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Story of the Church Final
Dr. Mike Williams' Story of the Church final
208
Bible Studies
Undergraduate 1
04/24/2017
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Term
[TEST 1]
The high council in Jerusalem made up of the High Priest, Sadducees, and other leading citizens which is responsible for overseeing religious affairs and some governing functions is known as the _____.
 Definition
Sanhedrin
Term
[TEST 1]
The idea that certain elements of salvation are already here but that salvation in its fullness is yet to come is described by the technical phrase _____.
 Definition
inaugurated eschatology
Term
[TEST 1]
The early Jewish Christian church met together both in homes and in ____.
 Definition
the Temple
Term
[TEST 1]
The pool used by the Jews for ritual purification is known as a ____.
 Definition
mikvah
Term
[TEST 1]
____ was an Old Testament character that is described as "ascending" to heaven.
 Definition
Elijah
Term
[TEST 1]
____ serves as the geographical center of the Luke-Acts story.
 Definition
Jerusalem
Term
[TEST 1]
When the Holy Spirit comes upon the believers in Acts 2 it is accompanied by the audible sound of _____.
 Definition
violent wind
Term
[TEST 1]
____ was an early church father who advocates the delay of baptism in the case of small children. Better that they become Christians when they are able to know Christ.
 Definition
Tertullian
Term
[TEST 1]
Some have suggested that the speaking in tongues recorded in Acts 2 depicts a temporary reversal of the Old Testament story of ____.
 Definition
Babel
Term
[TEST 1]
Which story serves as an example of the importance of geography as a structuring element for Luke?
 Definition
The temptation story
(himself, the Temple, the world)
Term
[TEST 1]
What are the major themes in the book of Acts?
 Definition
Salvation, Universalism, & Holy Spirit
Term
[TEST 1]
What serves as a programmatic statement for the book of Acts?
 Definition
You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.
Term
[TEST 1]
What are the five key elements in Peter's first sermon in the book of Acts?
What is NOT one of the elements?
 Definition
(1) Repent and be Baptized
(2) Scriptural Proofs
(3) Time of fulfillment
(4) We are witnesses
(5) Death, Burial, Resurrection

NOT: Sell all your possessions
Term
[TEST 1]
When comparing the ascension accounts at the end of the Gospel of Luke and the beginning of Acts, we find that the Gospel of Luke...
 Definition
...records Jesus's ascension shortly after the resurrection.
Term
[TEST 1]
What are two of the four things the believers devoted themselves to after Peter's first sermon?
 Definition
Fellowship and Fasting
Term
[TEST 1]
What was taught by the Anabaptists regarding baptism?
 Definition
(1) They rejected infant baptism
(2) Baptism is a sign of the forgiveness already received
Term
[TEST 1]
In finding a replacement for Judas, the apostles set what as the main criterion?
 Definition
He had to have accompanied the disciples from the time Jesus was baptized by John until the time he was taken up.
(that's the only one)
Term
[TEST 1]
What are the four functions associated with baptism in the New Testament?
 Definition
(1) Becoming a disciple of Jesus
(2) New birth
(3) Forgiveness of sins
(4) Appeal of/for a good conscience
Term
[TEST 1]
What are two figures that were called Savior in the first century?
 Definition
Emperor Augustus and Asclepius
Term
[TEST 1]
In Acts 2 when the apostles begin to "speak in tongues" the context would suggest that this is most likely a reference to them...
 Definition
...speaking in foreign languages.
Term
[TEST 1]
What are the four elements involved in salvation as described by the New Testament?
 Definition
(1) Restoration of community
(2) Reconciliation with God
(3) Restoration to wholeness
(4) Resurrection
Term
[TEST 1]
True or False?
The Didache makes it clear that full immersion was the *only* acceptable method of baptism at the beginning of the 2nd century.
 Definition
False
Term
[TEST 1]
True or False?
The biblical authors sometimes intentionally change the traditions they have received to adapt them to their context.
 Definition
True
Term
[TEST 1]
True or False?
The primary model of salvation in the Old Testament is the story of the Exodus.
 Definition
True
Term
[TEST 1]
True or False?
According to the account in Acts, Judas hangs himself out of remorse for his crime.
 Definition
False
Term
[TEST 1]
True or False?
One of the functions of the Holy Spirit we have seen to this point is to provide boldness to proclaim the message in the face of opposition.
 Definition
True
Term
[TEST 1]
True or False?
Clinical baptism refers to the practice of pouring water over a sick person lying on a bed who wanted to become a Christian.
 Definition
True
Term
[TEST 1]
True or False?
Unfortunately, we have no primary sources to help us reconstruct the history of the early church.
 Definition
False
Term
[TEST 1]
True or False?
