Grade 6 Final Exam Study Guide Overview

This study guide provides an essential framework for understanding key concepts, individuals, and themes in preparation for the Grade 6 final exam. The content covers significant theological terms, notable figures from both the Old and New Testaments, and profound questions that explore the nature and role of wisdom, the Church, and the Holy Scriptures.

I. Key Theological Terms

Understanding the significance of foundational words is crucial for contextual theological study. Here are key terms to be familiar with:

Assyria: An ancient empire known for its advanced culture and military prowess, often mentioned in the context of the Old Testament.
Letters: Referring typically to the Epistles, written messages that form an essential part of the New Testament.
Holy Trinity: The Christian doctrine of God as three consubstantial persons: the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit.
Messiah: The anointed one, a savior figure prophesied in the Old Testament, fulfilled in Jesus.
Wisdom: The ability to make sound decisions based on knowledge and experience; frequently highlighted in biblical texts.
Proverbs: A book of the Bible filled with wise sayings and teachings.
Book of Job: A story that addresses the theme of suffering and faith.
Book of Wisdom: A work emphasizing the importance of wisdom in life and its divine origins.
Book of Ecclesiastes: Explores the meaning of life and the human condition.
Book of Psalms: A collection of sacred songs and prayers.
Anointed One: Another term for the Messiah, indicating someone chosen for a special role.
The Nicene Creed: A formal statement of Christian faith that outlines key beliefs.
One, Holy, Catholic, Apostolic: Descriptors of the Church, emphasizing its unity, holiness, universality, and foundation in apostolic tradition.
Epistles: Letters found in the New Testament that provide guidance and instruction to early Christian communities.
The Body of Christ: A term used to describe the Church as a community of believers united with Christ as the Head.
Marks of the Church: The defining characteristics of the Church, including one, holy, catholic, and apostolic.
Pentecost: A significant event in Christianity marked by the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles.
Witness: A term for those who testify to their faith, often referring to martyrs.
Marty: Individuals who sacrifice their lives for their faith.
Apostolic Succession: The uninterrupted transmission of spiritual authority from the Apostles through successive popes and bishops.
Mission: The Church's response to Jesus’ command to spread the Gospel.
The Church: The collective community of believers who follow Christ.
Sacrament: A religious rite recognized as of particular importance and significance.
Gospel: The teachings of Christ and the accounts of His life in the New Testament.
Redeemer: Referring to Jesus as the one who redeems humanity from sin.

II. Notable Figures in Biblical History

Familiarity with key figures in the Bible will enhance understanding of the theological themes present in the scriptures. Here are some significant individuals:

Amos: A prophet known for his emphasis on social justice.
Isaiah: A major prophet whose writings include comfort and prophecy about the coming Messiah.
Jeremiah: Known as the weeping prophet, he conveyed messages of warning and hope during tumultuous times.
Elijah: A prophet who confronted idolatry in Israel.
St. Paul: An influential apostle whose epistles greatly shaped Christian doctrine.
Dorothy Day: A social activist known for her work related to peace and justice.
Hosea: A prophet whose marriage served as a metaphor for God’s relationship with Israel.
Micah: A prophet known for his messages of justice and mercy.
David: A central figure in Israel’s history known for unifying the nation and his psalms.
Job: Known for his story of faithfulness amidst suffering.
Solomon: Known for his wisdom and as a builder of the First Temple.
Samuel: A pivotal figure in establishing the monarchy in Israel.
St. Jude: An apostle referenced for his letter encouraging Christians to remain faithful.
St. Peter: A key leader in the early Church and considered the first pope.
St. Matthias: He replaced Judas Iscariot as an apostle.
St. Timothy: A companion of St. Paul known for his role in spreading the Gospel.
St. Thomas: An apostle traditionally associated with doubts about the resurrection until he saw Christ.
Blessed Jacinto Marto: One of the shepherd children associated with the Fatima apparitions.
St. Hildegard: A mystic, composer, and visionary known for her contributions to theology and music.
St. Thomas Aquinas: A theologian whose works have greatly influenced Christian thought.
St. Louis IX: The king of France known for his piety and establishing justice.
St. John Neumann: A bishop known for his work in education and dedication to the Church.

III. Detailed Questions for Study and Discussion

In preparing for the exam, being able to articulate responses to specific questions will deepen understanding of material:

Why is the prophet's job difficult and frightening?
Prophets often faced opposition and persecution for their messages. Their tasks required unwavering faith and courage to convey difficult truths.
What are the Old Testament's wisdom writings?
These include Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Book of Job, which collectively explore the nature of wisdom, life, and the human experience in relation to God.
Why and how did King Solomon seek wisdom?
Upon becoming king, Solomon famously asked God for wisdom to lead his people, demonstrating humility and a desire for righteous governance.
What is wisdom? What do we know about growing in wisdom?
Wisdom is the application of knowledge and experience to make prudent choices. It can be developed through learning, reflection, and moral choices.
How did Samuel feel about Israel's desire for a king?
Samuel was troubled by Israel's request, believing it reflected a lack of trust in God's leadership.
What kind of king was King David?
David is remembered as a man after God’s own heart, unifying Israel, writing psalms, and striving for righteousness, albeit with moral failures.
What are the psalms?
The psalms are poetic prayers and hymns expressing a wide range of emotions, from desperation to joy, often used in worship.
How did Saint Louis IX rule as king in France?
He ruled with a commitment to justice and piety, promoting peace and caring for the poor.
What has changed in the way the Church communicates the Gospel today?
Modern technology allows for wider reach and different methods of evangelization, from social media to digital literature.
How did Saint Jude describe his role as a follower of Jesus?
He emphasized the importance of remaining faithful and contending for the faith delivered to the saints.
Why did Saint Paul describe the Church as the "Body of Christ"?
Paul highlighted the unity and diversity within the Church, emphasizing that all members work together under Christ as the Head.
What are the Marks of the Church? Why are they important? Describe one in greater detail.
The Marks of the Church—One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic—define the nature of the Church. For instance, the mark of holiness reflects the Church's divine nature through the call to follow Christ.
How do the Epistles tell us more about the spread of the Gospel?
They document early Christian communities' experiences, struggles, and teachings, illustrating how the message of Christ was shared and lived out.
How does Apostolic Succession connect us with the Church Jesus established?
This doctrine asserts a lineage of bishops from the apostles to today, ensuring continuity in teaching and sacraments.
How did Saint Matthias become an Apostle?
Matthias was chosen by the remaining apostles through prayer and casting lots after Judas Iscariot's betrayal.
How should you define "Church"?
The Church can be defined as the body of believers called to live in community, worship God, and carry out the mission of Christ.
What does "Redeemer" mean?
Redeemer refers to Christ's role in delivering humanity from sin through His sacrifice.