R.E 2046 Central Province Notes-2023
R.E 2046 Central Province Notes-2023
R.E 2046 Central Province Notes-2023
ZAMBIA
CENTRAL PROVINCE
NOTES 10-12
2023
CHIEF EDITORS
PREPARED BY
Kapasa Oliver Shimukuni Secondary School 0977392091
Hatubotu Webby Nampundwe Secondary School 0979591121
Chibizwa Chibe Munyama Secondary School 0977496676
Matimba Beauty Shimukuni Secondary School 0977639916
Nakazwe Martha Danford Chirwa Secondary School 0977418705
Mwale Susan Mukobeko Day Correctional Secondary School 0973169892
Zulu Maliyati Justin Mukando Secondary School 0977570896
Kaunda Mwaba Broadway Secondary School 0977883865
Ngandu Shelly Chisamba Day Secondary School 0965631643
Choomba Rhodia Kapiri Day Secondary School 0972827575
Nakamba Grace Mulonga Day secondary School 0976411228
Zulu Gift Kabwe Skills Secondary School 0971650706
Mwale Selita Chibefwe secondary school 0977691301
Mwanza Davies.K Brunelli secondary school 0976170654
Simwinga Cleophas Mkushi Day Secondary School 0979064449
Zulu Munsanda Kapiri Day Secondary School 0979937903
Chileya Nancy Nambala Secondary School 0971132677
Banda Cephas Katuba Day Secondary School 0978354409
SUPERVISED BY
KABWENDA. PERTINA - SESO SOCIAL SCIENCES
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PREFACE
This pamphlet contains a number of topics that are useful to both teachers and pupils.
Additionally, the booklet has covered Religious Education (2046/1) notes that are taught in
Grade Ten to twelve at senior level. Sample questions have been included in this document
according to the requirements of the Examinations Council of Zambia questioning standard
and the syllabus from Curriculum Development Centre CDC.
The authors of this material have explained topics in such a way that pupils can understand
them with less difficulty. In other ways, pupils can go through this study material on their own
or with less guidance from the teacher.
It is our sincere prayer that this booklet be one that will enhance effective learning and teaching
in Central province and the nation at large. We further hope that this material be of great value
in the quest to attaining better results as well as promoting quality life even beyond the school
system.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We give glory and honour to our Almighty Lord King Jesus for guiding us before and after the
preparation of this document. We also want to acknowledge the support of our PEO ( Central
Province) Mrs Mambe Miyanda Hamududu,SESO Social Sciences Ms Kabwenda Pertina, The
SOSTAZ Provincial Chairperson and his executive, Mr Kelly Kapanga former DEBS
Chisamba, Mr Chituka Albert Chipembi Headteacher, All Headteachers who are supporting all
SOSTAZ activities, part of the information is an extract from Copperbelt provincial notes and
most importantly the R.E 2046/1 teachers (Material Production Committee) who put in so
much work in the publication of this document.
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Introduction
This document is for use by Teachers who are preparing pupils for the Zambian School
Certificate in Religious Education paper (2046/1).
Additionally, the document aims at helping pupils to overcome religious prejudice, bigotry and
intolerance and to:
✓ Acquire and develop knowledge and understanding of different religious beliefs
represented in Zambia.
✓ Develop an understanding of the influence of beliefs, values and traditions of
individuals, communities and Zambian Culture.
✓ Develop the ability to make reasoned and informed judgements about morals with
reference to Christianity and other religions present in Zambia.
✓ Develop a positive attitude and respect towards people holding different beliefs and
religious affiliations.
✓ Information covers part of religious beliefs in modern Zambian society.
It is our prayer as a team (material production team) that teachers will find this document useful
to prepare learners not only for examination purpose but also enable them to be all round
responsible citizens to foster national development for mother Zambia.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Chief Editors………………………………………………………………………………….1
Preface………………………………………………………………………..……………….2
Acknowledgement………………………………………………………………...………….3
Introduction…………………………………………………………………………….…….4
Grade 10
Unit 1: Birth and Infancy of John the Baptist and Jesus……………………………………6
Unit 2: Ministry and death of John the Baptist……………………………….……………15
Unit 3: Baptism……………………………………………………….………………….….20
Unit 4: Temptation……………………………………………………………….………….26
Unit 5: Jesus Power over Disease and nature…………………………...………………….31
Unit 6: Jesus Power over Evil Spirits……………………………………………………….35
Unit 7: The Kingdom of God………………………………………………………….…….39
Grade 11
Unit 1: Judgement………………………………………………………………….………..44
Unit 2: Prayer……………………………………………………………………….……….50
Unit 3: Jesus attitude to people……………………………………………………….…….55
Unit 4: Suffering………………………………………………………………….………….62
Unit 5: Opposition…………………………………………………………………………...70
Unit 6: The Last Supper and the Crucifixion…………………………………………. ….78
Unit 7: Jesus’ Triumph over death…………………………………………………………85
Grade 12
Unit 1: The Early Church…………………………………………………………….…….91
Unit 2: Christian Witness…………………………………………………………………...99
Unit 3: Life in the Early Church…………………………………………….…………….105
Unit 4: Christian attitudes To Work………………………………………………………109
Unit 5: Christian attitudes To Leisure………………………………………………….…113
Unit 6: Christian attitudes To Money and Possessions…………………………….…….116
Unit 7: Christian attitudes To Leadership…………………………………………….….119
Unit 8: Christian attitudes To Sex and Marriage…………………………………….….124
Unit 9: Husband and Wife Relationship………………………………………….………128
Unit 10: Relationships and Between Parents and Children……………………...………132
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GRADE 10 WORK
UNIT 1: BIRTH AND INFANCY OF JOHN THE BAPTIST AND JESUS
CHRIST
BIRTH TRADITIONS AND CUSTOMS
In Zambia, there are many birth traditions and customs. A custom is an activity, a rule or ceremony
done by a particular group of people as part of the way of life. Almost all ethnic groups in Zambia
have their unique customs that make them different from others.
There are also some customs which are common and cut across all tribes e.g. Chewa have Nyau,
Luvale have mukanda. These are what bring us together as Zambians in particular and Africans in
general. Traditions on the other hand are practices, customs, beliefs and opinions that are passed on
from one generation to the next.
There are various traditions and practices on the naming and protection of the baby at birth.
Birth is a unifying factor in every home. The birth of a child brings a strong bond between husband
and wife and the two families. Relative and friends usually bring gifts for the baby or the mother to
welcome and appreciate new life. These traditions are important because:
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c) It shows the usefulness of the child to the community
d) Making celebrations
❖ The announcement of the birth of John the Baptist and his naming
The reasons why the birth of John the Baptist was special and important:
John was to be brought up as a Nazarite; meaning the “separated one”. The customs included:
❖ No drinking of alcohol
❖ No going near or touching of dead bodies
❖ No cutting of his hair
Bible text
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❖ The announcement of the birth of Jesus to Mary (Lk 1:26-38)
❖ The announcement of the birth of Jesus to Joseph (Mt 1:18-25)
❖ Mary’s visit to Elizabeth (Lk 1:39-45)
❖ The birth of Jesus Christ (Lk 2:1-7)
❖ The announcement of the birth of Jesus to shepherds (Lk 2:1-7)
❖ The visit of the wise men and the flight to Egypt (Lk 1-23)
❖ Jesus in the temple as a baby (Lk 2:21-39)
❖ Jesus at twelve years old (Lk 2:41-52)
c) SON OF GOD –meaning Son of the Most High, showing his deity.
d) SON OF DAVID- meaning born in the lineage of David (to be king of people’ lives)
The fact that the Jews were in slavery by the Romans, made them anxious about the birth of Jesus
Christ. They thought he was going to come with mighty army that would drive the Romans away and
set them free. But the purpose of Messianic Kingdom was made clear to Joseph as:
S/N Old Testament prophecy: How the prophecy was fulfilled in New
Testament:
02 To be born of a virgin (Isaiah 7:14) Was born of the virgin Mary (Mt 1:3)
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04 Would live in Egypt and called out He lived in Egypt and was called out there (Mt
2:18)
(Hosea 11:1)
06 Bethlehem’s children would be killed Herod had Bethlehem’s children massacred (Mt
2:18)
(Jeremiah 31:15)
❖ Circumcision- was done when the child was eight days old or one week.
This was an outward agreement or covenant that Gold had made with the Jews. Anyone not
circumcised could neither share the hopes of the nation nor join in the worship Yahweh nor
be counted as Israelite... (Genesis 17:9-14 and Leviticus 12:13)
❖ Dedication- was the second ceremony and was performed at the age of one month. At this
age, every first-born male child was presented to God in the Temple of dedication; then
bought back or redeemed by the payment of five Shekels. (Exodus 13:2, Numbers 18:15-16
and Luke 2:22)
❖ Purification- was the third ceremony done at forty days after the birth of the male child to
sanctify (purify) the mother. She had to offer a lamb for burnt offering and a bird for sin
offering (Leviticus 12:1-8). If the parents were poor, they offer two birds instead of a lamb
and a bird.
b) At three the boy would begin to wear fringed garments and be taught or educated by the mother.
By five years, he would be taught the law (Torah) by the father and also attend school at Synagogue
(Deut 6:4-9)
c) At twelve, he would receive instructions in various religious observances, for example, the
worship, feasts and festivals at the Temple and the synagogue services.
Sources of misunderstanding and conflict between Parents and children in Modern Zambian
Society
a) Generation gap
b) Media influence
d) Peer influence
e) Forced marriages
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f) Gender roles
g) Social norms
It is God’s desire that people should live and do his will. However, God does not force his will and
purpose on us. Humans have freedom of choice. In the case of John, the Baptist and Jesus Christ,
what happened to their parents is a way how God directs human lives as follows:
3. He chooses special people for specific purposes (Joseph and Mary, Zachariah and Elizabeth)
Why God chose to use Zachariah and Elizabeth; Joseph and Mary
b) He does not force these plans on us. We have the freedom of choice.
c) In most cases, the choice between wrong and right is very clear. He never guides against His will.
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Religious teachings on how God directs people
a) Christianity
b) Islam
c) Hinduism
❖ One is born in a particular caste and is guided through daily and seasonal rituals.
❖ God directs Hindus through life cycles including birth, marriage, worship and death.
❖ A pilgrimage to one religious Site is important for a Hindu.
❖ Annual festivals of Diwali and Nawaratri remind Hindus of religious values and bring life.
❖ Strict conduct is expected of every Hindu.
❖ God directs a Hindu through the Vedas while living with the Guru.
a) Christianity Vs Islam
Similarities
Differences
Christians: - God’s messages are recorded in the Bible through inspired writers.
Christians: - apart from the Bible, God has other ways of guiding people.
b) Christianity Vs Hinduism
Similarities
❖ both believe that a strict conduct is expected to live according to God’s plan
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❖ both consult the Holy scripture for guidance
Differences
Christians: - Are directed through the daily surrounding of all decisions to God.
Hindus: - Are directed through life cycle rite including birth, marriage and death.
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the name of a relative who recently passed on. State one argument
the relatives would use to defend their position and two Christian points
the couple could use to defend their Christian view. [6]
Arguments: -appreciation of new life
-Identity of the child.
- Continuity of life.
-Usefulness of the child to the community.
- For remembrance of the dead relatives.
Christian response: -The baby is a child of God/ the child is dedicated to God.
- The child is God’s gift to them.
Any 1 argument and 2 responses, 2 marks each=6 marks.
(ii)State three ways in which people protect their newly born babies in Modern Zambian
Society. [6]
❖ Dedicating them to God in prayer.
❖ Wife and husband are not allowed to have sexual relationship for a period of time.
❖ they use roots
❖ Both mother and baby are secluded for a period of time.
❖ Charms and other traditional medicine are used.
❖ Prayers are offered to ancestral spirits
❖ they surrender them to God
❖ they take them for immunization at clinics
Any 3 points, 2marks each= 6 marks
(d) In what ways are the teachings of Christianity on religious duty and family loyalty different
from
that of Zambian traditional religion? State two points
Christianity: Loyalty to God comes first.
ZTR: The individual does not and cannot exist alone, he/she owes his/her existence to other
people.
Christianity: He / she may disobey the parents if it is against the Christian teachings e.g. being
forced to marry a non- believer.
ZTR: One is part of the whole family and should not question tradition.
2(a) Tell the story of what happened at the naming ceremony of John the Baptist.
[5]
Luke 1:57-66
❖ The time came for Elizabeth to have her baby, and she gave birth to a son.
❖ Her neighbours and relatives heard how wonderfully good the Lord had been to her, and they
all rejoiced with her.
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❖ When the baby was a week old, they came to circumcise him
❖ And they were going to name him Zechariah, after his father.
❖ But his mother said, No! his name is to be John.
❖ They said to her, but you don’t have any relative with that name!
❖ Then they made signs to his father, asking him what name he would like the boy to have.
❖ Zechariah asked for a writing pad/ tablet and wrote his name John. How surprised they all
were!
❖ At that moment Zechariah was able to speak again, and he started praising God.
❖ The neighbours were all filled with fear, and the news about these things spread through all
the hill country of Judea.
❖ Everyone who heard of it thought about it and asked, what is this child going to be?
❖ For it was plain that the Lord’s power was upon him.
Any 10 points, ½ marks each= 5 marks.
(b) State two rules for a Nazarite. [4]
❖ No drinks of alcohol
❖ No eating dried grapes (raises)
❖ No shaving his head
❖ No touching dead bodies.
Any 2 points, 2 marks each= 4 marks
(c) (i) In a religious education class Jordan asked why the knowledge of the birth of John the Baptist
became a blessing to his parents. As a Christian in the class give two points why his birth was a
blessing. [6]
❖ It removed the shame of childlessness from Elizabeth.
❖ It fulfilled a much wide purpose for the nation and for the world (perve the way for the
Messiah)
2 points, 3 marks each= 6 marks.
(ii) How do people in Modern Zambian Society respond to God’s direction in their lives. State
three points. [6]
❖ With willing hearts/ others make themselves completely available to God’s call.
❖ Others are afraid of taking up the challenge.
❖ With doubts
❖ Others refuse to accept God’s calling.
❖ Others joyfully accept the call.
❖ Others are not too sure of God’s calling.
Any 3 points, 2 marks each=6 marks.
(d) What different beliefs do we find in Christianity and Islam with regard to how people direct
Human lives. Give two points. [4]
Christianity: God uses not only the Bible but also other means to guide Christians.
Islam: the Quran is the only basis for guidance.
Christianity: God’s messages dictated to the Angel Gabriel through inspired writers and are recorded
in the Bible.
Islam: God’s messages dictated through the angel Gabriel to Muhammad and are recorded in the
Quran
2 differences, 2 marks each=4 marks.
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UNIT 2: MINISTRY AND DEATH OF JOHN THE BAPTIST
Speaking against sin and evil
Sin is defined as failing to reach God’s required standard or rebellion against God. Sin breaks the
relationship between God and man or other people.
Evil is something bad or wrong that can be to a person or something not acceptable by both God and
man.
Conflict is the result of both sin and evil disrupts the love and peace between God and man.
These include;
❖ Corruption
❖ Bribery
❖ Exploitation
❖ Prostitution
❖ Tribalism
❖ Nepotism
❖ Discrimination based on race or sex
John the Baptist was an outstanding man who denounced sin and evil in his time. His duty was to
prepare the way for Messiah, to make people ready for the coming salvation through Jesus Christ.
❖ Religious leaders- he rebuked them by calling them brood of vipers; warned them to flee the
wrath that was coming. He told them the importance of sharing.
❖ Tax collectors- collect no more is appointed for you.
❖ Soldiers- robe none by violence of false accusations and be content with your wages.
Right behaviour is simply the ability to follow the accepted moral standards in society. Christians
believe that the right behaviour is doing what God expects to do. In order to have a normal society, it
is expected that ordinary people, those in authority and church leaders should uphold certain standards
and values.
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a) People in authority
❖ Work hard
❖ Be honest and truthful to benefit others
❖ Not wasting employer’s time
❖ Be upright
❖ Having good reputation
❖ Avoiding corrupt practices
❖ Live by example
❖ Being upright
❖ Having a good reputation
❖ Challenged people to repent (Mt 3:1-9) ❖ Challenged people to repent (Mt 4:17)
❖ Baptised with water (Mt3:6) ❖ Baptised with the Holy Spirit (Mk 1:8)
❖ Encouraged people to bear the fruits of ❖ Forgave people’s sins (Mk 2:5-11)
repentance (Mt 3:7-9) ❖ He healed the sick (Mt 4:23)
❖ Warned people against God’s ❖ He cast out demons (Mt 8:30-32)
judgement ❖ He warned people of the coming
judgement (Mt 12:38-41)
Similarities:
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Differences:
❖ John baptised with water while Jesus baptised with the spirit.
❖ John challenged people to repent but not forgive sins while Jesus as the Son of God
could forgive sin when people repented.
❖ John baptised people with water as a sign of repentance in preparation for the coming
of Jesus while Jesus would baptise those who repented with the power of the Holy
Spirit, to help them live their lives to please God.
❖ John the Baptist could not cast out demons but Jesus cast out demons.
❖ John the Baptist did not heal the sick but Jesus healed the sick.
Religious messages are those messages which bring out values of a given religion.
In Zambia today, religious messages are received with mixed feelings as shown below:
Why John the Baptist was imprisoned and killed (Mk 6:17-29)
❖ John challenge Herod Antipas’s moral life after he took his brother’s wife Herodias.
❖ Herodias hated John for his interference and was quick to act when she saw an opportunity to
have John executed.
Other people who suffered for their faith
a) Martin Luther King- An African American who was shot during a match for equal rights.
b) Mahatma Gandhi- A Hindu who devoted his life to win independence for India through non-
violence.
c) Nelson Mandela- Spent 27 years at Robinson Island prison for political freedom
d) Simon Kapwepwe, Nkumbula Harry and Kenneth Kaunda- suffered for
political freedom in Zambia.
e) William Tyndale- The British reformer who was burnt for translating the Bible into English.
f) Kizito Charles Lwanga and Mukasa- Ugandan martyrs who were killed for their faith.
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❖ Prayer- This is done five times in a day, while facing Mecca.
❖ Fasting- During the month of Ramadan, beginning at sunrise and ending at sunset.
❖ Almsgiving- Is the ritual of giving money to the poor.
❖ Pilgrimage- Every Muslim is directed to make a pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in a life
time.
c) Hinduism
Has five main principles called Dharma (religion):
❖ God- He created and controls the universe. He is omnipresent, knows everything and is most
merciful.
❖ Prayer- is the simplest way of knowing and finding God. Peace of mind is found in prayer.
❖ Reincarnation- the soul is immortal, it never dies. When the body dies, the soul finds another
body.
❖ Karma- the law of action. A person gets the fruits of his actions; that whatever goes round
comes round.
❖ Non-violence- in the Hindu religion, respect (reverence) for life is very important.
Religious comparisons on repentance
a) Christianity Vs Islam
Similarities:
❖ Both believe that the word of God is important.
❖ Both believe and teach that there is one God.
❖ Both believe in respect for prayer.
Differences:
Christians- charity work is not an obligation (not a must)
Islam- charity work is a must (almsgiving) is an obligation
Christians- there is no going to a Holy place which is mandatory.
Islam- Pilgrimage is a must in one’s life time
Christianity- Fasting is done when there is need
Islam- Fasting is fixed during the month of Ramadan
b) Christianity Vs Zambian Traditional Religion
Similarities:
❖ Both call for the offender to pay back what was stolen.
❖ Both ask for the one who has offended to ask for forgiveness.
Differences:
Christianity- when people do wrong (sin), God will not immediately punish them.
Z.T.R- offerings are made to the spirits at special places as ransom for sins done.
Christianity- people go to God for the forgiveness of their sins.
Z.T.R- offerings are made to the spirits to appease them.
c) Christianity Vs Hinduism
Similarities:
❖ Both are tolerant (non-violent).
❖ Both regard God as a supreme being.
❖ Both respect prayer.
