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2 The existence of God - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 2 - 2020 - Paper 1
Question 2
2 The existence of God. (a) Describe one example of a charismatic religious experience. [3] (b) Describe ways in which some Christians believe God i... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:2 The existence of God - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 2 - 2020 - Paper 1
Step 1
Describe one example of a charismatic religious experience.
Answer
One notable example of a charismatic religious experience can be found in the context of Pentecostal worship services where individuals may speak in tongues, also known as glossolalia. This phenomenon typically occurs when a person feels a profound connection to the Holy Spirit, leading to spontaneous utterances in languages unknown to them. This experience is often described as transformative, providing the individual with a sense of divine presence, comfort, and spiritual empowerment.
Step 2
Describe ways in which some Christians believe God is revealed through scripture.
Answer
Many Christians believe that God is primarily revealed through the Bible, which they consider to be the inspired word of God. Here are a few key ways:
- Creation: The book of Genesis narrates how God created the world and humanity, showcasing His power and intention.
- Jesus Christ: The New Testament describes Jesus as the incarnation of God, representing His nature and will. Believers see His life, death, and resurrection as the ultimate revelation of God's love and purpose.
- Prophecy and Wisdom Literature: The prophetic books contain messages from God to His people, providing insights into His character and expectations. Additionally, books like Proverbs offer guidance that reflects God's wisdom.
Step 3
Explain how the design of the world influences people to believe in God.
Answer
The intricate design of the universe often leads many individuals to believe in a divine creator. This belief can be supported by the following points:
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Teleological Argument: The complexity and order found in nature suggest that such design implies a designer. For instance, the precise conditions required for life highlight a level of intentionality that many attribute to God.
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Natural Revelations: Many people experience awe and wonder when observing natural beauty, which they interpret as a reflection of God’s existence and characteristics. For example, the vastness of the cosmos or the intricacies of ecosystems often lead individuals to ponder the presence of a higher power.
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Sources of Authority: Key religious texts, such as the Bible, reinforce these beliefs by emphasizing the beauty of creation as evidence of God's handiwork. Passages like Psalm 19:1 state, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands." This suggests that the natural world is not just a backdrop, but a testament to God's existence and nature.
Step 4
'No-one really knows what God is like.' Discuss this statement.
Answer
This statement underscores a significant aspect of theological discourse in Christianity. While many adherents strive to understand God through scripture and tradition, complete understanding is often viewed as unattainable due to the infinite nature of God.
- Knowledge Limitations: Christians believe that humans can know aspects of God’s character—such as love, mercy, and justice—through allusions in scripture. However, the totality of God's nature remains beyond human comprehension, leading to diverse interpretations.
- Personal Experiences: Individual experiences and perspectives shaped by personal faith may differ significantly, creating varied portrayals of God. For instance, some may emphasize God's wrath, while others focus on His grace.
- Biblical References: Numerous passages, including Isaiah 55:8-9, illustrate that God's thoughts and ways are higher than human understanding, reinforcing the notion that no single viewpoint can capture the essence of God.
In evaluating this statement, it’s crucial to acknowledge that while humans may grasp certain attributes of God, the depths of His being can be perceived differently based on cultural, experiential, and theological contexts.