanse sin. After baptism one is no longer a sinner
but a new pure person free from sin. It is after baptism
2. Use of anointing oil on the forehead that one is allowed to participate in the Eucharist or Holy
Use of anointing oil is a form of baptism in churches today. Communion a rite which requires purity which comes
For example, in PHD ministries people are being baptised through baptism.
using oil to cleanse sins. The sign of a cross is drawn in the 2. It enables total repentance
forehead and one is proclaimed to have been baptised. In
most cases this form of baptism is used privately especially Baptism turns the person who has been baptised into a
on those who are bed ridden. This makes baptism private new person and this leads to total repentance. A mark of
instead of being public. repentance begins with baptism. For example, if a person
was evil, the day he is baptised is the day he or she is
3. Pouring or sprinkling of water regarded as a person who had repented from evil.
Because of non-availability of running water due to physical 3. Participation in church activities
and climatic factors, baptism in the modern church can
be done in form of pouring a cup of water or sprinkling of For one to be identified as a member of a Christian
water. For example, in the Roman Catholic Church they community one has to be baptised. It is this baptism which
use dishes and cups of water to baptise people. Water is enables one to participate in church activities like the Holy
poured on the head and this contradicts the example set Communion as well as holding an office in the church.
by Jesus that one has to be immersed in water. Cleansing of Baptism therefore makes the person a full participant of all
sins is done to the whole body since the whole body will be activities organised by the church and within the church.
destroyed on judgement day. The head is part of the body
4. Overcoming the devil
and to pour water on the head seems to imply that the head
is the only sinful part of the human body. Furthermore, Through baptism one is strengthened to overcome the
the definition of baptism is to be deepened in water and devil. Jesus was baptised to overcome the devil because
pouring of water on the head directly contradicts the whole soon after his baptism he was led into the wilderness to be
essence and meaning of baptism. tempted by the devil.
50 Unit 8: Baptism
•• It is a public confirmation of forgiveness of sins.
•• It indicates that a believer accepts to be a member of Christian community.
Activity 1
Discussion
In groups, discuss the significance of the baptism of Jesus. Present your findings to the class.
Activity 2
Discussion
In groups, critique various forms of baptism in the different churches in Zimbabwe today. Of what significance are those
different forms of baptism? Present your findings to the class.
Revision Exercise
Essay Questions
JESUS’ LIFE 51
JESUS’ LIFE
9
Unit objectives It is in Jerusalem that his mission would end.
Passion narratives are written stories on the suffering and Interpretation of the passion narratives
death of Jesus. The term passion comes from the Latin word
“patior/passus” which means suffering. Passion narratives The passion narratives begin with the triumphal entry (Mark
reflect the climax of events in the life and ministry of Jesus 11:1, Matthew 21:1, Luke 19:28). It is of interest that the
because they deal with Jesus’ suffering and death. This unit passion narratives are arranged in order and they have a
focuses on the passion narratives of Jesus by analysing the deeper meaning.
passages as well as explaining differences in the passion
narratives as presented by the gospels.
Arrangement of the passion narratives
Unit Resurrection
10
Unit objectives says the experience of the resurrection was the focal point
in Christianity for the followers of Jesus. After the Jesus’
By the end of this unit, you should be able to: death, he resurrected and appeared to his disciple to
strengthen the faith of his followers as well as to prove his
•• interpret the resurrection narratives. divinity. According to 1 Corinthians 15:14, “If Christ has not
•• evaluate the evidence for the resurrection of Jesus. been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith
is in vain…” Without the resurrection of Christ, they would
Introduction not have been the gospel, no history of the apostles and no
history of the church. The resurrection of Christ is important
The resurrection of Jesus is the foundation of Christian for Christians because it authenticate Christian faith and
faith without which the basis of Christian faith is eroded. history. However, the historical reliability of the resurrection
As such, the thrust of this unit is to explain and interpret stories is questionable. The resurrection tradition is open
the resurrection narratives as presented in the gospels. to deep analysis to arrive at a conclusion whether it was
Firstly the unit discusses the concept of resurrection as well
authentic or not. Spivey says, “Its realistic quality allows for
as analysing the resurrection theories. The nature of the
and demands historical investigation”.
resurrection tradition in New Testament writings will also be
presented. In conclusion the unit ends with an evaluation Resurrection theories
of the evidence of the resurrection of Jesus as well as
discussing the importance of resurrection and explain how There are several theories which tries to explain the
contemporary Christians commemorate Jesus’ resurrection. resurrection of Jesus. These theories include the swoon
or resuscitation theory, the hallucination theory,
impersonation theory the theft theory and the unknown
Key words tomb theory.
