Christianity – Religious figures and sacred texts

This topic explores the foundational figures and texts of Christianity, focusing on Jesus Christ as the central religious figure and the Bible as the sacred text. Students examine the nature and significance of Jesus, including his incarnation, teachings, crucifixion, and resurrection, as understood within Christian theology. The Bible is analysed as both a historical document and a source of divine revelation, with attention to its structure (Old and New Testaments), authorship, and interpretation. Understanding these elements is crucial for grasping how Christian beliefs, practices, and ethics are derived from its key sources.

The study of religious figures and sacred texts is central to A-Level Religious Studies because it addresses how authority and tradition shape faith. For Christianity, this involves evaluating the reliability of the Gospels, the role of Jesus as the Son of God, and the Bible's authority in moral and doctrinal matters. This topic also connects to broader themes such as the problem of evil (through the crucifixion) and the nature of salvation. Mastery of this content enables students to critically engage with Christian claims and to compare them with other religious traditions in the WJEC specification.

In the wider WJEC A-Level course, this topic provides the foundation for studying Christian ethics, philosophy of religion, and comparative theology. It requires students to balance historical-critical approaches with theological perspectives, a skill assessed in both essay and source-based questions. The ability to cite specific biblical passages and theological concepts (e.g., kenosis, atonement theories) is essential for high marks. This topic also encourages reflection on how sacred texts are used in contemporary Christian debates, such as those on gender roles or social justice.