Differences:
Christianity- at death, soul goes to live with God.
Hinduism- believes in reincarnation, where one is reborn into another creature.
Christianity- repentance leads to new life.
Hinduism- good Karma leads to good life, performance of good things therefore, important.
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Question
1(a) Relate the message of John the Baptist to various groups that came to him. [5]
Luke 3: 7-14
• Crowds of people came out to John to be baptized by him.
• You snakes! He said to them.
• Who told you that you could escape from the punishment God is about to send?
• Do those things that will show that you have turned from your sins. And don’t
start saying among yourselves that Abraham is your ancestor.
• I tell you that God can take these rocks and make descendants for Abraham!
• The axe is ready to cut down the trees at the roots; every tree that does not bear
good fruit will be cut down and thrown in the fire.
• The people asked him, what are we to do, then?
• He answered, whoever has two shirts must give one to the man who has none,
• And whoever has food must share it.
• Some tax collectors came to be baptized, and they asked him, Teacher, what are
we to do?
• Don’t collect more than is legal, he told them.
• Some soldiers also asked him, what about us? What are we to do?
• He said to them, don’t take money from anyone by force or
• Accuse anyone falsely.
• Be content with your pay
(b) What two meanings can Christians today learn from John the Baptist main message. [4]
• Repentance: people should be sorry for their sins in order to turn away from
them.
• Baptism: people must be baptized as a sign of repentance and forgiveness
of sin that has taken place.
(c) (i) Kalembula was not given a job on account that he does not belong to the same
tribe as the Human Resource Manager. What Christian advice can you give the Human
Resource Manager on the right behaviour as an employer? Give three points. [6]
• He must be honest
• He must be truthful
• He must be fair and just
• He must be open (transparent)
(ii) Mention three ways in which people in Modern Zambia Society are expected to exhibit as
Acceptable moral standards in the community. [6]
• Being honest.
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• Being truthful.
• By working hard.
• By not abusing their authority, for those who are in authority.
• By being punctual at places of work
Any 3 points, 2 marks each = 6 marks.
(d) Differentiate the main message of Christianity with that of Zambian Traditional Religion.
State two points [4]
UNIT 3: BAPTISM
ZAMBIAN INITIATION PRACTICES AND THEIR SIGNIFICANCE
Definition of Initiation
To initiate means to introduce or to begin. New pupils in school for example,
grade 8s and 10s are normally oriented.
Initiation practices: In Zambian tradition in the past, people joining a secret past such as Nyau
were required to go through an elaborate ceremony. Sometimes a special mark was made on
the body before they became members. These traditional ceremonies of initiation are called
passage of rites. Some of them are those related to puberty and marriage.
❖ At puberty
At puberty ceremonies are done for both boys and girls to mark their transition from childhood
to adulthood for example circumcision in some tribes.
❖ At marriage
Marriage is an expected outcome of the preparation of the boy or girl at puberty. During this
time counselling and training is done by elderly men and women. Marriage is important not
only for reproduction but also a means of preserving the family.
Importance of entering a new life
❖ Ready for adulthood activities
❖ Mark of becoming an adult.
❖ Prepare them for their adulthood roles.
❖ Are trained to be responsible members of the community.
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❖ Are trained in discipline
❖ Are trained in skills and right attitudes in society
The word Baptism comes from the Greek word “Baptizo” which means to dip, submerge or
plunge in a liquid.
Baptism is the immersion of the person in a liquid (water). In the New Testament, baptism was
by immersion (Acts 8:38-39, John 3:32).
Importance of initiation rites for both boys and girls
❖ It marks the start of adult life.
❖ It prepares them for their adult rites in future.
❖ It prepares the boys and girls to become responsible wives and mothers as well as
fathers and husbands.
❖ It trains them in skills, discipline, morals and right attitudes to help them fulfil their
respective roles.
❖ To make them become responsible members of society.
Baptism procedure
The procedure to Christian baptism answers to the following question:
a) Who should be baptised? (There are two conditions for baptism-repentance and believing in
Jesus Christ)
b) When should someone be baptised? (Immediately one repents- Acts 19:1-5, when one shows
belief, immediately one professed his/her faith when one shows obedience, when one shows
faith in Christ). Examples include: (i) The Ethiopian Eunuch acts 8:35-38 (ii) The Roman
army Officer acts 10:44-48 (iii) The Roman Jailer Acts 16:28-34
c) How should a person be baptised? (The New Testament recommends dipping or immersion
in water- Mt 3:16; the baptism of Jesus by John)
Conditions for baptism:
❖ Repentance from sin
❖ Profession of faith
❖ Believing in God/Jesus
Infant Baptism
It is the baptising of the children into the religious fellowship of their parents.
Reasons for infant Baptism
❖ To wash away the original sin man is born with.
❖ It is a mark of initiating the child in the parents’ church.
❖ To impart eternal life to the baby.
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❖ As a way of salvation (Baptism saves).
❖ So that the child should grow up to fear God.
Methods of Baptism
There are three methods of Baptism; namely immersion, pouring and sprinkling.
a) Immersion- Is a method of baptism where a person being baptised is completely submerged
in water. It is the accepted method in the New Testament.
b) Pouring- Is a method of baptism where water from the vessel is dripped on the head of the
person being baptised.
c) Sprinkling- Is the method where water from the vessel is splashed on the face of the person
being baptised.
Other forms of Baptism carried out by various churches in modern Zambian society
❖ Jumping over fire
❖ Dipping in water
❖ Plunging into a liquid/water
❖ Passing underneath the flag e.g. Salvation Army
Importance of the Baptism of Jesus (Mt 3:12-17)
Jesus commanded that all the sinners who repent are baptised (Mt 28:18-20). He was baptised
himself, not because he was a sinner but wanted to set an example.
❖ Set an example for his followers.
❖ To identify himself with the people he came to save (Isaiah 52:13, 53:12).
❖ To show his commitment to carry on God’s purpose to win souls for the kingdom (Mt
4:21-22)
❖ To let the people of Israel, know that he was the true son of God at his Baptism (Mt
3:17) Three important things happened:
a) The heavens opened as a sign of approval.
b) The voice confirmed Jesus as the son of God.
c) The Holy Spirit as a sign of anointing and commissioning for the mission.
New Testament Baptism and its importance today
❖ It is a physical symbol to show that a person has started following Jesus Christ.
❖ It is the picture of death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Christians identify themselves
with Christ in his death, burial and resurrection (Romans 6:3-13).
❖ It shows a person’s complete obedience to the commands of Christ
(Mt 28:19).
❖ It is an outward sign that repentance and forgiveness have already taken place
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❖ It makes people live in complete obedience to Christ’s teachings.
❖ Association with the body of Christ
Significance of circumcision in the Old Testament
❖ It marked the admission to adulthood in the tribe, an outward sign of relationship with
God.
❖ It was a covenant between God and Abraham (Israel)
❖ It was a command from God.
❖ It gave a chance to take part in worship of Yahweh.
❖ It was a mark of ownership and a reminder of the covenant between God and Israel.
❖ It was a guarantee or certificate of inheritance of God’s promises.
❖ It was a necessary condition of Jewish nationality.
Importance of male circumcision in Zambian modern society.
❖ It reduces chances of transmission of HIV/AIDS
❖ It reduces chances of transmission of S.T.I s
❖ Reduces chances of transmission of cervical cancer in women
❖ Increases cleanliness in men/ It promotes hygiene in men.
Religious admission practices and rites
a) Christianity
❖ Baptism is the picture of the death and the resurrection of Jesus.
❖ It is an expression of the beginning of new life in Christ.
❖ Through baptism, a person symbolically becomes a member of the body of Christ
(church)
b) Hinduism
❖ A Hindu boy between the age 8 and 12 the sacred thread of initiation as a sign of
adulthood status.
❖ It is a symbol of now being “twice born” but is not the same as being born again is
Christianity.
c) Islam
❖ To become a Muslim, one must express belief in the Kalima (creed)
❖ A Muslim child gradually learns Islamic beliefs and when he becomes an adult, he takes
full religious responsibility.
d) Zambian Traditional Religion
❖ Puberty and marriage rites for boys and girls where meant to prepare them for their
respective roles in adulthood.
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❖ Boys were circumcised and trained to become responsible fathers and husbands.
❖ Girls were secluded for a short period during which time they were trained to become
good mothers and wives.
Various religious teachings on admission practices
a) Hinduism
❖ Hindu boys between the ages of 8 to 12, receive the sacred thread of initiation. As a
sign of adult status in Hindu culture. It is trip standard string, worn throughout his life.
It means that he is new “twice born” this is not the same as the Christian of being born
again.
b) Islam
❖ Muslim practice circumcision, but it has no religious attachment to become a Muslim.
❖ To be Muslim one must express belief in a Kalima (creed); saying loud there is no god
but Allah and Muhammad is the prophet.
c) Zambian Traditional Religion
❖ Puberty and marriage rites for boys where meant to prepare them for their respective
roles in adulthood.
❖ Girls were secluded for a short period of time during which they learnt how to be good
wives and mothers.
❖ Publicly that one has entered a new way of life
❖ Boys were circumcised, and trained to become responsible husbands and fathers.
Religious comparison on baptism and admission practices
a) Christianity Vs Hinduism
Similarities:
In both, the admission practice is a sign of entering in a new way of life.
Differences:
Christianity: baptism practice is a sign of repentance and faith in Christ.
Hinduism: the admission practice is an outward sign of the inward reality.
b) Christianity Vs Islam
Similarities:
Both believe that inward expression of belief is more important than the outward.
Differences:
Christianity: To be a Christian, one must express belief in Christ and Biblical principles
Islam: To become a Muslim, one must express belief in the Kalima (creed)
c) Christian Vs Z.T.R on admission practice
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Similarities:
❖ In both initiations signify a new start in life.
❖ Both believe that initiation is an outward symbol of an inward reality.
❖ That one is ready to take an adulthood responsibility
❖ That one has passed from one stage of life to the other.
Differences:
Christianity- baptism shows repentance and conversion
Z.T.R- initiation shows that one has entered into adult life
Christianity- baptism identifies one with Christ in his death, burial and
resurrection.
Z.T.R- does not express dying with anyone.
Christianity- baptism shows association with the body of Christ (the church).
Z.T.R- initiation shows association with elders.
Question
1 (a)Relate the story of Jesus’ Baptism by John the Baptist. [5]
Mathew3:13–17
• At that time Jesus arrived from Galilee.
• And came to john at the Jordan to be baptized by him.
• But John tried to make him change his mind.
• I ought to be baptized by you, John said
• And yet you have come to me.
• But Jesus answered him, let it be so for now.
• For in this way we shall do all that God requires, so John agreed.
• As soon as Jesus was baptized, he came up out of the water.
• Then heaven was opened to him, and
• He saw the Spirit of God coming down like a dove and alighting on him.
• Then a voice said from heaven, this is my own dear Son, with whom I am pleased.
Any 10 points, ½ mark each = 5 marks.
(b)What was the significance of Jesus’ Baptism? State two points. [4]
• Jesus identified himself with sinners he came to save.
• Obedience to God’s will.
• As an introduction of Jesus as a Messiah
Any 2 points, 2 marks = 4 marks
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(c) (i)Mwelwa does not seem to know reasons why one should be baptised. What three
pieces of Christian advice would you give him on the importance of baptism according to the
New Testament? [6]
• It is a physical symbol to show that a person has started following Jesus Christ.
• It is the picture of death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Christians identify themselves
with Christ in his death, burial and resurrection.
• It shows a person’s complete obedience to the commands of Christ.
• It is an outward sign that repentance and forgiveness have already taken place
• It makes people live in complete obedience to Christ’s teachings.
• It is an association with the body of Christ
Any 3 points, 2 marks each = 6 marks.
(ii) What are the three common methods of baptism used by people in modern Zambian
society? [6]
• Immersion or dipping in water.
• Pouring water
• Passing underneath the flag.
• Sprinkling water.
• Jumping over fire.
Any 3 points, 2 marks each = 6marks.
(d) In what two ways are the Christian teachings on admission practices similar to that of
Islam? [4]
• Both approach religious leaders of the church and express desire for admission.
• Both symbolize entry into adult life.
2 points, 2 marks each = 4 marks.
UNIT 4: TEMPTATION
Bible text:
❖ Jesus’ temptation after baptism (Lk 4:1-13)
❖ How God tested Abraham (Gen 22:1-13)
❖ The suffering of Job (Job 1:6-22)
❖ The Triumphant entry into Jerusalem (Lk 19:28-40)
❖ Peter denying Jesus (Lk 22:54,62)
❖ The temptation of Adam and Eve (Gen 3:1-13)
Temptation, Testing and Sin
a) Temptation
Is the desire to sin or do something wrong. Temptation in itself is not sin, but giving in too it is sin.
Temptation tries to separate us from God just like Adam and Eve (Gen 3;11-19).
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God never tempts us because He is Holy (James 1:13), Satan is the one who tempts us. He tries to
make us sin through our natural desires (1 Corinthians 7:5, 1 Thessalonians 3:5, James 1;14).
This means that temptations can come from “Satan’s voice” or “purely from our natural desires”.
b) Testing
Is God trying our faith and obedience to Him. There is difference between temptation and testing.
When God is involved, it is testing; God tested Abraham and Job (Gen 22:1-13, Job 1:1--)
Trials and tests are useful in building our faith and character (James 1:1-3).
Reasons why God tests Christians:
❖ To prove the quality or strength of their faith (James 1:2-3).
❖ To prove their love and obedience (Gen 22:1).
❖ To build Christian character (James 1:2-3)
c) Sin
Means failing to reach God’s standard. It is breaking or transgression of the law. It causes a break in
the relationship between God and man.
Sin begins in our thoughts and imaginations. The physical act just an expression of the inner feelings
and thoughts.
It is therefore, possible to commit adultery in one’s heart, even though not actually not committing the
deed (Mt 5:28).
How temptations come
❖ Through our senses (2Samuel 11:2, Mt 5:27-28)
❖ Through our weaknesses (Mk 14:38)
❖ Through our desires (Matt 4:3-4, Gen 3:6, James 1:13, I Cor 7:5)
❖ Through pride of position (Acts 12:2-23, Daniel 4:30-37)
❖ Poverty: leads to complaining and stealing (Proverbs 30:9)
❖ Prosperity or success and possession: may lead to pride and forgetting God (Proverbs 30:8-9,
Lk 8:14)
❖ Friends: may mislead you (Mt 16:22-23, Lk 8:14)
❖ Circumstances (Mt 6:13)
❖ Trying to help others (Gal 6:1)
Examples of people who were tempted in the Bible
The Bible gives us the experience of people who were tempted in the Bible and warns us of the
danger of temptation. These include:
a) King David- he watched a naked woman bathing (2 Samuel 11:1-5)
b) Apostle Peter- he trusted in his own strength to overcome temptation; but he later denied the Lord
three times in spite of Jesus’ warning (Lk 22:54-62)
(c) Daniel’s three friends- refused to worship the king’s idol (Daniel 3:4-18)
Jesus’ temptation after Baptism (Luke 4:1-13)
The Holy Spirit led him into the wilderness for forty days of fasting. Satan tempted him in three ways:
❖ Turn stones into bread. Satan wanted Jesus to use his power for his own bodily needs.
❖ Worship Satan. The devil wanted Jesus to win political power and authority by worshiping
him.
❖ Jump from the pinnacle of the Temple. Satan tempted Jesus to win the people through his
demonstration miracles.
Jesus resisted all these temptations by using the word of God.
Other temptations of Jesus-Isaiah 42:1-2
Jesus faced temptation at other different occasions apart from those in the desert. These include:
❖ After feeding the five thousand -To do miracles to provide all the people’s needs (John
6:15)
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❖ To prove his Messiah ship. They asked him to prove he the Christ (Lk 11:29-30).
❖ To save himself on the cross (Lk 23:35-36)
❖ Peter tried to prevent Jesus’ death (Mk 16:21-23)
❖ During the Triumphant entry into Jerusalem (Luke 19:28-49)
❖ In the Garden of Gethsemane (Luke 22:29-46)
The will of God in each Temptation of Jesus
God met Jesus’ temptations with clear vision:
❖ His mission was not to force people to obey, but to change their hearts.
❖ His Kingdom must be based on love and not force.
❖ Sin could only be dealt with His sufferings and death.
Christian’s common temptations today
-Corruption/bribery -Nepotism
-Stealing -Abuse of office
-Adultery -Idolatry and divination
-Ancestral worship – Drug abuse
-Pride
- immorality - Abuse of Social media
How Christians can overcome temptations today
❖ By following Jesus’ example. The fact that Jesus was tempted and overcame gives us hope
(Hebs 2:18)
❖ Through prayer (Hebs 4:15-16).
❖ Using the word of God (what is written in the Bible).
❖ Resisting temptation (James 4:7)
❖ Submission to God (James 4:7, John 13: 37-38)
❖ Leave the place of temptation, Joseph did this to Potiphar’s wife (Gen 39:7-12)
❖ Being careful in trying to help others
Why the devil tempts Christians today.
❖ To separate them from God.
❖ To make them disobey God.
❖ To lead them to spiritual and physical death.
❖ To take advantage of their physical desires.
Things that can be avoided by people (youths) in modern Zambian society that could easily lead
them into temptation.
❖ Drunkenness
❖ Bad company/Bad friends
❖ Cinemas and night clubs
❖ Idleness
❖ Pornographic films/magazines
What we should do if we yield to temptation
We must quickly repent of our sins, confessing it to God so as to receive His forgiveness (Colossians
1:12-13)
How can young people respond effectively to the influence of peer pressure and social norms in
modern Zambian society?
❖ Seeking guidance from responsible persons.
❖ Making proper choices of friends.
❖ Being assertive/being resistant/ refusing.
❖ Having sound judgement about social norms.
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How people in modern Zambian society overcome temptation
❖ Appreciate the value of honesty
❖ Avoid bad places, books, internet, bad language
❖ Exercise self- control in times of temptations
❖ Maintain integrity in their dealings
Teaching on temptation in other religions
a) Hinduism
❖ Lust is a strong desire for a person of the opposite sex.
❖ Greed is a very serious or main temptation. A desire to have everything to oneself.
❖ Lust can be resisted by thinking that all women are one’s sisters.
❖ A person is condemned if they think of the impurity which comes from the human body.
❖ Greediness is resisted by remembering that money and possessions can only bring happiness
when they are earned in an honest way.
b) Islam
❖ Belief in other gods is idolatry. It should not even be entertained in one’s mind.
❖ Lust; adultery or immoral relation are resisted by thinking of the day of judgement.
Religious comparisons on Temptation
a) Christianity Vs Hinduism
Similarities:
❖ In both, lust and greed are temptations.
❖ In both, getting rich dubiously is sin.
❖ In both, there is a reminder that physical attraction is only temporal.
Differences:
Christians- there are many areas of temptation in one’s life.
Hinduism- lust and greed are the two main temptations.
Christians- temptation is resisted by turning to God for power and help.
Hinduism- the temptation of lust is resisted by thinking that all women are one’s sisters.
b) Christianity Vs Islam
Similarities:
❖ In both, it is sin to associate God’s qualities with any person.
❖ In both, it is sin to believe in other gods other than one and only God.
❖ In both, is not the act but thoughts adultery that are sinful.
Differences:
Christianity- Obey God out of love.
Islam- Obey God out of fear of judgement day.
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• God told us not to eat the fruit of that tree or even touch it, if we do, we
will die.
• The snake replied, that’s not true, you will not die.
• God said that because he knows that when you eat it, you will be like God
and know what is good and what is bad.
• The woman saw how beautiful the tree was and how good it’s fruit would
be to eat, and she thought how wonderful it would be to become wise.
• So, she took some of the fruit and ate it.
• Then she gave some to her husband, and he also ate it.
• As soon as they had eaten it, they were given the understanding and
realized that they were naked.
• So, they sewed fig leaves together and covered themselves.
Any 10 points, ½ mark each = 5 marks.
(b)Why did the temptation of Adam and Eve become sin? State two points. [4]
• They disobeyed God’s command/ By eating the forbidden fruit.
