HISTORY OF THE CHURCH IN REFORMATION ERA

1. Discuss Luther’s friends at the University of Wittenberg, including

Philip Melanchton 1497 – 1560 who came to his defense.
Martin Luther had a significant circle of friends and colleagues at the
University of Wittenberg who played crucial roles in the development of the
Reformation. Some of the Luther’s friends were:
 Andreas Bodenstein (Karlstadt): Initially part of Luther’s circle, he
later distanced himself due to theological differences. He had a debate
between himself and Luther, arguing based on the authority of the
church councils and the papacy while Luther was arguing more from
the Scripture. “This helped solidify Luther’s own thinking about the
supremacy of Scripture over the papacy and councils, which he
believed could err.”1
 Nicholas von Amsdorf: He was a close friend and staunch ally of
Martin Luther. He played a significant role in the Protestant
Reformation as a theologian and reformer. Amsdorf was among the
earliest supporters of Luther’s theological views and was present at
key events such as the Leipzig Debate and the Diet of Worms. He was
known for his unwavering commitment to the principle of justification
by faith alone, a central tenet of Luther’s teachings. Amsdorf’s
contributions to the Reformation included his tenure as the first
Lutheran bishop and his written works, which furthered the spread
and defense of Lutheran doctrines.

1
Mipo E. Dadang, Christianity: Footprints of the Founding Fathers, Challenge Press, Jos, 2018. P. 185.

1
  Georg Spalatin: His, originally named Georg Burkhardt, was a
significant figure during the Protestant Reformation and a close
associate of Martin Luther. Born on January 17, 1484, in Spalt,
Bavaria, Spalatin became a humanist, theologian, and reformer. He
was pivotal as the secretary to Frederick the Wise, the Elector of
Saxony. He was instrumental in advancing and securing the
Reformation’s early stages through his diplomatic skills.
Spalatin met Luther while he was a preceptor to Frederick’s nephews
at Wittenberg, where Luther’s ideas deeply influenced him. He
became Luther’s friend and a key intermediary between Luther and
Frederick the Wise. Spalatin’s support was crucial in persuading
Frederick to protect Luther during the indulgence controversy, which
significantly contributed to the progress of the Reformation.
Moreover, Spalatin assisted in the preparation of the Augsburg
Confession in 1530, a fundamental document that legally established
the Reformation in Germany. He also worked with Philipp
Melanchthon, another of Luther’s associates, in forming the
Schmalkaldic League, a defensive alliance of German princes.
As a prolific writer, Spalatin translated Luther’s and Melanchthon’s
writings for Frederick and authored historical works, including
“Annales Reformationis” and a biography of Frederick III.2 His efforts
in translating and disseminating Reformation ideas were vital in
spreading the movement throughout Saxony and beyond.

2
https://www.britanica.com

2
 Spalatin passed away on January 16, 1545, in Altenburg, Saxony,
leaving behind a legacy as a mediator and promoter of the
Reformation
 Justus Jonas: he was a significant figure in the Protestant Reformation
and a close colleague of Martin Luther. Born as Jodocus Koch on
June 5, 1493, in Nordhausen, he later adopted the name Justus Jonas.
He was a German religious reformer and legal scholar who played a
crucial role in early Reformation conferences, particularly at Marburg
in 1529 and Augsburg in 1530.
Jonas helped draft the Augsburg Confession, which is a fundamental
statement of Lutheran belief. He is also known for his translations of
the Latin writings of Luther and Philipp Melanchthon into German,
which included the Apology of the Augsburg Confession. His work
was instrumental in spreading the ideas of the Reformation.
Moreover, Justus Jonas was with Martin Luther during his final
moments, highlighting the close personal and professional relationship
they shared. Both men had studied law, were influenced by the
humanist Erasmus, and were deeply committed to the cause of church
reform. Jonas’s contributions to the Reformation, particularly through
his translations and his involvement in key theological debates, make
him an important figure in the history of Protestantism. Johannes
Bugenhagen: A theologian who played a pivotal role in organizing the
new church in northern Germany.
 Philip Melanchthon: A renowned humanist scholar, he was
instrumental in formulating Lutheran doctrine and educational
reforms. He was a key figure in the Reformation movement and a