JESUS’ LIFE 57
visited the tomb and then Peter and the beloved resurrection stories historically questionable
disciple. Peter was not alone when he visited the because of the nature of Christ’s resurrection.
empty tomb.
•• In Mark and Matthew, Jesus appeared to the Reasons why Jesus first appeared to his
disciples in Galilee but in Luke and John, Jesus disciples
appeared to the disciples in Jerusalem.
•• Paul’s tradition reports that when Jesus When Jesus resurrected from the dead, he first appeared
resurrected, he appeared to the five hundred to his disciples. The reasons why he appeared first to his
people and James but in the gospels, there is no disciples are because Jesus wanted to fulfil what he had
such event. said, to strengthen the faith of the disciples, to reassure the
•• Mark and Matthew do not report the eating of disciples of the kingdom of God, to give the final orders to
Jesus and the disciples but Luke and John report the disciples and to prove that he was the risen Christ.
that.
•• According to Luke, Jesus disappeared from the 1. Jesus wanted to fulfill what he had said
sight of the two disciples on the way to Emmaus
Jesus promised his disciples that they would see him after
but other gospel writers do not report such
his resurrection. It is within this context that Jesus first
incident.
appeared to his disciples to fulfil what he had promised
•• Both Luke and John report that Jesus passed
his disciples. The disciples were to be the first witnesses of
through closed doors but other writers do no
Jesus’ resurrection.
report that.
2. To strengthen the faith of the disciples
The challenges associated with the
historicity of the resurrection of Jesus The death of Jesus left the disciples in quandary and their
faith in Jesus was also tested. Resurrection of Jesus and his
Although the resurrection of Jesus was an article of faith appearance was to cement the faith of the disciples since
in the Christian community, the resurrection of Jesus is his death wavered their faith. Thus, Jesus first appeared
associated with several problems. Its historical authenticity to the disciples to reinvigorate the faith of the disciples in
and verifiability are of great doubt because of several order to make them ready for the mission that was at hand
factors which make resurrection a centre of debate among of preaching the word of God for the salvation of many
modern historians and theologians. For some scholars the people.
resurrection of Jesus from the dead is the best attested
fact in human history for it is the foundation of Christian 3. To reassure the disciples of the kingdom of God
beliefs. However, there are some challenges associated with
The ministry of Jesus was centred on the kingdom of God
the resurrection of Jesus as a historical event and these
and part of the kingdom of God involve it as a future event.
challenges include:
The first step towards establishment of the kingdom of God
•• The event was only witnessed by his disciples. as a future event was the death and resurrection of Jesus
It should be noted that only people who Christ. It is because of this reason that Jesus first appeared
were close to Jesus claim that indeed Jesus to his disciples after his resurrection to reassure the
resurrected. There are no outside witnesses disciples that the kingdom of God was imminent. According
to this event. Furthermore, the disciples of
to Acts 1: 3 “To them he presented himself alive after his
Jesus, both male and female disciples did not
passion by many proofs, appearing to them during forty
actually see Jesus resurrecting but only saw
days and speaking of the kingdom of God”. The appearance
the empty tomb. There is also the possibility
of Jesus to the disciples was not only a proclamation of the
of hallucination on the part of these disciples.
kingdom of God but also a guarantee for the kingdom of
Thus, this is a challenge because no one outside
God for those who believe in Jesus.
the inner circle of Jesus witnessed it and the
appearance stories are also limited to his
4. To give the final orders to the disciples
disciples. This makes the whole event historically
flawed because history has to be verified with The death of Jesus came at a time when Jesus had not yet
different witnesses to the event. Here only one informed his disciples of what they were supposed to do
witness, the disciple is the key witness of the after his death. Thus, Jesus first appeared to his disciple
resurrection event. in order to give his final orders to them. The disciples met
•• The other challenge is on the resurrected body. with Jesus on the mountain that he had directed them to
Jesus is said to have entered the closed doors
meet him (Matthew 28:16). Part of the final order given to
and also ate with the disciples. This makes the
the disciples was the great commission, “All authority in
JESUS’ LIFE 61
groups the millenniast, post millenniast and pre-millenniast. the end of life but the beginning of life that is eternal.
