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This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. The Gnostic focus was on ___________ which was thought to be psychological or emotional in nature.

2. Justin also wrote about the bravery and dignity of ____________ when they were put under terrible torture conditions.

3. Pliny would often execute those who admitted to being of the _____________ faith, though he would let those go who did not admit to the faith.

4. A Gnostic author speaks of a baptism of _________ rather than a baptism of water.

5. The orthodox church wanted to have more controversy in order to create ______________ to basic institutional and doctrinal elements.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The Gnostic gospels seem to state that it's not that becoming a martyr will lead to Heaven each time, but that the awareness of the teachings of Christ is the reward.

Part 1: Do you think that Heaven should be seen as the ultimate reward in the Christian life? Why or why not?

Part 2: Do you believe that the awareness of Christ is something that is more important than what happens when you die? Why or why not?

Part 3: How do you think Christianity might change if there was no idea of Heaven or Hell?

Essay Topic 2

The scrolls themselves became scattered around the world once people realized they were of value and began to sell them to the highest bidders.

Part 1: Why do you think that people wanted the money more than the information?

Part 2: If you were living in that time and found these scrolls, what would you have done with them? Why?

Part 3: Do you think it's a good idea to get money for priceless objects? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

The brothers decided to go after the killer of their father, hacking him to bits and eating his heart.

Part 1: Why do you think the brothers thought this sort of killing was necessary?

Part 2: Do you think it's ever a good idea to kill another person? Why or why not?

Part 3: How do you think the brothers' life will change as a result of their murderous actions?

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This section contains 354 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample