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Explain the difference between natural theology and revealed theology in Christian thought.
Natural theology uses reason and observation; revealed theology relies on divine revelation.
What problem does the diversity of biblical moral teaching pose for theonomous ethics?
It challenges the idea of a consistent moral message, raising questions about contradiction, historical context, and literalism.
What are the five primary precepts in Aquinas’ natural law?
Preservation of life, reproduction, education, living in an ordered society, and worship of God
According to Kant, why would exploitation of workers be unethical?
It treats them as a means to an end rather than ends in themselves, violating the second formulation of the categorical imperative.
What is the doctrine of limited election?
The belief that only some are chosen by God to be saved, not all.
What does sola scriptura mean in a theonomous context?
That moral authority comes from scripture alone, not church tradition or human reason.
Why might whistleblowing be supported by situation ethics?
If exposing wrongdoing is the most loving action in that context, then it is morally right, despite rules.
Why might a materialist reject the idea of life after death?
Because consciousness is tied to the brain, and once the body dies, personal identity ceases.
What is the difference between predestination and universalism in Christian eschatology?
Predestination teaches only some are saved by God’s choice; universalism teaches all souls will eventually be saved.
What is Augustine’s view on how Original Sin affects human nature?
He believed Original Sin corrupts human nature, making humans inherently sinful and reliant on divine grace for salvation.
How does the parable of the sheep and the goats support belief in eternal judgment?
t shows a final division between the righteous and unrighteous based on their treatment of others, implying eternal reward or punishment.
What is the role of Aquinas’ synderesis rule in natural law ethics?
It’s the innate principle that we should ‘do good and avoid evil’, forming the rational basis of morality.
How does the New Testament challenge Old Testament violence?
Jesus teaches love, forgiveness, and turning the other cheek, contrasting with violent retribution laws in the OT.
How might a biblicist respond to contradictions in scripture?
They might argue that apparent contradictions can be harmonised through deeper study or understood as part of God’s unfolding plan.