A millenniast believe that Jesus will return to earth and Physical death is not the termination of human existence
at that time resurrection of the dead happens along with but a perpetuation of human eternal existence. Through
the establishment of the new heaven and new earth while resurrection, God demonstrate that he has power to
the post millenniast believe that there will be a millennial reanimate the human body. Christ is the first fruit of
age, a thousand years in which Christians reigns with resurrection and those who follow Christ are the seeds of
God. At the end of the one thousand years, Christ return this fruit.
and resurrection takes place for the dead Christians.
Pre-millennialists believe that resurrection occurs when 5. It proves the divinity of Christ
Christ returns to earth. Following Christ’s return there will Resurrection shows the divinity of Jesus. The fact that Jesus
be a millennial age in which Christ reigns on earth for one conquered death shows his divine nature. Jesus is not only
thousand years and at the end of time, the resurrection of human as demonstrated by his life but he is also a divine
believers will occur. This will lead to new heaven and earth being. Furthermore, the resurrection of Christ shows the
that will be established. intention of God with human life that he did not intend to
make human beings die but to live life forever. The events
The importance of Jesus’ resurrection
in the Garden of Eden which led to the pronouncement of
Resurrection is central to Christian belief as it rises claims death upon humanity is not final. It is reversed with the
of Jesus’ divinity and various doctrines of Salvation. It coming of Jesus.
is the most important concept for Christians because it
establishes an important truth. It demonstrates the power 6. It gives hope for dying Christians that they will
of God and his intention on human life. If there is no rise again
resurrection of Jesus, then Christianity as religion becomes
Lastly, the resurrection of Jesus gives hope for the dying
a hoax.
Christians that they will rise again. This helps in cementing
1. It proves that Jesus is the son of God the faith of Christians as they believe that death is only an
event which leads to a transition which enables them to
Firstly, the resurrection of Jesus is one of the main proofs live for eternity. The resurrection proves that those who
that Jesus is the son of God. This is supported by Paul when trust in Christ will not be subject in eternity to a half-human
he affirms that, “designated son of God in power according existence in just their souls. It proves that our bodies will be
to the spirit of holiness by his resurrection from the dead…” resurrected one day. Because of the resurrection of Christ,
(Romans 1:4). believers will one day experience, forever, the freedom of
having a glorified soul and body.
2. It acts as an assurance of the forgiveness of sins
The resurrection of Christ presents assurance of forgiveness 7. T
he resurrection of Christ proves that God will
of sins of humanity. According to 1 Corinthians 15:17 “If judge the world one day
Christ has not been raised then faith is futile and you are
The resurrection of Jesus proves that he will judge the
still in your sins”. The resurrection of Jesus Christ gives
world. Thus, the resurrection of Jesus is the proof that Jesus
hope for the forgiveness of sins of the people. Without
is God’s agent for judgement (Acts 2:24).
resurrection there is no divine guarantee of forgiveness of
sins. 8. The resurrection of Christ provides genuine
3. I t demonstrates that the kingdom of God is hope for eternal life
governed by Christ This is because Jesus says those who trust in Him will be
forgiven of their sins and thereby escape being condemned
Unlike Islam where Muhammad did not resurrect,
at the judgment. The New Testament answers the main
Christianity views resurrection as demonstrating that the
question why Jesus resurrected from the dead. He
kingdom of God is ruled by a living Christ who rose from
resurrected to save sinners. The penalty for sins was to be
the dead. This is affirmed by Revelations 1:17-18 which says
paid through death.
