1.3.2 Interpretation of the bible

• What do Catholics believe about the Bible's inspiration?

  It comes from God through chosen authors
• How should the Bible be treated according to Catholics?

  It should be studied, believed, and followed
• What should Christians especially listen to in the Bible?

  The Gospel, where Jesus teaches Christian living
• Why do Catholics believe interpretation of the Bible is necessary?

  Because the Bible is not clear by mere reading
• What aids do Catholics use for interpreting the Bible?

  Traditions, God’s help, and the Church
• What is the Magisterium of the Church?

  The teaching office of the Church
• What is the Canon of the Bible?

  The official list of books in the Bible
• What is Apostolic Tradition?

  Teachings passed down from the Apostles
• What are papal encyclicals?

  Letters written by the Pope
• How do Fundamentalist Christians view the Bible?

  As the literal word of God
• What do Conservative Christians believe about the Bible?

  It is the revealed word of God, not literal
• How do Liberal Christians interpret the Bible?

  As written about God, not literal words
• Why do Catholics see the Bible as a source of guidance?

  It is inspired by the Holy Spirit
• What does the Bible reveal according to Catholics?

  God’s authenticity in both Testaments
• What does the Bible contain according to Catholic belief?

  God’s law, rules, and commands
• What do the Ten Commandments represent?

  God's commands on belief and action
• How does Jesus' teaching relate to the Bible's authority?

  His teachings are a source of guidance
• What is the Catechism?

  The official teaching of the Catholic Church
• What does 'Lectio Divina' refer to?

  A way of studying the Bible with prayer
• Who said, “All scripture is inspired by God”?

  1. Paul in his letter to Timothy
• What does the Catechism teach about the authors of the Bible?

  They were inspired by God and approved by the Holy Spirit
• Why is the Bible considered a source of guidance for the faithful?

  It contains truth and guidance for believers
• What are the three different interpretations of the authority of the Bible?

  • Fundamentalist: Bible is literal word of God
  • Conservative: Bible is revealed word, not literal
  • Liberal: Bible written about God, not literal words
• Why do Catholics regard the Bible as a source of guidance and teaching?

  • Inspired by the Holy Spirit
  • Reveals God's authenticity
  • Contains God's law and commands
  • Teaches how to live according to God's will
• What are the arguments for and against needing help to understand the Bible?

  Arguments for:

  • Bible must be easy if it's God's word
  • Ten Commandments are clear
  • Bible sent to guide us

  
  

  Arguments against:

  • Bible's meaning is not always clear
  • True interpretation needs Church help
  • Magisterium provides expert advice
• What are the key terms related to the interpretation of the Bible?

  • Fundamentalist: Literal word of God
  • Conservative: Revealed word, not literal
  • Liberal: Written by humans inspired by God
  • Magisterium: Teaching office of the Church
  • Lectio Divina: Studying Bible with prayer