THEORY QUESTIONS
THEORY ANSWERS
(2a)
Solomon, the son of King David, ascended to the throne of Israel and desired to build a magnificent temple for the worship of God in Jerusalem. He sent a message to King Hiram of Tyre, a renowned Phoenician ruler known for his skill in construction and trade. Solomon expressed his admiration for Hiram’s expertise and requested his assistance in the construction of the temple.
King Hiram responded positively to Solomon’s request and sent his skilled craftsmen, particularly a man named Huram-Abi (also known as Hiram-Abiff), who was half-Israelite and half-Tyrean. Huram-Abi was an expert in working with bronze, and he played a crucial role in the temple’s construction.
Furthermore, King Hiram provided Solomon with the necessary materials for the temple. The account in 1 Kings 5:8-11 describes how Hiram sent cedar and cypress logs from Lebanon to Jerusalem. These logs were used for the construction of the temple’s structure and its interior decoration.
The relationship between Solomon and Hiram went beyond mere trade and construction. They established a friendly alliance and engaged in peaceful relations. They even exchanged gifts as a symbol of their friendship and cooperation. In 1 Kings 5:12, it is mentioned that Solomon gave Hiram twenty thousand cors of wheat and twenty thousand baths of pure oil each year.
The cooperation between Tyre and Israel continued throughout the construction of the temple. Skilled Tyrean workers collaborated with Israelite craftsmen and laborers under Solomon’s supervision. The temple gradually took shape and became a splendid edifice, renowned for its grandeur and magnificence.
The diplomatic relations between Tyre and Israel during Solomon’s reign were vital in facilitating the construction of the temple. Tyre’s contribution of skilled workers and building materials, coupled with the friendly alliance between the two kingdoms, ensured the successful completion of the project. The temple of Solomon stood as a testament to the cooperation between these two nations and served as a central place of worship for the Israelites for centuries to come.
(2b)
(PICK ANY TWO)
(i) Diplomatic relations provide a platform for dialogue and negotiations, enabling nations to resolve conflicts peacefully.
(ii) It facilitates economic cooperation between nations such as engaging countries in trade agreements, investment partnerships, and economic collaborations which foster economic growth, create employment opportunities, and enhance prosperity by promoting the exchange of goods, services, and knowledge.
(iii) It fosters cultural exchange and understanding among nations.
(iv) Diplomatic relations enable countries to collaborate on security and defense issues which helps address common security challenges, promoting stability and safeguarding national interests.
(v) Diplomatic relations allow nations to address global challenges collectively
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*(VERSION 2)*
(2a)
In the golden era of King Solomon’s reign, the land of Israel thrived under his wise and just rule. Recognizing the importance of diplomatic relations, Solomon sought to establish a strong alliance with the powerful city-state of Tyre. Their collaboration played a pivotal role in the construction of the grand Temple.
King Solomon shared his divine vision with King Hiram, the ruler of Tyre—a vision to build a magnificent Temple that would honor God and serve as a beacon of faith for generations to come. Impressed by the depth of Solomon’s vision, King Hiram pledged his full support.
Tyre, renowned for its maritime expertise and thriving trade, possessed abundant resources and skilled craftsmen. King Hiram ordered the felling of the finest cedars from the forests of Lebanon, known for their majestic trees. These tall and sturdy cedars were transported by sea to provide the foundation for the Temple’s construction.
Additionally, Tyre’s skilled craftsmen, led by the renowned Huram-abi, joined forces with the Israelite artisans. Together, they brought Solomon’s vision to life, meticulously crafting the intricate architectural elements of the Temple. The exchange of knowledge and expertise between Tyre and Israel enriched the project, resulting in a structure of unparalleled beauty.
The alliance between Tyre and Israel went beyond the construction itself. Trade flourished between the two kingdoms, as goods and services flowed freely. This economic cooperation ensured the availability of necessary resources and financial support for the Temple’s progress.
The culmination of their collaboration was the completion of the Temple—a testament to the unity and cooperation between Tyre and Israel. It stood as a physical embodiment of their shared values, faith, and devotion to God. The Temple became a place of worship and a symbol of divine presence, radiating splendor and inspiring awe.
The story of Tyre and Israel’s collaboration in the building of the Temple teaches us the power of unity, shared resources, and collective vision. It highlights the importance of forging strong alliances and fostering cooperation for the greater good. Through their joint efforts, Tyre and Israel demonstrated how a shared purpose can lead to remarkable achievements that transcend boundaries and endure through generations.
(2b)
(PICK ANY TWO)
(i) Diplomatic relations provide a platform for dialogue and negotiations, enabling nations to resolve conflicts peacefully.
(ii) It facilitates economic cooperation between nations such as engaging countries in trade agreements, investment partnerships, and economic collaborations which foster economic growth, create employment opportunities, and enhance prosperity by promoting the exchange of goods, services, and knowledge.
