2024 NECO C.R.K: 2025 NECO C.R.K (C.R.S) Verified Answers (3578)

(1a)

Deborah’s selection as a leader in Israel, detailed in the book of Judges, is significant due to her unique role as a female judge and prophetess in a patriarchal society. Her leadership came during a time of severe oppression under Jabin, king of Canaan, and his military commander, Sisera. The Israelites, suffering for twenty years, cried out to God for help, leading to Deborah’s rise.

As a prophetess, Deborah had a direct connection with God, receiving and conveying divine messages. The book of Judges describes her holding court under the Palm of Deborah, where Israelites sought her judgment, reflecting her respected status.

Deborah’s strategic and inspirational leadership is evident when she summoned Barak, a military leader, and conveyed God’s command to confront Sisera with ten thousand men at Mount Tabor. Barak insisted Deborah accompany him, showing his reliance on her spiritual support. Deborah agreed but foretold that the victory honor would go to a woman, foreshadowing Jael’s role in Sisera’s defeat.

In Judges 5, Deborah and Barak sang a victory song, celebrating the triumph and reflecting on Israel’s socio-political situation. The song praises volunteers and condemns those who abstained, highlighting the importance of communal effort for national deliverance.

Deborah’s leadership underscores God’s sovereignty in choosing leaders based on divine wisdom rather than societal norms. Her role challenges patriarchal 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' norms, showcasing women’s significant contributions in leadership. Her wisdom, courage, and faith were pivotal in leading Israel to victory and peace.

In essence, Deborah’s leadership was divinely ordained and characterized by her prophetic gift, wisdom, and ability to inspire and mobilize people. Her story demonstrates God’s intervention in raising leaders from unexpected places, emphasizing the importance of faith, obedience, and communal effort in overcoming oppression and achieving deliverance.

(1b)

(PICK ANY THREE)

(i) Engaging in politics and holding leadership positions.

(ii) Promoting education and literacy programs, especially for girls.

(iii) Participating in economic activities such as entrepreneurship and business ventures.

(iv) Advocating for and supporting health initiatives, particularly maternal and child health.

(v) Involvement in community development projects and social work.

(vi) Enhancing agricultural practices and food security.

(viii) Promoting arts, cultu

re, and tourism.

(2a)

(PICK ANY ONE)

Friendship is a close and mutual relationship between two or more people characterized by trust, affection, and support.

OR

Friendship is a close and supportive relationship between two individuals who share common interests, values, and experiences, characterized by mutual trust, emotional support, loyalty, honesty, shared experiences, empathy, and respect.

(2b)

(i) Unconditional love and loyalty: Jonathan’s unwavering support for David, despite his father Saul’s persecution.

(ii) Mutual trust: Jonathan entrusting David with his life and David confiding in Jonathan about his struggles.

(iii) Selflessness: Jonathan giving David his robe, sword, and bow, symbolizing their bond and Jonathan’s willingness to put David’s needs before his own.

(iv) Emotional support: David and Jonathan finding comfort and encouragement in each other’s company.

(v) Shared values and goals: Both men committed to serving God and doing what was right, even in the face of adversity.

(2c)

(PICK ANY TWO)

(i) Shared values and interests.

(ii) Trustworthiness and honesty.

(iii) Positive influence and encouragement.

(iv) Loyalty and support.

(v) Respect for each other’s boundaries and differences.

(vi) Ability to communicate openly and resolve conflicts

(3a)

Zerubbabel and Ezra were pivotal in the restoration of Jerusalem and the reestablishment of Jewish life after the Babylonian exile.

Zerubbabel, a descendant of King David, was appointed governor of Judah by King Cyrus of Persia. Following the decree that allowed Jews to return to Jerusalem, Zerubbabel led the first group of exiles back to their homeland. His primary contribution was the rebuilding of the Second Temple. The foundation of the Temple was laid but construction faced delays due to opposition from neighboring peoples. With encouragement from the prophets Haggai and Zechariah, the work resumed and was completed. This restored the central place of Jewish worship. Zerubbabel also reestablished religious practices and festivals such as Passover and the Feast of Tabernacles, which were essential for uniting the people and reaffirming their religious and cultural identity.