• They yielded to temptation.
2 points, 2 marks each = 4 marks.
(c) (i) “There is too much sin in the world today as a result of careless use of
internet, complained Mutinta. I wonder how a Christian can overcome sin, she
said. Give Mutinta three points of Christian advice on how she could overcome
temptation. [6]
• She should depend on God.
• She must be obedient to God’s will.
• She must resist temptations by using God’s Word.
• She must pray at all times.
• She must walk away from the places of temptation.
Any 3 points,2 marks each = 6 marks.
(ii) How do people in modern Zambian society overcome temptations? State
three points. [6]
• Praying in Jesus’ name
• Resisting the temptation
• Using the Word of God
• Submission to God
• Moving away from the place of temptation
• Confession and repentance if one yields to temptation.
Any 3points, 2marks each=6marks
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(d)In what ways is the teaching of Christians on overcoming temptations
similar to that of Muslims? State two points. [4]
• Both are commanded not to have lustful thoughts.
• Both are commanded not to have any other god (s) other than the one
God.
• Both are commanded not to associate God’s qualities with those of any
other person.
Any 2 points, 2marks each = 4 marks.
Bible texts:
❖ The paralysed man (Lk 5:17-26)
❖ The man with withered hand (Lk 6:6-10)
❖ Jesus healing the ten lepers (Lk 17: 11-19)
❖ The man with dropsy (Lk 14: 1-6)
❖ The blind man at Jericho (Lk 18:35-43)
❖ Jesus heals one leper (Lk 5:12-16)
❖ Jesus calms the storm (Lk 8:22-25)
❖ Jesus feeds five thousand people (Lk 9:12-17)
What is a miracle?
Is a happening which cannot be fully explained by natural events or human reasoning. It is supernatural
event.
In the Bible, a miracle is something with which man sees God at work. Miracles in the Bible are called
“signs” “works” or “mighty deeds”.
Why Jesus performed the Miracles
❖ To show His Messiah Ship.
❖ To show that the Kingdom of God had come.
❖ To fulfil the Old Testament prophecy.
❖ To invite people to put faith in God.
❖ Out of sympathy and compassion.
Jesus feeding five thousand people: Lessons learnt from the incidence:
(i) Jesus was the only one who could satisfy both the spiritual and physical needs of the
people
(ii) His divine power to multiply five loaves of bread and two fish.
(iii) His Deity and humanity to show compassion for the crowd and feed them.
(iv) His dependence on God His father by first giving thanks before breaking the bread and
fish.
Lessons from the Sabbath Miracle performance by Jesus
Most of the time throughout Jesus’ ministry, Jesus was in conflict with the teachers of law and Jewish
leaders over the issue of performing miracles on the Sabbath. There are four lessons here:
❖ Jesus had authority over the Sabbath.
❖ The Sabbath was made for the good of man and not the opposite.
❖ It is better to save life on the Sabbath than keep rituals and rules.
❖ Jesus had compassion and put the needs of the people first.
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Jesus Calming the storm- Lessons learnt from this incidence:
(i) His deity by His power over nature (the wind and waves)
(ii) His humanity by tiredness and sleep.
(iii) Jesus is both God and man
Jewish attitude to lepers:
At the time of Jesus, Jews believed that sickness was caused either by sin of the sick person or the sin
of their relatives. Sickness was sent as punishment for the sin committed. It was seen as God’s
displeasure, and that person was considered a sinner. This made the Jews to make rules on leprosy and
lepers.
a) Leprosy was considered a very unclean disease.
b) It did not only require healing but also cleansing.
c) Lepers were pronounced unclean and unkempt people who were to like mourners going to their
death.
Jewish rules on lepers and leprosy
❖ Lepers were to avoid contact with other people.
❖ They were ordered to ring the bell and shout “unclean! unclean! Unclean!” at every sight of a
non-leper about 100m away.
❖ Only a priest could pronounce a leper clean by a certificate of cleansing.
❖ The certificate was given after an elaborate ritual of cleansing.
Jewish attitude to lepers
❖ Considered them as outcasts.
❖ Considered them as sinners.
❖ Never associated with them.
❖ Considered them as unclean/unkempt figures.
Rituals performed to certify that a leper is cleansed
❖ Sacrifice of a bird and the release of another.
❖ Washing of clothes, shaving of hair and bathing the body
❖ After seven (7) days, the second process was repeated
❖ On the 8th day, sacrifices were offered and the person was ceremonially cleansed with the blood
and oil of the sacrifice.
People’s attitude towards people with HIV/AIDS today
❖ There is a lot of stigma and discrimination in most cases.
❖ Lack of confidence in them for what they can contribute to society.
Positive Attitude towards chronically ill people in modern Zambian society
❖ Pray for them
❖ Take care of them
❖ Mix freely with them
❖ Show love to them
❖ Counsel them
❖ Have pity or sympathy for them
❖ Accept their situation
❖ Show them empathy
Jesus’ Attitude towards the Lepers
❖ Jesus had compassion and love towards the needy.
❖ He had pity and sympathy.
❖ He accepted those who were rejected in society.
❖ He mixed freely with them.
❖ He welcomed them
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❖ He healed them
❖ He prayed for them
Reasons why Christians believe in miracles:
❖ Miracles occur in the will of God today because they define results through their prayers or
those of other people.
❖ Belief in the miracle working God
❖ Belief in the virgin birth of Jesus
❖ Belief in death and resurrection of Jesus.
Those who do not believe in miracles argue that miracles can be performed by satanic powers too. For
example; magic, divination, foretelling future events etc. Witch doctor’s power from Satan can
bring miracles.
Views of the people in modern Zambian society on miracles:
❖ They have unbelief in the miracle working God.
❖ Unbelief in the miracle itself.
❖ Lack of proof or evidence.
Teachings on Miracles in other Religions
a) Zambian Traditional Religion
❖ God perform unusual things through his chosen people.
❖ Only special people can perform miracles.
❖ Miracles are performed through the help of ancestral spirits.
❖ Miracles increase the influence and reputation of a person performing them.
b) Islam
❖ Muslims believe that at a command, Prophets perform unusual and extra ordinary deeds.
❖ Allah (God) sometimes performs unusual things through holy men.
❖ Miracles increase the reputation and influence of holy men.
❖ Only Allah performs the actual miracle.
c) Hinduism
❖ Hindus believe that miracles performed by a person are not proof of their divinity.
❖ Miracles increase people’s faith in God.
❖ Miracles can be performed through satanic powers.
❖ Even ordinary people can perform miracles.
Religious Comparisons on Miracles and Attitude towards the Sick
a) Christianity Vs Z.T.R
Similarities:
❖ Both take care of the sick.
❖ Both try to find cure for the sick.
❖ Both are sympathetic of the sick.
Differences:
Christianity- prays for the sick.
Z.T.R- Consult traditional hearers.
Christianity- Takes care of the sick with love.
Z.T.R- Takes care of the sick as an obligation.
b) Christianity Vs Islam
Similarities:
❖ Both believe in the miracle working God.
❖ Both believe in the existence of miracles.
Differences:
Christianity- God can use any of the faithful people to perform miracles.
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Islam- Only Prophets sent by Allah can perform miracles.
Christianity- Miracles increase people’s faith in God not in a person.
Islam- Miracles increase the influence and reputation of those who perform them.
c) Christianity Vs Hinduism
Similarities:
❖ Both believe that God performs miracles.
❖ Both belie that miracles performed by a person is not proof of their divinity.
❖ Both believe that miracles help deepen people’s faith in God.
Differences:
Christianity- Miracles can also be performed through satanic powers.
Hinduism- Only God can perform miracles.
Question
1. (a) Give an account of Jesus healing a blind man at Jericho. [5]
Luke18:35-43
• As Jesus was coming near Jericho, there was a blind man sitting by the road, begging.
• When he heard the crowd passing by, he asked, “what is this?”
• “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by, they told him”
• He cried out, Jesus! Son of David! Have mercy on me!
• The people in front scolded him and told him to be quiet.
• But he shouted even more loudly, Son of David! Have mercy on me!
• So, Jesus stopped and ordered the blind man to be brought to him.
• When he came near, Jesus asked him what do you want me to do for you?
• Sir, he answered, I want to see again.
• Jesus said to him, then see!
• Your faith has made you well.
• At once he was able to see and he followed Jesus, giving thanks to God.
• When the crowd saw it, they all praised God.
Any 10points, ½ mark each=5marks
(b) How did Jesus react in the above incident? State two points. [4]
• He showed love.
• He showed His power and authority over diseases.
• He showed pity/compassion/sympathy
Any 2points, 2marks each =4marks
(c) (i) Mweene has been diagnosed with cancer of the bones and has been admitted to
Cancer Disease Hospital (CDH) in Lusaka for a long time. He has been praying for
his recovery and is wondering if God can perform a miracle. State three Christian
advice you would give Mweene concerning his situation. [6]
• Trust in God regardless of the situation.
• Continue praying.
• Have faith that God will answer.
• God answers in His own time.
Any 3points,2marks each=6marks
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(ii) How do people in modern Zambian Society today react to miracles? Give three points.
[6]
• Some put trust in God.
• Others thank God.
• Some praise God.
• Others become converted to Christianity.
• Some doubt and take it as an ordinary thing.
Any Other Varied Answer-AOVA, 3points, 2marks each=6marks
(d) In what ways are the Christian beliefs in miracles similar to those of the Hindus?
State two points. [4]
• Both believe that God performs miracles.
• Both believe that miracles performed by a person is not proof of their divinity.
• Both believe that miracles help deepen people’s faith in God.
Any 2points,2 marks each=4marks
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Attitudes to and treatment of spirits in Zambian Traditional Religion
It is believed that there are various kinds of spirits. The attitude to these spirits varies from one area to
another. However, the general understanding is that:
❖ The good spirits (guardian spirits) act as overseers and protectors of the living. As such, they
are not kept away.
❖ Bad spirits are responsible for certain diseases and conditions like epilepsy.
❖ Ancestral spirits are spirits of the departed. They do not possess people protect and oversee
them.
Treatment of spirit possession in Zambian Traditional Religion
When a person is found to be possessed by spirits, they are driven away (exorcised) by:
❖ Use of Charms
❖ Drumming
❖ Dancing
❖ Special ceremonies
The ideal attitude in modern Zambian society towards demon possessed people
❖ Caring for them
❖ Praying for them
❖ Associating and comforting them
❖ Witnessing to them
❖ Providing for their physical needs (where possible)
Symptoms of Demon possessed people
People who are possessed by demons may display symptoms like:
❖ Dumbness (Lk 11;14)
❖ Fittings similar to that of epilepsy (Mk 9:17)
❖ Madness
❖ Blindness
The two Kingdoms in the Spiritual realms
These are the Kingdom of God and the Kingdom of Satan.
a) The Kingdom of God
It is the sphere of God’s rule and authority? God is the creator of the whole Universe. God represents;
light, truth and goodness.
b) The Kingdom of Satan
It is the group an Angelic being called Satan and other angels who rebelled against God and become
hostile. These have influences in many places and are hostile to God and his followers. This Kingdom
represents; darkness, lies and evil.
Kinds of spirits in Christian Teaching
There are four kinds of spirits; namely the Holy spirits, human spirit, angels and evil spirits.
a) The Holy Spirit of God: Is the third person of the Trinity (Acts 1:4-5; 2:1-4). He is not a force or
power of God but is one of the persons in the Trinity. He has personal attributes such as being able to
grieve or angered; able to speak and lives in every believer who repents and seeks forgiveness.
b) The Human Spirit: A human being has a physical body made of flesh, blood and bones. He also has
a soul and a spirit, which makes be aware of God. This allows his to know and communicate with God.
c) Angels: These are described as “good spirits” or ministering spirits to Christians.
They God’s messengers though we do not see them. God sends them to help protect Christians when
they are in trouble.
d) Evil Spirits: These are demons or unclean spirits which belong to the Kingdom of Satan. This is a
highly organised empire of the evil spirits (Ephesians 6:12)
Treatment of Demon possession in Christianity
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Since Christians believe that demons are bad and responsible for much evil, they cast the out.
Christians believe freedom from demons come by:
❖ Repentance and confession of sin.
❖ Faith in Jesus Christ as saviour and Lord.
❖ Total commitment of one’s life to Jesus Christ.
❖ Exorcism/rebuking the evil spirits in Jesus’ name (casting out demons)
❖ By administering anointing oil
❖ Pray and fasting
❖ Rebuking the evil spirits in Jesus’ name
Representation of Evil Spirits or Demons in the Gospels
❖ Belonging to the kingdom of Satan (Lk 11:14-26)
❖ They recognise Jesus as the son of God (Lk 4:34, 8:28)
❖ Dwelling in people, even preferring to live in pigs (Lk 4;31)
❖ Responsible for certain diseases like epilepsy, madness, dumbness etc.
Demonic Practice in forbidden in Christianity
a) Divination: is an attempt to predict future events. It is also used to discover users of witch craft.
b) Witch Craft: an act leading to devil worship. It causes spiritual darkness, demon possession and
death.
c) Magic: the use of mullets and charms to protect the one who wears them.
d) Spells and Omens: incantations or words used as alternative to charms. They are used in
connection to cure.
e) Sorcery: this covers the art of astrology, palmistry and the use of familiar spirits.
Religious Comparison on Demonic Possession
Christianity Vs Zambian Traditional Religion
Similarities:
❖ Both believe that spirits possess people.
❖ In both, evil spirits have different personality from the one possessed.
❖ In both, evil spirits can be exorcised (cast out)
Differences:
Christianity- They do not believe in the usefulness of ancestral spirits because they belong to the
devil.
Z.T.R- Some ancestral spirits are helpful and so should be protected.
Christianity- Evil spirits can be exorcised by word of command in the name of Jesus.
Z.T.R- Spirits are exorcised through drumming, dancing and special ceremonies.
Question
1(a) Tell the story of Jesus casting out demons from the man in the Synagogue. [5]
Luke 4:31-37
• Then Jesus went to Capernaum, a town in Galilee, where he taught the people on the
sabbath.
• They were all amazed at the way he taught, because he spoke with authority.
• In the synagogue was a man who had the spirit of an evil demon in him, he screamed
out in a loud voice.
• “Ah! What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Are you here to destroy us?
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• I know who you are, you are God’s holy messenger!”
• Jesus ordered the spirit, “be quiet and came out of the man”.
• The demon threw the man down in front of them and went out of him without doing
him any harm.
• The people were all amazed and said to one another, “what kind of words are these?
• With authority and power this man gives orders to the evil spirits and they come out”.
• And the report about Jesus spread everywhere in that region.
10 points, ½ mark each=5 marks
(b) Mention two kingdoms of spiritual realms and what each of one of them represents. [4]
(c) (i) A Herbalist has been casting out demons by using traditional medicine, charms and
beating drums. You have observed that some of your church mates have been frequenting the
herbalist’s home for treatment. State three pieces of Christian advice you would give your
church mates on the correct methods of treating demon possessed people. [6]
(ii) What is the positive attitude of people towards spiritual possession in modern Zambian
society? State three points. [6]
• Evil spirits are bad as such they are cast out/driven out.
• Ancestral spirits are revered by the people.
• Holy Spirit is good and dwells in believers.
3 points, 2 marks each =6 marks
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(d) In what two ways are Christian teachings on treatment of demon possession different
from those of Zambian traditionalists? [4]
ZTR: treat demon possessed people using charms, lotions and tattoos.
Christianity: use prayer in Jesus’ name to cast out evil spirits and scriptures may be quoted.
ZTR: use special ceremonies and drumming to keep the spirits away/ pacify the evil spirits.
Christianity: believe the way to be free is through faith in Jesus Christ as Saviour and Lord.
Bible Text:
❖ The parable of the pounds (Lk 19: 11-27)
❖ Right priorities (Lk 12: 22-34)
❖ The hidden Treasure and the Pearl (Matthew 13:44-46)
❖ The parable of the Mustard seed and yeast (Lk 13: 18-19; 20-21)
❖ Parable of the wedding feast (Lk 14: 7-14)
❖ The widow’s offering (Lk 21: 1-4)
❖ Jesus meets Zacchaeus (Lk 19: 1-9)
Forms of Contemporary Governments
There are two types of governments; namely democratic and dictatorial.
Characteristics of a democratic state in modern Zambian society
❖ There are free and fair elections, which are held after an agreed period of time.
❖ Government accepts criticism as a path to improvements and development.
❖ Citizens have freedom of speech and press freedom.
❖ The rule of law is up held.
❖ There are several political parties competing to rule the country, through elections.
a) God’s Kingdom: (Lk 17:20-25; Mk 1:14-19)
The word Kingdom means the country under the rule of a King. In the Bible, the Kingdom of God is
not a physical place, but a spiritual Kingdom. God is King and reigns supreme.
Jesus used the following points to explain to the Pharisees when the Kingdom of God would come:
❖ The Kingdom of God will not be seen when it comes. People will not say “it is here” or “it is
there”.
❖ The Kingdom of God is within you. In other words, “it is spiritual”- within believers.
The Jews had totally different ideas about the Kingdom of God. They believed that when the Messiah
would come, he would gain a lot of political victory over his enemies.
Who brought the Kingdom into the World?
At the time John the Baptist was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee preaching the good news of
God. He said, “Repent the Kingdom of God is near, repent and believe the good news”.
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a) Present Kingdom
Jesus taught that God’s Kingdom had already come. It started with the coming of Jesus Christ, the
Messiah, not in a political sense but spiritual in the hearts of all who accept his rule throughout the
world. This was demonstrated by:
❖ The authority with which Jesus spoke (Mt 7:28-29, Lk 3:22)
❖ The fact that it came with power, like in miracles (Mk 9:1)
❖ Blessings received by those who accepted Jesus’ forgiveness, salvation, healing eternal life
etc.
b) The Future Kingdom
When Jesus returns the second time, he will gather to himself all those who have responded to his call
and accepted his rule to in their lives. He will then:
❖ Establish the Earthly Kingdom.
❖ Rule with the help of his followers (Mt 24:30; 25:14-21)
Signs of the Kingdom of God
Visible signs that were showing that the Kingdom of God had already come included:
❖ Spiritual change: As people responded to his messages, there was complete change in their
life styles.
❖ Healing: Many people received both physical and spiritual healing (Lk 8:26-39)
❖ Deliverance from evil spirits: Jesus drove away a demon that caused the man to be mute
(dumb) (Lk 11:14-23)
Why Jesus came (Lk 14:16-21)
❖ To preach good news to the poor, despised and out casts.
❖ To forgive sins
❖ To bring deliverance to captives in sin, sickness and death.
❖ To heal the broken in heart, mind, body and soul
❖ To preach to those who were poor in spirit and humble enough to receive His word.
❖ To proclaim freedom to the prisoners.
❖ To release the oppressed.
How does one Enter the Kingdom of God? (Entry requirements to the Kingdom)
a) Repentance: Jesus taught that the first step to the Kingdom of God is repentance.
b) Faith in Jesus: Jesus said, “Repent and believe the good news of the Kingdom” (Mk 1:14, John
3:14-16)
c) Be born again: Jesus told Nicodemus of that new birth-spiritual rebirth was vital to enter the
Kingdom of God John 3:3-8)
d) Obedience to Jesus: Jesus said, “Whoever comes to me and hears my word, and does them is like
a man who builds his house on the rock” (Lk 6:46-48)
The Effects of the Kingdom of God
a) The Hidden treasure and pearl (Mt 13:44-46)
The lessons learnt from the above parables:
❖ is that being part of the God’s Kingdom is the most important thing in the entire world. We
must be prepared to give up everything for the Kingdom.
❖ It cost the Lord Jesus Christ’s life to make it possible for the us to enter God’s kingdom.
❖ Christ is the one who bought the “field” (the world) and the “pearl” (the Church) with His
blood.