“I am the first and last, the living one and I was dead and
behold I am alive for evermore.” Ways in which Christians commemorate
4. It proves that death marks the transition into the resurrection of Christ
another state (a) Easter holiday
The resurrection of Christ also proves that death is not Jesus’ resurrection is celebrated through Easter holiday
JESUS’ LIFE 63
especially on Sunday a day which Jesus rose from the dead. •• There are theories which explain the resurrection of
For them Easter Sunday demonstrates that Jesus had victory Jesus as a non-historical event.
over death and this marked the beginning of a new hope of •• The resurrection theories are flawed since they fail
living in eternity when Christ returns. to account for the empty tomb and appearance
stories.
(b) Sunday •• The empty tomb and the resurrection appearances
form strong evidence of Jesus’ resurrection.
Most Christians worship on Sunday because they
•• The resurrection of Jesus is in both physical and
believe that Jesus rose from the dead a Sunday. As such,
spiritual form since he ate and passed through
worshipping on a Sunday is not only a sign of reverence to closed doors respectively.
Christ but also a way of remembering that Jesus resurrected •• The resurrection narratives are the center of
from the dead. Christian faith.
•• Christian celebrate the resurrection of Jesus
(c) Holy Communion
through Easter holiday and Holy Communion.
Participation in Holy Communion is also another way used
Revision Exercise
by Christians to remember the death as well as resurrection
of Christ. The Holy Communion is an event in which Essay Questions
Christians participate in Jesus’ death and resurrection.
1. “The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of
(d) Baptism Christian faith.” Assess the validity of this statement.
2. Critically analyse the resurrection narratives in the
Baptism in Christianity symbolise death and resurrection gospels and Pauline letters.
of Jesus. So, by being baptised Christians will also be 3. “The resurrection of Christ is a non-historical event”.
remembering the resurrection of Christ as they die to the Discuss.
old self and rise with the new self, that is, the new life in 4. Analyse various theories on the resurrection of Jesus.
Christ. 5. Discuss reasons why Jesus resurrected.
6. “The resurrection of Jesus is the foundation of
Christian heritage”. Discuss.
Activity 1
Research
Activity 2
Discussion
11
Unit objectives work of the Kingdom. Jesus rarely speaks of God as a king
but as a father. Therefore, the concept is a family one.
By the end of this unit, you should be able to: The emphasis given by Jesus on this concept is that God
•• explain the meaning of the Kingdom of God from the has the moral character. If one has to be the member of
gospels. the kingdom, he had to be the child of God. Therefore, what
•• examine the dimensions of the Kingdom of God. binds the kingdom together binds the family together. This
binding thing is none other than love, it is the fibre which
keeps the family together.
Introduction
Origin of the idea of the kingdom of God
The concept of the Kingdom of God is central to Jesus’
ministry and as such this unit seeks to explain the origins of It started off with the promise of God to Abraham when he
the concept and the meaning of the concept of the kingdom entered into a covenant with Abraham, “you are a chosen
of God as presented in the gospels. Furthermore, the unit race…” (Genesis 2:17-18). From this verse, Israel became the
also discusses Jesus’ understanding of the kingdom of God by kingdom of God, a theocracy. Isaiah 9: 2-7 and 16:5 speaks
evaluating the sayings and accounts of Jesus on the kingdom in similar terms. Jeremiah on his new covenant also speaks
of God. Various dimensions of the kingdom of God will be of the kingdom of God which is available to all.
identified and explained in this unit. The unit concludes with
an analysis of how the kingdom of God is central to Jesus’ The kingdom of God is also not a contrast to the kingdom of
ministry. heaven. The phrase kingdom of heaven is used by Matthew
about thirty times. The “Kingdom of God” is prevalent in
Luke and Mark. The use of Kingdom of heaven by Matthew
Key words shows that he was influenced by Jewish background which
prohibited the use of the name God. Jews used terms like
Apocalyptic – describing or prophesying the complete
“Almighty”, “Blessed one” as well as “Holy one” and it is
destruction of the world.
possibly the reason why Matthew used the term “kingdom
Servitude – the state of being a slave or completely subject of heaven” than “Kingdom of God.”
to someone more powerful. The term “kingdom of heaven” is not only a Jewish coinage
but could also mean that the kingdom was not coming from
Theocracy – a system of government in which priests’ rule
earth but from heaven that is above. The coming of the
in the name of God.
kingdom from heaven above is coming as a gift from God.