On the other hand, Ezra, a priest and scribe, arrived in Jerusalem during the reign of King Artaxerxes. His focus was on spiritual and social reforms. Ezra was knowledgeable in the Law of Moses and led a public reading of it upon his arrival. He found that many Jews had intermarried with surrounding peoples, which was against the Law. Ezra addressed this issue by calling for the dissolution of these marriages and leading a covenant renewal ceremony to emphasize adherence to God’s commandments.

Additionally, Ezra established a judicial system based on the 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' Torah, appointing judges to ensure that Jewish society was governed according to religious principles.

Together, Zerubbabel and Ezra’s efforts were crucial in the revival of Jerusalem. Zerubbabel’s role in rebuilding the Temple provided a place for worship and community life, while Ezra’s focus on legal and spiritual reforms reinforced the community’s religious integrity and cohesion. Their combined leadership was essential for the restoration and enduring strength of the Jewish people.

(3b)

(PICK ANY THREE)

(i) Zerubbabel’s determination and Ezra’s spiritual guidance helped the people overcome obstacles and stay focused on rebuilding Jerusalem.

(ii) Zerubbabel and Ezra’s complementary roles demonstrate the importance of working together towards a common goal.

(iii) Ezra’s emphasis on spiritual revival and religious reformation ensured that the rebuilt Jerusalem was not just a physical structure, but a community grounded in faith and values.

(iv) Both Zerubbabel and Ezra encouraged and supported the people, helping them stay motivated and committed to the rebuilding process.

(v) Zerubbabel and Ezra’s trust in God and His guidance enabled them to accomplish their goals and rebuild Jerusalem in a way th

at honored Him

(4a)

Before the twelve apostles embarked on their evangelistic mission, Jesus Christ gave them detailed instructions, as recorded in Matthew 10.

Jesus called His twelve disciples to Him and gave them authority to drive out impure spirits and heal every disease and sickness.

Jesus instructed them not to go among the Gentiles or enter any Samaritan towns, but to go to the lost sheep of Israel. He charged them to proclaim, "The kingdom of heaven has come near." He empowered them to heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, and drive out demons, emphasizing, "Freely you have received; freely give."

For their journey, Jesus advised them not to take gold, silver, copper, a bag, extra shirt, sandals, or a staff. They were to rely on the hospitality of those they ministered to, as the worker is worth his keep.

Entering a town or village, they were to find a worthy person and stay there. They were to let their peace rest on deserving households and shake the dust off their feet if not welcomed, symbolizing disassociation from those who rejected the message.

Jesus warned of dangers, saying, "I am sending you out like sheep among wolves." He advised them to be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves, combining wisdom with purity. He cautioned them about persecution but assured them not to worry about what to say, for the Spirit would speak through them.

He foretold that their mission would bring division, even among families, but 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' encouraged them to stand firm, promising that those who endure to the end will be saved. He instructed them to fear God, who could destroy both soul and body in hell, and reassured them of their value in God’s eyes.

Finally, Jesus emphasized loyalty to Him, stating that whoever acknowledges Him before others, He will acknowledge before His Father in heaven, and whoever disowns Him, He will disown.

(4b)

(PICK ANY THREE)

(i) Trust in God’s provision and guidance.

(ii) The importance of humility and simplicity in service.

(iii) The necessity of faith and courage in the face of opposition.

(iv) The power of healing and deliverance in ministry.

(v) The significance of proclaiming the message of repentance and the kingdom of God.

(vi) Perseverance despite challenges and rejection.

(vii) The value of teamwork an

d unity in mission

(5a)

After Jesus’ death, a wealthy man from Arimathea named Joseph, who had become a disciple of Jesus, went to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body.

Pilate was surprised that Jesus was already dead, so he called for the centurion to confirm it. When he confirmed that Jesus had indeed died, Pilate released the body to Joseph.

Joseph took the body, wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, and placed it in his own new tomb that he had cut out of the rock. He rolled a big stone in front of the entrance to the tomb and went away.

