Western Traditions

Question 1

As one of the three major Western religious traditions, Christianity draws upon the historical and Biblical traditions of Judaism as revealed in the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament). Thus, common ground can be identified between the two religious traditions, yet, significant differences exist between both.

2)How does the Seventh Commandment (“You shall not commit adultery” – Exodus 20:14) compare with the following from Matthew 5:27-28: “You have heard that it was said ‘Do not commit adultery.’ But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart” (See also, Fisher, p. 310) and is such a standard realistic?

Question 2

This assignment offers you the opportunity to compare two branches of Christianity.

Create a 10- to 12-slide Microsoft^® PowerPoint^® presentation comparing two of the following:

• Catholic
• Orthodox
• Protestant
• Pentecostal
• Nontraditional/Alternative

Include a brief history of the two traditions and a comparison of their approach to the Bible, art, specific symbols, and rituals, as well as core beliefs, and ethics. You might consider visiting in person or exploring one of these churches online to add your own experiences.