Literary prophecy refers to the prophecies made in one part of the story that are fulfilled later in the story.
 Definition
True
Term
[TEST 1]
True or False?
During the Maccabean period, the "restoration of Israel" began to include rewards for the righteous and punishments for the wicked.
 Definition
True
Term
[TEST 1]
True or False?
The word Parousia refers to Jesus's atoning sacrifice.
 Definition
False
Term
[TEST 1]
True or False?
One of the reasons that the Sadducees are annoyed at the preaching of the apostles is that they are proclaiming the resurrection of the dead.
 Definition
True
Term
[TEST 1]
True or False?
The word sacrament refers to rituals that serve as vehicles for God's grace.
 Definition
True
Term
[TEST 1]
True or False?
In the book of Acts, Jesus is described as the "prophet like Moses" prophesied in the Old Testament.
 Definition
True
Term
[TEST 1]
True or False?
The practice of ritual immersion was already common among the Jews before its use by Christians.
 Definition
True
Term
[TEST 1]
True or False?
Jesus's brothers never became believers
 Definition
False
Term
[TEST 1]
True or False?
Scholars have used the "we" portions of Acts to argue that the author was a companion of Paul.
 Definition
True
Term
[TEST 1]
True or False?
Most scholars believe that Matthew's Gospel was the first Gospel written and was then used by Mark and Luke.
 Definition
False
Term
[TEST 1]
Who is this?
This person, although he taught that baptism was the means of receiving forgiveness, refused "to make any one duty the standard of Christian faith and character, not even immersion."
 Definition
Alexander Campbell
Term
[TEST 1]
Who is this?
This person serves as an example of generosity by selling a field and bringing to the apostles to care for the poor.
 Definition
Barnabas
Term
[TEST 1]
Who is this?
This person was chosen to replace Judas as the 12th apostle through the casting of lots.
 Definition
Matthias
Term
[TEST 1]
Who is this?
This person taught that baptism is a sign of the covenant much like circumcision was for the Jews, but it does not result in forgiveness of sins.
 Definition
Huldrych Zwingli
Term
[TEST 1]
Who is this?
This person taught that baptism involves both water and the Word, and he also said God provides faith to infants.
 Definition
Martin Luther
Term
[TEST 1]
Who is this?
Peter says that this person tried to lie to the Holy Spirit by bringing only part of the proceeds of the sale of his land to the apostles.
 Definition
Ananias
Term
[TEST 1]
In the book of Acts, the primary role of the apostles is to serve as ____.
 Definition
witnesses
Term
[TEST 2]
The term ___ is used to refer to the Jews who live in other countries outside of the land of Palestine/Israel
 Definition
Hellenists?
(not immigrants)
Term
[TEST 2]
While Paul is in the city of ____ he sees an altar to an unknown god and has a meeting with the city council known as the _____.
 Definition
Athens
Areopagus
Term
[TEST 2]
The two chief virtues of the Cynics were ____ and endurance.
 Definition
apathy
Term
[TEST 2]
According to the pattern we see in Acts each time Paul enters a new city, he typically begins to teach in the ____.
 Definition
synagogue
Term
[TEST 2]
Stephen is falsely accused of speaking against the ____ and preaching against the law of Moses.
 Definition
Temple
Term
[TEST 2]
The word "synagogue" is from a Greek verb that means ____.
 Definition
"to gather"
Term
[TEST 2]
When Paul is in the city of ____, he is worshiped as the god Hermes after healing a lame man.
 Definition
Lystra
Term
[TEST 2]
Paul's first missionary journey takes place mostly in the region of ____.
 Definition
Cyprus
Term
[TEST 2]
______ was a miracle working philosopher who did healings, exorcisms, and even raised a dead girl to life.
 Definition
Apollonius of Tyana
Term
[TEST 2]
Priscilla and Aquila end up in Corinth after being expelled from Rome by the edict of ____.
 Definition
Claudius
Term
[TEST 2]
____ is the Roman proconsul of Corinth and his governship helps us in formulating a chronology of Paul's life.
 Definition
Gallio
Term
[TEST 2]
What is one of the four things that the Jerusalem council of Acts 15 instructed Gentile Christians to do?
 Definition
Abstain from food sacrificed to idols.
Term
[TEST 2] What three qualities describe the Samaritans? (Which one does not?)
 Definition

(1) They are monotheistic
(2) They consider Moses to be the most important prophet
(3) They do not get along with the Jews

NOT: They worship at the temple in Jerusalem
They instead worshiped at their own temple in Mt. Gerizim, which the Jews thought was scandalous.