3
close friend of Martin Luther. Born as Philipp Schwartzerdt on
February 16, 1497, in Bretten, Germany, Melanchthon was the son of
Georg Schwarzerdt, an armorer to Philip, Count Palatine of the Rhine.
His great-uncle, the Renaissance humanist Johann Reuchlin,
influenced him significantly. Reuchlin suggested that Philipp change
his surname from “Schwartzerdt” (meaning ‘black earth’) to the
Greek equivalent, “Melanchthon” (Μελάγχθων).
He studied philosophy, rhetoric, astronomy, and astrology at the
University of Heidelberg and became known for his scholarship in
Greek thought.
Melanchthon settled in Wittenberg, where he met Martin Luther.
Their relationship evolved from collegiality to profound friendship.
As a scholar, Melanchthon readily adopted Reformation ideas and
became Luther’s right hand. In his work “Loci Communes” (1521),
Melanchthon systematically exposed Luther’s ideas, contributing
significantly to the Reformation movement. Melanchthon authored the
Augsburg Confession (1530), a significant document submitted during
the Diet of Augsburg to address religious dissensions. It remains the
official confession of faith for Lutherans. He played a crucial role in
shaping educational systems and promoting the establishment of
universities and colleges. Melanchthon wrote extensively, including
comments on the Bible, dogmatic works, and historical texts. He
attempted to reconcile different reformation trends and even sought to
bridge the gap between Reformation and Catholicism to maintain
Christian and political unity in the Holy Roman Empire.

4
 Upon Luther’s death in 1545, Melanchthon became the main Lutheran
leader. His impact extended beyond theology, as he contributed to
various fields, including philosophy, history, and education.
Notable alumni of the University of Wittenberg include George
Müller, Georg Joachim Rheticus, and even fictional characters like
Prince Hamlet and Horatio from Shakespeare’s works.
In summary, Philip Melanchthon stood alongside Luther as a
reformer, theologian, and educator, leaving an indelible mark on the
Protestant Reformation.
These individuals formed a sodality, a close-knit group of professors in the
arts and theology faculties, who were committed to reforming the curricula
of the university along humanist and evangelical lines. Their collaboration
was essential in shaping the theology and practice of the emerging Lutheran
Church. This group’s commitment to each other and their cause was a
hallmark of the Wittenberg Reformation movement.
2. What major contribution have we received from the reformation?
The Reformation, which unfolded in the 16th century, was a religious
revolution that significantly impacted the Western church. Here are some of
its major contributions:
1) Founding of Protestantism: The Reformation laid the groundwork for
the establishment of Protestantism, one of the three major branches of
Christianity. This movement led to the reformulation of certain
fundamental tenets of Christian belief and resulted in the division of
Western Christendom between Roman Catholicism and the new
Protestant traditions.

5
 2) Challenging Church Authority: Reformers like Martin Luther and
John Calvin questioned the authority of the medieval Roman Catholic
Church. They criticized practices such as the sale of indulgences
(spiritual privileges) by clergy and other instances of corruption.
These reformers sought to return to a more authentic and spiritually
focused Christianity.
3) Political, Economic, and Social Effects: The Reformation had far-
reaching consequences beyond religious matters. It influenced
politics, economics, and social structures. As the church’s power and
wealth grew, so did its involvement in political affairs. However,
abuses and controversies eroded the church’s spiritual authority,
leading to tension with political authorities.
4) Precedents and Ongoing Concerns: While the 16th-century
Reformation is well-known, earlier reformers within the medieval
church also addressed aspects of church life. Figures like St. Francis
of Assisi, Jan Hus, and John Wycliffe advocated for renewal. Even
before Martin Luther’s famous Ninety-five Theses, scholars like
Erasmus of Rotterdam promoted liberal Catholic reform and
emphasized the imitation of Christ as the supreme moral teacher.
In summary, the Reformation reshaped Christianity, challenged existing
norms, and left an indelible mark on European history.
3. What was the purpose of reformation in Church History?
The Reformation was a significant religious movement in the 16th century
that aimed to reform the Roman Catholic Church and resulted in the creation
of Protestantism. The main purposes of the Reformation were:

6
  Addressing Corruption: Reformers sought to address various abuses
within the church, such as the sale of indulgences, where the clergy
sold reprieves from penance for money.
 Spiritual Renewal: There was a desire to return to the original
teachings of Christianity and to focus on the Bible as the sole source
of spiritual authority, rather than church tradition.
 Political and Social Change: The Reformation had far-reaching
political and social effects, challenging the church’s deep involvement
in the political life of Western Europe and advocating for a
redistribution of power.
 Foundation of Protestantism: Ultimately, the Reformation led to the
establishment of Protestantism as one of the three major branches of
Christianity.
Key figures like Martin Luther and John Calvin were instrumental in this
movement, which not only transformed the church but also had a profound
impact on European history and culture
4. Discuss Luther’s College of Education and its nature and aims.
Martin Luther’s influence on education was profound and his ideas laid the
foundation for educational reform in Germany during the Reformation.
Luther advocated for education that was accessible to all, including the sons
of peasants and miners, not just the privileged few. He believed that
education should be public and financed by citizens’ councils, emphasizing
the importance of literacy and piety through the reading of the Scriptures.
Luther’s educational programs were outlined in his writings, such as “An die
Radsherrn aller Stedte deütsches Lands: Das sie christliche Schulen
affrichten und hallten sollen” (1524), which translates to “Letter to the

7
 Mayors and Aldermen of All the Cities in Behalf of Christian Schools,” and
“Dass man Kinder zur Schulen halten solle” (1530), meaning "Discourse on
the Duty of Sending Children to School."3 He stressed that even children
who had to work should be able to attend local schools to promote their
reading skills and, consequently, their piety.
The nature of Luther’s educational aims was to foster a pietas litterata, or
literacy to promote piety. He envisioned a new class of educated individuals
who would replace the monks and priests dispossessed by the Reformation.
This led to the establishment of new schools and the reorganization of old
universities, as well as the creation of secondary school systems.4
Luther’s approach to education was not just about imparting knowledge but
also about ethical instruction and doctrinal understanding. He wanted to
teach generosity towards one’s neighbor and a correct understanding of the
power of indulgences and the assurance of salvation.
In summary, Luther’s College of Education aimed to provide an education
that was grounded in Christian values, accessible to all, and designed to
promote both literacy and piety. His educational reforms were a significant
departure from the humanist aims of the time and were instrumental in
shaping the future of education in Germany and beyond.
5. List and discuss the factors of reformation and relate it to present day
Christians. Is the church of God today modernised and getting away
from the truth?
The Reformation was a pivotal moment in Christian history that began in the
16th century, leading to significant religious, political, economic, and social

3
https://www.britannica.com/topic/education/Luther-and-the-German-Reformation

4
https://www.britannica.com/topic/education/Luther-and-the-German-Reformation

8
changes. Here are some of the key factors that contributed to the
Reformation:
 Corruption within the Catholic Church: This included the sale of
indulgences, where the clergy sold spiritual privileges, which was
seen as a form of corruption. Martin Luther, a German monk, played a
pivotal role in the Reformation. He challenged the Catholic Church’s
practice of selling indulgences—documents that supposedly pardoned
sins. Indulgences allowed people to buy forgiveness or reduce their
relatives’ time in purgatory. Luther’s study of the Bible led him to
realize that forgiveness was only through faith in Jesus Christ, not
through monetary transactions or relics. His famous act of nailing the
95 Theses to the church door in Wittenberg (1517) sparked the
Reformation movement.
 Political Tensions: The church’s deep involvement in the political life
of Western Europe led to various political manipulations and tensions.
 Renaissance and Humanism: The spread of Renaissance humanism
emphasized a return to the sources, which included the Bible and the
Church Fathers, leading to calls for reform.
 Technological Advances: The invention of the printing press by
Johannes Gutenberg allowed for the mass distribution of ideas,
including those critical of the Church.
 Leadership of Reformers: Figures like Martin Luther and John Calvin
challenged the Church’s teachings and practices, advocating for a
return to what they saw as the true teachings of the Bible.
The impact of the Reformation on present-day Christians is multifaceted:

9
 i. Diversity of Christian Denominations: The Reformation led to the
establishment of Protestantism, with numerous denominations such as
Lutheranism, Calvinism, and Anglicanism emerging from it.
ii. Biblical Access and Literacy: The translation of the Bible into
vernacular languages increased access to the scriptures, allowing
individuals to interpret the Bible for themselves.
iii. Emphasis on Personal Faith: The idea that salvation comes through
faith alone, rather than through a combination of faith and good deeds,
became a central tenet of many Christian denominations.
iv. Role of the Laity: The Reformation emphasized the priesthood of all
believers, which has influenced the role of laypeople in the church
today.
v. Social and Cultural Influence: The Reformation’s influence extended
beyond the church, affecting areas such as education, politics, and
society at large.
In summary, the Reformation’s call for spiritual renewal and its challenge to
the authority of the Catholic Church have had lasting effects on Christianity.
Today, the legacy of the Reformation can be seen in the emphasis on
personal faith, the diversity of Christian practices, and the continued
importance of the Bible in the life of believers.
6. What is the diet of worms?
The Diet of Worms was an assembly of the Holy Roman Empire held at
Worms, Germany, in 1521. The main issue was the works of the reformer
Martin Luther, who openly criticized the Church. Luther was summoned to
recant his views, but he refused and was declared a heretic. The Diet of
Worms marked Luther's official break with the Church. The Diet of Worms,

10
 held in 1521 in the city of Worms, Germany, was a significant assembly of
the Holy Roman Empire. It gained fame due to Martin Luther’s appearance
before it to address charges of heresy. Dr. Olumide says, “Luther waited in
the auditorium for two hours. The day before, he had freely admitted to the
emperor and diet that he had written the books piled on a table before him,
indeed that he had written, even others.” 5 Here are the key details that one
should know about the Diet of Worms:
 The political and religious situation at the time was complex. Pope
Leo X had previously condemned 41 of Luther’s Ninety-five Theses
in June 1520. Luther publicly burned the papal bull and refused to
renounce his propositions. He was excommunicated from the Roman
Catholic Church on January 3, 1521.
 Instead of facing the pope or a church council, Luther was called
before the political authorities. Luther’s prince, Elector Frederick III
the Wise of Saxony, ensured his safe-conduct to appear at the Diet.
On April 17, 1521, Luther stood before the assembly. When
questioned, he admitted that the books displayed were his own.
However, he refused to repudiate his works unless convinced of error
by Scripture or reason. Tradition holds that he declared, “Here I stand;
I can do no other.”
 Luther became a hero to many Germans but a heretic to others. He
left Worms and spent the next nine months in hiding at Wartburg
Castle near Eisenach. The Diet remained divided on what to do with
him. In May, a rump Diet passed the Edict of Worms, which banned
Luther’s writings, and declared him a heretic, and an enemy of the

5
Dr. Olumide Lecture’s note

11
 state. Although the Edict mandated Luther’s capture, it was never
enforced, but it restricted his travels and made him dependent on his
prince for protection

Therefore, the Diet of Worms was a significant event during the Reformation
period, but it was not about the dietary habits of worms. Instead, it was an
imperial council that took place in the city of Worms, Germany, in March 1521.
This assembly was convened by Emperor Charles V of the Holy Roman Empire
and is most famous for Martin Luther’s appearance before it to respond to
charges of heresy.

7. Review and discuss the background history of Martin Luther from the
time of his birth to the Reformation Era.
Martin Luther, born on November 10, 1483, in Eisleben, Saxony (now in
Saxony-Anhalt, Germany), was educated in the Brethren of the Common
life.6 He was a German theologian and religious reformer who played a
pivotal role in the 16th-century Protestant Reformation. He was trained as a
medieval theologian, not as a humanist, and loved much of the ancient
classical literature. Luther’s father wanted him to practice law and arranged
for him to get into law school. But his real ambition was to become a monk.
He had a very tender conscience and wanted to make things right with God
and thought that the best way to do that was to enter a monastery, that was
how you got to be a first-rate Christian.7 He entered an Augustinian
monastery where he pursued theological studies and was ordained a priest.
While in the monastery, he went in for fasting, long prayers, and self-

