JUPEB essay questions 2023.
Course: CRS.
Check out objective questions here
CRS 001: OLD TESTAMENT STUDIES.
1. Narrate how the nation of Israel was divided into two kingdoms and list the immediate causes.
2. With copious examples, explain the significant features of the Minor Prophets.
CRS 002: NEW TESTAMENT STUDIES
3. Mention SEVEN and discuss any FOUR of the characteristics of Mark.
4. (a) Do a critical analysis of the following religious personalities:
i. Pharisees;
ii. Sadducees.
(b) Indicate their points of disagreement.
CRS 003: HISTORY OF CHRISTIANITY IN WEST AFRICA
5. Clarify the term African Indigenous Churches (AICs) and state how they differ from the Mainline Churches.
6. (a) What do you understand by proliferation of churches?
(b) Critically discuss FIVE of the factors that cause proliferation of churches in Nigeria.
(C) List THREE effects of proliferation of churches in Nigeria.
004: RELIGION AND SOCIETY
7. From individual and social point of view, what are the functions of religion?
(8) Examine the effects of corruption on the Nigerian society.
(b) State FOUR Christian responses to corruption.
ANSWERS to 2023 jupeb past questions on Christian Religious study
✓1. Narrate how the nation of Israel was divided into two kingdoms and list the immediate causes..
Immediately after king Solomon's death, Rehoboam, one his sons rose to be crowned the kingship of Israel. The southern region had already accepted Rehoboam to be their next king but the northern kingdom brought before him a plea.
The request of the northern kingdom:
They went to Rehoboam and requested that he should reduce their burden such as force labor and heavy taxation which king Solomon mounted on them. Rehoboam told the people to come back after three days for feedback.
Counsel of the elders:
Rehoboam sought advice from the elders who were made of Solomon's advisors. They told him to lighten the burden of the people but he ignored their advice.
Counsel of the youth:
Rehoboam rejected the advice of the elders and yield to that of the youth. His friends advised him to tell the people that his little finger is bigger than his father's waist and thus he will double whatever punishment his father had been given them. Rehoboam took this advice and delivered to the people and succession took place " To your tent oh Israel" they Departed and made Jeroboam their king in the northern kingdom (Judah) while Rehoboam ruled the southern kingdom (Israel)
IMMEDIATE CAUSES.
1. Rehoboam refusal to take advice of the elders.
2. Rehoboam hash response to the northerners.
3. Advice of the young people.
4. Tribal discontent and revolt.
✓2. With copious examples, explain the significant features of the Minor Prophets.
The Minor prophets are the (12) prophets with shorter length of writing. That is, their books are not so voluminous as that of the major prophets. They are: Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi.
Features:
1. Call to Repentance
The Minor Prophets called Israel and Judah to turn from sin. E.g Hosea – Called Israel to repent from spiritual adultery. He emphasize on true love, Joel – Urged national repentance after a locust plague.
2. Condemnation of Social Injustice
They condemned oppression and corruption. Amos – Denounced exploitation of the poor. E.g Micah – Criticized dishonest leaders and false prophets
3. Warning of Judgment
They warned of God’s judgment for sin and idolatry.
Nahum – Predicted Nineveh’s fall
Zephaniah – Spoke of the Day of the Lord
4. Message of Hope and Restoration
Despite judgment, they offered hope.
Haggai – Encouraged temple rebuilding,
Zechariah – Prophesied the coming Messiah, Malachi – Spoke of a forerunner to Christ
5. Use of Symbols and Imagery
They used vivid symbols to teach. E.g Hosea – His marriage symbolized Israel’s unfaithfulness.
Zechariah – Used visions like a flying scroll
6. Emphasis on Covenant and Obedience
They reminded Israel of God’s covenant.
E.g Malachi – Accused priests of breaking the covenant.
Micah – Summarized God’s expectations
✓3. Mention SEVEN and discuss any FOUR of the characteristics of Mark.
1. Faith is the necessity for healing
2. Mark gospel is full of action
3. Mark emphasizes on the role of the Holy Spirit
4. Mark emphasizes on the important of prayer.
5. Mark uses simple language for non Jewish audience.
6. He specifically address the Gentiles.
7. Mark hid the messianic secret till Jesus resurrection.
EXPLANATION
Gospel of action:
Mark’s Gospel moves quickly, using terms like “immediately” to describe Jesus’ actions, showing Him as always active.
Mark hid the messianic secret till Jesus resurrection:
Jesus often told people not to reveal His identity until after His resurrection.
Use of simple language for non Jewish audience ( the gentiles)
Mark explains Jewish customs and uses straightforward Greek, targeting Gentile (especially Roman) readers.
Important of prayer:.
Jesus is seen praying always. E.g during transfiguration, the last supper, his death on the cross.
✓4. (a) Do a critical analysis of the following religious personalities:
i. Pharisees;
ii. Sadducees.
(b) Indicate their points of disagreement.
A) I) The pharisees were Religious sect during Jesus time. They were called the separate ones, this was because they often separate themselves from what they believe to be unclean.
The pharisees were mostly traders and merchants with little level of education, they believe on both the writing (Torah) and the Oral laws known as (tradition of elders)
They believed in the existence of angels, spirit, resurrection of the deaths, the parousia and afterlife
They were the sect Jesus often called hypocrite because of their untrue behavior towards Religious activities such as praying in the public.
Aii) the Sadducees.