Term
[TEST 2]
One of the earliest recorded problems in the church was a dispute between the Hebraic Jews and the Hellenistic Jews. The Hellenistic Jews' specific complaint (in chapter 6) was...
 Definition
...their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution of food.
Term
[TEST 2]
What three features of Judaism made it attractive to Gentiles?
 Definition
(1) Non-sacrificial form of worship
(2) High ethical standards
(3) Monotheism
Term
[TEST 2]
The pattern of Moses which Stephen talks about focuses on what aspect from the life of Moses?
 Definition
Trying to rescue Israel twice, but being rejected twice
Term
[TEST 2]
Just before his death, Stephen sees Jesus...
 Definition
...at the right hand of God.
Term
[TEST 2]
The conversion of the Samaritans is unusual because...
 Definition
...they do not receive the Spirit until the apostles lay their hands on them.
Term
[TEST 2]
According to Acts, after his conversion, Saul leaves Damascus and travels to Jerusalem because...
 Definition
...he learns of a plot to kill him.
Term
[TEST 2]
What two elements describe the situation Paul is addressing in the Galatian letter?
 Definition
(1) Some are contemplating circumcision
(2) Some are questioning Paul's authority
Term
[TEST 2]
When the believers in Jerusalem *first* heard that the *Gentiles* had accepted the word of God (Acts 11) their *first* response was to...
 Definition
...criticize Peter for going to eat with the uncircumcised.
Term
[TEST 2]
What is the key issue discussed at the Jerusalem council in Acts 15?
 Definition
Do you have to be circumcised to be a Christian?
Term
[TEST 2]
The term "God-Fearer" was used by Luke to refer to...
 Definition
...Gentiles who were either sympathetic to or strong advocates of Judaism
Term
[TEST 2]
The belief that "whatever is natural is not indecent even in public" was characteristic of...
 Definition
...Cynics
Term
[TEST 2]
In chapter 11, the Christians from Antioch of Syria demonstrate their solidarity with the Jerusalem believers by...
 Definition
...sending gifts to help in the relief of a famine.
Term
[TEST 2]
What are two true biographical statements about Paul?
(where was he born? who was his teacher?)
 Definition
(1) Paul was born in Tarsus
(2) Paul studied under Gamaliel
Term
[TEST 2]
On one occasion in Antioch, Paul confronts Peter (Cephas) for...
 Definition
...drawing back and separating himself from the Gentiles instead of eating with them.
Term
[TEST 2]
What group believed that virtue is defined as living according to reason/logos?
 Definition
Stoics
Term
[TEST 2]
What were the four parts of Paul's message? (what was it NOT?)
 Definition
(1) Christians are justified by faith in Jesus Christ
(2) Gentiles should not be circumcised
(3) Works of the law cannot save
(4) Imitation of a crucified messiah

NOT: A strong emphasis on the earthly ministry of Jesus.
Paul never witnessed the earthly ministry of Jesus, so he didn't really preach about that at all.
Term
[TEST 2]
True or False?
One of the early names for this new "Jesus movement" was "the Way."
 Definition
True
Term
[TEST 2]
True or False?
The way Luke describes the arrest, trial, and death of Stephen echoes in several ways that of Jesus.
 Definition
True
Term
[TEST 2]
True or False?
After Stephen's death, a period of calm followed which gave the early church an opportunity to regroup.
 Definition
False
Term
[TEST 2]
True or False?
The "place of prayer" in Philippi was most likely a place for Jewish worship because there was no synagogue in the city.
 Definition
True
Term
[TEST 2]
True or False?
When Paul preaches to *the pagan audience* in Athens, he stresses that Jesus is the Jewish Messiah prophesied by Scripture.
 Definition
False
Term
[TEST 2]
True or False?
When King Herod begins to persecute Christians in chapter 12, the apostle James (brother of John) is miraculously rescued from death by an angel.
 Definition
False
Term
[TEST 2]
True or False?
By comparing Paul's letters with Acts, we can see that Luke condenses the time frame of the events he records.
 Definition
True
Term
[TEST 2]
True or False?
The Corinth that Paul visited was an ancient Greek city that had been continuously occupied for centuries and was little influenced by the Romans.
 Definition
False
Term
[TEST 2]
True or False?
The Holy Spirit comes in an unusual way on several occasions in Acts to mark a transition in the spread of the Christian message.
 Definition
True
Term
[TEST 2]
True or False?
Paul says in the letter to the Galatians that the Law given at Sinai replaced the promises God made to Abraham.
 Definition
False
Term
[TEST 2]
True or False?
Unlike the Olympian gods, the Mystery religions *did not* promise a blissful afterlife.
 Definition
False
Term
[TEST 2]
True or False?
Although Paul is a Roman citizen, he is unlawfully beaten with rods at Philippi.