6
Dadang 2018. P. 181

7
Dadang 2018. P.182

12
flagellation. But all that did for him was to leave him more conscious of
himself as a sinner. His beliefs and actions led to significant changes in
Christian doctrine and the division of Western Christendom between Roman
Catholicism and the emerging Protestant traditions, including Lutheranism,
Calvinism, Anglicanism, Anabaptism, and anti-Trinitarianism. He was not
trying to rebel against the system. He was trying to use the system to
discover peace with God. Here’s a glimpse into Martin Luther’s life and
journey:
1) Early Life and Education: Luther’s family moved from Eisleben to
the town of Mansfield when he was young. His father, Hans Luther,
was a successful copper refiner and town councillor. At a Latin school
in Mansfeld, Luther received thorough training in the Latin language
and memorized essential Christian texts like the Ten Commandments,
the Lord’s Prayer, and the Apostles’ Creed. His education laid the
foundation for his later theological studies and writings.
2) The Reformation Era: 1516–1517: Luther’s journey gained
momentum. He began questioning certain practices within the Roman
Catholic Church, particularly the sale of indulgences. 95 Theses: In
1517, he famously posted his “Ninety-five Theses” on the door of the
Castle Church in Wittenberg, challenging the authority of the Church
and advocating for reform.
3) Excommunication: Luther’s ideas sparked controversy, leading to his
excommunication by the Church.
4) Diet of Worms (1521): At the imperial assembly, Luther defended his
beliefs and famously declared, “Here I stand; I can do no other.”

13
 5) Wartburg Castle (1521): During his exile, Luther translated the New
Testament into German, making it accessible to the common people.
6) Peasants’ War (1522–1525): Luther’s teachings influenced social and
political movements, including the Peasants’ War.
7) Marriage: In 1525, he married Katharina von Bora, a former nun,
breaking with the celibacy tradition.
8) Organizing the Church (1525–1529): Luther worked on catechisms
and other theological writings.
9) Translation of the Old Testament (1534–1535): He continued
translating the Bible into German.
10)Hymnodist: Luther composed hymns that became integral to
Protestant worship.
11) Views on the Soul After Death: He explored theological ideas about
the soul’s fate beyond earthly life.
Martin Luther’s impact reverberates through history. His emphasis on faith,
grace, and Scripture reshaped Christianity and laid the groundwork for
Protestantism. His courage, conviction, and commitment to reform continue
to inspire believers and scholars alike.
In summary, Martin Luther’s journey from a young Latin student to a
reformer ignited a transformation that forever changed the course of
Christian faith and practice. His legacy endures, reminding us of the power
of individual conviction and the pursuit of truth.
8. Where should we begin our study of church History in General?
Explain.
Church history, also known as ecclesiastical history, is the study of the
Christian faith's past events, councils, and crises. Studying church history is

14
a vast and enriching endeavor. A good starting point is to understand what
church history encompasses: it’s the record of what God’s people have done
and thought from the foundation of the church during the New Testament
age to the present. It’s also seen as the unfolding of the sovereign purposes
of God throughout time. Here are some steps to begin your study:
 Read an Overview: Start with a general overview of church history to
get a sense of the timeline and major events. Books like “Turning
Points” by Mark Noll or “The Story of Christianity” by Justo
Gonzalez can provide a solid foundation.
 Study the Bible: Since church history is deeply intertwined with
biblical history, studying the Old and New Testaments is crucial as
they interpret the history of mankind from Creation to Eternity.
 Explore Specific Eras: Break down your study into specific eras such
as the Early Church, Medieval, Reformation, and Post-Reformation
periods. This can help you understand the development of the church
in different historical contexts.
 Read Biographies: Learning about the lives of great Christians
throughout history can provide personal insights into the church’s
past.
 Consult Church Documents: Study creeds, confessions, and other
historical documents that have shaped the church’s beliefs and
practices.
 Engage with Church History Resources: Look for resources
recommended by scholars or your local church leaders. Christian
History magazine and various online study modules can be valuable
resources.

