Christianity for Beginners
Belief in God
Stratégie d'enseignement
This lesson is foundational for the remaining lessons of this series. This lesson flows from the materials with the same title on the BibleTalk.tv website. Teachers should review the relevant materials and have students review the materials before class.
Résultats de l'apprentissage des étudiants
- Know: Understand the basis for belief in God.
- Feel: Strengthen belief in God.
- Do: Explain the basis for one’s belief in God.
Corps de la leçon
Questions à discuter
Vous trouverez ci-dessous des suggestions de questions à utiliser pendant la partie de la leçon consacrée à la discussion guidée. Vous trouverez également des suggestions de réponses aux questions pour aider les élèves à saisir les différents concepts. Ces réponses sont fournies pour faciliter la discussion et ne sont pas considérées comme des réponses "justes ou fausses".
1. Why has mankind generally believed in a "higher power"?
Man has always recognized a power greater than himself as he considers the magnitude of nature. In some cases, it was born out of fear and superstitions. In other situations, it was from a recognition of mankind's inadequacy or ability to explain life.
2. What are the strengths and weaknesses of relying on human reasoning to understand the existence of God?
Strengths: Man possesses the ability to analyze situations in life and draw conclusions. The more understanding we have, the greater the ability to continue using our minds to answer questions.
Weaknesses: Some rely solely on their ability to reason. This has led to a variety of false perceptions such as the ability of man to answer questions about creation and the existence and character of God without the assistance of divine revelation. Further, humans are subject to changing insights as knowledge grows.
3. What is the primary weakness of the "First Cause Argument" in trying to explain the existence of God?
Those that hold this view cannot explain who or what caused the "big bang" that started creation or where the elements came from to begin with. Something cannot be created from nothing.
4. How is the "Complexity Argument" and the "Human Reasoning Argument" related as explanations for the existence of God?
The complexity argument holds that only a complex being could have created something as complex as our universe and life.
5. Summarize the "Moral/Spiritual Argument" to explain the existence of God.
The moral/spiritual argument is beyond the existence of simple matter. It must come from a higher being such as God.
6. How does the Bible aid our understanding of God?
The Bible provides insights into the concept of God, His character and the creative process.
7. Which characteristic of Jesus best demonstrates the existence of God? Why?
Jesus taught and demonstrated all the characteristics God the Father created in us and requires of us. Our Lord's love, compassion and sacrificial actions point to a just and merciful God.
8. Comment on the following statement:
This is the essence of faith. There are many concepts in scripture that are beyond our understanding. God wants us to know Him and His will. As we grow spiritually, and at a time the Holy Spirit determines our readiness, God will provide us with more understanding. Additionally, as life changes, our application of scripture changes.
9. How can you as a student use this information to grow spiritually and help others come into a relationship with Jesus?
Look for responses that indicate an acceptance of concepts presented in this lesson and other sources. Other indicators may include responses such as the scope and depth of the information provides a basis for belief in God.