The Life, Teaching, Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ
This domain tests the Gospel portrait of Jesus: his birth and ministry, central teaching, passion and resurrection. Questions often ask for narrative sequence, the meaning of parables and miracles, and the significance of the cross and empty tomb.
Life and ministry
Jesus is born in Bethlehem, grows up in Nazareth, is baptised by John in the Jordan, and is tempted in the wilderness. He announces the kingdom of God, calls disciples, heals, exorcises, welcomes outsiders and table-fellows with sinners. Miracles are signs of the kingdom, not merely wonders. His ministry moves from Galilee to Jerusalem, where conflict intensifies.
Teaching
Central themes include the kingdom of God, repentance, faith, love of God and neighbour, forgiveness and discipleship. The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3–12) describe kingdom values. Parables such as the good Samaritan and prodigal son challenge listeners to respond. The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7) includes the Lord's Prayer, the golden rule and the call to love enemies.
Death
At the Last Supper Jesus interprets his death through bread and cup. He is betrayed, tried before religious and Roman authorities, crucified and buried. The New Testament uses several images: sacrifice for sin, victory over evil, reconciliation and example of love. Christians read the cross through texts such as Isaiah 53 and 1 Corinthians 15:3–4.
Resurrection
Women find the empty tomb; Jesus appears to disciples and others (1 Corinthians 15:5–8). The resurrection confirms his identity, vindicates his teaching, assures forgiveness and gives hope of eternal life. It also sends the disciples into mission.
Worked example
Question: 'Why is the resurrection central to Christian faith?' Answer: it validates Jesus' identity, completes the saving work begun at the cross, proves victory over death, and grounds Christian hope and mission. Reasoning: link each claim to a specific consequence; do not simply say 'it shows he is alive'.
Traps
- Confusing Bethlehem (birth) with Nazareth (upbringing).
- Treating the resurrection as only a spiritual experience.
- Reducing the cross to a political execution with no theological meaning.
- Mixing the Sermon on the Mount with the Sermon on the Plain.