15
  Learn About Your Denomination: If you belong to a particular
denomination, learning about its history and heroes can be particularly
meaningful.
Remember, studying church history is not just about learning facts; it’s
about understanding how God has worked through His people over the
centuries. It’s a story of faith, struggle, and the relentless grace of God that
continues to this day. Church history links us to our spiritual family. As
Christians, learning about the history of the Church means understanding
our roots. It connects us with those who came before, giving our faith a
sense of rootedness in the past. We inherit a legacy from believers
throughout history. It has Answers Important Questions. Many questions
about Christianity have historical answers. For instance:
 Why do Bibles include certain books and exclude others?
 Why do Christians believe in the Trinity?
 Why do church buildings have specific designs?
Church history shows how the Church handled controversies and crises over
the centuries. By learning from past events, we can emulate positive
examples and avoid repeating mistakes. For instance, studying the Council
of Chalcedon teaches us about avoiding political entanglements.
History helps us distinguish cultural elements from dogmatic ones. Early
Church fathers used their cultural context to formulate doctrines (e.g., the
Trinity) without compromising their faith. We can learn how to navigate
within our own cultural landscapes.
9. Why is man special to God?
Scripturally, man is considered special to God for several reasons:

16
 Created for His Glory: According to the Bible, the ultimate purpose of
man is to glorify God. This is seen in passages like Psalm 100:2–3,
which invites us to worship God with gladness and recognize that we
are His people.
 Made in God’s Image: Humans are created in the image of God
(Genesis 1:26–27), which sets us apart from all other creatures and
allows us to have a unique relationship with Him. God declares, “Let
us make man in our image, after our likeness” (Genesis 1:26). While
God is infinite and perfect, possessing attributes like all-powerfulness,
all-knowingness, and all-lovingness, we similarly possess spiritual
powers of our will and intellect. We can exercise power, obtain
knowledge, and do the good of others, albeit to a finite degree. This
likeness to God makes us special and distinct from His creation.
 Crowned with Glory and Honor: Psalm 8:4–6 speaks of humans being
made a little lower than the angels and crowned with glory and honor,
highlighting the special status given to mankind by God.
 Unconditional Love: God’s love for us is unconditional and not based
on our actions. This love is demonstrated through the life and sacrifice
of Jesus Christ, which reconciles us to God and allows us to become
His children.
 Unique Plan and Purpose: Each person is created with unique talents
and abilities, and God has a plan for everyone to use these gifts for
His glory and the good of others.
 Dominion Over Earth: Man is given dominion over the earth, which is
a responsibility to steward God’s creation properly, as described in
Genesis 1:28–291.

17
  Nothing Can Separate Us from God’s Love: The Bible assures us that
nothing can separate us from the love of God, providing a sense of
security and belonging that is unparalleled.
 Immortal Soul: Unlike animals, humans possess an immortal soul
infused by God. This rational soul enables us to know through our
intellect and love through our will. We can freely choose and
deliberate before making decisions. Our union of body and spirit is
purposed for heaven, and our souls are incorruptible, meaning that
death of the body is not the end for us. This potentiality to “share in
God’s blessed life” sets us apart from the rest of creation.
 Redemption: God’s love for humanity is evident in the redemption
story. He obtained us with the precious blood of Jesus Christ, making
us unique, separate, and special from His perspective. We are His
chosen people, peculiar and distinctive, destined for eternal life with
Him.
In summary, these scriptural references collectively convey the special
relationship and significance humans have to God, emphasizing our value
and purpose in His eyes. Also our immortal souls, likeness to God, and the
divine plan of redemption all contribute to why humans are truly special in
God’s eyes.
10.Why is church special to God?
The church holds a unique significance in the eyes of God.
1) The church is special because Jesus gave it special emphasis,
particularly in the Gospel of Matthew. It is the only Gospel where the
term “church” is found, indicating its significance in the narrative.
The term “church” is primarily found in the Gospel of Matthew,