 Definition
True
Term
[TEST 2]
True or False?
The synagogue not only served as a place of worship, but could also serve as temporary housing for pilgrims.
 Definition
True
Term
[TEST 2]
True or False?
The South Galatian theory says that the letter to the Galatians was written to an area evangelized by Paul during the first missionary journey.
 Definition
True
Term
[TEST 2]
True or False?
The Pharisees *did not* believe in the resurrection of the body.
 Definition
False
Term
[TEST 2]
Who is this?
This leader of the Jerusalem church was not one of the Twelve, but makes the decisive concluding proposal at the Jerusalem council (Acts 15).
 Definition
James (brother of Jesus)
Term
[TEST 2]
Who is this?
This persecutor of the church was eaten by worms for not giving praise to God when he himself was called a god.
 Definition
Herod Agrippa I
Term
[TEST 2]
Who is this?
This person who had a Greek father and a Jewish mother was circumcised by Paul, so that he might more effectively evangelize among the Jews.
 Definition
Timothy
Term
[TEST 2]
Who is this?
This person not only brought the message of Jesus to the Samaritans, but also taught an Ethiopian church.
 Definition
Philip
Term
[TEST 2]
Who is this?
This person abandoned Barnabas and Paul on the 1st missionary journey and serves as a point of contention between Barnabas and Paul as they plan to embark on the 2nd missionary journey.
 Definition
John Mark
Term
[TEST 2]
Who is this?
This Jewish sorcerer tried to oppose Paul as he preached to Sergius Paulus on the island of Cyprus and was blinded for his trouble.
 Definition
Elymas/Bar Jesus
Term
When and from where was 1 Corinthians written?
 Definition
It was written in 54/55 CE from Ephesus, during Paul's 3rd missionary journey
Term
What is the specific problem addressed in 1 Cor 6? What slogan are the Corinthians using to rationalize their behavior?
 Definition
The Corinthians are justifying their use of prostitutes, saying, "Food is for the stomach." In other words, it is okay to follow natural impulses. Hungry? Eat. Horny?...
Term
Why is Paul concerned about what the body does?
 Definition
The body matters:
(1) God clearly values the physical body, judging from the physical resurrection of Jesus and our eventual physical resurrections.
(2) Our bodies are members of Christ.
Term
What are the charismatic gifts?
 Definition
(1) Speaking in tongues
(2) Prophecy
(3) Gifts of healing
Term
What two books mention speaking in tongues?
 Definition
Acts and 1 Corinthians
Term
What attitude is Paul responding to in 1 Cor 12-14?
 Definition
Some see tongues as the highest spiritual gift. They see it as a mark of spirituality, a sign that you're a Christian.
Term
What does Paul say is the primary function of the spiritual gifts in 1 Cor 12-14? All things are done for ____.
 Definition
edification of the Body
Term
What two movements set the stage for Pentecostalism?
 Definition
(1) The Second Great Awakening
(2) The Holiness Movement
Term
Who is Barton W. Stone?
 Definition
A preacher who led the Cane Ridge Revival, which took place at his church.
Term
What kinds of phenomena happen at Cane Ridge?
 Definition
Strange manifestations occur (such as people rolling around, becoming entranced, shaking, jerking about, and barking)
Term
What is the belief in entire sanctification?
 Definition
Also known as Christian Perfection, it involves two points of transformation:
(1) Justification (freed from sins committed)
(2) Entire Sanctification (liberated from flaw in moral nature that causes sin, meaning you will eventually never sin again)
The key idea is that there's more to Christianity after conversion, that you can actually transcend sin if you go far enough.
Term
Who is William Seymour?
 Definition
He was a preacher who basically helped start Pentecostalism, and the whole idea of tongue speaking and the Spirit falling on people. He was a black preacher who focused on interracial acceptance in his ministry. He initiated the Azusa Street Revival.
Term
What location and date mark the *major* outbreak of the Pentecostal movement in Los Angeles?
 Definition
April 9, 1906 on Azusa Street. This was known as the Azusa Street Revival.
Term
Who does Paul leave in Ephesus when he returns to Antioch?
 Definition
Priscilla and Aquila
Term
Who is Apollos? In what way is Apollos deficient?
 Definition
He was a missionary like Paul, instructed by Priscilla and Aquila. He taught about Jesus accurately, but only knew about his baptism with John the Baptist.
Term
Where does Apollos go after Ephesus?
 Definition
Corinth
Term
How long does Paul stay in Ephesus?
 Definition
Almost 3 years
Term
What is syncretism?
 Definition
The blending of religions
Term
What extraordinary miracles take place in Ephesus?