❖ The person who is convinced of the costly and lasting value of the kingdom of God will be
prepared to make any sacrifice to enter that kingdom.
b) Right priorities (Lk 12:22-34)
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The Kingdom must be our priority. God will provide our daily needs as we trust him. Christians must
see material things from the perspective of God.
c) The Parable of the Pounds (Lk 19:11-27)
-The responsibility of the growth of the Kingdom lies with us.
-We must allow the teaching of the Kingdom not only to grow in us but also pass it on to others.
-We are all in danger of losing what we have if it is not put to good use.
d) The Widow’s offering (Lk 21:1-4)
This is an example one who gave all she had to God.
-The heart of true devotion and not the amount is what God wants.
For who is the Kingdom of God
The four Gospels teach that the Kingdom of God is for the poor, hungry, humble and persecuted
people. For example; God chose Mary, a poor and humble woman to be the mother to his son (Lk
1:51-55). The fact that God chose a poor and humble young woman to be the mother of his son shows
how highly he regards people who are devoted to him.
a) The poor, hungry, persecuted and humble (Lk 6:20-26, 14:7-11)
The emphasis above text is on what Christians think of themselves:
-Those who are proud of their spiritual growth and do not acknowledge God will be humbled.
-Those that in humility recognise their spiritual hunger and poverty more to God will be exalted.
b) The parable of the Wedding Feast (Lk 14:7-11)
In this parable, Jesus points out that:
❖ A humble person does not push himself up to obtain the best seat. He was probably thinking
of the Jewish leaders who had the best positions in society and thought that they will have the
same positions in the Kingdom of God too.
❖ Being unselfish
❖ Humility is important.
Where is the Kingdom of God now?
In the parable of the Mustard seed and Yeast, the gospels teach that the Kingdom of God is present in
the world and is growing.
It is a universal Kingdom to include all- the Jews and the Gentiles.
The Kingdom of God and Christians today
❖ The way Christians live today ought to show that God’s Kingdom comes first in their lives.
Everything else is of secondary importance (Mt 6:31-34; Lk 13:20-21)
❖ A Christian must be prepared to sacrifice everything else for the sake of the Kingdom of God.
❖ If the Kingdom of God comes first in our lives, God will meet all our temporal needs and our
blessings added.
Difference between God’s Kingdom and the Modern State
a) In a modern state, we have:
❖ A leadership supported by a Cabinet and Ministers.
❖ MPs who elected by the people as their representatives at constituency level
❖ There is an actual place.
❖ Not spiritual but physical place.
b) In God’s Kingdom, we have in contrast:
❖ Not physical or actual place but spiritual
❖ It is where God rules over the hearts, minds and wills of the people.
❖ It is brought to us by Jesus Christ,
❖ There is repentance of sins.
Religious Teachings on Central ideas on God’s Kingdom
a) Christianity
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❖ The Kingdom of God is for the poor, humble, hungry and persecuted.
❖ It must be our first priority; material wealth is secondary.
❖ Christians are responsible to pass on the message to others to increase the Kingdom of God.
❖ They must show devotion to God and be good examples to others in their Christian
behaviour.
b) Islam
❖ Believe in God (Allah) - surrendering completely to the will of Allah.
❖ Believe in the day of judgement and life after death.
❖ Believe that both good and bad are ordained by Allah.
❖ The five pillars of Islam have to be followed.
c) Hinduism
❖ God. Is the creator and controller of the universe.
❖ Prayer. Is the simplest way of knowing God.
❖ Reincarnation. The soul never dies; it continues to live through other bodies by rebirth.
❖ Law of action. Known as Karma, one’s actions in the previous life.
❖ Non-violence. Reverence for life is very important. The reverence for the cow illustrates of
the Hindu belief that a soul does not only live in a human form, but in all other creatures.
d) Zambian Traditional Religion
❖ Keep in touch with ancestral spirits.
❖ Offer sacrifices to appease the spirits
❖ Spirits will help in times of trouble; famine, drought, sickness etc.
❖ If spirits are not respected, they main cause disasters or trouble.
❖ An object is choosing to which sacrifices and prayers are given or offered.
Religious Comparisons on Central ideas
a) Christianity Vs Islam
Similarities:
❖ Both believe in surrendering completely to will of God.
❖ Both believe in the day of judgement and life after death.
b) Difference:
Christians- Have no restriction where to face when praying.
Islam- Must always face Mecca when praying.
b) Christianity Vs Hinduism
Similarities:
❖ Both believe that God controls the universe.
❖ Both believe that God is everywhere (Omnipresent).
❖ In both, prayer is the simplest way of knowing and finding God.
❖ In both, there is belief in non-violence.
Differences:
Christianity- Believe in the resurrection of the body when Jesus comes.
Hindus- believe in reincarnation or rebirth.
Christianity- Any prayer is important to God.
Hindus- Certain prayers are more important than others.
c) Christianity Vs Z.T.R
Similarities:
❖ They both keep in touch with their super natural beings.
❖ They both pass on the message to grow the religion.
❖ They both offer prayer.
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Differences:
Christianity- Do not offer sacrifices because Jesus has been given as a living sacrifice.
Z.T.R- They offer sacrifices to appease the spirits.
Christianity- Show true devotion to God and be good example to others.
Z.T.R- An object is chosen to which devotion, sacrifice and prayers are offered.
Question
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• Repentance
• Be born again
• Obedience to Jesus.
Any 3 points,2marks each=6marks
(d) In what ways is Christian teachings on central ideas about the kingdom of God
different from those of Hindus? Give two points. [4]
Christians: believe in the resurrection of the body when Jesus comes.
Hindus: Believe in reincarnation or rebirth.
Christians: Any prayer we make to God is important.
Hindus: Certain prayers are more important than others.
2points of differences, 2marks each= 4marks
GRADE 11 WORK
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION- 2046/1
UNIT 1: JUDGEMENT
Bible Text:
❖ The parable of the final judgement (Mt 25:31-46)
❖ The parable of the ten girls (Mt 25:1-13)
❖ John the Baptist’s warning about the coming judgement (Lk 3:1-17)
❖ The yeast of the Pharisees (Lk 12:1-12)
❖ The unprepared people (Lk 17:20-37)
❖ The rich man and Lazarus (Lk 16:19-31)
❖ The unbelieving towns (Lk 16:19-31
❖ Christ’s return is uncertain (Peter 3:3-14)
❖ The coming of the Kingdom (Lk 17:20-37)
JUDGEMENT
Is an assessment on a person’s works or actions for a reward or punishment. An example is
what is done in the court of law.
How people will be judged by Jesus
The Bible gives the basis of judgement by Jesus. These are;
a) People’s response to Jesus
❖ It is difficult sometimes to tell the difference between believers and non-believers.
❖ At the final judgement, separation will be done.
❖ The son of man knows those who belong to him.
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b) People’s behaviour towards others
The following two parables show how people will be judged according to behaviour towards
others:
❖ The parable of the final judgement (Mt 25:31-46)
❖ John the Baptist’s warning about the coming judgement (Lk 3:1-17)
❖ Jesus will separate believers from non-believers.
❖ Christians should make themselves ready for the Master. They should not live to
please themselves.
Christ will come suddenly
No one knows the time Christ will come, hence everyone must be ready and watch (Mk
13:32-37).
a) The parable of waiting servants (Lk 12:3540)
❖ Jesus’ followers are like servants waiting for their master ready at all times because
his return may be sudden. Those who are ready will be saved.
❖ Jesus will not announce his coming in the same the thief does not announce when he
will come to your house.
❖ Good servants do their work faithfully and have everything ready for the master. They
do not live to please themselves.
b) Signs of the coming judgement (Lk 21:7-11)
The following end time signs will come before judgement:
❖ False prophets,
❖ Many troubles e.g. wars, earthquakes, diseases (HIV/AIDS)
❖ Persecutions
Signs of the coming Judgement in modern Zambian society
❖ Children disobeying parents
❖ False teachers
❖ False prophets
❖ Famines
❖ Spreading diseases
❖ Persecutions will come
❖ Earth quakes.
Judgement for unbelief
The story of the rich man and Lazarus (Lk 16:19-31)
The lessons learnt include:
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❖ The results of not responding to the gospel. The rich man did not use his wealth for
God.
❖ God will judge those who reject the message by his servants.
❖ There are many places including Zambia where the message has reached but there is
still cruelty, dishonesty, immorality and no faith in God. To reject a message from his
servant is to reject Jesus himself.
How people respond to Christ’s return in modern Zambian Society
Positive way of responding
❖ By repenting and confessing of their sins
❖ By witnessing to others
❖ By giving practical help to others
❖ By living lives of obedience to God
❖ Belief in God
❖ As a Christian, we build to last
❖ Good Christian conduct
❖ Preaching the Gospel
Negative way of responding
❖ Lack of faith in God
❖ Unrepentant hearts
❖ Disobedient to God
❖ Lovers of the world
❖ Unbelief in God
Christian response to Christ’s return
❖ The duty of the apostles was to go out and tell the good news so that people could be
brought out into the spiritual Kingdom. Jesus promised them the Holy Spirit to give
them power for work.
❖ Today, Christians must work as Christ’s witnesses; to warn people about the coming
judgement and the way into the Kingdom of God (Acts 1:6-8).
Religious central ideas about Judgement
a) Christianity
People will be judged according to their deeds.
❖ Response to Christ (in one’s life).
❖ Behaviour to others.
❖ Christian conduct and service.
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b) Islam
❖ Islam implies total surrender to the will of Allah.
❖ Whatever Allah wills; be it good or dad must come to pass.
❖ Jesus is coming to rule for forty years. He will then establish Islam in the whole
world.
❖ They recognise the need for Allah’s forgiveness, but doubts if he would ever do that.
❖ A soldier who dies in a holy war, to protect the spread of Islamic faith, does not need
to worry about keeping the law of Islam, or having his good or bad weighed. His
death in war blots away any sins in his life.
❖ They are deeply concerned by about judgement day.
❖ Judgement for a Muslim is a fearsome thing. The good or bad in a person’s life will
be weighed on a scale by the God of vengeance.
-if good deeds weigh heavier than the bad, a Musl9im is promised heaven full of
delights of life; water gardens, good harvest, pure wives who please him.
-if bad outweigh good, he will go to hell but he cannot know until judgement.
c) Hinduism
❖ The idea of judgement is relevant to Hindus.
❖ In Karma, a Hindu believes that that reward or punishment always depends on deeds.
❖ A good living Hindu does not worry about judgement. He acts unselfishly and does
his duty and so, leaves judgement to God.
❖ If his actions are devout or pious, in his life time or the next, he will be rewarded now
and in the next life. If his deeds are bad, punishment must follow.
❖ One cannot escape the results (punishment or reward) of one’s actions.
Question
1. (a) Describe the parable of the waiting servants. [5]
Luke 12 v 35 – 40
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(c) (i) Mapalo has a bible study with his friends. He pointed out to his friends that for
someone to enter the kingdom of God, one must attend church services regularly. State three
points of Christian advice you would give to Mapalo and his friends on how one can enter the
kingdom of God. [6]
Christian
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UNIT 2: PRAYER
Bible Text:
❖ The Lord’s pattern of prayer (Lk 11:1-4)
❖ The friend at midnight (Lk 11:5-13)
❖ The widow and the judge (Lk 18:1-8)
❖ The Pharisee and the tax collector (Lk 18:6-14)
Prayer is talking and listening to God. God wants us to communicate with him in this way.
When should we pray?
❖ Anytime, anywhere.
❖ The good time to pray privately is when reading the Bible each day.
❖ Christians should also come together for prayer (Mt 18:19-20).
How should we pray?
There are three ways of prayer:
a) Private (oneself/personal) prayer: this is when an individual communicates with God.
b) Community prayer: This is when a community meet together to pray.
c) Action prayer: This involves reaching out to others; example helping those in need.
Methods of prayer
a) Worship and Thanksgiving: This involves thanking the God that he is Great and Holy.
b) Confession: Is telling God about the wrong things one has done and if one has failed God
in any way.
c) Intercession: Is praying on behalf of others; like the sick, poor, widows, orphans
d) Personal: This is when an individual prays to God about any problems or needs they may
have.
e) Thanksgiving: Thanking God for hearing and answering our prayers.
Jesus’ examples of private prayer
Jesus often went alone to pray to his father. Some of the occasions when Jesus prayed alone
were:
❖ After he was baptised (Lk 3:21)
❖ After he had healed many people (Lk 4:42)
❖ When he gave thanks for food provided (Lk 5:16)
❖ Before he chose the twelve (Lk 6:12)
❖ Before he spoke of his coming suffering (Lk 9:18)
❖ Before the transfiguration (Lk 9:28)
❖ Before going to the cross (Lk 22:20-45
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Reasons why Jesus Prayed
❖ To get the strength he needed to do his mission.
❖ To know the will of the father (God). This mattered to him more than anything.
The Lord’s Pattern of Prayer
Jesus encouraged us to bring our needs to God, believing he hears and answers.
There are four important elements in the Lord’s Prayer:
❖ Recognising God as our father. He is in control in heaven.
❖ Allowing God’s will is more important than anything else.
❖ God gives us our daily provisions.
❖ Forgive us our sins as we forgive others.
Christian attitude to Prayer
a) A friend at midnight (Lk 11:1-4)
❖ The parable teaches the importance of perseverance or persistence in prayer.
❖ We never ask God in vain, he will answer.
❖ God is never reluctant to answer, but waiting for the best time.
b) The Widow and the Judge (Lk 18:1-8)
In the story, an ungodly judge does not want to help the begging widow but decides to help
her because she is becoming a nuisance.
Judges were supposed to have special concern for the widows, orphans and the poor, but they
were often corrupt and selfish. They only helped those who had money and influence.
❖ The widow had no money and influence, no one helped her, she only got justice
because of persistence.
❖ Unlike the judge, God helps the needy and the oppressed.
❖ We can rely on him to help us if we trust in him and be persistent in prayer.
c) The Pharisee and the Tax Collector (Lk 18:9-14)
❖ Prayer must be addressed to God. The Pharisee was only interested in himself and did
not have faith in God, but in his religious works. For this he was condemned.
❖ The Tax collector had faith in God and he knew he was a sinner. So he admitted to
God, humility and sorrow gripped him. He was forgiven of all his sins.
God does not listen to people who try to tell him about their good deeds.
Ways through which God answers prayer
God can answer prayer in three ways; YES, NO and WAIT. But then:
❖ Always believe that that God will answer your prayer.
❖ Pray in the name of Jesus. God answers when we in the name of his son.
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❖ Pray according to will of God. Let God answer in a way he wants.
❖ Always obey. God answers when we obey him.
Various ideal ways of on How people pray in modern Zambian society
❖ Read the Bible when praying
❖ Pray together in a group
❖ Pray quietly alone
❖ Others pray loudly
Reasons people pray in modern Zambian Society
❖ They pray for guidance from God
❖ They pray for protection from God
❖ They pray to thank God for all his blessings
❖ They pray for healing
❖ To intercede for others
❖ To praise God
Religious teachings on Prayer
a) Zambian Traditional Religion
❖ In some tradition, an altar is made at every house for contact with the family.
❖ At a special place, sacrifices are offered the spirits to give them a share of food,
harvest especially in times of famine and sickness.
❖ Prayers are made through the ancestral spirits as mediators between man and supreme
God.
❖ Most believe that if all is well, there is no need to pray to God, it will bother and
annoy him.
❖ Community prayer is more common than private prayer as most people are aware that
God is more interested in the community than an individual.
b) Islam
❖ Prayer is one of the essential five pillars of Islam.
❖ Islam does not excuse the ill from praying as they can pray while lying down. Those
that cannot go to the Mosque can still pray at home facing Mecca.
❖ At noon on Friday which is the Holy day for Muslims, special congregational
messages are said in a Mosque. There is also a sermon on moral, social and political
issues.
c) Hinduism
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❖ Prayer has a very important position in life of a Hindu. It influences thought
processes.
❖ The nature of Hindu prayer is diverse. A Hindu prays to the ultimate God, Brahman-
the Great Soul. But a Hindu is encouraged to see God in form of various gods and
goddesses or even nature.
❖ During prayer, he Hindu may chant his own verse (Mantra) from the Holy books. He
may just sit quietly in a quiet spot and try to be one with nature.
❖ Congregational prayer is not common among the Hindus.
Religious Comparison on Prayer
a) Christianity Vs Zambian Traditional Religion
Similarities:
❖ Both believe that prayer is the way of communicating with the Supreme God.
❖ Both have special places where they conduct prayer.
❖ In both Communities prayer is common.
❖ Both pray through a mediator.
Differences:
Christianity- Prayer is made through Jesus as a mediator.
Z.T.R- Prayer is made through ancestral spirits as mediators.
Christianity- Prayer is said any time anywhere.
Z.T.R- Prayer is only done at special times e.g. famine or disease.
b) Christianity Vs Islam
Similarities:
❖ In both, prayer is an essential part of religious practice.
❖ In both, there is congregational prayer.
Differences:
Christianity- There is no fixed number a person can pray in a day.
Islam- A Muslim prays five times a day.
Christianity- One does not need to face in any special place when praying.
Islam- A Muslim prays while facing Mecca.
c) Christianity Vs Hinduism
Similarities:
❖ Both attach great importance to prayer.
❖ Both pray to God.
Differences:
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Christianity- Are not encouraged seeing God in various forms gods and goddesses.
Hinduism- Are encouraged seeing God in various forms of gods and goddesses.
Christianity- All prayers are important.
Hinduism- Some prayers are more important than others.
Luke 11 v 1 – 4
(b) From the lord’s pattern of prayer, state two statements and explain what each of them
mean. [4]
• “Father” here was the Aramaic “Abba” very familiar title used by a chid meaning that
a true Christian can approach God in this way.
• “may your holy name be honoured” – we come with freedom as to a father but with
reverence because God is holy
• “may your kingdom come” – that God’s rule may control the hearts of the people
• “give us each day our daily bread” – God can be trusted to provide for our needs, and
we may confidently ask him for them.
• “forgive our sins as we forgive everyone” – God can be trusted to forgive us of our
sins as we forgive those who wrong us.
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• “Lead us not into temptation” – we ask our father to protect us from any test that
would be too much for us.
(c) (i) “my prayers have always remained an answered” complains Josephine. What Christian
advice would you give Josephine on how God answers prayers? State three points.
[6]
• When you pray you should always believe God will answer them.
• Always pray in Jesus name
• Always pray according to God’s will
• Always obey
• Always be patient and wait to receive
• God will not always say yes or no to our prayers.
(ii) How do people in Zambian Modern Society regard prayer? Give three points. [6]
Bible Text:
❖ Zacchaeus the tax collector (Lk 19:1-10)
❖ The adulterous woman (Lk 7:25-37)
❖ The Good Samaritan (Lk 10:25-37)
❖ The Rich man and Lazarus (Lk 16:19-31)
❖ The unforgiving servant (Mt 18:21-35)
❖ The Lost Sheep and Coin (Lk 15:1-10)
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❖ The gentle widow and a leper (Lk 4:16-30)
❖ The faith of a Roman soldier (Lk 7:1-19)
❖ Jesus and Zacchaeus (19:1-19)
The unpopular and despised people in Zambia
People have different attitudes towards others, especially the despised or unpopular. They
sometimes mock, ignore and isolate them. Some of the causes of these dislikes are; jealousy,
pride, fear and poverty.
Examples of people who are despised or unpopular are:
❖ The poor
❖ Uneducated
❖ The blind
❖ The handicapped
❖ Prostitutes
❖ Thieves
❖ People of other races or nationalities
❖ Those with HIV/AIDS
How the despised can be helped
❖ By providing them with practical skills, material things and spiritual help.
❖ By also mixing with them (those of race and HIV positive).
Jesus’ attitude to the despised and unpopular
a) Lepers
At the time of Jesus, Leprosy was not only considered to be an unclean disease, which
required not only healing but cleansing.
❖ Jesus associated with them though he was expected stay from them.
❖ He had compassion, pity, love and sympathy for them such that He healed, mixed and
touched them.