The concept of the kingdom of God Therefore, no human effort can pull it down. The kingdom
is the will of God, the will of the father. This will of the
The Kingdom of God is quite often on the lips of Jesus. Jesus father will come from the heaven above and it will be done
used it as a figurative speech and the concept is a religious on earth as explained by the Lord’s Prayer, “Thy kingdom
one without political and economic interpretation. Jesus come”.
himself was the King and therefore all his work was the
MINISTRY OF JESUS 65
that God had already defeated the devil by sending his son Matthew, twenty times in Mark and forty times in Luke as
on earth. It is because of this that the Kingdom of God is well as five times in John. Kingdom of God and kingdom
interpreted as the past event. of heaven are equivalent expressions which occurs about
eighty times which shows the centrality of the concept in
2. Present reality Jesus’ ministry.
Jesus’ mission and message testify that the Kingdom of Miracles of Jesus opine that the kingdom of God is central
God is a present reality. There are several passages which to Jesus ministry. The miracles which he performed show
refer to this Kingdom as a present reality. In Jesus’ miracles that the devil’s kingdom is displaced and Jesus is ushering
of exorcism, the spirit of God at work shows that the in a new kingdom. Diseases and various ailments in people
kingdom’s presence. In Matthew 12:28 and Luke 11:20 says in the New Testament are attributed to the devil and when
“the Kingdom of God has come upon you”. In Luke 17:20, Jesus healed the sick, he was simply demonstrating that the
the Kingdom is said to be in the midst of the people which kingdom of God was in the midst of the people. Miracles
is indicative of the kingdom of God as a present reality. represent the eruption of the kingdom of God.
Furthermore, during his commission of the seventy, the
The parables of Jesus prove that the kingdom of God is
disciples are instructed to heal and exorcise people as a sign
central to Jesus teaching. Jesus used figurative language
of the presence of a new Kingdom which had overthrown
to proclaim the kingdom of God. Dean Inge argues that
that of the devil. Spivey (2013) states that, his parables,
parables compare the known and the unknown which is the
exorcisms and miracles indicate the present irruption
kingdom of God. Jesus used known stories to explain the
of the kingdom of God. Jesus is presented stressing the
kingdom of God. The kingdom of God is represented in the
immediacy of God’s power and will, demanding ethical
parables. In Luke 16:2 the kingdom of God is present as a
behaviour in the light of the kingdom’s imminence and
present reality, “the kingdom of God is amongst you”.
insisting that every encounter of man’s life is in reality an
encounter with God and a demand for decision and ethical Jesus encouraged repentance to show that the Kingdom
response (Hayes 353). of God is central to his ministry. Matthew 4:17, from the
time Jesus began to preach, saying “Repent for the kingdom
3. Future event of Heaven is at hand”. It is clear that from the beginning
The kingdom of God has futuristic emphasis which is quite of Jesus’ ministry, the kingdom of God and his gospel are
overwhelming in the gospels. It is an event that happens in intertwined. Those who repent and be baptised enter the
the future. The Lord’s Prayer testifies this, “our father who kingdom of God.
art in heaven…. thy kingdom come” (Matthew 6:10, Luke The commission of the twelve (Matthew 9:35) also indicate
11:2). Furthermore, after his confession at Caesarea Philippi, that the kingdom of God is central to Jesus’ teaching
Jesus told his disciples that some amongst his disciples and ministry. “Jesus went about all the cities and villages
were not going to enter into the kingdom of God that was to teaching in their synagogues and preaching the gospel of
come (Mark 9:1, Matthew 16:28, Luke 9:27). The last supper the kingdom and healing the sick and every disease among
also supports the idea of the Kingdom of God as a future the people”. This reflects that the kingdom of God was on
event when Jesus said, “Truly, I say to you, I shall not drink the lips of Jesus in his proclamation of the gospel.
again of the fruit of this vine until that day when I drink it
new in the Kingdom of God” (Mark 14:25, Matthew 26:29, The Sermon on the Mount which is more of an ethical
Luke 22:18). The kingdom of God is associated with the end teaching is centred on the kingdom of God. Matthew 5:3
of time (eschatology) that is, the Parousia, tribulations of the says, “Blessed are the poor in spirit for theirs is the kingdom
last days and the impending judgement. This points to the of heaven”. Practical Christianity which is being presented
kingdom of God as a future event. by the sermon shows that entrance of the kingdom of God
requires humility and other virtues.