The Sadducees were a wealthy and aristocratic priestly class, mainly from the Temple elite in Jerusalem. They were called the "to be righteous"
They rejected oral traditions and accepted only the written Law of Moses (Pentateuch).
They denied the resurrection, angels, and the afterlife.
Politically connected to the Romans and often sought to preserve the status quo.
They were less popular among the people and had great influence in the Sanhedrin (Jewish ruling council).
B) point of disagreement.
The Pharisees accepted both the written Law (Torah) and oral traditions, which they used to interpret and apply the law to daily life. In contrast, the Sadducees accepted only the written Law of Moses (Pentateuch) and rejected all oral traditions.
Regarding the resurrection and the afterlife, the Pharisees believed in the resurrection of the dead, as well as the existence of angels and spirits. The Sadducees, however, denied the resurrection, and rejected the belief in angels and spirits.
Socially, the Pharisees were more popular among the common people, teaching mainly in synagogues. The Sadducees belonged to the priestly and wealthy elite, with strong influence in the Temple and the Sanhedrin (Jewish council).
Religiously, the Pharisees emphasized community worship and moral living, while the Sadducees focused on temple rituals and sacrifices.
Politically, the Pharisees were cautious of Roman rule, while the Sadducees were more cooperative with Roman authorities, seeking to maintain their power and position.
✓5. Clarify the term African Indigenous Churches (AICs) and state how they differ from the Mainline Churches.
African indigenous churches (AICs) Are independent churches established by Africans and manage by Africans. In the AICs, the ministration is anchor by Africans pastors or priests and the doctrines reflect African way of life such as drumming, singing, dancing etc.
There main characteristics of African independent Churches include self- government, that is they rule themselves without the interference of any kind.
Self- supporting: funds for building and maintenance of this church is generated within the church by members. While Mainline Churches are establish by European missionaries (e.g., Catholics, Anglicans, Methodists) and often led by foreign clergy during early years.
How they differ from mainline churches:
Cultural integration: Some African indigenous churches tolerate polygamy which is an African tradition. Mainline churches like catholic, Methodist strongly opposed polygamy.
Strict adherence to the old testament:
African indigenous churches' doctrines are mostly derived from the old testament, such as the walking of barefooted. While the mainline churches rely on new testament. E.g, in the Catholic church, the homily is often drawn from the gospels (Mathew, mark, Luke and John)
No uniform doctrine: the AIC doesn't have a uniform doctrine compare to the mainline churches.
Healing and Prophecy: AICs: Strong emphasis on divine healing, visions, and prophecy as signs of God's power.
Mainline Churches: Place less emphasis on these and focus more on sacraments, preaching, and teaching.
✓6. What do you understand by proliferation of churches?
Proliferation of churches refers to the rapid increase in the number of Christian denominations and churches, especially in recent times. It often involves the frequent formation of new churches, sometimes by individuals who break away from existing ones.
✓(b) Critically discuss FIVE of the factors that cause proliferation of churches in Nigeria.
1. Economic Hardship and Unemployment
People start churches as a source of income due to job scarcity. Prosperity preaching attracts followers hoping for financial breakthroughs.
2. Doctrinal Differences and Leadership tussle
Conflicts over beliefs or leadership roles lead to breakaway groups. New denominations often claim doctrinal purity.
3. Leadership and Vision Claims
Individuals claim divine visions to start ministries. Use of spiritual gifts (healing, prophecy) draws large followings.
4. Lack of Regulatory Framework
Minimal legal barriers to church establishment and registration. No strict oversight encourages unchecked church creation.
5. Desire for Autonomy, fame and Control
Pastors seek freedom from larger church structures. Control over finances and doctrine motivates church founding.
Also (personal ambition, avoidance of discipline, Self government, Selfishness)
✓ List THREE effects of proliferation of churches in Nigeria.
1. Spread of Christianity
2. Misinterpretation of the scripture
3. Competition by Religious leaders (quest for convert and popularity)
8. From individual and social point of view, what are the functions of religion.
Social point of views:
1. Religion create moral community
2. Religion influence the behavior of the behavior of people in the society.
3. Religion forster peace among members of the community.
4. Cultural preservation
Individual point of views:
5. Rite of passage and rituals
6. Religion provide sense of identity and belonging
7. Religion provides mental peace
8. Emotional Support and Comfort.
a. Effects of Corruption on Nigerian Society:
Weak Institutions: Reduces trust in government, police, and judiciary.
Poor Infrastructure: Embezzlement of public funds leads to bad roads, hospitals, and schools.
Poverty and Unemployment: Corruption scares off investors and limits economic opportunities.
Political Instability: Leads to rigged elections, injustice, and political unrest.
Moral Decay: Encourages dishonesty and “get-rich-quick” mentality, especially among youth.
Insecurity: Mismanagement of security funds fuels crime and terrorism.
Educational Decline: Encourages exam malpractice and lowers academic standards.
B. State FOUR Christian responses to corruption.
1. Upholding Honesty and Integrity
Christians are taught to be truthful and transparent in all dealings, following the example of Jesus Christ.
2. Condemning Corrupt Practices
The Bible condemns bribery and injustice. Christians are encouraged to speak out against corruption and refuse to participate in it.
3. Praying for Righteous Leadership
Christians believe in the power of prayer to bring about change, including praying for honest and God-fearing leaders.
4. Living as Good Examples
By living righteously and obeying God’s commandments, Christians can influence society positively and show that corruption is not the only way.