18
 which has a Jewish focus. Interestingly, Matthew is the only Gospel
where this term appears. This underscores the importance of the
church as a central theme in God’s redemptive plan.
2) The church is seen as a fellowship of believers, flawed yet ordained
by God to carry out His purpose and will in the world. It plays a vital
role in the growth of individuals in their faith, as believers thrive
when they stay connected to the church. The church is not merely a
human institution; it is the visible representation of Christ’s body on
earth. Just as Christ was God’s presence in human form, the church
continues with His mission by proclaiming God’s name and
embodying His love and grace.
3) The church is important because it reveals Christ to the world, just as
Christ revealed God in human flesh. It is considered the continuing
incarnation of God incarnate, serving as a spiritual body that
represents Christ on earth.
These points reflect the theological perspective that the church is not just a
building or an institution, but a living body that carries great importance in
the Christian faith. It’s a place for worship, community, learning, and
participating in the mission of sharing the Gospel.
In essence, the church is special because it represents Christ’s body, carries
out His mission, and is a community of believers gathered in His name.
God’s involvement ensures that the church remains a vital part of His
redemptive plan.
11.What are the special characteristics of man? Explain
In Scripture, men are portrayed with a rich tapestry of attributes that guide
their conduct and shape their character. Here are some of the characteristics:

19
 Servant Leadership: Men are called to lead by serving others,
following the example of Jesus Christ.
 Righteousness: Men are called to pursue righteousness, aligning their
actions with God’s standards of justice and morality. This virtue
ensures they walk in integrity and fairness.
 Humility: Recognizing one’s own limitations and valuing others
above oneself.
 Godliness: A man of God seeks to emulate Christ’s character. He
cultivates a deep reverence for the divine, living a life that reflects
God’s holiness and love.
 Faith: Faith is the bedrock of a man’s relationship with God. Trusting
in the unseen, he relies on God’s promises and remains steadfast even
in adversity.
 Love: Men are called to love sacrificially—loving God, their families,
and their neighbors. Love compels them to serve and uplift others.
 Steadfastness: In the face of challenges, men remain unwavering.
Their commitment to God’s truth and purpose keeps them anchored.
 Gentleness: Gentleness doesn’t imply weakness; rather, it’s strength
under control. Men exhibit gentleness by treating others with kindness
and humility.
 Compassion: Men extend compassion to those in need. They
empathize, alleviate suffering, and show mercy.
 Integrity: A man’s character hinges on integrity. Honesty,
transparency, and consistency mark his actions.
 Courage: Men face adversity with courage. They stand firm, even
when fear threatens to overwhelm them.

20
  Wisdom: Seeking God’s wisdom, men make sound decisions. They
discern truth and navigate life’s complexities.
 Forgiveness: Men forgive as they’ve been forgiven. Their hearts
release grudges, allowing healing and reconciliation.
These characteristics are not only exemplary but also highly esteemed in the
Bible. Men like Abraham, David, and Daniel serve as examples of these
traits in action. Additionally, the Apostle Paul lists virtues like
righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, and gentleness as
qualities that men of God should pursue. Living out these attributes honors
the image of God and demonstrates a life of faith and devotion. As men seek
to emulate these qualities, they can look to the Bible for guidance and
inspiration
12.What put history in downward course? Explain.
History, the study of the past, is a fascinating journey through time. Let’s
explore what factors have shaped its course:
1) Adam’s Sin in the Garden of Eden: According to the Bible, history
took a downward turn due to Adam’s disobedience. When Adam and
Eve ate the forbidden fruit, they introduced sin into the world. This act
disrupted the perfect harmony between God, humanity, and creation.
Consequently, sin led to suffering, conflict, and moral decay, setting
the stage for the unfolding drama of human history.
2) The wickedness of Mankind: As generations passed, humanity’s
wickedness increased. The Flood, sent by God as a judgment, wiped
out most of humanity, sparing only Noah and his family. This
catastrophic event marked a significant turning point in history.

21
 3) The Birth of Christ: Another pivotal moment occurred with the birth
of Jesus Christ. His life, teachings, death, and resurrection
transformed the course of history. The Christian era (Anno Domini, or
A.D.) centers around His birth, emphasizing redemption, love, and
hope.
4) Top-Down and Bottom-Up Perspectives: Historians approach the
study of history from various angles. Top-down perspectives focus on
rulers, empires, and major events. Conversely, bottom-up approaches
highlight everyday people, social movements, and cultural shifts. Both
perspectives contribute to our understanding of the past.
5) Cultural Change and Environmental Factors: History is shaped by
cultural shifts, technological advancements, and environmental
changes. Economic systems, migrations, and innovations impact
societies. For example, the invention of the wheel by the Sumerians
revolutionized transportation and trade.
6) Archaeology and Written Records: Archaeologists uncover remnants
of past cultures, revealing ancient cities, artifacts, and customs.
Written records, such as cuneiform tablets or hieroglyphics, provide
glimpses into historical events and daily life.
In summary, history is a complex tapestry woven by human choices, divine
intervention, and the ebb and flow of civilizations. It reflects our triumphs,
tragedies, and the enduring quest for meaning across millennia.