The Kingdom of God as central to the The private meeting between Jesus and his disciples is
ministry of Jesus centred on the kingdom of God. According Matthew 18:3,
“Truly I say to you, unless you turn and become like children,
The concept of the Kingdom is at the heart of Jesus’ ministry
young will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever
as his teachings, miracles, parables and daily activities were
humbles himself like this child, he is the greatest in the
always pointing to the Kingdom of God. Hayes states that
kingdom of heaven”.
the idea of the kingdom of God was central the central
element in the preaching of Jesus. There is no event which His prayer also stresses on the kingdom of God. According
does not link up to the kingdom of God in Jesus ministry. to Matthew 6:9-13, “Our father who art in heaven, hallowed
The term kingdom is mention about fifty-five times in thy name. Thy kingdom come…” In this prayer Jesus admits
MINISTRY OF JESUS 67
Activity 2
Research
Research on the extent to which the Kingdom of God is central to the ministry of the church today. Submit your findings to
the facilitator for marking.
Revision Exercise
Essay Questions
1. “The kingdom of God is at the core of Christian life and ministry”. Discuss.
2. Summarise one’s entry qualifications into the kingdom of God as shown in the gospels.
3. The Kingdom of God is central to Jesus’ teaching and ministry”. Assess the validity of this assertion.
4. “The Kingdom of God is central to the ministry of the church today”. Discuss.
5. “The concept of the Kingdom of God creates more confusion than clarity”. How true is this statement?
6. Discuss various meanings of the kingdom of God in the gospels.
7. Discuss the challenges associated with the nature of the kingdom of God.
8. “There is no single definition of the kingdom of God in the Gospels”. Assess the validity of this assertion.
MINISTRY OF JESUS 69
MINISTRY OF JESUS
Unit Parables
12
Unit objectives strange with the familiar. Therefore, a parable is a mode
of instruction founded on the resemblances or analogies
By the end of this unit, you should be able to: between spiritual and natural objects or events.
MINISTRY OF JESUS 71
8. Go back to sender practice Revision Exercise
Some churches have used the go back sender practice to Essay Questions
teach other people that if you do bad to others then bad
1. Critique views on Jesus’ parables.
will also follow you. This has been used to teach those who
2. Examine the reasons why Jesus taught in parables. To
practice witchcraft on others that they will be affected by what extent are present religious leaders using the
their own evil. The method used here is there to teach evil same method?
doers to be good and at the same time it teaches retaliation. 3. Assess the significance of Jesus’ parables to him and
This method is against Jesus teaching on loving enemies. his audience.
4. Assess the roles of parables in the proclamation of the
9. Outreach programmes
kingdom of God.
Outreach is an activity of providing services to any 5. “The main role of parables was to explain the kingdom
populations who might not otherwise have access to those of God”. Discuss.
services. As such churches conduct outreach programmes 6. “Parables were a unique way used by Jesus to teach
by moving place to place spreading the word of God. In his audience”. Discuss.
7. Discuss the importance of Jesus’ parables to
Seventh Day Adventist, Church, they do what is known as
Zimbabwean.
Zunde meaning an outreach program of calling people to
8. Examine various types of parables in the gospels.
Christ.
Activity 1
Research
Unit Miracles
13
Unit objectives a demonstration of God’s power or Satan’s power. This is
because even the devil can perform miracles.
By the end of this unit you should be able to:
Terms used by New Testament writers to
•• examine the concept of miracles in the New refer to miracles
Testament.
