IJMB 2025 CRS PAPER II
*IJMB CRS*
*NUMBER 1*
The Gospel of Matthew is rich in content, providing valuable insights into the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Below are five key contents:
“`(1)“` *The Beatitudes*
The Beatitudes, found in Matthew 5:3-12, are a collection of blessings pronounced by Jesus on those who exhibit certain characteristics, such as:
– *Poor in spirit*: Those who recognize their dependence on God and are humble.
– *Those who mourn*: Those who feel sorrow for their sins and the suffering of others.
– *The meek*: Those who are gentle and submissive to God’s will.
– *Those who hunger and thirst for righteousness*: Those who desire to live according to God’s will and seek justice.
– *The merciful*: Those who show compassion and kindness to others.
– *The pure in heart*: Those who are clean and free from sin.
– *The peacemakers*: Those who work towards reconciliation and peace.
– *Those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake*: Those who face persecution for their faith.
“`(2)“` *The Sermon on the Mount*
The Sermon on the Mount, found in Matthew 5-7, is a collection of Jesus’ teachings on various topics, including:
– *The importance of humility and meekness*
– *The need to forgive others and love our enemies* (Matthew 5:43-48)
– *The importance of prayer and giving to others* (Matthew 6:5-15)
– *The need to prioritize spiritual riches over material wealth* (Matthew 6:19-24)
“`(3)“` *Jesus’ Teachings on Salt and Light*
In Matthew 5:13-16, Jesus teaches that his disciples are the salt of the earth and the light of the world. He emphasizes the importance of living out our faith in a way that positively impacts others and brings glory to God .
“`(4)“` *Jesus’ Teachings on the Law and Righteousness*
In Matthew 5:17-48, Jesus provides guidance on the law and righteousness, emphasizing the importance of living according to God’s will and exceeding the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees .
“`(5)“` *The Call to Perfection*
In Matthew 5:48, Jesus calls his disciples to be perfect, just as their heavenly Father is perfect. This emphasizes the importance of striving for spiritual maturity and living according to God’s standards .
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*NUMBER 4*
IJMB 2025 CRS PAPER II
*Synoptic Problems:*
The Synoptic Problems refer to the challenges of understanding the similarities and differences between the three Synoptic Gospels: Matthew, Mark, and Luke. These Gospels share a significant amount of material, often with identical or similar wording, but also exhibit distinct differences in content, arrangement, and style.
Solutions:
“`(1)“` *Two-Source Hypothesis*: This theory proposes that Matthew and Luke used Mark as a source, as well as a hypothetical document known as Q (Quelle, meaning “source” in German).
“`(2)“` *Markan Priority*: Many scholars believe that Mark was written first and served as a source for Matthew and Luke.
“`(3)“` *Multiple Source Theories*: Some scholars propose that the Synoptic Gospels drew from multiple sources, including oral traditions, written documents, and eyewitness accounts.
“`(4)“` *Oral Tradition*: Some scholars emphasize the role of oral tradition in shaping the Synoptic Gospels, arguing that stories and teachings were passed down through oral transmission before being written down.
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*NUMBER 5*
Jesus’ birth is considered a pivotal event in human history, holding profound significance for millions of people worldwide. Below are the significance
“`(1)“` *Fulfillment of Prophecy*: Jesus’ birth fulfilled Old Testament prophecies, solidifying his identity as the Messiah and Savior.
“`(2)“` *Salvation*: Jesus’ birth marked the beginning of his mission to provide salvation for humanity through his life, death, and resurrection.
“`(3)“` *Hope and Redemption*: Jesus’ birth brought hope to humanity, offering redemption from sin and its consequences.
“`(4)“` *Love and Compassion*: Jesus’ teachings and example emphasized the importance of love, compassion, and kindness.
“`(5)“` *Transformative Power*: Jesus’ birth and message have transformed countless lives, inspiring devotion, service, and positive change.
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*NUMBER 6*
Jesus’ teaching on the fatherhood of God is crucial to Christians for several reasons:
“`(1)“` *God’s Love and Care*: Jesus’ teachings emphasize God’s love, care, and concern for humanity, demonstrating that God is a loving Father who desires a personal relationship with each person.
“`(2)“` *God’s Character*: Jesus’ teachings reveal God’s character as merciful, gracious, and forgiving, providing a deeper understanding of God’s nature.
“`(3)“` *Brotherhood of Humanity*: Jesus’ teaching on the fatherhood of God implies that all humans are brothers and sisters, united by a common Father.
“`(4)“` *Love and Compassion*: This teaching emphasizes the importance of loving and caring for one another, just as God loves and cares for humanity.
“`(5)“` *Access to God*: Jesus’ teaching on the fatherhood of God provides a basis for Christians to approach God with confidence and intimacy, knowing that God is their loving Father.
“`(6)“` *Forgiveness and Restoration*: This teaching highlights God’s willingness to forgive and restore relationships, offering hope and redemption to humanity.
“`(7)“` *Trust and Dependence*: Jesus’ teaching on the fatherhood of God encourages Christians to trust in God’s sovereignty and provision, recognizing their dependence on Him.
“`(8)“` *Prayer and Communication*: This teaching emphasizes the importance of prayer and communication with God, fostering a deeper relationship with Him.