13.What is humanism?

22
Humanism is a progressive philosophy of life that affirms our ability and
responsibility to lead ethical lives. It is based on a profound respect for
human dignity and the conviction that human beings are ultimately
accountable to themselves and society for their actions. Here are some key
aspects of humanism:
 Emphasis on Human Realm: Humanism places central importance on
human matters, rather than divine or supernatural ones. It focuses on
our existence in this world and our interactions with fellow humans.
 Renaissance Origins: The term “humanism” originated during the
Renaissance in northern Italy during the 13th and 14th centuries. It
later spread throughout continental Europe and England. Renaissance
humanism was influential and contributed significantly to the renewal
and reawakening of that historical period.
 The idea of Humanitas: At its core, humanism is rooted in the concept
of humanitas. This ideal encompasses the development of human
virtue, including qualities like understanding, benevolence,
compassion, and fortitude. It also involves intellectual pursuits such as
grammar, poetry, rhetoric, history, and moral philosophy.
 Secular Worldview: Humanism is a secular worldview that rejects
supernaturalism. It emphasizes reason, individual dignity, and self-
realization. Humanists aspire to lead meaningful lives that contribute
to the greater good.
 Maximization of Human Rights: Humanism supports the
maximization of human rights, social justice, participatory democracy,
and the expansion of an open society.

23
 In summary, humanism celebrates our shared humanity, encourages critical
thinking, and promotes ethical living without reliance on supernatural
beliefs.
14.What culture tends to be stronger in World History? Discuss.
The concept of “strength” in cultures can be interpreted in various ways,
such as military might, influence on world affairs, longevity, or
contributions to art, science, and philosophy. Throughout history, many
cultures have been considered strong based on these different criteria.
For instance, the Mamluks were known for their military prowess as a
warrior elite within the Ottoman Empire, with a significant impact during
their time. Similarly, cultures like Ancient Greece and the Roman Empire
have left a lasting legacy on the world with their advancements in
governance, law, philosophy, and infrastructure.
Other cultures noted for their strength include those with long-standing
traditions and values that have influenced global affairs, such as those in
China, India, Japan, and Korea. These cultures have contributed immensely
to the world’s history through their unique customs, beliefs, and innovations.
It’s important to note that the strength of a culture can also be seen in its
ability to adapt and influence over time, rather than just military might or
economic power. The impact of a culture is often measured by its
contributions to the collective human experience and its enduring influence
on subsequent societies and civilizations.

Since the 1960s, world historians have recognized that historical

development transcends individual societies or cultural regions. Cross-
cultural interactions and exchanges have significantly shaped the course of
human history. These exchanges go beyond political, social, economic, and
24
environmental dimensions. Cultural interactions have left indelible imprints
on societies worldwide. The emergence of new cultural history in the 1980s
highlighted the importance of understanding cultural dimensions in
historical narratives.

Throughout history, conquerors have played pivotal roles. They amassed

land, built empires, and left lasting legacies. Their influences extend beyond
their lifetimes, sometimes altering the trajectory of entire civilizations.
Whether through art, language, religion, or customs, conquerors have shaped
cultural landscapes across continents.

World history encompasses a rich tapestry of cultures, states, and societies.

From Ancient Mesopotamia to the Roman Empire, from Medieval Africa to
the Khanates of Central Asia, each culture has contributed to the mosaic of
human experience.

In summary, cultural exchanges have been a driving force in world history,

shaping the way societies perceive themselves and others. Understanding
these interactions provides valuable insights into our shared human
experience.

25
Bibliography

Clouse, Robert G. The Story of the Church. Moody Press, 2002

Dadang, Mipo E. Christianity: Footprints of the Founding Fathers. Challenge Press, Jos, 2018

O’Donovan, Wilbur. Biblical Christianity in Africa Perspective. Carlisle: The Paternoster Press,
1996.

26