•• assess the significance of miracles in the New New Testament writers used various terms to refer to
Testament. miracles which include signs, mighty works, power and
wonders. Most of these terms are found together in biblical
passages like Acts 2:22 and also 2 Corinthians 12:12, “Men
Introduction of Israel, hear these words, Jesus of Nazareth, a man
Miracles were part of Jesus’ ministry with so many purposes. attested to you by God with mighty works, and wonders
It is within this context that this unit deals with the miracles and signs which God did through him in your midst, as you
of Jesus. Firstly, the definition of miracle is given and terms yourself know…” The use of these different terms to refer to
used to refer to miracles are also explained. Various types miracles is caused by the background of the author as well
of miracles like miracles of exorcism, healing miracles, as the theological motive of writing their books.
miracles of resuscitation and nature miracles are also
explored. The unit further looks at the reasons why Jesus 1. Signs (semeion)
performed miracles and concludes with an assessment of the
A sign is a miracle which conveys a truth about Jesus and
importance of miracles in the New Testament.
the term “sign” was used by Luke to refer to miracles.
According to the gospel of Luke 11:29, “This generation is
Key words an evil generation, it seeks a sign but no sign shall be given
to them except the sign of Jonah…” A sign is a miracle and
Exorcism – the practice of expelling demons and evil spirits in this case the Pharisees had demanded for a miracle from
from persons and places. Jesus. Matthew 12:38 and Mark 8:11 also refers to a miracle
as a sign.
Miracle – an occurrence or happening which is contrary to
what is known of nature. 2. Mighty works (ergon)
Sign – a miracle which conveys a truth about Jesus. This refers to the might works of Christ. The term is used
in Matthew 11:2, John 5:20, 26 and 7:3. Mighty works are
Definition of the concept done in the presence of God. Spivey state that miracles are
A miracle is a term which can be defined as an occurrence occurrences contrary to scientific laws and it is within this
or happening which is contrary to what is known of nature. context that might works are healing done by Jesus which
To support this Spivey (2013) says miracles are occurrences was contrary to scientific laws.
contrary to known scientific laws. Miracles caused people to
be amazed and terrified and to wonder whether they were
MINISTRY OF JESUS 75
that have been and are performed by several prominent Revision Exercise
prophets.
Essay Questions
Miracles of exorcism are done by Zimbabwean prophets.
1. Explore various terms used by New Testament writers
Many people with evil spirits and who are mentally
to refer to miracles.
challenged have been healed by prophets.
2. “Without miracles the message of Jesus would have
Paul Sanyangore also claimed to have done a nature miracle been misunderstood and without miracles his ministry
when he walked on water. The media recorded that the would have been a failure”. Discuss.
controversial man walked on water after his friends invited 3. Examine reasons why Jesus performed miracles. To
him for a swim in Glen Lorne. This shows that Christian what extent are Zimbabwean church leader’s miracle
leaders in Zimbabwe are performing miracles. workers?
4. Evaluate the significance of miracles in the gospels.
Healing miracles have also been done by contemporary
5. To what extent does your society value miracles?
prophets. According to an online radio Nehanda radio, on 6. “Miracles promote enterprise” Discuss.
16th of May 2016, Prophet Walter Magaya hosted a miracle 7. Show how miracles promoted gender equality in the
night at his church in Waterfalls, Harare. He performed New Testament.
several healing miracles.
Activity 1
Discussion
MINISTRY OF JESUS 79
MINISTRY OF JESUS
14
Unit objectives From a Christian perspective, ethics are acceptable actions
and principles derived from the Christian faith which a
By the end of this unit, you should be able to: Christian is expected to follow. It deals with what is right
and wrong to be done by a Christian. The motivation of
•• identify the basic elements of Jesus’ ethics from the Christian ethics is based on the exemplary life of Jesus
gospels. Christ. Therefore, there is a close link between Christian
•• evaluate the challenges associated with the ethics of
character and conduct. The character of a Christian shapes
Jesus.
his conduct which will make one to be regarded as a moral
or immoral person. Christian ethics therefore are a way
Introduction of life exemplified and taught by Jesus applied to human
problems and decisions made in human existence.
Morality and good behaviour are important Christian virtues.