❖ Jesus respected the Jewish laws by insisting that healed lepers observe the laws.
b) Tax collectors
This was another group of people who were despised at the time of Jesus. They were treated
as outcasts in the society because they were traitors to the nation because they worked for the
Romans.
They were hated for being known as cheaters because they overcharged.
❖ Jesus told the Pharisees that, if tax collectors were bad, they were the ones who
needed his help most e.g. Levi and Zacchaeus.
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❖ To become a friend of God, instead of an enemy, one had to make friends with fellow
men e.g. Zacchaeus gave out he had stolen.
❖ Jesus was able to see beyond the selfishness and cheating and saw a man who was
“lost” and needed to be put right with God.
c) Sinners
According to the Jewish thought; sinners were groups of people who did not keep the Law of
Moses in its totality. Those who mixed with gentiles and tax collectors made themselves
unclean.
Strict Jews believed that salvation was in the keeping of the Law strictly.
❖ Jesus was not concerned with such social evils, but a person who was a victim of such
social evils e.g. The adulterous woman, The parable of the money lender- Luke 7:36-
50.
❖ In the story of the adulterous woman, Simon is surprised that Jesus could allow such
show of emotions from a sinful woman. In answer to his criticism, Jesus tells him a
story of two people who owed money to the money lender. Jesus shows Simon three
things:
a) Simon was wrong in condemning Christ’s attitude to this woman, who had already
repented.
b) A repentant sinner is much better than a proud person who is not aware of sin.
c) Jesus reinstates the woman in society admits are sinful past, but publicly announces
that her sins have been forgiven.
d) Gentiles
Gentiles were non- Jews and as such Jesus was not supposed to interact with them.
❖ Jesus’ attitude to the gentiles showed that he was following the Law by treating them
with respect and helping them (Lk 7:1-10)
❖ The Pharisees kept their tradition which kept them far away from gentiles.
Jesus’ teaching about forgiveness
a) The Parable of unforgiving servant (Lk 10:25-37)
Only God’s unlimited forgiveness makes it possible for the sinners to enter his Kingdom. The
best evidence that we belong to this Kingdom is depth of our forgiveness and love to those
who wrong us.
The parable of the unforgiving illustrates that:
❖ God has forgiven us all our debts quite beyond our means to repay.
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❖ Many times, we show lack of forgiveness to those whose debt of wrong doing to us
are very small, compared to what we owe God.
The Bible passage of Matthew 18:25-20 has steps whish Jesus gave towards restoring
Christian fellowship with wrong doers:
❖ A personal visit straight to the offender, if he refuses
❖ Another visit with two or three to talk about it, if he refuses to repent
❖ Take it to the Church. The offender is taken before a local congregation, to try to
settle the matter. If he refuses
❖ Treat him as an outsider. No longer a member of the fellowship.
b) The Parable of the Lost Coin, Lost Sheep and Son (Lk 15:1-30)
❖ The parables were told in criticism of Jesus by the Pharisees and Scribes, who
believed that tax collectors and sinners were beyond the hope of God’s forgiveness.
❖ Jews were aware of the mercy of God for the nation and not for an individual.
❖ Jesus emphasised God’s interest in each person.
Love and Tolerance
a) Jesus uses the Greek word “agape” for love. It describes love, which takes an active
interest in the welfare of others. It does not expect anything in return.
b) Love does more than it needs, because even people who have no religion show love to
friends. Acts of kindness will receive God’s reward, if done from proper motives (Mt 5:43-
48).
Intolerance and lack of Love
a) The Samaritans had been enemies of the Jews for Centuries. They hated the Jews passing
in their province on their way to Jerusalem.
b) Jesus disapproved of the Kind of exclusive, intolerant behaviour shown by one of his
disciples when cut off Marcus’s ear (Lk 22:47-53). Jesus demonstrated his love, compassion
and forgiveness.
c) Jesus was a friend of the gentiles and tax collectors. He did not despise them or ignore
them. He tried to bring them into the Kingdom.
Our attitude towards despised people should be:
❖ Always being willing to pray for them.
❖ To encourage them to repent.
❖ Help them.
❖ Show love. An attitude of love will often bring such people into the fellowship with
God and other Christians
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How people in modern Zambian society treaty their enemies?
❖ They avoid them
❖ They are treated badly
❖ They are not accepted in the community
❖ However, be willing to pray for them/ encourage them to repent
❖ Help them
Teaching on Love, Forgiveness and Tolerance in other Religions
a) Zambian Traditional Religion
In Zambian Traditional community, there:
❖ Love for each other especially the unfortunate ones.
❖ Revenge was discouraged; visitors and strangers were welcome.
❖ A deep sense of kinship controlled the how people behaved together and to each
other. Each person had their place in the system.
❖ If one person offended another in his behaviour, they were expected to ask for
forgiveness.
b) Islam
❖ Islam declares that all men are brothers and in their status us human beings. A man’s
merit does not depend on his family, connections or his wealth, but on whether he is
better than others in moral conduct and holiness.
❖ In matters to with the religious Law, a Muslim is unyielding.
❖ Revenge is allowed (condoned) by the Quran, especially against those what do not
believe in Islam.
❖ Muslims are hospitable people and proud of hosting guests. One may even go hungry
in order to feed the guest.
c) Hinduism
❖ Hinduism is not an aggressive religion. It has been practised through love, forgiveness
and tolerance.
❖ Hinduism has never tried to expand itself through religious persecution, or by
imposing its principles on other people. It uses the principle of winning opponents
through love and forgiveness.
❖ Hinduism believes in external love, not the kind which expects anything in return, not
motivated but for the unity of soul and mind. It is a spiritual love and all materials can
give.
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❖ Forgiveness is the main principle in Hinduism. Wrong doers are expected to be
forgiven. Therefore, forgiveness is not a weakness, but comes from a strong feeling of
liberalism and broadness of mind.
❖ Tolerance is an important teaching in Hinduism and it has its reward in the long run.
Tolerance shows a strong character and spiritual strength of mind. Hinduism itself has
survived through tolerance.
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apology. Advise Ms Mutambo on the steps we must make towards restoring
fellowship with Christians whom we have offended or who have offended us.
Give three points. [6]
• Visiting the offender to talk about the issue with the view to repentance / reconcile
• If he / she refuses to repent, visit them again with two or three godly people
• If he / she still refuses to repent / reconcile take the matter to the church
• If he/ she stubbornly refuses to accept, treat such as a person an outsider and no
longer a member of the fellowship [6]
(ii) Give three examples of despised and unpopular groups in modern Zambian
Society. [6]
- The poor - Prostitute
- Uneducated - thieves
- Blind - Street kids
- Handicapped - Drug addicts
(d) State similar teachings about love, tolerance and forgiveness found in Christianity
and Hinduism.
• Both do not revenge.
• Both show tolerance and forgiveness.
• Both are non-violent.
UNIT 4: SUFFERING
Bible Texts:
❖ Peter’s confession of faith (Lk 9:18-21)
❖ Suffering and death f John the Baptist (Mk 6:17-29, 7:18-28)
❖ The transfiguration (Lk 9:28-36)
❖ The suffering of Job (Job 1 and 2)
❖ Jesus’ suffering in the garden of Gethsemane (Lk 22:39-46)
Suffering:
Is the physical, mental, spiritual or emotional anguish or turmoil human beings go through in
life. Examples of suffering include; sickness, death, loss of employment, injuries etc.
Suffering in Zambia
Suffering is experienced by all creatures. Human beings go through a lot of suffering
throughout their lives. These are spiritual, mental, emotional and psychological.
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Our reaction to Suffering (in Zambia)
When a person is experiencing suffering, we must react by:
❖ Encourage that person not to give up but try harder.
❖ Giving material and spiritual support.
❖ Gathering to mourn and give comfort if it is a funeral.
❖ Not mocking or rejecting a person who is suffering.
Explanations for Suffering
Christians have their own views on why people suffer. Suffering is basically as a result of sin
cursed world. Before Adam and Eve sinned, there was no suffering.
a) Christians:
Today, God allow people to suffer for the following different reasons:
❖ To test and purify their faith- (1Peter 1:6-7)
❖ To punish them for their sins and disobedience- (Deut 28:15-24)
❖ To discipline them and teach them- (Hebs 12:5-11)
❖ To teach to depend on God- (II Cor 12:7-10)
❖ It is the cost of following Jesus- (Mk 8:34-35)
b) Zambian Traditional Religion:
People suffer because:
❖ They have displeased the spirits.
❖ They are hated by the witch or bewitched.
❖ Disrespect to ancestral spirits which bring sicknesses, bad luck or even death.
Causes of Suffering
Many people believe that suffering does not just come; there must be sources of these
suffering. Each type of suffering has its own source:
❖ It comes from a fallen world containing evil.
❖ People sometimes bring suffering on themselves because of their conduct.
❖ Because of jealousy or hatred, people have caused suffering on others.
❖ Though God is in control, He sometimes allows the Devil to bring tragedies on man
(Job 1 and 2).
Causes of suffering in modern Zambian society
❖ Drug abuse
❖ Immoral behave
❖ Laziness
❖ Pride
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❖ Other people
❖ Witchcraft
❖ Ourselves
Avoidable Suffering
Diseases which kill like HIV/AIDS, Cholera, Dysentery and many others are preventable,
because they are passed on.
Other sufferings cannot be avoided like death.
How to avoid various types of Suffering
Though some suffering cannot be avoided, there are others that can. Those can happen in the
following ways:
❖ Good moral standards (Proverbs 5:7-12).
❖ Proper use of drugs.
❖ Caring for the environment.
❖ Respect for Human Rights.
❖ Population control.
Effects of AIDS on the family
❖ Disintegration of families as children have to shared.
❖ Loss of breadwinners.
❖ Stress on extended family, as the family will have to take care of the sick.
❖ Some family members will abandon their jobs to take care of the sick.
❖ Funerals and mourning costs leave families with financial burdens.
❖ Many orphans without adequate health care and education.
Effects of AIDS on the Nation
❖ Treatment of opportunistic infections is expensive and causes a lot of strain on
national budget.
❖ Increases the number of orphans making it difficult for government to provide
adequate health care and educational services.
❖ The number of street kids rises and there is increase in child labour as orphan look for
ways to survive.
Effects of AIDS on the Economy
❖ The productive human resource is drastically reduced.
❖ The quality and quantity of labour is affected.
❖ Loss of skilled and experienced workers means higher replacement cost through
training.
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Effect of AIDS on Education
❖ Reduced number of trained teachers, as such lack of skilled manpower.
❖ Increased absenteeism due to illness, thus affecting performance.
❖ Reduced number of education officers due to death.
❖ Reduces public finance (health care budget increases).
❖ Family resources are reduced as much resource is spent on health care.
❖ Some children may not attend school but remain home to care of the sick especially
girls.
Luke 9: 21 - 27
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❖ For whoever wants to save his own life will lose it;
❖ But whoever loses his life for my sake will save it
❖ Will a person gain anything if he wins the whole world but is himself lost or defeated?
❖ Of course not! If a person is ashamed of me and of my teaching, then the Son of Man
❖ Will be ashamed of him when he comes in his glory
❖ And in glory of the Father and of the holy angels
❖ I assure you that there are some here who will not die until they have seen the
kingdom of God
(b) What lessons do Christians learn from the above passage? State two points. [4]
(c) (i) During a fatal road traffic accident, one man lost both legs and stayed in hospital for a
very long time. He cursed God and himself and complained that God is very unfair to him
because he would not be able to walk again. As a Christian, give three points to explain to
him why God allows suffering to his people. [6]
(ii) Give three points to show how Covid 19 affected the Zambian economy between
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❖ The loss of skilled and experienced workers resulted in higher replacement and
training costs
❖ Low productivity due to work restrictions imposed
❖ Increased burial and funeral expenses
ZTR: God is not the source of suffering, so it is not his business to remove it
Bible passages
What is opposition?
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How people react to suffering
❖ Strong resentments
❖ Anger
❖ They blame other people
❖ They blame God
❖ They blame themselves
❖ Accept criticisms and change for the better.
❖ Violence
❖ Spoil relationships among people
❖ Misrepresentation of Christ.
❖ Rejection at -Who was he to say that a gentile -He walked away and left them
Nazareth-Lk 4:14-30 woman and a leper were better with arrogant thought.
than the Jew?
❖ Healing the -Blasphemy only God can forgive -“Easier to forgive sins or to heal”.
paralyzed man sins.
Lk 5:17-31
❖ Call of Levi-Lk -Eating and drinking with Tax -He answered: “I have come to call
5:27-31 collectors and sinners. sinners to repentance”.
❖ Picking corn on the -Working on the Sabbath Day. -He reminded them of what their
Sabbath- Lk 6:1-15 great hero King
David did.
❖ Healing a man with -Healing (working) on the Sabbath -He asked them; “is it lawful to do
a weathered hand Lk Day. good or evil on the Sabbath.
6:6-11
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❖ Healing the woman -Healing (working) on the -“Hypocrisy” He said; do you not
with the infirmity Lk Sabbath. water your animals on the Sabbath.
13:10-17
❖ Healing a man with -Healing (working) on the -He asked; “would you allow your
dropsy Lk 14:1-6 Sabbath. son to drown on the Sabbath”.
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❖ If Jesus accepted to pay, he would be treated as a traitor to the Jews.
❖ If he had refused to pay, He would have been quilt of treason against Rome.
❖ Jesus answer showed that duty to both God and civil authority were not opposed to
each other.
❖ The Sadducees believed only in the first five books of the Bible of Moses.
❖ Since resurrection is not mentioned in the five books of the Bible, they did not believe
in it. Hence this tricky question to Jesus.
❖ Jesus showed the Sadducees that Moses’ law about marriage only applied to the
physical world and not in spiritual.
❖ He later showed them that even in the book of Moses resurrection was implied ‘’I am
the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob’’ (Exodus 3: 6) and not ‘’I was God of
……………..’’
❖ As the opposition to Jesus was building up, some people informed the Pharisees of
what Jesus had done.
❖ He had raised Lazarus from the dead (John 11: 45-53)
❖ Because of the miraculous things did the Pharisees would become unpopular.
❖ The Sanhedrin feared to lose their power and privileges from the Romans.
❖ A charge of treason against Jesus was suggested.
❖ The prophecy to save the nation was fulfilled in this way.
❖ The Chief priests decided to arrest Jesus quietly after the feast of the Passover.
❖ Judas offer made their plan easier.
❖ Judas led his group of people (Chief Priests, Temple guards and Roman soldiers) to
capture Jesus.
❖ A kiss was the arranged signal.
❖ When Judas kissed Jesus, they came and arrested Him.
ACCUSATIONS AND TRIALS OF JESUS
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❖ Jesus had to endure three trials before;
❖ The Jewish Sanhedrin.
❖ The Romans Governor, Pilate.
❖ King Herod Antipas of Galilee.
❖ They wanted a statement from Jesus, which they could use to accuse Him of
blasphemy Him of blasphemy and condemn Him to death.
❖ One witness said that Jesus had said that he would destroy the Temple and build it in
three days, (Matt26:60)
❖ Jesus admitted that He was the son of God on his way to glory. (MATT 26: 27-63)
❖ The Jews were satisfied that he was guilty of blasphemy.
b) Before Pilate and Herod-Luke 23:1-25
❖ A change of blasphemy would be useless before a Roman Court.
❖ Such a religious charge would not have Pilate’s sympathy, so it was changed to a
political charge.
The accusation had three parts
❖ Jesus had stirred up the people to rebel.
❖ He had forbidden them to pay tax to Caesar.
❖ He had set himself as king of the Jews (treason against Caesar) (John 19 :12)
All these accusations were lies
❖ Pilate could not see that Jesus was not the kind of person to stir up trouble and found
no reason to condemn Him.
❖ However, the Jews insisted that He was causing trouble even in Galilee.
❖ Jesus teaching about opposition Luke 9:1-2, Luke 10:13-16, Luke 8:37.
❖ Jesus told the disciples simply ‘’to leave’’ the place of opposition. (Matt 4:11-12)
❖ Jesus taught his disciples to ‘’rejoice and be glad when they faced opposition’’ Luke
11:14-23)
❖ Jesus taught His disciples to ‘’answer with argument e.g. Jesus and Beelzebub
(Satan)’’
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❖ Show them love
❖ forgive them
Christianity Vs Islam
Similarities:
Differences:
b) Christianity Vs Hinduism
Similarities:
Differences:
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❖ And he stood up to read.
❖ The scroll of the prophet Isaiah was handed to him.
❖ Unrolling it, he found the place where it is written.
❖ The spirit of the Lord is on me.
❖ Because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor.
❖ He has sent me to proclaim freedom for prisoners.
❖ And recovery of sight for the blind.
❖ To release the oppressed.
❖ To proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour.
❖ Then he rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant and sat down.
❖ The eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fastened on him.
❖ And he began by saying to them,
❖ ‘today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.”
❖ All spoke well of him and were amazed at the gracious words that came from his lips
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(b) (i) Show how this incident was part of the opposition to Jesus by the Jewish religious
leaders. State one point.
❖ Jesus claimed to be the promised Messiah spoken of by the prophets,
but the Jews did not want to believe his claims.
❖ These people could not accept him as more than a carpenter, so they
wanted to see a miracle to prove he was the Messiah, Jesus refused.
❖ The Jews were offended and angry when Jesus claimed that Gentiles would enter God’s
Kingdom, and they would be rejected and so they tried to kill Jesus. They believed,
they only had the right to enter God’s Kingdom. [2]
(ii) State one ways in which Jesus reacted to this opposition.
❖ He exposed the unbelief and stubbornness of the Jews and told them that God did not
favour them above the Gentiles (foreigners).
❖ Jesus reaction was quiet, controlled and powerful
❖ Jesus walked away from them, and they could not touch him.
(c) (i) You belong to a youth group at school that is organizing a demonstration against
the teachers. You refuse to be part of the demonstration. As a Christian, what
reasons would you give for refusing to be part of the demonstrations? State three
points.
❖ Aggressive reactions bring disunity and disorder in society
❖ Suffering for wrong doing does not bring honour or credit, but brings misery and shame.
❖ Aggressive reactions do not promote understanding, tolerance and love which are
Christian value that must be upheld.
❖ Aggressive reactions do not depict the love and forgiveness of Christ, our example in
Christian walk.
(ii) How do people in society today react to criticism and opposition? State three points.
❖ Strong resentment and anger Blaming others
❖ Blaming oneself
❖ Accepting the criticism
❖ Making a change for the better
(d) State two similarities between Christian and Hindu reactions to opposition.
Similarities
❖ Both do not revenge
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❖ Both react by showing love and forgiveness
❖ Both show tolerance
❖ Both practice non-violence
❖ Both accept opposition and persecution
UNIT 6: THE LAST SUPPER AND THE CRUCIFIXION
Bible Passages
❖ Preparation for the Passover Luke 22:7-13, Exodus 12:1-30
❖ The Lords’ supper Luke 22:14-23
❖ The Crucifixion Luke 23: 26-49
❖ The Burial of Jesus Luke 23; 50-56
How people react to Bereavements
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❖ They also brought bread without yeast, bitter herbs and wine.
❖ This would be the last time the Lord Jesus would eat this meat and it was very
important to him.
❖ He would introduce a feast of remembrance to the disciples before He suffered and
died.
❖ Several cups of wine were blessed during the Passover meal and there would be
several loaves of bread on the table.
❖ After supper Jesus took a loaf of bread.
❖ ‘’This is my body given for you, do this in remembrance of me.’’
❖ Then, he took a cup of wine saying ‘’this is a new covenant in my blood which is
poured out for you.
❖ Jesus made it clear that he was going to die.
❖ His death would have a meaning, which His followers were to remember.
❖ The broken bread was a symbol of His body, bruised and given for us on the cross.
❖ The wine was a symbol of His blood poured out.
❖ The old covenant was sealed by the blood of a sacrificed animal. (Exodus 24:3-8)
❖ Jesus death sealed a new covenant of God with man (JER 31:31-34)
❖ The new covenant would deliver people from sin bring forgiveness and eternal life to
all who receive Jesus as saviour and Lord.