(iii) It fosters cultural exchange and understanding among nations.
(iv) Diplomatic relations enable countries to collaborate on security and defense issues which helps address common security challenges, promoting stability and safeguarding national interests.
(v) Diplomatic relations allow nations to address global challenges collectively
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(3a)
According to the Bible, the events that unfolded in Judah after the death of King Josiah and led to the first deportation of the Jews are described in the books of 2 Kings, 2 Chronicles, and the writings of the prophet Jeremiah.
After the righteous reign of King Josiah, his son Jehoahaz became king. However, he did evil in the sight of the Lord, and Pharaoh Neco of Egypt deposed him after only three months, placing Jehoahaz’s brother Jehoiakim on the throne.
Jehoiakim, unlike his father, turned away from the ways of God. He embraced idolatry and led the people of Judah into wickedness. He defied the commands of God and rejected the prophet Jeremiah’s warnings of impending judgment.
During Jehoiakim’s reign, the Babylonian Empire, under the rule of King Nebuchadnezzar, rose to power. Jehoiakim initially served as a vassal king to Babylon, paying tribute to maintain his position.
However, Jehoiakim eventually rebelled against Babylonian rule. As a result, Nebuchadnezzar sent Chaldean, Aramean, Moabite, and Ammonite troops to invade Judah. Jerusalem was besieged, and Jehoiakim died during the conflict.
Jehoiakim’s son, Jehoiachin, succeeded him as king but reigned for only three months and ten days before he too was captured by Nebuchadnezzar’s forces. Along with many of the leading citizens, Jehoiachin was taken into exile in Babylon.
This marked the first deportation of the Jews, as thousands of captives from Judah were carried away to Babylon, including royal family members, skilled artisans, and military personnel. The treasures of the Temple in Jerusalem were also plundered and taken to Babylon.
These events fulfilled the prophecies of Jeremiah, who had warned of the coming judgment and captivity of Judah due to their disobedience and idolatry. The exile in Babylon would last for seventy years, as God had foretold through the prophet Jeremiah.
(3b)
(PICK ANY FOUR)
(i) High levels of economic inequality, where a significant portion of the population faces poverty, unemployment, or lack of basic resources, can lead to social tensions and unrest.
(ii) Widespread corruption, lack of transparency, and abuse of power by government officials can erode public trust and lead to civil unrest.
(iii) Deep-seated divisions based on ethnicity, religion, or race can escalate into civil unrest if not addressed properly.
(iv) Violations of human rights, such as police brutality, extrajudicial killings, or arbitrary detentions, can ignite widespread anger and fuel civil unrest.
(v) Weak or unstable governance structures, frequent changes in leadership, or ineffective governance can create an environment for civil unrest.
(vi) Severe economic downturns, high unemployment rates, or economic crises can significantly contribute to civil unrest.
(vii) Inadequate access to basic services, such as healthcare, education, clean water, or sanitation, can generate public dissatisfaction and unrest.
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(5a)
After Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist, He was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.
In the wilderness, Jesus fasted for forty days and nights. During this time, Satan came to Him and tempted Him three times. First, Satan tempted Jesus to turn stones into bread, appealing to His physical hunger. Jesus responded by quoting Scripture, saying, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.”
Next, Satan took Jesus to the pinnacle of the temple and tempted Him to throw Himself down, challenging Jesus to test God’s protection. Again, Jesus quoted Scripture, saying, “You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.”
Finally, Satan took Jesus to a high mountain and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world, offering to give them to Him if Jesus would worship him. Jesus rebuked Satan, saying, “Get behind me, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God and him only shall you serve.’
(5b)
(PICK ANY THREE)
(i) Christians can learn the importance of knowing and studying the Bible, as it equips them to recognize and overcome temptations.
(ii) Christians can learn that it is not appropriate to deliberately put ourselves in dangerous situations, expecting God to rescue us miraculously. Instead, we should exercise wisdom, discernment, and faith, trusting in God’s guidance and providence.
(iii) Christians can learn that their allegiance should be exclusively directed towards God. They should not be swayed by worldly temptations or false idols but should devote their worship and service to the one true God.
(iv) Christians should actively cultivate their relationship with God through prayer, study of the Scriptures, and reliance on the Holy Spirit, equipping themselves to resist and overcome the schemes of the enemy.
(v) Christians can learn the lesson of exercising self-control and resisting the temptation to seek quick fixes or temporary pleasures that contradict God’s will.