It is within this context that Jesus taught about the ethics in The sermon on the mount clearly explains Christian ethics
which he explained what a Christian should do and should by highlighting some of the unethical issues which are not
not do. This unit defines ethics, then identify and explains the allowed in Christianity.
basic ethics taught by Jesus. Contemporary ethical dilemmas
are also explained highlighting the challenges of Jesus’ ethics
Basic elements of Jesus’ ethics from
in the modern world. the gospels
The main areas of ethical discussion are:
Key words
1. Murder and anger (Matthew 5:21-26)
Adultery – any voluntary sexual intercourse between
married people. Life is an important gift given to humanity by God for
free. Thus, killing or murder is considered unethical in
Ethics – customary way of acting or the normal way of doing Christianity. This is because Moses gave a stern warning
things. on murder and this was well supported by Jesus who
stated that murder is ungodly. There are three phases
Definition of ethics of the inner attitude that can lead to murder are anger,
The term ethics comes from the Greek word “ethos” scorn and personal insult. Murder has internal influence.
which means a norm or customary. This is equivalent to This is supported by Eddleman (1955) who argue murder
morality. It means customary way of acting or the normal originates from the heart and anger is controlled by the
way of doing things. Ethics are a branch of philosophy heart. In Christianity every human being is seen as brother
which deals with morality. It involves moral problems and or sister and should be treated like a human being. Anyone
moral judgements. As such ethics deals with judgement of who kills will be thrown in the hell of fire.
what is right and wrong, virtues and vices, desirable and
undesirable actions. The term ethics is connected with
values which emanates from what is acceptable as moral.
Time: 3 Hours
Instructions to candidates.
You are reminded of the need for good English and clear presentation in your answers.
SECTION A: CHRISTIANITY
1. Evaluate five resurrection theories propounded by different scholars.
2. Examine the importance of the Holy Spirit in the early church and contemporary church today.
3. Discuss the role of women as sponsors and evangelists in the New Testament with special reference to Acts of the
Apostles.
4. Analyse the marriage institution in Christianity.
5. Examine the contribution of Christianity to nation building.
SECTION B: ISLAM
6. Write brief explanatory notes on the following:
(i) Prophet Muhammad
(ii) Koran
(iii) Shariah
(iv) Ramadan
(v) Jihad
7. To what extent did Muhammad’s personal background influence his teaching?
8. To what extent can the Sharia be viewed as an antidote to HIV and AIDS?
9. Analyse factors which contributed to the development of Islam.
10. Evaluate the perception of women in Islam.
193
Index G
B I
Baptism iii, 20, 25, 27, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 64, 195 Ijza 195
Beliefs 195, 198 Infrastructural development 195
Bible iii, 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 8, 11, 14, 20, 27, 73, 83, 86, 109, 111, Islamic attitude 181
112, 189, 195, 199, 200, 201 Islamic attitudes 195
Birth narratives 42, 195 Islamic charity organisation 162, 163, 195
Islamic jurisprudence 177, 195
C Islamic mysticism 195
D Kaffara 195
Khula 195
Doctrines 195, 201 Kingdom of God iii, 38, 39, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 72, 74, 76, 77,
78, 79, 186, 195
E Koran iii, 116, 117, 118, 119, 121, 123, 126, 128, 132, 133,
134, 135, 137, 142, 146, 149, 165, 166, 167, 174, 186,
Early church 29, 35, 195
188, 191, 193, 195
Empty tomb 60, 195
Enterprise 90, 93, 94, 195
M
Environmental practice 195
Environmental preservation 195 Mahr 149, 195
Eschatology iii, 38, 39, 40, 41, 195 Marriage institution iv, 195
Ethics iii, 80, 140, 142, 195, 198, 199, 200 Mecca 118, 120, 122, 123, 124, 128, 131, 132, 133, 134, 135,
Exorcism 75, 195 156, 157, 195
Medina 117, 118, 123, 133, 135, 138, 139, 157, 195
F Military jihad 195
Miracles of Jesus 67, 78, 195
Fairness 195
Mission of the church 36, 195
Faith 14, 15, 50, 68, 140, 158, 195, 198, 200
Monotheistic belief 195
Fasting 12, 27, 123, 134, 148, 195
Fatwas 195
Five pillars iii, 122, 125, 195
Futuristic salvation 195
195
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