 Definition
People are healed through aprons and handkerchiefs touched by Paul.
Term
What happens to the seven sons of Sceva? What response does this elicit in the community?
 Definition
They are attacked by a demoniac. In response, the community has a public burning of magic scrolls.
Term
What motivates the riot in Ephesus?
 Definition
Demetrius the silversmith starts it, motivated by profit.
Term
Who is Demetrius?
 Definition
A silversmith from Ephesus who starts a riot to make a profit.
Term
When and from where was Ephesians written?
 Definition
Written from Rome (supposedly from prison) around 60-62 CE.
Term
What is the fundamental structure of Ephesians?
 Definition
Ch 1-3: Calling of God
Ch 4-6: Live Worthy of Calling
Term
What is the purpose of Ephesians?
 Definition
To help the Ephesians understand their new identity as followers of Jesus.
Term
What kind of battle does Paul describe in Ephesians?
 Definition
A cosmic battle, in which the enemy is spiritual forces in heavenly places, demons leading humans astray, and Christ is the Cosmic Conqueror.
Term
What roles does Christ have, according to Ephesians?
 Definition
(1) Cosmic Conqueror (head of all powers)
(2) Reconciler (restores relationship with God & one another)
Term
What three messages are part of Luke's agenda in the last eight chapters of Acts? (Acts 21-28: The Journey, Arrest, and Trial of Paul)
 Definition
(1) To show the spread of the Gospel to the ends of the earth.
(2) To stress Paul's innocence.
(3) To show the Jews' rejection of the Gospel.
Term
What rumor is being spread about Paul in Jerusalem near the end of Acts?
 Definition
That he teaches Jews to
(1) forsake Moses
(2) not circumcise
(3) not observe the customs
Term
What do James and the elders encourage Paul to do in response to the rumors spreading about him in Jerusalem?
 Definition
To join purification rites and pay expenses in the Temple, to show Paul as an obedient Jew.
Term
Who is Claudius Lysias?
 Definition
A Roman commander who arrests Paul in Jerusalem as the crowds are trying to kill Paul. He nearly flogs Paul before he realizes he is a Roman citizen.
Term
What happens when Paul appears before the Sanhedrin (after he is arrested in Jerusalem)?
 Definition
He divides the council by mentioning he is a Pharisee and claiming he was being attacked for teaching hope in the resurrection, a divisive issue between Pharisees and Sadducees (which is what the Sanhedrin was made up of). This causes the council to end in uproar.
Term
Why is Paul sent to the Roman governor? (after his arrest in Jerusalem) Where does the governor live?
 Definition
He is sent there to avoid a murder conspiracy against him. The governor (Felix) lives in Caesarea.
Term
What does Felix do with Paul after hearing his case? Why?
 Definition
He holds Paul in custody, seeking a bribe for his release.
Term
What are the three names by which followers of this new movement are known?
 Definition
(1) The Sect of the Nazarenes
(2) Followers of the Way
(3) Christians
Term
What do the Jews want Festus to do with Paul? How does Paul respond?
 Definition
They want him to send Paul to Jerusalem. Paul realizes the danger of this and requests an appeal to Caesar, so he is sent to Rome.
Term
How do the Jews at Rome react to the preaching of Paul?
 Definition
Some are convinced, but others don't believe (surprise surprise)
Term
What prophetic quote does Paul use to end his speech in Rome?
 Definition
Isaiah 6, from which he highlights the line about calloused hearts.
Term
How does the book of Acts end?
 Definition
Suddenly, while Paul is still in custody in Rome, before he appeals to Caesar.
It ends with the line:
"Therefore I want you to know that God's salvation has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will listen."
Term
What sources do we have for the story of the church after Acts?
 Definition
(1) Apocryphal writings
(2) Early church writers/scholars
(3) Church historians
(4) Roman historians
Term
Where does the Acts of Thomas say that Thomas went to preach?
 Definition
India
Term
What Christian teaching does the story of King Gundaphorus's palace illustrate?
 Definition
It demonstrates an appropriate use of possessions (Thomas builds a palace for the king)
Term
Who are the first persecutors of the Christian movement?
 Definition
Jews
Term
What happens to James, the Lord's brother?
 Definition
He is killed under Jewish persecution in 62CE. He marked the last significant Jewish persecution of a Christian.
Term
What happens to turn Nero against the Christians? What does he do to them?
 Definition
People accuse him of starting the great fire in Rome to rebuild the city to his liking. In need of a scapegoat, Nero blames the Christians for the fire.
Term
According to church tradition, how does Peter die? Paul?
 Definition
Peter was martyred in Rome under Nero, crucified upside down by Prefect Agrippa.