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(7a)
The believers in the community lived in such a way that the Christians shared their possessions together. Ananias and Sapphira decided to sell a piece of their land but only brought a portion of the money to the Church. This action directly contradicted the communal principles of the Christians. Peter questioned Ananias, asking why he allowed himself to be deceived by the devil and lie to the Holy Spirit. Peter made it clear that the land and its proceeds belonged to God, and it was not within their rights to handle them as they pleased. By publicly declaring that they were giving the entire amount, they had not deceived mere mortals but God Himself. Upon hearing Peter’s rebuke, Ananias fell to the ground and died. Later, young men came and carried away his body for burial.
Later, Sapphira, Ananias’s wife, arrived at the scene unaware of what had transpired. Peter asked her if they had indeed sold the land for the amount they had presented. She confirmed it. Peter then questioned her why she conspired with her husband to test the Spirit of God. He warned her to listen for the footsteps of those who were about to bury her husband. Immediately after hearing this, she fell down and died. The same young men who had earlier buried her husband took her body away for burial. The news of these events instilled great fear in the Church and all who heard about it.
(7b)
(PICK ANY FOUR)
(i) Ananias and Sapphira’s story teaches us the importance of honesty and integrity in our actions and dealings with others.
(ii) Their story serves as a warning about the dangers of greed and materialism.
(iii) It encourages believers to live with a healthy fear of God and to strive for sincerity and authenticity in their faith
(iv) This story teaches us to approach the work of the Holy Spirit with reverence and respect.
(v) It serves as a reminder that we cannot hide our true selves from God, and He sees and knows everything.
(vi) It teaches us that we are responsible for our choices and will be held accountable for them, both by our fellow believers and by God.
(vii) This serves as a reminder that hypocrisy can have grave consequences both in our relationships with others and in our spiritual journey.
(viii) One can deceive a fellow man, but cannot deceive God who reads the heart of man.
(ix) The Church was established by God and controlled by the Holy Spirit. Members must work in accordance with guidelines set up by the Holy Spirit.
(x) God punishes sin of disobedience and His judgment is certain. We should give with sincerity.
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(8a)
In James 1:5-6, it is advised to ask God for wisdom with faith, believing that He will provide it. The passage states, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt.”
James encouraged believers to pray in faith, trusting that God will answer their prayers. In James 1:6, it states, “But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.”
James emphasizes the importance of having pure motives when praying. It warns against praying selfishly or with wrong intentions, saying, “When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.”
James also urged Christians to confess their sins to one another and pray for each other, emphasizing the importance of seeking forgiveness and reconciliation. It states, “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”
He highlighted the significance of approaching God with humility. In James 4:10, it states, “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.”
James encouraged believers to be persistent in their prayers. In James 5:16, it mentions the effective prayer of Elijah, who “prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years.”
(8b)
(PICK ANY FOUR)
(i) Doubt or lack of belief in the power of prayer can hinder its effectiveness.
(ii) Holding grudges or harboring feelings of resentment towards others
(iii) Praying solely for personal gain or with selfish intentions
(iv) Unconfessed sins
(v) Lack of dedication
(vi) Praying for something that goes against the greater plan or purpose of GOD
(vii) Prideful or arrogant attitude
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(9a)
(i) Peter exhorted the elders in the church to tend the flock of God under their care.
(ii) The flock should be cared for not by constraint but willingly; not for shameful gain but eagerly.
(iii) The elders are to lead the flock by their example of mature Christian character.
(iv) So that on the arrival of the chief shepherd they would share his glory and also receive an unfading crown. (v) Peter also advised the young to submit to the elders. (vi) He advised both the elders and the young to show humility to each other.
(vii) He said God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.
(viii) Peter again said that the old and the young should show humility to each other before God so that in due time, God would exalt them.
(ix) The old and the young should all cast their anxieties on the Lord since he cares for them
(x) He again advised both that they should be sober and watchful.
(xi) The reason being that the devil is prowling around like a roaring lion seeking someone to devour.
(xii) Peter said that they can resist the devil by their firm faith in Christ.
(xii) Finally, Peter remarked that Christian suffering would last only for a while but their glory in Christ would be eternal
(9b)
(PICK ANY THREE)
(i) Conflict within the church often leads to divisions and factions among its members.
(ii) Conflict can cause the church to lose focus on its primary mission of spreading the gospel and ministering to the needs of its members and the community.
(iii) Conflict creates an atmosphere of tension, animosity, and negativity within the church, which hinders their ability to experience genuine fellowship and spiritual growth.
(iv) Prolonged conflict can lead to discouragement and disillusionment among church members. Individuals may become disheartened, lose their passion for serving, and eventually leave the church.
(v) Conflict within the church sends a negative message to those outside the church community. It tarnishes the church’s reputation and credibility.
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OBJECTIVE ANSWERS
CRK OBJ
1-10: CADBDDDBDB
11-20: ACBBBCBDAD
21-30: CCBCCCCBBC
31-40: DBDADADADA
41-50: DDCCCBBDBA