Overview
This lecture covers the first AQA Paper 2 Christianity topic: Sources of Wisdom and Authority, focusing on the Bible, the Church, and Jesus Christ as key sources for Christian beliefs and practices.
The Bible as a Source of Authority
- The Bible is the Christian holy scripture: 66 books (Protestant), 73 books (Catholic).
- Split into Old Testament (Hebrew scripture, creation, laws, prophecies) and New Testament (Jesus' life, teachings, early church).
- Protestants follow "sola scriptura" (scripture alone as authority), while Catholics view scripture and church tradition as equally important.
- Evangelical Protestants see the Bible as infallible, inerrant, and the standard for all teachings.
- Neo-orthodox (Barth): Bible contains but is not itself the word of God; records human witness to divine revelation.
- Literalists interpret scripture as literal truth; liberals see it as metaphorical with moral lessons.
The Church as a Source of Authority
- Catholics believe in Apostolic succession: authority passed from the apostles through popes and bishops.
- The Magisterium (teaching authority) interprets both scripture and tradition.
- Papal infallibility: pope is infallible in certain teachings on faith/morals.
- Catechism teaches the Church is essential for the fullness of salvation, not just the Bible.
- Reformation (Luther): protested Catholic abuses, promoted Bible accessibility and the priesthood of all believers.
Jesus Christ as a Source of Authority
- Jesus is seen as both fully divine (Son of God) and fully human (Son of Man).
- Jesus’ authority comes from his divine nature—he is consubstantial with the Father (Trinity).
- Key teachings: love your enemies, turn the other cheek, the Golden Rule.
- His teachings have inspired pacifism, social justice, and modern figures like Martin Luther King Jr.
- Debate exists over the historical reliability of the gospel accounts—some say they are biased and agenda-driven.
Differing Christian Approaches & Critiques
- Sea of Faith: Bible only has authority if individuals grant it; responsibility for moral discernment is personal.
- Conflicts arise between tradition, scripture, and adapting to contemporary issues (science, social change).
Key Terms & Definitions
- Sola Scriptura — the doctrine that scripture alone is the supreme authority.
- Apostolic Succession — authority passed from the apostles to today's church leaders.
- Magisterium — the Catholic Church's official teaching authority.
- Papal Infallibility — doctrine that the pope cannot err in official faith/moral teachings.
- Incarnation — belief that God became flesh in Jesus.
- Agape — selfless, unconditional love.
- Consubstantial — of the same substance (used for Father, Son, Holy Spirit in Trinity).
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review and memorize key quotes (e.g., “all scripture is God-breathed”).
- Complete consolidation sheet for sources of wisdom and authority.
- Read about the doctrines of the Trinity and Apostolic succession.
- Prepare essays on whether Christians should prioritize the Bible or the Church.