Based On This Week's Material Write A 200-250 Word Count
Based On This Weeks Material Write A200 250 Word Count For The Below
Based on this week’s material, write a -word count for the below TWO (2) essays. (You must answer both essays separately, each adhering to the above word count). Essay #1: What is original sin and why does it lead to the need to expect a savior? Is original sin a universal belief among Christians? Explain. Essay #2: Compare and contrast your “pre-course” views on the reasons for various Christian denominations with what you have learned through coursework and actual research on the topic. (Note: It is imperative that you incorporate the terminology and principles introduced this week to demonstrate your comprehension of the material.) Must answer both essays separately with required word count.
Paper For Above instruction
Essay 1: What is original sin and why does it lead to the need to expect a savior?
Original sin is a fundamental concept in Christian theology, describing the innate fallen state of humanity resulting from the original disobedience of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. According to this doctrine, all human beings inherit a sinful nature that separates them from God. This inherited sinfulness explains why humans are inherently inclined toward sin and moral failure, creating a universal need for redemption. The concept emphasizes that humanity cannot achieve salvation through own efforts alone, which leads to the expectation of a savior—Jesus Christ—who redeems humankind from sin. The idea that all people are born with original sin underscores the necessity of divine intervention to restore the broken relationship between humanity and God. Different Christian denominations interpret original sin with varying perspectives; for example, Catholics believe in the actual transmission of original sin through baptism, whereas many Protestant denominations emphasize a more symbolic understanding of the inherited sinful nature. Nevertheless, the core belief remains that original sin creates a universal condition of spiritual deficiency that only divine grace can remedy, thereby fostering the expectation of a savior who mediates reconciliation between humans and God.
Essay 2: Compare and contrast your “pre-course” views on the reasons for various Christian denominations with what you have learned through coursework and actual research on the topic
Before engaging with this coursework, I held the simplistic view that different Christian denominations primarily diverged over cultural preferences or leadership styles, with minor theological differences. I believed these divisions mainly reflected historical and geographical factors rather than core doctrinal disagreements. However, through my research and coursework this week, I have learned that denominational differences are deeply rooted in distinct theological principles, interpretative hermeneutics, and foundational doctrinal issues. For example, I now understand that doctrinal differences such as the nature of the sacraments, the authority of Scripture, and views on salvation significantly influence denominational identities. The terminology introduced this week, like soteriology (the study of salvation), ecclesiology (the theology of the church), and sola scriptura (scripture alone), has helped clarify these distinctions. I also learned about the historical controversies—such as the Reformation’s divergence from Catholic teachings—and how these have shaped contemporary denominational lines. Ultimately, my perception has shifted from viewing denominations as mere cultural expressions to recognizing them as distinct theological systems that interpret key biblical principles differently, shaping their worship, practices, and beliefs.
References
McGrath, A. E. (2011). Christian Theology: An Introduction. Wiley-Blackwell.
Kurian, G. T., & Johnson, M. (2017). The Christian World: A Global History. Thomas Nelson.
McDonald, B. (2014). The Biblical Doctrine of Sin. Baker Academic.
Wiley, T. S. (2010). The Cross and Salvation: Theological and Practical Perspectives. Eerdmans.
Grenz, S. J. (2002). Religious Affections: A Biblical and Theological Study. Broadman & Holman Publishers.
Horton, M. (2011). Grace And Truth: A Traditional View of Baptist Theology. Crossway.
Ryrie, C. C. (1995). Basic Theology: A Popular Systematic Guide. David C Cook.
Stark, R. (1996). The Rise of Christianity: A Sociologist Reconsidered. Princeton University Press.
Bruce, F. F. (2016). Romans: An Introduction and Commentary (Tyndale New Testament Commentaries). InterVarsity Press.
Oden, T. C. (2011). Classic Christianity: A Systematic Theology. Zondervan.