❖ Jesus wanted those who have eternal life through his death to join together to
remember Him, by eating bread and drinking wine in thanks giving and worship.
❖ It was symbolic communal meal known as Agape feast (Love) (1 Corinth 11:23-28)
❖ It is an act of remembrance of the death of Jesus Christ.
❖ There could be no new covenant without the blood.
❖ It is a reminder of what God has done for use through the death of Jesus.
❖ It is an expression of God’s redemption and the new covenant.
For Christians today
❖ Look back- in thankful remembrance of the cost of their redemption.
❖ Look up- in faith to sense Christ’s presence and his welcome.
❖ Look round- to rejoice in their unit with other Christians.
❖ Look forward- to the Lord’s return and His visible presence.
❖ Look within- to make an act meaningful.
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❖ To admit- their unworthiness, and come to Christ, ready to receive all he had to give.
TEACHING
EXODUS 24:3-8
❖ Jesus last supper is the fulfilment of the old covenant (Jer31:31-34)
❖ It is the fulfilment of the New Testament (beginning).
❖ Jesus is the sacrificial lamb whose sacrifice brings salvation to all.
1 (a) Give an account of how 3esus and his disciples prepared the Passover.
Luke 22: 7 — 13
❖ The day came during the Festival of Unleavened Bread when the lambs for the
Passover meal were to be killed.
❖ Jesus sent Peter and John with these instructions:
❖ Go and get the Passover meal ready for us to eat.
❖ Where do you want us to get it ready? they asked him.
❖ He answered, as you go into the city, a man carrying a jar of water will meet you.
❖ Follow him into the house that he enters, and say to the owner of the house: The
❖ Teacher says to you, where is the room where my disciples and I will eat the Passover
meal?
❖ He will show you a large furnished room upstairs,
❖ where you will get everything ready.
❖ They went off and found everything just as Jesus had told them,
❖ and they prepared the Passover meal.
(b) Why was this gesture (the List Supper/Passover) important to Jesus? State three
points.
❖ It was at this particular Passover that Jesus announced his death
❖ Jesus would become the sacrifice to end all sacrifices
❖ The death of Jesus sealed the new covenant of God with man
❖ It was at this gesture that Jesus introduced a feast of remembrance to the
disciples before he suffered and died.
(c) (i) “The Lord’s Supper is important for Christians today,” claims Kutowa.
What reasons would Kutowa give to support her claims? State three points.
❖ It reminds Christians of the cost of their redemption that Jesus died for them
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❖ It helps them to look back in thankfulness to the cost of their redemption
❖ They look up in faith, to sense His presence
❖ They look around to rejoice in Christian fellowship
❖ They look forward to the Lord ‘s return; and His presence
❖ They look within to make the act meaningful and, in our unworthiness, come to Him
❖ ready to receive all He has to give
(d) In what ways are the funeral and burial practices in Christianity different from
those of the Islam? State two points.
Christianity: All are free to view the body; whether relatives or not.
Islam: If the deceased is female, only very close relatives may view the face.
THE DEATH
The burial of Jesus-Luke 231-6, John19:38
The significance of the death of Jesus (Romans 5:6-10)
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❖ Christ died for our sins.
❖ This shows God’s attitude of love towards sinners.
❖ Sinners are changed from God’s enemies into God’s friends.
❖ Man is justified as a sinner and saved from sin.
❖ Because of Christ’s death (or’ blood’’) sins can be forgiven. ( Eph 2: 12-18).
❖ It broke barriers between people e.g. Jews and Gentiles.
❖ It brought reconciliation between man and God.(Romans 5 6-10)
❖ It has brought to an end animal sacrifice and the inauguration of the covenant.
❖ Christ’s sacrifice has brought about redemption.
❖ Because of the death of Jesus we have’’ died to sin’’ and sin no longer has power
over our lives.
❖ Baptism is a picture of new life we live in Him, therefore behave as those who are
dead to sin, self and world, but alive to God through the death of Christ.
How does the death of Christ affect Christians today?
❖ The death of Jesus affected us because we are justified by his death.
❖ In Christ, people are accepted by God because their sins are forgiven and are
reconciled to God.
❖ They may appear before God without sin, put right with him.
❖ We are now accepted to God.
❖ All that is offered on the basis that Jesus Christ died our death and rose again and it is
received by faith.
❖ The Christian life is one of freedom and a relationship with God in which you are
unafraid.
❖ God sees the Christian as if he shared Christ’s death.
❖ His sinful nature was crucified with Christ (Romans 6: 1-6)
❖ Christians now have hope of eternal life.
❖ Christians should not place barriers between themselves and people of other tribes or
races.
Ideas people hold about life after death in modern Zambian Society
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Religious comparison on funerals, burials and teaching about Death
Similarities:
Differences:
Z.T.R- They accept death but believe death comes from spirits and external causes.
b) Christianity Vs Islam
Similarities:
❖ Both believe that physical death must come and physical life must end.
❖ Both believe in life after death.
Differences:
Islam- For forty days, all males of immediate family visit the grave.
Islam- Muslims continue to pray for forgiveness of the deceased to Allah to reward the dead.
Christianity:
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❖ Both accept death as god’s decision.
Differences:
Luke 23 v 50 – 56
• Then they went back home and prepared the spices and perfumes for the body
• On sabbath they rested, as the law commanded
(b) What is the New Testament teaching about the meaning of Jesus’ death? State two
points. [4]
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(c) (i) “death does not worry me at all because I know that I will be with the lord Jesus after
death”, boasts Grenda. What bible reasons would Grenda give to support her statement? State
three points. [6]
• The death of Christ removes fear of death from those who believe in his name.
• Physical death is temporally because Jesus, through his death on the cross defeated
death
• Those who believe in Jesus though they die, shall live again, death has no power over
those who believe in Jesus
• The power of death comes from sin, but Christ has defeated death by removing the sin
of mankind through the cross
(ii) What are the ways in which people show their attitude and belief about death. State three
points.
• Both believe that death is not the end of life/there is life after death
• Both believe that the soul is eternal and does not die
• Both believe that physical death separates the soul from the body
UNIT 7: JESUS TRIUMPH OVER DEATH
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❖ Others do not believe in life after death at all.
❖ There are those who believe that the dead have the influence on the living.
❖ Other people believe that a person’s actions in this life determined the next life.
❖ Christians believe that there will be a resurrection of the dead.
❖ Basically, people hold on to the following beliefs about life after death e.g.
❖ Death is the end of everything.
❖ Life goes on beyond death.
❖ Christian preachers believe and teach that there will be a resurrection.
❖ Those who believe in death as a cessation of life have no bearing on the next, since
they say there is none.
❖ In Zambia Traditional Religion, believe that life continues beyond death.
❖ Though they may not say that the present life determines the next life.
❖ They also believe that those who die badly, either by a disease or away from home,
tend to deal with the living in a bad way.
❖ They bring curses, bad luck, disease, death and bareness.
JESUS RAISING DEAD PEOPLE
During the time of Jesus, many people faced death. Jesus was concern about the people’s
welfare both physically and spiritually.
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❖ These were a healing miracle; this delayed the procession to Jairus’ house.
❖ Jesus received a report that Jairus’ daughter had died.
❖ Jesus responded to the report by saying the child had not died.
❖ ‘’Only believe only believe and she will be well.’’
❖ The son of God used His power to overcome death by death by raising the girl from
death back to life.
❖ This miracle too shows that Jesus is Lord both life and death.
❖ It is only faith in Him, which saves.
c) Raising of Lazarus- John 11: 1-44
❖ Lazarus lived in Bethany and was very sick.
❖ Jesus was near this location and heard about the sickness.
❖ However, Jesus never hurried to Bethany, though He heard that His friend had died.
❖ Jesus was to raise him back to life and prove that He was in unity with the father as
son of God.
❖ Martha Lazarus’ sister believed that it was too late for Jesus to heal her brother.
❖ Jesus told her that Lazarus would rise to life.
❖ Jesus saw physical death as an enemy to be destroyed and as the weapon of Satan.
❖ Jesus was filled with sorrow and determined to win a victory over death.
TEACHING ABOUT LIFE AFTER DEATH
❖ The stories teach clearly that Jesus is the resurrection and the life.
❖ We also learn that Jesus is Lord over death and death cannot conquer Him.
❖ Jesus has power over death to set free those who are bound by the power of Satan.
THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS-LUKE 24:1-48
a) The women at the tomb –Luke 24:1-12
❖ The women went in the morning and found the tomb empty.
❖ The Angel said that Jesus had risen.
❖ The women told the Good news to the disciples who did not believe. (John 20-11-18)
❖ (Mary Magdalene sees the risen Lord)
❖ Jesus appeared to the two on the road to Emmaus to show them that He had risen.
❖ Jesus reminded the two about the Old Testament prophesy of suffering Messiah.
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❖ The disciples were behind locked doors, talking about these appearances, when
suddenly Jesus appeared to them.
❖ Since the doors were locked, the disciples thought it was a Ghost and were afraid.
❖ Jesus calmed their fears by showing them His body of flesh and bones and marks of
crucifixion.
❖ He told them to touch Him and asked for some food to eat so that they could be sure
that He was alive, since the sprit does not food. – (Lk 24:36-43).
The meaning of Christ’s resurrection for the early Christians
❖ Acts 2:22-36(Peter’s sermon)
❖ Peter told the crowd that God had raised Jesus from the dead as foretold in the Old
Testament and now He is at the right hand of God.
❖ The life, death and the resurrection of Jesus Christ meant that;
❖ Jesus was the Messiah spoken of in the Old Testament.
❖ The other meaning was that this resurrection brought about new birth (Life).
❖ It gave them hope of eternal Heaven.
Paul writes about the resurrection- (1 Corin 15:1-58)
❖ Jesus’ resurrection is of the greatest importance for Christian religion.
❖ If Christ is not alive then Christians are biggest liars, losers and fools.
❖ Christ’s resurrection implies our resurrection.
❖ One day we will believe in His glory.
❖ Christ’s resurrection gives assurance of human resurrection, triumph over death and
evil and gives power for Christian service.
❖ Paul teaches that at resurrection time, God will give his people different new bodies.
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❖ It is the confirmation that Jesus is the Messiah, the son of God, through Him we get a
new life. (1 Peter 1:3).
❖ The resurrection of Jesus is the fulfilment of God’s plan of salvation, showing self-
giving love of God in the origin of our salvation.
❖ It shows that man can be reconciled to God through Christ’s death.
❖ The resurrection gives Christians hope for the future life. ( 2Cor 5:17)
❖ The Christian church bases its faith on the death and resurrection of Jesus.
❖ The resurrection of Jesus means that God’s power is greater than that of Satan.
❖ The resurrection is the greatest miracle of all.
Similarities:
Differences:
Z.T.R- Some spirits return to work as wondering spirits and may cause.
b) Christianity Vs Hinduism
Similarities:
Differences:
Hinduism- The spirit can take another form and come back to earth as another form or
animal.
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c) Christianity Vs Hinduism
Christianity:
Differences:
Christianity- They know whether they belong to the devil or God before judgement.
Hinduism- In life to come, people will be judged on their deeds.
Examination Sample Question
1) (a) Tell the story of Elijah raising the widow’s son at Zarephath [5]
1 Kings 17: 17- 24
❖ Sometime later the widow’s son fell ill.
❖ He got to Elijah, ‘Man of God, why did you do this to me?
❖ Did you come to remind God of my sins and so cause my son’s death?
❖ Give the boy to me, Elijah said.
❖ He took the boy from her arms, carried him, upstairs to the room where he was
staying and laid him on the bed.
❖ He prayed aloud ‘O Lord my God, why have you done such a terrible thing to this
widow?
❖ She has been kind enough to take care of me and you kill her son.
❖ Elijah stretched himself out on the boy three times and prayed
❖ O’ Lord my God restore this child to life.
❖ The Lord answered Elijah ‘s prayer, the child started breathing again and revived.
❖ Elijah took the boy back down stairs to his mother and said to her, your son is alive.
❖ She answered, now I know that you are a man of God and that the Lord really speak
through you
(b) What did Jesus mean when he called himself “the Resurrection and the life. “Give
two points [4]
❖ Everyone who believes in Him will live again even though he/ she dies
❖ Jesus is the life and will give it to those who believe in Him
❖ Jesus is Lord over death
❖ He is able to set free all those who are subjected to the bondage of death, and give
them eternal life [4]
( C ) (i) Mr Kanonibo tells you that he has difficulties comprehending the teachings
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on the resurrection. Explain to Mr Kanonibo what Christians believe about
Jesus’ resurrection. State three points [ 6]
❖ It shows that man can be reconciled to God through Christ since he paid the price
❖ Resurrection is God’s stamp of approval of Jesus’ perfect life and sacrifice
❖ The resurrection is the fulfillment of God’s plan for salvation
❖ Jesus is the true Messiah
❖ God’s salvation has come
❖ Christians are confident of resurrection-death is not the end of everything
(ii) Describe different ideas people have about life after death in Zambian
Modern Society. State three points. [ 6]
Some believe life continues in one form or another
❖ Some do not believe in life after death at all - to them death is the end
❖ Some believe the death have an influence over the living
❖ Some believe that a person’s actions in this life determines the next life
❖ Some believe that there will be a resurrection of the dead.
(d) Differentiate the Christian burial practices with those of Islam. State two points [4]
❖ Christian – all mourners are free to view the body of the deceased
❖ Islam – if the deceased is female only very close relatives may view the body
❖ Christian – view the body once at church or at grave yard.
❖ Islam – view body twice at home and at the grave Christian
❖ Christianity: Prayers may be conducted at the house not necessarily at church.
❖ Islam: The day after burial, people gather again at the Mosque to pray and read the
Quran.
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- By avoiding prejudice.
- By breaking communication barriers.
Explain how people in modern Zambian society react to persecution
- By fighting back/revenge.
- By getting angry.
- By accepting the situation.
- By praying for them.
- By forgiving the persecutors.
- By showing love to the persecutors.
Before the beginning of the church
- Before the Church came into being, races, language groupings, and cultures were very
different from one another.
- These brought about natural barriers and segregation.
- Communication barriers existed between Jews, Samaritans, and Gentiles.
- Prejudice and hatred existed for tax collectors and Samaritans.
- Jewish men also looked down upon women.
- Lepers were regarded as outcasts.
After the birth of the church
- These differences became immaterial as the people were united in Christ. For
instance, whether Jew or Gentile, they all received the Holy Spirit. Samaritans and
Tax Collectors were accepted on account of faith.
OVERCOMING LANGUAGE BARRIERS
Language barriers
- Language is crucial for all forms of communication.
- Whenever there are different groups of people, it is essential to have a common
language for communication.
- The language barriers were overcome on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2: 1 – 13)
The day of Pentecost (Acts 2: 1 -13)
- Pentecost is a Greek word meaning “fifty”. The “feast of Pentecost” was a Jewish
Festival of thanksgiving at the end of the Wheat harvest. This feast took place fifty
days after Passover.
- Many people (Jews) came from distant places for this feast.
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RACIAL AND CULTURAL BARRIERS
a) The problem of the Greeks (Acts 6: 1 – 6)
- A quarrel arose in the Christian community between the Greek- Jews and the local
Aramaic speaking Jews. The Greek – speaking Jews claimed that their widows were
not being cared for properly.
- Then they suggested that seven men be appointed to administer supplies of money,
food and clothing.
- The seven were to be wise, filled with Holy Spirit and to have a good reputation. The
Group chose seven Greek - speaking men.
- One of them was Stephen who was full of faith and the Holy Spirit.
b) Stephen’s role (Acts 6:8- 15)
- He was filled with the Holy Spirit and had great wisdom and was given power from
God to do miracles. He witnessed and taught in the synagogues of the Greek –
speaking Jews.
- Jews from this synagogue with others from the provinces of Asia and Cilicia had
to argue with Stephen and did not agree with his teaching or his interpretation of
the Old Testament.
- They could not prove him wrong in any of their arguments as he showed much
wisdom from the Holy Spirit.
- His teaching emphasized new life in Christ, who fulfilled the Mosaic Law.
- They accused him, and bribed people to make false accusations that he was
speaking against Moses, the law and the temple.
- He became the first martyr.
c) Inclusion of Samaritans (Acts 8: 1 – 25)
- The Apostles heard of the blessing among the Samaritans, their traditional enemies
(people of mixed race, half Jewish, half Assyrian). Peter and John went to assess
Phillip’s Ministry. They prayed and placed their hands on the believers. God showed
his acceptance of the Samaritans by giving them the gift of the Holy Spirit also.
- To Simon the sorcerer who deceived Samaritans by his satanic power saw the giving
of the Holy Spirit by just laying hands on the people as a wonderful power.
- He wanted to buy this power from the Apostles, and probably thought of it as a magic
spell, which sorcerers bought from each other.
- Peter was horrified and told Simon that, unless he truly repented, he and his money
would perish in hell. Then Simon begged him to pray for him.
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- Philip had been faithful to the Lord’s instructions. The sight of water suggested
baptism to the Ethiopian who professed faith in Christ. So Phillip baptized him.
- The Ethiopian continued on his way, full of joy, passing on the message of the
Gospel in Ethiopia, and the Gospel spread to unlikely places because of the
obedience of one of the Lord’s followers.
e) Peter’s role (Acts 10:1 – 11:18)
- At noon Peter was hungry and was waiting for the meal to be prepared.
- Suddenly he had a vision and saw a large sheet tied up like a bag, containing many
kinds of animals, reptiles and birds.
- He was told to kill some and eat, so he refused and said “I have never eaten
anything that is ritually unclean.”
- But the voice of God told him that he must not consider anything unclean which God
has made “clean. This was repeated three times and peter was puzzled.
- Then some non-Jewish messengers arrived from Cornelius the Gentile. Peter went
to meet them as the Holy Spirit had warned him not to hesitate to go with them even
though they were Gentiles.
- Peter then went down and said to the men. “I am the man you are looking for. Why
have you come?”
- After hearing about Cornelius’ vision, Peter agreed to go with them to Caesarea, and
they set out the next day.
- They found a crowd waiting to meet Peter at the home of Cornelius. They wanted to
refer Peter as a Superior but he stopped them, saying, ‘I myself am only a man’.
- Peter now understood the vision God had been showing him that he must not think of
any person as being ritually unclean, but must go to whom God has sent him, for
God shows no partiality.
- The fact that the twelve Apostles had witnessed the life, death, and the resurrection
of Jesus Christ, was the emphasis of Peter’s message.
- As these people listened and believed they received the Holy Spirit and as a sign of
this they began to speak in other tongues, praising God. This showed the Jewish
believers who had come with Peter that God had accepted Gentile believers into his
church, since he had given them the Holy Spirit just as he had given to the Jews.
- Peter challenged the Jewish believers who were with him and seen and heard the
evidence, that God had shown His approval of Gentile faith by giving them the Holy
Spirit also. There was nothing to hinder their being baptized just as the Jews had
been when they believed.
- The results of Peter’s decision would be felt throughout the entire world for all the
time. The Gentiles would be accepted as Christians without first becoming Jews by
circumcision.
PAUL’S WITNESS TO PEOPLE OF VARIOUS CULTURES
Saul’s conversion (Acts 9: 1 – 19)
- Saul increased his persecution of the church, imprisoning many and executing
others.
- Instead of stamping out the “Sect,” the increased persecution caused the believers to
scatter, preaching as they went. The Gospel spread to new areas.
- Saul heard that the movement was strong in Damascus in Syria and so he asked the
high priest for letters of introduction to the synagogues in that area. These letters
would give Saul the authority to search out these people of “the Way”.
- On the road to Damascus, this hard – hearted Pharisee met God’s challenge.
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- Suddenly there was a blinding light and was struck to the ground. Then a voice
asked, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me? Why are you kicking against your
conscience and the working of the Holy Spirit?
- Saul thought this must be God’s voice and the reply came, “I am Jesus ……” Saul
had to identify the “Lord ‘(Jehovah of the Old Testament) with Jesus of Nazareth
whom he had persecuted through his followers. He realized that the crucified Jesus
was indeed alive and able to communicate with people.