Nero beheads Paul, with Peter crucified under him. Supposedly, Paul bleeds milk when beheaded, then later comes back holding his disembodied head, telling the executioners he is not dead in God and then departs.
Term
What reputation does Domitian have?
 Definition
He has a reputation as a persecutor.

But there is no evidence that he systematically persecuted any group - he was just a political tyrant.
Term
When was Revelation written? From where? By whom?
 Definition
It was written between 80 and 100 CE, supposedly by John the Apostle from the island of Patmos, where he was in exile.
Term
What is the genre of Revelation? What are the key characteristics of this genre?
 Definition
Apocalypse
(a Greek word meaning "revelation")

Key characteristics:
(1) A revelation given to a human figure by an otherworldly being about future events, often the end times.
(2) Heavy use of images, symbols, and numbers (a sort of secret code, so as to avoid persecution).
(3) Written in a context of oppression.
(4) God breaks into history to rescue.
Term
What is the primary message of Revelation?
 Definition
To encourage those facing persecution not to give up.
Despite the circumstances, Christians are already the victors - the war is won, though the fighting continues.
God will ultimately intervene to reward the faithful and punish the wicked.
Term
What are the four views regarding Revelation?
 Definition
(1a) Preterist
All the prophecies refer to the 1st century and are fulfilled by 70 CE, with the destruction of the temple.
(1b) Partial Preterist
All of the prophecies refer to 1st century events EXCEPT for the final judgment.
(2) Historicist
The prophecies point to events throughout history.
(3) Futurist
The prophecies point to events still to happen.
(4) Idealist
The writings make no reference to specific historical events, but simply represent a symbolic struggle.
Term
What are the four Millennial views?
 Definition
(1) Historic Premillennialism
Christ will return and reign 1000 years on earth.
(2) Dispensational Premillennialism
There are three stages of the apocalypse: (a) rapture, (b) time of tribulation, and (c) Christ returns to reign over a restored Israel.
(3) Postmillennialism
A golden age precedes Christ's return, characterized by the triumph of the gospel, so that everyone will believe.
(4) Amillennialism
The 1000 years in Revelation is figurative, referring to Jesus's reign in people's lives and hearts now.
Term
Who are Pliny and Trajan?
 Definition
Trajan is the Roman emperor from 98 to 117 CE, and Pliny is the Governor of Bithynia, responsible for conducting the trials and torture of many Christians.
Term
What is the date of Pliny and Trajan's correspondence? What key question is Pliny asking? What is Trajan's response?
 Definition
112 CE
Pliny was not sure how to conduct his trials against Christians. He doesn't know why they are punishing them - is it just because they're Christians, or did they commit specific crimes? What if they've changed?
Trajan responds that they are, indeed, guilty just for being Christians, but tells Pliny not to seek them out.
Term
What three crimes did Christians have a reputation for? (at the time of Trajan)
 Definition
(1) Atheism
Did not worship the gods.
(2) Cannibalism
Misunderstanding of the Lord's supper (eating flesh, drinking blood).
(3) Incest
They call each other brother and sister, allegedly communing in "love feasts."
Term
What does the word "martyr" mean?
 Definition
Witness or testifier
Term
What is Ignatius's attitude toward martyrdom?
 Definition
He is anxious to be martyred - he wants to die, so he can be a true imitation of Christ, not to mention a testament to the faith.
Term
What are the five key ideas found in martyr literature?
 Definition
(1) Martyrs are heroes, winners of a spiritual victory
(2) Martyrdom is a gift from God, not a personal choice
(3) The Spirit will give you a special measure to endure the martyrdom
(4) Martyrdom counts as baptism, since it brings forgiveness
(5) Martyrs go straight to heaven; no intermediate state (i.e. "paradise")
Term
What is an apologist?
 Definition
Christians who wrote apologies, literary defenses of their faith.
They (1) defend against rumors about Christians, (2) attack/discredit pagan cults, and (3) explain the reasonableness of the Christian faith.
Term
What was Justin Martyr's main defense?
 Definition
"Judge us for our crimes, not our name."
Term
What is a heretic?
 Definition
A dissenter from established church doctrine (assuming some standard of "correct" doctrine)
Term
What is Orthodox? What is Heterodox?
 Definition
Anything orthodox is of the "right" belief or opinion (according to established church doctrine). Anything heterodox is of a different opinion.
Term
What did the Ebionites believe?
 Definition
(1) (Ebionism was a form of Jewish Christianity)
(2) Jesus was human, not divine (worship God, not Jesus)
(3) Gentiles must submit to the law
(4) Paul was not an apostle - he was a false teacher
(5) They used only the Gospel of Matthew (since it was written for a Jewish audience)
Term
What did the Marcionites believe?
