Christianity: God

In the AQA A-Level Religious Studies course, the topic 'Christianity: God' explores the nature, attributes, and significance of God within Christian theology. This includes key doctrines such as the Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), the omnipotence, omniscience, and omnibenevolence of God, and the problem of evil. Students examine how these concepts are derived from scripture, tradition, and reason, and how they shape Christian belief and practice. Understanding this topic is crucial for grasping the foundations of Christian faith and its responses to philosophical challenges.

This topic also engages with debates about God's relationship with the world, including creation, providence, and the incarnation. Students analyse different Christian perspectives, such as those of Augustine, Aquinas, and modern theologians like Karl Barth and John Hick. The topic connects to broader themes in the philosophy of religion, such as the nature of religious language and the coherence of theism. Mastery of this content enables students to critically evaluate arguments for and against the existence of God, and to articulate informed, nuanced positions in essays.

For A-Level students, 'Christianity: God' is not just about memorising doctrines; it requires critical thinking and evaluation. You will need to assess strengths and weaknesses of different interpretations, consider how historical and cultural contexts shape theology, and apply philosophical tools to religious claims. This topic appears in both the Christianity and Philosophy of Religion sections of the exam, so a deep understanding is essential for high marks. By engaging with primary sources and scholarly debates, you will develop skills in analysis, synthesis, and evaluation that are valuable across the humanities.