- The tremendous shock of this revelation, together with the bright light, blinded Saul.
He realized he had to change loyalty to be on the side of Jesus.
- Three days of darkness followed. Ananias of Damascus was sent to help him
physically and spiritually. Saul’s’ future work is then revealed to Ananias.
- Ananias obeyed and went to Saul and called him, “brother” showing him that he now
belonged to the people he had been persecuting.
- As Saul’s’ physical sight returned, so his spiritual “eyes” were opened. He began to
“understand the Gospel of Jesus Christ and was baptized.
The Church at Antioch (Acts 11:19 – 26)
- When persecution struck the believers in Jerusalem some fled as far as Antioch and
continued to preach the Good News there, but to Jews only.
- Other Christians from Cyprus and Cyrene arrived and preached to Greek – speaking
Gentiles and great numbers believed, forming a multi- racial church.
- This news reached the church in Jerusalem and they sent Barnabas to see if this
was of God and to give any help needed.
- Barnabas was from Cyprus and spoke Greek. He knew the culture of these people.
He seeks out Saul from Tarsus to help him teach. He recognizes Saul as a man with
leadership abilities and a deep knowledge of scriptures.
- Saul and Barnabas worked in Antioch for a year in a wonderful partnership of
service, teaching in the church.
- It was at Antioch that the followers of Christ were first called “Christians”. So many
people were talking about Christ there that the people nick-named them” Christians”
or ‘Christ ones’
- It was in Antioch that Saul began his great work to carry the Good News to people of
many nations.
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ii) There was no need to burden the gentile Christians with Jewish laws, but
rather to give a few guidelines to keep peace in the church.
- The guidelines presented in the letter were about things which would be very
offensive to Jewish Christians.
- They were advised not to:
➢ Eat food offered to idols.
➢ Eat or drink blood.
➢ Eat animals that had been strangled, killed by snaring or those not bled
properly according to the Jewish law.
➢ Commit sexual immorality
- The guidelines were not meant to make anyone a Christian, but simply to help
Christians of Jewish or Gentile races to live at peace with each other.
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- In both they rebuke the offender.
- In both there is mutual discussion.
- In both they work towards resolving the problem.
2. In what two ways is Christian teaching on methods of resolving differences in
community different from those of Zambian Traditional Religion?
3. In what ways are Christian teachings on inclusion of people of various races and
cultures different from those of Muslims? State two points.
- Both do not discriminate anybody regardless of race, colour or religion.
- Both are universal religions.
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(d) In what ways is the attitude of Christians towards the people of different languages,
race and colour similar to that of the people who believe in Zambian Traditional
Religion? State two points.
[4]
ANSWERS
1. (a) Give an account of what happened during the Day of Pentecost.
[5]
(Acts 2:1-13)
- When the day of Pentecost came, all the believers were gathered together in one
place.
- Suddenly there was there was a noise from the sky which sounded like a strong
wind blowing,
- and it filled the whole house where they were sitting.
- Then they saw what looked like tongues of fire which spread out and touched each
person there.
- They were all filled with the Holy Spirit
- and began to talk in other languages,
- as the Spirit enabled them to speak.
- There were Jews living in Jerusalem, religious people who had come from every
country in the world.
- When they heard this noise, a large crowd gathered.
- They were all excited, because all of them heard the believers talking in their own
languages.
- In amazement and wonder, they exclaimed, “These people who are talking like this
are Galileans!
- How is it, then, that all of us hear them speaking in our own native languages?
- We are from Parthia, Media and Elam; from Mesopotamia, Judea, and Cappadocia;
from Pontus and Asia, from Phryia and Pamphylia, from Egypt and the regions of
Libya near Cyrene.
- Some of us are from Rome, both Jews and Gentiles converted to Judaism, and
some of us are from Crete and Arabia – yet all of us hear them speaking in our own
languages about the things that God has done!
- Amazed and confused, they kept asking each other, “What does this mean?”
- But others made fun of the believers, saying, “These people are drunk!”
(b) State two points to show how language barrier was overcome on the Day of
Pentecost.
[4]
- The disciples were given the ability to speak in languages which they had not
previously spoken or known.
- The disciples could now communicate with Jews from other parts of the world.
- People from different parts of the world listened to what the disciples had to say and
as a result, a lot of people repented and were baptized.
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(c)(i) A certain manager of a company was plainly told that his company could not
win a contract for garbage collection because he was from the opposition political
party. What Christian advice would you give the General Manager against such
practices? State three points.
[6]
- To employ people with qualifications and not just those from his church.
- He must show love to everyone just as God loves all
- He must trust even people from other churches.
- Not to segregate because it is sin.
- God hates corruption.
(ii) Give three points to show how people in modern Zambian society react
positively to issues of discrimination.
[6]
- Some speak against it.
- Others resent it.
- Others discourage discrimination.
- Cases of discrimination are sometimes reported to the relevant authorities.
(d) In what ways is the attitude of Christians towards the people of different
languages, race and colour similar to that of the people who believe in Zambian
Traditional Religion? State two points.
[4]
- In both they do not discriminate against others regardless of race, colour or religion.
- In both people of all races, colour or religion work together.
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- The apostles were blamed for assuming the authority of the religious leaders and
teachers.
- Their preaching about the resurrection angered the Sadducees, who did not believe
in life after death.
How the Apostles reacted to this persecution
- The apostles showed respect to the Jewish leaders and recognized that these
leaders had been given the job of judging in religious matters.
- They were unafraid and boldly preached the gospel to the leaders.
- They committed the whole problem to God in prayer.
B. Persecution of Stephen (Acts 6:8- 15, 7: 1-8:1)
- Stephen was persecuted because the Jews could not with stand the wisdom which
the Holy Spirit gave him in his answers when they tried to argue publicly with him.
- Stephen used Jewish history to show how the Jews had been rebelling against God
in the past, just as they were now.
- Stephen however showed an attitude of love and forgiveness towards his
persecutors in spite of what they were doing to him.
- He first of all calmly explained what he had preached.
C. Persecution of Stephen and Paul (Acts 9: 23-30)
- After becoming a Christian himself, Saul or Paul as he was later known, was
persecuted.
- He never allowed himself to be discouraged by persecution.
Opposition at Phillip (Acts 16: 16-30)
- A young woman possessed by a demon followed Paul and Silas.
- The demon in her knew who these men were.
- This was an effort of Satan to oppose the work of God.
- Paul and Silas cast out the demon of the young woman.
- They dragged Paul and Silas to the market place where the local magistrate
presided.
- The Magistrate was persuaded by the crowd without looking into the matter.
- Paul and Silas were beaten with rods on their bare backs.
Reactions of the Apostles
- When first opposed by the demon possessed woman, they just ignored her.
- Paul never went out looking for people with demons in order to cast them.
- In prison, the apostles prayed and rejoiced, and sang songs of praise.
- The earthquake which followed, and the conversion of the jailer, bring out the truth
that God was with them.
Opposition at Lystra (Acts 14: 8-20)
- The people of Lystra misunderstood the Gospel and mistook Paul and Barnabas for
heathen gods.
- The Jews influenced the Gentiles in Lystra until in their fury, they stoned Paul.
- Paul and Barnabas left the city the next day, not wanting to force people to receive
the Gospel.
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- When he realized that the Jews also hated Christians, he arrested James (brother of
John) and had him beheaded.
Reactions of the Apostles
- The Christian reaction to this persecution was to use was to use the greatest weapon
of all – prayer.
- God struck Herod down in public and he died an agonizing death.
b) Islam
- Islam is a very militant religion. Any opposition is dealt in a violet way.
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- The non-violent reaction could be looked upon as a weakness, and also as being
unfaithful to their religion.
- The Quran encourages revenge after persecution.
- The Muslim believes that his life, property and everything else belong to God and
Allah decrees everything that happens even persecution.
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(d) In what two ways do Christians and Muslims differ in their reactions to persecution?
[4]
ANSWERS
(a) Give an account of the persecution of Peter and John.
[5]
(Acts 4: 1-20)
- Peter and John were still speaking to the people when some priests, the officer in
charge of the Temple guards, and some Sadducees arrived.
- They were annoyed because the two apostles were teaching the people that Jesus
had risen from death, which proved that the dead will rise to life.
- So they arrested them and put them in jail until the next day, since it was already late.
- But many who heard the message believed; and the number grew to about five
thousand.
- The next day the Jewish leaders, the elders, and the teachers of the Law gathered in
Jerusalem.
- They met with the High Priest Annas and with Caiaphas, John, Alexander, and the
others who belonged to the High Priest’s family.
- They made the apostles stand before them and asked them, How did you this?
- What power do you have or whose name did you use?
- Peter, full of the Holy Spirit, answered them,
- “Leaders of the people and elders, if we are being questioned today about the good
deed done to the lame man
- And how he was healed,
- Then you should all know, and all the people of Israel should know, that this man
stands here before you completely well through the power of the name of Jesus Christ
of Nazareth.
- After seeing the boldness of Peter and John recognized that they had been with Jesus.
- The members of the Council were amazed to see how bold Peter and John were and
learn that they were ordinary men of no education.
- They realized then that they had been companions of Jesus.
- But there was nothing that they could say, because they saw the man who had been
healed standing there with Peter and john.
- But to keep the matter from spreading any further among the people, let us warn these
men never again to speak to anyone in the name of Jesus.
- But Peter and John answered them, You yourselves judge which is right in God’s sight
to obey you or to obey God. For we cannot stop speaking of what we ourselves have
seen and heard.
- So the Council warned them even more strongly and then set them free. They saw that
it was impossible to punish them because the people were praising God for what had
happened.
- The man on whom this miracle of healing had been performed was over 40 years old.
(b) Mention two ways in which Peter and John reacted to the persecution.
[4]
- They showed respect to the Jewish leaders.
- They were unafraid and boldly told the Gospel to the leaders.
- They committed the whole problem to God in prayers.
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(c) (i) Bruno is a committed pastor that has been witnessing among various
cultures and races in the countryside. His family members criticize and mock
him over the work he does and that discourages him to the point of giving up.
State three points of Christian reaction which Bruno would show to his family
that mocks him. [6]
- show them love
- pray for them
- forgive them
- ignore them
(ii) How can people in modern Zambian society react to people who persecute
them? State three points. [6]
- show them love
- pray for them
- forgive them
- ignore them
- mix with them
- tolerate them
- criticize them
- they give up
(d) In what two ways do Christians and Muslims differ in their reactions to
persecution? [4]
Christians: forgive their persecutors.
Muslims: forgiveness is considered a weakness.
Christians: pray to God for their persecutors.
Muslims: fight back against their persecutors.
Christians: do not condone revenge.
Muslims: they condone revenge.
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UNIT 3: LIFE IN THE EARLY CHURCH
Causes of conflicts among people in Modern Zambian society
- Pride
- Jealousy
- Injustice
- Breakdown in communication.
- Unwillingness to see another person’s point of view.
- Misplaced loyalty to a controversial leader, maybe because of corruption
- Failure to discuss situations from all angles.
- Being dogmatic and not being prepared to give way in a given situation.
- Violation of strict principles on moral issues (such as corruption, injustice, sexual sin).
People in modern Zambian society can maintain peace with each other through:
- Willingness to see other people’s point of view.
- Using proper communication
- Discussing situations from all angles
- Following principles on moral issues
- Respecting each other
- Being faithful
- Showing love
- Through forgiveness
Characteristics of community life in the early church
- New converts were willing to learn the teachings of Christ through the Apostles.
- They spent much of their time together and their fellowship was warm without discord
or strife.
- They continued to remember the death of the Lord Jesus Christ by the breaking of
bread ceremony in their homes as they regularly met.
- Prayer was another characteristic.
- The Church had a holy reverence for God as they saw miracles being performed in
the name of Jesus Christ, through the apostles who were with him.
- They generously shared their possessions so that no one lacked material needs.
- They continually worshipped God in the Temple with praise and thanks giving for his
might works.
- The warmth of their daily fellowship in their homes extended to the community outside
and others joined them as they believed and accepted Jesus as the Messiah.
Problems in the early church
- Corruption within the Church ( Acts 5:1-11,8:9-24)
- A problem of administration ( 6: 1-7)
- Barnabas and Paul ( Acts 9: 22-30)
- Inclusion of Gentiles ( Acts 15:1-21,24-29,21:35)
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- Personality clashes among leaders.
- Church splitting and sheep stealing.
- Not recognizing the labours of other leaders in the Churches
Resolving problems
- Through understanding of the problems.
- Mutual discussion of the problem.
- Committing the problem to God in prayer
- Referring to the teaching concerning the situation.
- Leadership addressing the doctrines in question carefully.
- Open rebuke to the culprits.
- Asking the culprits to step down from leadership positions for serious cases such as
adultery and misuse of funds.
- Scriptural counselling to help people in conflicts to find the spiritual solution to their
problems.
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1 (a) Relate the story of Ananias and Sapphira. [5]
(b) (i) Mention the two sins Ananias and Sapphira committed. [2]
(ii) Give two positive reactions of the early church believers to this incident. [2]
(c) (i) Yola served as a church treasurer at a local church. A few months down the
line, the church executive committee discovered that Yola had used the church
money to pay school fees for his children. A meeting was called for and upon being
questioned, Yola admitted to have used the money on his personal matters. State
three Christian advice you would give Yola against being dishonest.
[6]
(ii) Mention three ways in which people in modern Zambian Society resolve
disagreements. [6]
(d) Contrast the ways in which differences are resolved between Christianity and
Zambian Traditional Religion. State two points.
[4]
ANSWERS
(b) (i) Mention the two sins Ananias and Sapphira committed.
[2]
- Lied to the Holy Spirit
- Lied to both man and God
- Pretended/hypocritical to both man and God
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(ii) Give two positive reactions of the early church believers to this
incident.[2]
- Had a deep sense of reverence for God
- Had a deep sense of awe/fear for God
(c) (i) Yola served as a church treasurer at a local church. A few months down
the line, the church executive committee discovered that Yola had used the
church money to pay school fees for his children. A meeting was called for
and upon being questioned, Yola admitted to have used the money for his
personal matters. State three Christian advice you would give Yola against
being dishonest. [6]
- He should not steal from God.
- Stealing is sin/the Bible forbids stealing.
- He should learn to be honest and trustworthy.
- He should not use God’s money for his own gain.
- God does not bless anything that is acquired through deceit.
(d) Contrast the ways in which differences are resolved between Christianity
and Zambian Traditional Religion. State two points.
[4]
- Both resolve problems in a peaceful manner.
- Both solve problems at different levels/decisions of the elders.
- Both look at all aspects of the situation.
- Both work to understand the problem.
- Both follow laid down guidelines.
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UNIT 4: CHRISTIAN ATTITUDES TO WORK
Reasons why people work
- Feed themselves and their families.
- Earn money to purchase food, homes and other necessities.
- Pass time and be occupied.
- Give prestige.
- Meet people and to get together with others
- Earn money to accumulate possession.
People have different gifts to help them work
- God has created us (Christians) to live a life which pleases Him. He has already
prepared good deeds for us to do. (Eph 2:10)
- We must work for our food.
- Each one is given a talent (natural ability) by God.
Parable of the talents (Mt 25: 14-30)
Meaning of the parable
- We are entrusted with talents. Everyone has been given one.
- We are given talents according to our own ability to use them.
- There shall be a “day of reckoning” where we shall be required to account for the use
of talents and abilities.
- More responsibility is given to those who develop their talents. Those who fail to use
them will lose what they had.
- God uses our natural abilities, developing them as we surrender them to him for
guidance in our work and careers.
Reasons for work as found in the Bible
- Work was part of God’s original purpose of man (Gen 1: 26-28, 2:15)
- If most people can find employment, it is often a sign of God’s blessing and approval.
- Unemployment in a nation may be a sign of God’s Judgment Zech 8:9-12
Bible teachings
- God’s original purpose, Gen 1:26-28.
- Work was appointed for six days. The seventh day was the day of rest. Gen 2:1-3
- God intended man to find his work enjoyable. Eccl 5: 18-20
- Incentives for daily work; -to buy food, proverbs 16 : 26 and to build a home and
sustain it – Proverbs 24:27
- Work was part of God’s plan for the support of human race – Prov 27: 25-27
Christian purposes for work in the New Testament
- Work is not meant to be a means of gaining possessions. Luke 12: 13-34
- Everyone should work with the aim of being able to help others.
- Paul says work is encouraged so that everyone may earn his own living
- Work is an obligation.
- Those who work hard should not feed those who do not work, or refuse to work
(Thess 3:10-12).
- By working and earning money, we can help our parents.
- By doing different kinds of work, people have the opportunity to contribute to the life
and welfare of the community in many different ways.
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- The Bible teaches that all workers contribute to the welfare of society and therefore
deserve respect.
- Manual work is usually despised, but the Bible commands us to work with our hands.
- We must make use of our talents large or small.
- Even in such jobs (manual work) Christian commitment increases one’s abilities and
may well lead to increased respect from others, and to promotion.
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c) Muslim
- The Quran commands people to work. There is no disrespect for manual workers.
- Laziness is not encouraged at all.
d) Christianity
- Christians’ attitude to work should be one of integrity, diligence co-operation,
punctuality, reliability and honest. Eph4:28 and 6:5-9
- Work should be done to the Glory of God. 1cor 10:31.
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- Are you jealous because I am generous?
- So the last will be first, and the first will be last
(b) What are the different attitudes towards work that people may have? Give two
points.
- Others work just to get (or as a means of) basic incentives (food shelter etc.)
- Others enjoy work
- Other just meet with other people
- Other resent work (especially manual work)
- Others just gain prestige
- Others portray laziness and loafing
- Others just pass time
(c) (i) Mike refuses to increase the wage for his house maid and says to you, "what I
give her is enough salary for her since she never went for any training." What
Christian advice would you give Mike on the Christian standard to guide decisions on
salaries and wages as stated in the scriptures? Give three points
- No exploitation of workers for the work done
- Workers should be paid their wages
- Wages for workers must be just and fair
(ii) How can one learn to show respect for manual workers in modern society? State
three points.
- By accepting them as they are
- By appreciating the talents they have
- By recognizing the part they play in society
(d) In what ways are Christian teachings on attitudes to work similar to those of
Zambian Traditionalist? State two points
Similarities
- Both believe work must be done by all
- Both condemn and discourage laziness
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UNIT 5: CHRISTIAN ATTITUDE TO LEISURE
LEISURE IN ZAMBIA TODAY
BIBLICAL REASONS FOR LEISURE
- God’s purpose for man from the beginning was to have one day of rest out of seven.
- Leisure gives an opportunity for man to worship God.
USE OF LEISURE IN THE BIBLE
- An opportunity for rest, recreation and refreshments
- For praising and worshiping God
- For meeting friends and relaxing with the family.
- For doing well.
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Religious Comparison on the Christian Attitudes to Leisure
Christianity Vs Hinduism
Similarity:
- Both have an opportunity of a leisure time.
- Both spend time relaxing and resting.
- Both spend their time visiting friends.
Differences:
Christianity- The day is observed as a day of rest and relaxation, and has a religious
significance.
Hinduism- Leisure opportunity has no religious significance.
[6]
(ii) How can people in modern Zambian society spend leisure time to help them physically
and mentally? State three points. [6]
(d) Give two similarities between Christians and Muslims on how they spend their leisure
time.
[4]
ANSWERS
Exodus 20:8-11
(b) How did Jesus’ disciples observe the Lord’s Day? State two points. [4]
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- They worshipped and praised God.
- They relaxed and rested.
- They healed the sick.
- They did good things.
(c) (i) A sex worker has been recently converted to Christianity. She is seen visiting
bars because she claims she has no other place where to spend her leisure time. What
Christian advice would you give the former sex worker on how to spend leisure time?
State three points. [6]
(ii) How can people in modern Zambian society spend leisure time to help them
physically and mentally? State three points. [6]
- Walking
- Swimming
- Hunting
- Fishing
- Going to church.
- Watching sport
- Attending traditional dances.