Mary Magdalene and the other Mary (the mother of James and John) were sitting there opposite the tomb, watching everything that was happening. They had followed Joseph and seen where he laid Jesus’ body. They returned to their homes and prepared spices and perfumes to anoint Jesus’ body, but they rested on the Sabbath, as the Jewish law required.

The next day, the chief priests and Pharisees went to Pilate and asked for guards to be posted at the tomb, fearing that Jesus’ disciples would steal the body and claim he had risen from the dead. Pilate granted their request, and the tomb was sealed and guarded.

(5b)

(PICK ANY THREE)

(i) Joseph went to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body, showing his bravery and loyalty to Jesus.

(ii) He offered his own new tomb, which he had cut out of the rock, to bury Jesus’ body.

(iii) He wrapped Jesus’ body in a clean linen cloth, showing respect 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' and care for the body.

(iv) He placed Jesus’ body in the tomb, ensuring a proper burial.

(v) He rolled a big stone in front of the entrance to the tomb, sealing it and protec

ting the body

(6a)

King Herod, seeking to gain favor with the Jewish leaders, began persecuting the early Christians. He arrested Peter, one of the leading apostles, during the Feast of Unleavened Bread. Herod’s intention was to publicly execute Peter after the Passover celebrations, a plan intended to solidify his political position.

Peter was imprisoned and placed under heavy guard with four squads of soldiers, each squad consisting of four men. The situation seemed dire, as Peter was shackled and closely guarded, awaiting his trial. However, the early Christian community fervently prayed for Peter’s deliverance.

On the night before his planned execution, an angel of the Lord visited Peter in the prison. The angel’s light filled the cell, and Peter’s chains fell off. The angel instructed Peter to dress and follow him. Initially, Peter thought he was dreaming, but soon realized the angel’s guidance was real. The two passed through the iron gate leading to the city, which opened by itself, and they walked through the streets until they reached the house of Mary, the mother of John. There, the believers were gathered, praying for Peter’s release.

When Peter knocked at the door, the servant girl Rhoda recognized his voice but was so overjoyed that she forgot to open the door. Eventually, the believers let Peter in, astonished by his unexpected appearance. Peter described how the Lord had delivered him and then left for another place, knowing that his 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' escape would likely provoke further persecution.

Herod, upon realizing Peter had escaped, was furious and ordered a search, but Peter could not be found. Eventually, Herod traveled to Caesarea, where he died under mysterious and dramatic circumstances as described, marking the end of his reign and the continuation of the early Christian mission.

(6b)

(PICK ANY THREE)

(i) Peter’s miraculous escape demonstrates God’s active involvement in protecting and delivering His people from dire situations.

(ii) It highlights the power and effectiveness of collective prayer, as the early Christians’ prayers were answered.

(iii) It contrasts Peter’s deliverance with Herod’s eventual downfall, showcasing divine justice and judgment.

(iv) It encourages believers by showing that even in seemingly hopeless circumstances, God can bring about miraculous outcomes

(v) The arrest and intended execution of Peter illustrate the early church’s struggles and persecution for their faith.

(vi) The miraculous nature of Peter’s escape strengthened the faith of early Christians and affirmed their belief in God’s protection and power.

(7a)

In John’s gospel, Jesus describes himself as the door and the good shepherd. He says the shepherd must pass through the door whenever he wants to feed his sheep or take them out for grazing. He says that the sheep recognize their owner and the owner of the sheep calls them by name and they recognize his voice. The sheep would run away from the hired man for they do not know him. The thief would come through the window. For he is not the owner. The sheep would run away from him. Jesus expects all good shepherd to enter through the door and not to jump in through the window, whoever does that is a thief. The sheep would not follow the person whom they do not known. They would run away from such a person.

Jesus equally says that He is the door to the sheep. All those who came before Him are thieves, the sheep did not listen to them nor follow them. He goes on further to say that He is the door, if anybody enters by Him he will be saved. The thief comes to steal. Jesus comes to give abundant life so that they may have it abundantly.

Jesus as the Door and the Good Shepherd reveals His dual role as both the gate to eternal life and the caring leader who guides and protects His followers. They illustrate His exclusive claim to salvation and His profound love, highlighting His protective, nurturing, and sacrificial nature. Through these declarations, Jesus communicates His central role in the spiritual journey of believers, offering them access to 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' salvation and a deep, personal relationship with God.