 Definition
(1) (Founded by Marcion, who formed his own New Testament canon, the first declared canon, and his own church)
(2) The Old Testament God is inferior to the New Testament God
(3) Matter is evil
(4) Since Jesus was made of matter, and Jesus is not evil, Jesus was not truly human
(5) Paul was the only true apostle
(6) They were highly ascetic and found sex abhorrent
(7) Only the unmarried could be baptized
(8) They had communion with water instead of wine
Term
What did the Gnostics believe?
 Definition
(1) They had a claim to secret knowledge ("gnosis" = knowledge)
(2) The world/matter is evil, created by an divine being inferior to God
(3) A divine spark is trapped in people's souls
(4) Knowledge is the means of salvation (salvation being a return to the spiritual world)
(5) A redeemer reveals the way of escape, a person who provides "cheat codes" to heaven
Term
What did the Montanists believe?
 Definition
(1) (Montanism was an ecstatic prophetic movement in Asia Minor, led by Montanus and two prophetesses)
(2) Montanus prophesied, "Christ is coming soon!"
(3) They prepared for Christ's coming with strict morality, as a response to the growing worldliness around them
(4) Montanus sees the Spirit bringing things to completion through him
Term
What was the structure of church government in the 1st century?
 Definition
There were two tiers: elders/presbyters (aka bishops) and deacons.
Term
What was the structure of church government in the 2nd century?
 Definition
There were three tiers: a single bishop (who presides at Eucharist, oversees funds, teaches authoritatively, and ordains church leaders), presbyters, and deacons.
Term
What idea does Irenaeus formulate?
 Definition
The bishops are the heirs of the apostles
Term
What is the Rule of Faith?
 Definition
An attempt to summarize apostolic teaching - sort of an early creed.
Term
In what context do creeds begin?
 Definition
In the context of baptism
Term
What is the first Bible of the Christians?
 Definition
The Septuagint (LXX), the Greek version of the Old Testament kept on multiple scrolls.
Alongside this, Christians had oral tradition and the teaching of the apostles.
Term
What is the first part of the New Testament written?
 Definition
Paul's letters, starting with either 1 Thessalonians or Galatians, written in the early 50s CE.
Term
Who is Athanasius? What role did he play regarding the canon?
 Definition
Athanasius wrote a letter in 367 CE in which he listed the New Testament canon we use today.
Term
What are the three criteria of canonicity?
 Definition
(1) Conformity to Rule of Faith
(2) Apostolicity (all books must be connected with an apostle)
(3) Continuous acceptance and usage by the church at large
Term
What five factors influenced the formation of the canon?
 Definition
(1) Marcion
He rejects the Old Testament and forms his own New Testament canon
(2) Gnostic Scriptures
Many Gnostic gospels were circulated, containing supposed hidden teachings
(3) Montanists
They claimed prophecy
(4) Persecution of Diocletian in 303 CE
He orders the surrender of Scriptures, so they hand over all the crappy ones (i.e. the Gnostic gospels)
(5) Adoption of leaf book form
As opposed to separate scrolls, forcing people to decide which books to put together
Term
Where did Christians first meet?
 Definition
Private homes
Term
What is the date of the first church building that has been discovered?
 Definition
240s CE
Term
Who is Decius and what does he do? Why?
 Definition
He is the Roman emperor from 249 to 251 CE. He organizes the first universal organized persecution against Christians, in an attempt to restore Rome's traditional religion.
Term
What are the three responses of Christians to Decius's persecution?
 Definition
(1) Some refuse to sacrifice to the gods. These are arrested and either killed as martyrs or set free (after the persecution ends) as confessors.
(2) Some purchase libellus (proof of sacrifice) without actually sacrificing to the gods.
(3) Vast numbers sacrifice to the gods, proving the superficiality of their faith and becoming known as the "lapsed."
Term
What is a libellus?
 Definition
A signed form given as proof that you sacrificed to the gods.
Term
What is a "confessor"?
 Definition
Someone who was going to be martyred for their refusal to sacrifice to the gods, but was set free after the persecution ended.
Term
Who are the lapsed?
 Definition
Christians who caved to the pressure and sacrificed to the gods to escape persecution.
Term
Who are the laxists?
 Definition
Christians who accepted the lapsed into their communities.
Term
What is Cyprian's position regarding the lapsed?
 Definition
If you performed a sacrifice, we'll put you in the doghouse and reconcile you when you're close to death.
If you purchased a libellus without sacrificing, we'll reconcile you in a shorter time.
If you entertained thoughts of sacrifice, (something to do with confession? my notes end here)
Term
What is Stephen's position regarding rebaptism?