(d) Give two similarities between Christians and Muslims on how they spend their
leisure time. [4]
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UNIT 6: CHRISTIAN ATTITUDES TO MONEY AND POSSESSIONS
ATTITUDES TO MONEY AND POSSESSIONS IN ZAMBIA
Modern Zambia Society
Positive attitude to money and possession of people in modern Zambian society.
- Save monthly for a ‘’rain day.’’
- Use it wisely by investing it.
- Use it on family’s basic needs.
- Waste it on their own pleasures and selfish desires.
- Gamble it, risking their money on the chance of increasing it.
Negative attitude to money and possession of people in modern Zambian society.
- Spending on drinking alcohol
- Spending money on prostitutes
- Not investing it
- Not helping the needy
Possessions:
- Means of prestige.
- Means of showing off.
- Personal development.
- Promoting God’s work.
Biblical teaching on attitudes to Wealth and Possessions – Amos 8:4-7
- Exploitation of the poor and the needy.
- Disrespect of Jewish festivals.
- Use of dishonest weights and scales.
- Buying people as slaves.
Jesus’ views on wrong attitudes – Luke 12:13-21
- Greed and covetousness.
- Laziness and taking life easy.
- Enjoying selfish pleasures e.g. beer drinking.
- You cannot serve God and money.
- Love of money is the beginning of many evils in a person’s life, 1 Tim 6:10.
Biblical teaching on the use of Wealth – 1 Chronicles 29:1-16
- Riches come from God and should be considered as belonging to him.
- Wealth should be used to help the poor. (Mark 10:21-22)
- Wealth must be used to do good and shared with others. 1Tim 6:17-19.
God’s judgment on wrong use of Money – James 5: 1-6.
- James gives the warning to the rich that they will lose everything if they have exploited
their employees.
- God will not forget their evil deeds, but will punish them. Amos 8:7.
- God may require them to give up their lives. Luke 12:20
- God may bring to them ruin and destruction. 1 Timothy 6:9
Christian behaviour in situations concerning money
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- Give towards God’s service.
- Share with others.
- Use it to help others.
a) Zambian Tradition
- Riches come from hard work.
- Gifts must be received gratefully, even though small.
- One must share with others.
- Wealth is a means of prestige.
b) Hinduism
- To gather riches is not the right goal of life.
- Wealth is a blessing when it helps one onward to the realization of life.
- It is a misery to be wealth, if one is not virtuous in life.
- During the Hindu festival of Diwali, Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity is
honoured and welcome.
- Acquired wealth should be carefully used, for a wealthy man is more responsible to society
than a poor man.
Islam
- It is not a sin to be rich, as long as the wealth has been obtained honestly and through
hard work.
- Exploitation of one’s fellow man in obtaining wealth is forbidden.
- Money must be used wisely.
- Saving money is encouraged, especially with regard to future needs.
- Lending money is permitted, but taking interest is forbidden.
Christianity
- Exploitation is forbidden.
- Cheating, bribery, corruption and any form of dishonesty is forbidden
- Generosity and sharing are encouraged.
- Putting God’s kingdom first is the right priority.
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Religious Comparison on attitude to Money and Possessions
Similarities:
- Both believe that work is necessary in order to get wealth.
- Both believe that wealth should be shared with the poor.
Differences:
Christianity- Wealth should be used in the service of God.
Z.T.R- Wealth is for prestige and show off.
b) Christianity Vs Hinduism
Similarities:
- Both recommend wealth obtained through honest and hard work.
- Both believe that wealth is a blessing when it helps us get closer to God.
Differences:
Christianity- Encourages storing wealth in heaven.
Hinduism- Do well for fear of reincarnation.
c) Christianity Vs Islam
Similarities:
- Both recommend wealth obtained through honest and hard work.
- Both forbid exploitation of fellow man to obtain wealth.
- Both encourage people to spend money wisely.
Differences:
Christianity- Recommend that the money be used in the service of God.
Islam- Recommend that money should first be used to support one’s family.
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ANSWERS
- Now a man came up to Jesus and asked, "Teacher, what good thing must I do to get
eternal life?"
- "Why do you ask me concerning what is good?" answered Jesus.
- "There is only one who is good
- If you want to enter life, obey the commandments." "Which ones? The man asked;
- Jesus replied, "Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false
testimony, honour your father and mother; and love your neighbour as you love yourself
- "All these I have kept, the young man said, "What do I still lack?"
- Jesus answered, "If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possession and give to the
poor, and you will have treasure in heaven
- Then come, follow me
- When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth
- Then Jesus said to his disciples, "I tell you the truth, it is hard for a rich man to enter the
kingdom of heaven
- Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich
man to enter the kingdom of God
(b) What are the effects of riches on a person's spiritual life? Give two points. [4]
- Brings in greediness
- Brings pride
- One can forget God/Christ
- One can bring disgrace to God
(c) (i) In a certain village there was a farmer who was very rich. He had a lot of cattle,
vehicles and large pieces of land. He was very boastful because of his wealth and
could haul insults to people at will and used to tell them that whatever crime he
commits could be sorted out using his wealth. As a Christian help the farmer by
educating him on the Bible lessons on the things money or riches would not be able
to do. Give three points. [6]
- Riches won't do you any good when you face death
- Riches won't redeem any person
- Riches won't pay God the price for our lives
(ii) State three points to show the positive attitudes to money and possessions of
people in Modern Zambian Society.
[6]
- Saving
- Investing
- Spending on family basic needs
- Helping the need/poor
(d) In what ways are the teachings of Christians on attitudes to wealth similar to those
of Muslims?
[4]
- It is not a sin to be rich
- Wealth should be obtained honestly and through hard work
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- Obtaining wealth through exploitation is forbidden
- Wealth should be used wisely
UNIT 7: CHRISTIAN ATTITUDES TO LEADERSHIP
Attitudes towards the government/leaders in modern Zambian society are:
- Obedience to authority and those in power.
- Working together.
- Social justice and respect for human rights.
- Peaceful resolution of conflicts.
- Patience and tolerance.
- Sense of responsibility.
- Pray for their leaders.
Positive reactions of people to leaders who do wrong in modern Zambian society
- Denouncing them in love and not hate.
- Correcting them with respect.
- Praying for such leaders.
- Counselling them if they show willingness.
What the Bible teaches on leadership
- God had promised Israel to be their God and leader as long as they obeyed His
commandments (Deut 6: 1-3).
- He appointed Moses and Joshua as leader of Israel to lead the Israelites out of Egypt
and into the land of Canaan.
- God raised Judges as leaders to save the people from their enemies and to help them
solve their problems.
ISRAEL REJECTS GOD AS KING AND RULER (1 SAMUEL 8:4-9, 19-20; 9:2)
- Political instability led the people to demand a king, who would provide a royal family and
continuity of leadership.
- God told Samuel who was their Judge at that time, that their decision to choose a human
King was not only a rejection of Samuel, God’s appointed leader, it was also a rejection
of God as their King and Ruler.
Resistance to and condemnation of bad rulers (Judges 9:1-15, 22-25)
- In the time of Judges, Gideon’s son, Abimelech wanted to set himself up as King. He
murdered his brothers to eliminate opposition.
- Choosing a bad man to rule is dangerous both to the ruler and to the people he leads.
- Ahab sinned against God more than any of his ancestor. 1 Kings 16:29, 19:1-18 and
21:1-29
- God condemns the leaders of Israel for not doing their duty to the people of God. They
were greed and selfish. Ezekiel 34: 1-10
Qualities of a good Leader (Luke 9:46-48; 22:24-30)
- Humility. This means to be like a servant. It means putting the interests of others before
oneself.
- One who listens and pays attention to the needs of the people he leads.
- One who is able to explain the reasons for decisions and actions taken without being a
dictator.
James and John’s request (Mark 10: 35-45)
- James and John asked Jesus to be seated one on either side of Jesus.
- Jesus implied that this would depend, in part on their willingness to suffer for his sake.
But it did not come with his right to grant it.
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- James and John had been quick to make their request first and this annoyed the other
disciples. Jesus had told them that true greatness lay in serving others.
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- In modern India, Mahatma Gandhi could be considered such a leader. He took the
traditional ideas of leadership and adjusted them to contemporary conditions of Indian
Society.
ANSWERS
(a) Give an account of Abimelech’s conspiracy. [5]
(Judges 9:1-15)
- Gideon’s son Abimelech went to the town of Shechem, where all his mother’s relatives
lived,
- and told them to ask the men of Shechem, Which would you prefer?
- To all the seventy of Gideon’s sons govern you or to have just one man?
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- Remember that Abimelech is your own flesh and blood.
- His mother’s relatives talked to the men of Shechem about this for him,
- and the men of Shechem decided to follow Abimelech because he was their relative.
- They gave him seventy pieces of silver from the temple of Baal-of-the Covenant, and
with this money he hired a bunch of worthless scoundrels to join him.
- He went to his father’s house at Ophrah, and there on top of a single stone he killed his
seventy brothers, Gideon’s sons.
- But Jotham, Gideon’s youngest son, hid and was not killed.
- Then all the men of Shechem and Bethmillo got together and went to the sacred oak
tree at Shechem, where they made Abimelech king.
- When Jotham heard about this, he went and stood on top of Mount Gerizim and
shouted out to them,
- Listen to me, you men of Shechem, and how God may listen to you!
- Once upon a time the trees went out to choose a king for themselves.
- They said to the olive tree, Be our king.
- The olive tree answered, In order to govern you, I would have to stop producing my oil,
which is used to honour gods and human beings.
- Then the trees said to the fig tree, You come and be our king.
- But the fig tree answered, in order to govern you, I would have to stop producing my
good sweet fruit.
- So the trees then said to the grapevine, You come and be our king.
- But the vine answered, In order to govern you, I would have to stop producing my wine,
that makes gods and human beings happy.
- So then, all the trees said to the thorn bush, You come and be our king.
- The thorn bush answered, If you really want to make me your king, then come and
make shelter in my shade.
- If you don’t, fire will blaze out of my thorny branches and burn up the cedars of Lebanon
(b) Mention two types of government that are revealed by Abimelech’s conspiracy.
[4]
- Absolute monarchy
- Military dictatorship
- Oligarchy
- Autocracy
(c) (i) Pastor Changanya tells you that there are so many needy and vulnerable
people in his church who survive on hand outs from him. He further tells you that it
is not his responsibility to be providing them with food and clothes. State three
points of Christian advice you would give Pastor Changanya on the nature of a
true shepherd. [6]
- Gathers the sheep (people)
- Feeds the sheep (people)
- Cares for the sheep (people)
- Leads the sheep (people) to safety
- Gives security and heals those that are sick
- Supplies them daily needs
- Protects the weaker members from the stronger ones
(c) (ii) Give three ways that demonstrate how people in modern Zambian society
can relate positively with the poor and needy.
[6]
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- By helping them
- By caring for them
- By loving them
- By embracing them
(d) In what ways are the teachings of Christianity on attitudes to leaders
similar to those of Islam? State two points.
[4]
- Both respect their leaders
- Both believe leaders are chosen by God
- Both may not accept a leader who contradicts what God wants.
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- To discourage the sin of immorality.
b) Hinduism
- For procreation.
- To create a family unit through a man and wife partnership.
c) Zambian Tradition Religion
- For reproduction
- To strengthen ties with other people and between the couple.
- Marriage was viewed as a community matter and had to be for the good of the
community.
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- It is more common to find unmarried adults in the Christian religion than in any other
religion.
- The demands of Christ are stronger than those of traditions in other religions and
cultures.
b) Islam
- Muslims regard an unmarried adult as abnormal, and it is not a common condition.
- Sometimes a Muslim may remain unmarried for religious reasons, so that he or she
can be more devoted to God.
- Sometimes a person with a bad reputation or from a family of ill repute will find it difficult
to get a marriage partner.
- Those of other religions who are unmarried are accepted and appreciated.
c) Hinduism
- Consider the unmarried adult to be abnormal, possibly indicating some mental or
physical defect or even unwillingness to be married.
- Sometimes an only Child (daughter) will remain unmarried in order to look after her
aging parents.
- Unmarried adults of other races or religions are accepted and appreciated.
d) Zambian Tradition
- In the Zambian tradition and modern society, unmarried adults are despised because
it is abnormal not to marry.
- Unmarried Zambian adult has deficient reproductive organ.
- An unmarried adult of a different race or culture is accepted, although it is considered
an abnormal state.
- It is also acceptable for a Zambian adult to be unmarried for religious purposes for
example, priest and nuns.
ANSWERS
ANSWERS
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- Then the Lord God said, it is not good for the man to live alone.
- I will make a suitable companion to help him.
- So he took some soil from the ground and formed all the animals and all the
birds.
- Then he brought them to the man to see what he would name them; and that is
how they all got their names.
- So the man named all birds and all animals; but not one of them was a suitable
companion to help him.
- Then the LORD God made man fall into a deep sleep
- And while he was sleeping, he took out one of the man’s ribs and closed up the
flesh.
- He formed a woman out of the rib and brought her to him.
- Then the man said, at last, here is one of my own kind-
- bone taken from my bone, and flesh from my flesh.
- Woman is her name because she was taken out of man.
- That is why a man leaves his father and mother
- and is united with his wife
- and they become one.
- The man and the woman were both naked, but they were not embarrassed.
(c) (i) James has been cohabiting with his girlfriend, Joan, for a period of ten
years. His friends and relatives are against the stance the two have taken. As a
Christian, advise the two on Christian standards for sexual behahvoiur. Give
three points. [6]
- No sex before marriage.
- There must not be unfaithfulness even after marriage.
- Immorality is sin.
- People should exercise self-control.
- Christians should not even talk about sexual evils and moral indecency.
(ii) How do people in the modern Zambian society look at a man and woman who
are staying together but not officially married? State three points.
[6]
- Despise them.
- Some parents ignore them.
- Some see them as just committing fornication.
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(d) In what ways are Christian teaching on the purposes of marriage similar to
those of Hindus? State two points.
[4]
- In both it is for reproduction of life.
- In both there is husband and wife partnership.
- Must be understanding
- Must be caring and loving
- Must show respect for his wife
Christianity
Islam
Hinduism
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Zambian tradition
Spiritual influences
Psychological influences
- Sexual imagination
- Masturbation
a. Polygamy
- Practice of having more than one wife.
- God’s Original plan of marriage was one man, one woman for life.
b. Divorce
- Dissolving or cancelling of a marriage.
- If is forbidden in the Bible.
- A man marries his wife once and they become one flesh for life.
- God hates divorce and from the beginning. He never intended that there should be
such a situation (Matt 19:8).
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Compare Christian standard for sexual behaviour with those of modern Zambian
Christianity
- Faithfulness in marriage
- Self-control is part of the fruits of the Holy Spirit
- Abstinence before marriage
- Christians should be cautious when they talk about sex evils and morals
Modern Zambia
QUESTION
Give two differences between Christianity and Zambian traditional religion with regard
to husband - wife relationship.
ANSWERS
(a) Give an account of the story of the woman caught in the act of adultery.
[5]
John 8:1-11
- Then everyone went home, but Jesus went to the Mount of Olives,
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- Early the next morning he went back to the Temple. All the people gathered
around him, and he sat down and began to teach them.
- The teachers of the Law and the Pharisees brought in a woman who had been
caught committing adultery, and they made her stand before them all.
- Teacher, they said to Jesus, this woman was caught in the very act of
committing adultery.
- In our Law Moses commanded that such a woman must be stoned to death.
Now, what do say?
- They said this to trap Jesus, so that they could accuse him. But he bent over
and wrote on the ground with his finger.
- As they stood there asking him questions, he straightened up and said to them,
whichever one of you has committed no sin may throw the first stone at her.
- Then he bent over again and wrote on the ground.
- When they heard this, they all left, one by one, the older ones first. Jesus was
left alone, with the woman still standing there.
- He straightened up and said to her, where are they? Is there no one left to
condemn you?
- No one, sir, she answered. Well, then, Jesus said, I do not condemn you either.
Go but do not sin again.
(b) (i) According to the Jewish traditions, what punishment was given to a
woman caught in the act of adultery? [2]
- Stoning to death
(ii) What was Jesus’ new teaching on adultery? State one point. [2]
- Jesus taught that even looking on someone lustfully is, in God’s sight as bad as
adultery.
- Jesus allowed divorces in case of proved adultery but he emphasized the need
to forgive in the case of adultery.
(c) (i) Jangulu works at a lodge. Although she is a married woman, she has
a habit of sleeping around with clients. What Christian advice would you
give Jangulu against having extra marital affairs? State three points.
[6]
- Immorality is sin.
- No sex outside marriage, purity is encouraged.
- There must be no unfaithfulness.
- Faithfulness is commanded.
- He should exercise self-control which is a fruit of the Holy Spirit.
- He should not make God’s Temple dirty.
(ii) State three benefits of keeping virginity for the young people in modern
Zambia.
[6]
- To avoid chances of contrasting HIV and AIDS.
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- Avoiding pregnancy outside marriage.
- To avoid unplanned children.
- Avoiding sex is a way of respecting the other person.
- Sex before marriage can lead to unfaithfulness in marriage.
(d) Contrast the teachings of Christianity on adultery with that of Zambian
Traditional Religion. Give two points. [4]
Christians: Adultery is forbidden at all times.
ZTR: Adultery is allowed on certain occasions.
Christians: Adultery is punishable for both men and women.
ZTR: Adultery leads to divorce if committed by a woman but men tend to get away
with it.
Modern Zambia
Traditional Zambia
Characteristics
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Loyalty god comes first in the family
Luke 2:41-52
- When Jesus parents lost him and found him later, in the temple. Mary rebuked him
causing anxiety. Jesus reply showed that loyalty to his heavenly father came first.
Luke 9:59-62
- God must come first. Commitment and obedience to God is of more importance than
the demands and loyalties of one’s family.
Luke 12:51-53
Christianity
Islam
Hinduism
Zambian traditional
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• Increase in Child delinquency.
• Increase in Problem of street kids.
• Increase in Criminal activities.
1. (a) Narrate the story of the boy Jesus in the Temple at 12 years.
[5]
(b)(i) How did Jesus show love and respect for his earthly parents? Give one point.
(ii) Where should man’s supreme loyalty be? Give one point. [4]
(c)(i) Kanchimwe stays with the parents but she doesn’t want to clean the house and
wash plates. She says to you “it’s not my duty!” What Christian advice would you give
her with regard to duties as a child in a home? Give three points.
[6]
(ii) What should be the ideal relationship between parents and children in a modern
Zambian society? State three points.
[6]
(d) In what ways are the teachings of Christianity on the duties of parents to their
children similar to that of Hinduism? Give two points.
[4]
ANSWERS
1. (a) Narrate the story of the boy Jesus in the Temple at 12 years.
[5]
Luke 2:41-52
- Every year his parents went to Jerusalem for the feast of Passover.
- When he was twelve years old, they went up to the feast according to the custom.
- After the feast was over, while his parents were returning home.
- The boy Jesus remained behind in Jerusalem but they were unaware of it
- Then they began looking for him among their relatives and friends
- When they did not find him, they went back to Jerusalem to look for him.
- After three days they found him in the temple courts, sitting among the teachers
- Everyone who heard him was amazed at his understanding and his answers.
- His mother said to him, “Son why have you treated us like this?
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- Your father and I have been anxiously searching for you.
- Then he went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them.
- And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature and in favour with God and men.
(b)(i) How did Jesus show love and respect for his earthly parents? Give one
point.
- By his obedience.
(ii) Where should man’s supreme loyalty be? Give one point.
[4]
(c)(i) Kanchimwe stays with the parents but she doesn’t want to clean the
house and wash plates. She says to you “it’s not my duty!” What Christian
advice would you give her with regard to duties as a child in a home? Give
three points. [6]
(ii) What should be the ideal relationship between parents and children in a
modern Zambian society? State three points.
[6]
- A.O.V.A
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(d) In what ways are the teachings of Christianity on the duties of parents to
their children similar to that of Hinduism? Give two points.
[4]
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