(7b)

(PICK ANY THREE)

(i) Christian leaders should serve and prioritize the well-being of those they lead, following Jesus’s example of sacrificial love.

(ii) Christian leaders are responsible for providing clear guidance and direction to help others navigate their spiritual journeys.

(iii) Christian leaders should protect their communities from spiritual dangers and create a safe environment for growth and worship.

(iv) Christian leaders need to build personal, caring relationships with those they lead, understanding their individual needs and challenges.

(v) Christian leaders must uphold the truth and teachings of Christ, ensuring their guidance aligns with biblical principles.

(vi) Christian leaders should foster unity within the community, embracing diversity while maintaining harmony and in

clusiveness.

(8a)

In James’ epistle, James offers a profound discussion on the use of the tongue, emphasizing its immense power and the critical importance of controlling it. In James 3:1-12, he begins by cautioning that not many should become teachers, as they will be judged more strictly, setting the stage for his discourse on speech and its responsibilities.

James compares the tongue to a bit in a horse’s mouth, which controls the whole animal, and to a rudder on a ship, which steers the entire vessel. These comparisons highlight how something small can have a significant impact, emphasizing the tongue’s ability to direct the course of a person’s life.

James warns of the tongue’s potential for immense destruction, likening it to a small spark that can set a great forest on fire. This illustrates how careless words can cause significant harm and conflict. He describes the tongue as a world of evil among the body parts, corrupting the whole person and setting the course of one’s life on fire, even being itself set on fire by hell. This strong language underscores the severe consequences of uncontrolled speech.

James also points out the difficulty of taming the tongue, noting that while humans have tamed all kinds of animals, no one can tame the tongue. It is described as a restless evil, full of deadly poison, indicating its capacity to cause ongoing harm. He highlights the inconsistency and hypocrisy of using the tongue for both blessing God and 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' cursing people made in God’s image. This duality demonstrates the need for integrity and consistency in speech.

James’s teaching emphasizes the tongue’s power, the potential for good and harm, the difficulty of controlling it, and the need for Christians to exercise careful control over their speech to reflect their faith and values accurately.

(8b)

(PICK ANY THREE)

(i) Christians should strive to control their speech to prevent harm and reflect their faith

(ii) Believers are encouraged to ensure their words align with their Christian values, avoiding hypocrisy.

(iii) Christians must recognize the power of their words and use them responsibly to build up others.

(iv) James’s teaching implies that Christians should seek wisdom and discernment in their communication.

(v) Followers of Christ are called to use their words to encourage and uplift others.

(vi) The way Christians speak can serve as a testimony to their faith, impacting their witn

ess to others.

(9a)

Paul tells us that the family is a sacred institution ordained by God. Because of this, it must be kept in mutual love and nurtured in respect among its members. According to St. Paul, a Christian family is an ideal family. All rights and obligations are to be observed as if God is the head of the family.

There are certain roles assigned to each individual family member. Some of these are:

(i) Wives must be submissive to their husbands for God has commanded that the husband is the head of the family as Jesus Christ is the head of the church.

(ii) The submissiveness of wives to their husbands must be reciprocated by their husbands with love. A husband must love his wife as Christ loves us. Wives should not be subjected to harsh treatment for they are not slaves.

(iii) Children should obey their parents for God had commanded it, " honour your father and mother that thy days may be long on earth".

(iv) Parents are advised (warned) not to do anything that may provoke their children. Parents should love and care for their children. As Christians, they should bring them up to fear God. Parents are to make their homes as places of moral instructions.

(v) Slaves must serve their masters as if they are serving God.

(9b)

(PICK ANY FOUR)

(i) Spouses should show mutual respect and understanding to strengthen their relationship.

(ii) Husbands should lead their families with love and 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' kindness.

(iii) Children should be taught to respect and obey their parents.

(iv) Parents should use positive reinforcement and avoid harsh criticism.

(v) Spouses should view each other as equals and work together as partners.

(vi) Families should seek counseling when needed to resolve conflicts and improve relationships.