 Definition
Baptism is not dependent on the baptizer
Term
When is the last great persecution? Under whom?
 Definition
303-311 CE. Emperor Diocletian turned against Christians in three stages.
(1) Destruction of Christian buildings and burning of Scriptures.
(2) Imprison Bishops.
(3) Everyone has to sacrifice.
Term
Who is Constantine?
 Definition
The Roman emperor 306-337 CE. He is the first Roman emperor to convert to Christianity, and makes Christianity the official religion of Rome.
Term
When does Constantine march on Rome?
 Definition
312 CE
Term
What sign does Constantine see in his dream/vision? How is this sign eventually interpreted?
 Definition
Chi Ro, the first two letters of Christos (XP). Constantine puts this symbol on his soldiers' standards and wins the battle.
Term
What does Constantine do for Christians?
 Definition
(1) He builds churches
(2) He grants privileges to the Clergy
(3) He rescinds the law against celibacy
(4) He promotes Christians to high government offices
(5) He calls the first ecumenical council in Nicea in 325.
Term
Why does Constantine move the capital to Constantinople?
 Definition
He wants to rebuild the capital as a Christian city.
Term
What are some of the negative consequences when Christianity becomes a state religion?
 Definition
(1) Christian emperors inherit totalitarian government after Constantine.
(2) Christians participate in warfare.
(3) Church becomes richer in wealth, poorer in virtue.
(4) Many nominal Christians.
Term
What are some of the positive consequences when Christianity becomes a state religion?
 Definition
(1) Slave life is eased (not abolished)
(2) Infanticide forbidden
(3) Adultery punished
(4) Gladiator fights banned
(5) Charitable contributions increase
(6) Concubines forbidden
Term
What are some of the pious practices in the 4th century?
 Definition
(1) Pilgrimage to Holy Sites
(2) Cult of the Saints
- Martyrs, ascetic monks, and bishops venerated as saints/holy characters.
- Veneration of the Dead Day.
- Memorials built on death sites.
Term
Why does Monasticism rise?
 Definition
It is a protest against worldliness/laity.
Term
What are the two different types of monasticism?
 Definition
Hermit and Cenobite
Alone and Monastery/cave community
Term
Who is Anthony the hermit?
 Definition
A monastic hermit (251-356) convicted by the story of the Rich Ruler to sell his stuff and live among tombs alone, fasting for days at a time, subsisting on food brought by others, having visions of demons attacking him.
Term
Who is Simon Stylites?
 Definition
A monastic hermit (350-420) who lives for 37 years (to his death) on a pillar he keeps building higher, fasting for days at a time and subsisting on food brought by others.
Term
What heresy prompts the council of Nicea?
 Definition
Arianism, claiming that there was once a time when Christ was not.
Term
What is the significance of the council of Nicea?
 Definition
It is the first ecumenical council, signaling the union of church and empire (since Constantine presided). They adopted a creed for the whole church, which was used to define orthodoxy.
Term
What three types of bishop arose in the 4th century?
 Definition
(1) Metropolitan Bishops
More authority than other bishops, located in a capital city, presided at councils.
(2) Ordinary Bishops
Normal tasks including ordination.
(3) Country Bishop
Celebrate Eucharist and baptize - could not ordain.
Term
Who helped develop the doctrine of the papacy?
 Definition
Leo I
Term
What is the Petrine theory?
 Definition
Peter had keys to the kingdom of heaven, and by extension authority over the other apostles. Peter became the first bishop of Rome and transferred his authority to other bishops of Rome all the way down to Leo I.
Term
Who is Ignatius?
 Definition
One of the first great Christian martyrs, who set the standard for martyr literature.
Term
Who was Irenaeus?
 Definition
He helps form the early church, deciding that bishops are heirs of the apostles.
Term
[based off TEST 2]
What was an important belief of the Cynics?
 Definition
Whatever is natural is not indecent, even in public.
Term
What heretical group believed that Jesus was not divine, that Paul was a false teacher, that Gentiles had to follow the law, and only considered Matthew authoritative?
 Definition
Ebionites
Term
What heretical group, believing Christ would return very soon, prepared for Christ's return with strict morality, as a response to the growing worldliness around them?
 Definition
Montanists
Term

[based on TEST 2]

What did the Stoics believe?

 Definition
Virtue is defined as living according to reason/logos
Term
What heretical group believed that matter is evil, that Jesus was not truly human, and that Paul was the only true apostle?
 Definition
Marcionites
Term
What heretical group claimed to have secret knowledge leading to salvation, and believed that even though the world/matter is evil, a divine spark is trapped in people's souls?
 Definition
Gnostics
Term
Who is Leo I?
 Definition
The bishop who created the doctrine of papacy.
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