2024 NECO GCE C.R.K: NECO GCE C.R.K (C.R.S) Verified Ans. (2762)

(1a)

At the time of King Nebuchadnezzar's reign, he erected a massive golden image on the plains of Dura, a symbol of his authority and supremacy. To demonstrate loyalty and unity under his rule, he issued a royal decree mandating that all officials and citizens bow down and worship the image upon hearing the sound of specific musical instruments. The king made it explicitly clear that failure to comply with this decree would result in severe punishment—being thrown into a blazing furnace.  

As commanded, all the officials and dignitaries within the king's vast domain assembled on the plains, eagerly awaiting the sound of the music. Once the instruments began to play, the crowd fell prostrate before the golden image, offering their worship. However, among the assembly were three Jewish officials, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who resolutely refused to bow down to the image. Their actions did not go unnoticed, and they were soon reported to the king by individuals eager to curry favor with him.  

When the king heard of their defiance, he was furious. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were summoned before him to explain their actions. Nebuchadnezzar questioned them and reminded them of the consequences of disobedience. He warned that if they did not bow to the image upon hearing the music, they would immediately be thrown into the blazing furnace. The king arrogantly declared, “And who is the god that will deliver 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' you out of my hands?” However, the three men remained unshaken in their faith. They boldly responded that their allegiance was to the God of Israel and that they would not worship any other god or bow to any image, regardless of the consequences. They declared their trust in God's ability to deliver them, but even if He chose not to, they would rather face death than compromise their beliefs.  

Nebuchadnezzar, enraged by their defiance, ordered that the furnace be heated seven times hotter than usual. The intensity of his anger was reflected in the extreme measures taken to punish them. The three men were bound tightly and thrown into the furnace by the king's strongest soldiers. The heat of the flames was so intense that the soldiers who carried out the king’s orders were killed by the flames. It appeared to all present that Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego would meet a swift and gruesome end.  

However, as King Nebuchadnezzar looked into the furnace, he was astonished by what he saw. Instead of three men, there were four figures walking freely within the flames, unharmed. The king exclaimed in amazement, noting that the fourth figure had the appearance of "a son of the gods." Nebuchadnezzar approached the mouth of the furnace and called out to Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, commanding them to come out. To his astonishment, the three men emerged unhurt; not a single hair on their heads was singed, and they did not even smell of 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' smoke.  

This miraculous event led Nebuchadnezzar to acknowledge the power of the God of Israel. He praised their God for delivering His servants who trusted in Him and defied the king’s command. Nebuchadnezzar issued a new decree, proclaiming that no one in his kingdom should speak against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, for "no other god can save in this way." As a result of their faith and courage, the three men were honored and promoted to higher positions within the king’s administration.  

(1b)

(PICK ANY THREE)

(i) The persecution of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego showcased their unwavering faith in God, serving as a powerful example of trust and commitment.  

(ii) It revealed God’s power and presence when He delivered them miraculously from the fiery furnace, proving that no earthly force could overcome divine protection.  

(iii) Their persecution demonstrated the futility of idolatry and the superiority of the God of Israel over man-made gods and decrees.  

(iv) The event led to the acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty by King Nebuchadnezzar, who publicly praised Him and issued a decree against blasphemy towards the God of the Hebrews.  

(v) Their ordeal promoted the unity and courage of believers, inspiring others to remain steadfast in their faith despite challenges.  

(vi) It elevated Shadrach, Meshach, 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' and Abednego to positions of greater honor and authority, showing that faithfulness to God brings divine and earthly rewards.

(2a)

As Moses grew old and approached the end of his life, he realized that the leadership of Israel could not be left without direction. In his wisdom and concern for the people, Moses prayed to God, asking for a new leader who would guide Israel in the journey ahead. He wanted someone who would lead the people out and bring them into the Promised Land, ensuring that the nation would not be without a shepherd. In response to Moses' request, God chose Joshua, the son of Nun, as the new leader. Joshua had long been an associate of Moses and was known to be a man filled with the spirit of God, making him the right person to take on this vital role.

In preparation for the transition, God instructed Moses to invest Joshua with some of his own authority, allowing the entire congregation of Israel to obey him. This was to ensure a smooth transition of power and prevent any disunity among the people. However, the change in leadership was to be gradual, with Moses still alive during the initial stages. Joshua’s leadership would not only be political and civil but would also be supported by Eleazar, the priest. Eleazar was to consult God on behalf of Joshua through the use of the Urim and Thummim, ancient methods used to receive divine judgment. As the new leader, Joshua would command the people of Israel to go out and come in, just as Moses had done, but with Eleazar overseeing the religious aspects of their lives.

Moses called 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' upon Joshua before Eleazar and the entire congregation of Israel, where Eleazar publicly laid hands on him, commissioning him as the new leader. This laying of hands was a significant act, symbolizing Joshua’s divine appointment and the transfer of authority from Moses to him. While Moses had held both political and religious power, receiving direct orders from God, Joshua’s role was primarily political and civil, with Eleazar taking care of the religious matters of the nation.

God reassured Joshua that he needed to be strong and courageous, providing him with the confidence and resolve needed to lead Israel into the Promised Land. He also promised to be with Joshua just as He had been with Moses, ensuring that God’s presence and guidance would never depart from him. Moses, despite knowing that his death was imminent, was not distressed by the prospect. Instead, he focused on ensuring the future of the nation, praying for Joshua's leadership and the well-being of the people. He entrusted Joshua with the task of following the law given to them by Moses, guiding the people according to God’s commands, and leading them with wisdom and courage.

This transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua was not just a change in political power but a carefully planned and divinely ordained process that ensured Israel’s stability and continued faithfulness to God. Moses’ prayerful concern for the future of his people and Joshua’s divine 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' appointment are a testament to the importance of strong, godly leadership for the nation of Israel. Through this transition, God demonstrated His ongoing faithfulness and His provision of leadership for His people.

(2b)

(PICK ANY THREE)

(i) Church leaders can learn from Moses’ preparation for Joshua’s leadership that having a clear plan for succession is crucial to ensure the continuity of the church’s work.  

(ii) Moses’ act of transferring authority to Joshua through the laying of hands teaches church leaders the importance of empowering the next generation to take on leadership roles.  

(iii) Just as Joshua was encouraged to rely on God’s guidance, church leaders should trust in God’s wisdom and strength to lead with confidence and clarity.  

(iv) The collaboration between Joshua and Eleazar highlights the importance of church leaders working together with others, such as spiritual mentors and advisors, to ensure the church's spiritual health.  

(v) Joshua’s call to be strong and courageous in the face of challenges reminds church leaders to remain steadfast in their faith and mission, even during difficult times.  

(vi) Moses’ prayerful concern for Joshua teaches church leaders the importance of praying for their successors and the future of the church to ensure continued growth and direction.

(3a)

Rehoboam went to Shechem for his coronation as the new king of Israel after the death of his father, King Solomon. At this time, the northern tribes of Israel were under the leadership of Jeroboam, who had previously fled to Egypt but returned to lead the people. Jeroboam, along with the people of the northern tribes, came to Rehoboam and made a request: "Your father made our yoke heavy. Therefore, lighten the hard service of your father, and we will serve you." The people were asking for a reduction in the heavy burdens Solomon had placed on them, which included high taxes and forced labor.

Rehoboam, unsure of how to respond, asked the people to return in three days, giving him time to consider their request. During this time, Rehoboam sought counsel from two groups of advisors. First, he consulted the elders who had served under his father Solomon, and they advised him to be kind and respond favorably to the people’s request, assuring him that this would win their loyalty. However, Rehoboam did not heed the wise advice of the elders. Instead, he turned to the young men he had grown up with, and they advised him to take a harsher stance. They recommended that he should not only refuse to lighten the burdens but even increase them, saying, "My father disciplined you with whips, but I will discipline you with scorpions."

On the third day, as promised, Jeroboam and all the people of Israel returned to hear Rehoboam's 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' decision. Rehoboam spoke to them according to the advice of the young men, telling them that he would make their burdens heavier. This decision angered the northern tribes. In a moment of defiance, the people of Israel responded, saying, "What portion do we have in David? We have no inheritance in the son of Jesse. To your tents, O Israel!" This statement marked their rejection of Rehoboam as king. They departed from Rehoboam’s rule and returned to their homes, with only the tribes of Judah and Benjamin remaining loyal to him.

As a result, the kingdom of Israel was divided. Rehoboam continued to reign over Judah, the southern kingdom, while Jeroboam became the king of the northern kingdom, Israel. This division marked the beginning of a long period of rivalry and conflict between the two kingdoms, and the split had profound consequences for the history of Israel. The decision to ignore the wisdom of the elders and listen to the advice of his peers led to the fracture of the united kingdom, as the northern tribes rejected Rehoboam’s leadership and established their own kingdom under Jeroboam.

(3b)

(PICK ANY THREE)

(i) Rehoboam's refusal to ease the burdens of the people.

(ii) Rehoboam's decision to listen to the harsh advice of his peers instead of the wise elders.

(iii) Rehoboam's refusal to compromise with the northern tribes.

(iv) Rehoboam’s arrogance in responding to the 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' people's request with a threat of more hardship.

(v) Rehoboam’s failure to consider the long-term consequences of his actions.

(vi) Rehoboam’s disregard for the loyalty of the northern tribes, leading to their rebellion.

(4a)

One day, Jesus called the twelve disciples to Him and gave them specific instructions for their mission. He sent them out two by two to preach to the people of Israel. He told them to go only to the lost sheep of Israel, urging them to bring the message of repentance and the nearness of God's kingdom. Jesus instructed them to heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, and cast out demons, demonstrating the power of God’s kingdom through miraculous signs.

Jesus also gave them advice on how to conduct themselves. They were to travel light, taking no money, no extra clothing, and relying on the hospitality of the people they encountered. If a town welcomed them, they were to stay and preach, but if a town rejected them, they were to shake the dust off their feet and move on, as a sign of judgment upon that town. Jesus emphasized that the disciples’ mission would not always be easy, as they would face persecution, rejection, and hostility for His name’s sake.

Jesus warned the disciples that they would be brought before governors and kings because of their testimony, but He encouraged them not to worry about what to say because the Holy Spirit would guide them in that hour. The mission of the twelve disciples was not just about preaching; it was also about preparing the way for Jesus and the coming of God's kingdom.

The disciples went out, and as they preached, they performed many healings and 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' miracles. Their work brought hope to the sick, the oppressed, and the lost. They also faced opposition from religious leaders who saw Jesus' growing influence as a threat to their authority. Despite the challenges, the twelve disciples were faithful to the mission Jesus had given them, and through their efforts, the message of Jesus spread throughout the region.

(4b)

(PICK ANY THREE)

(i) The mission of the twelve disciples highlights the importance of evangelism, teaching the Church today to actively spread the gospel message to all nations.  

(ii) It emphasizes the role of discipleship, reminding the Church of the need to train and equip believers to carry out God's work.  

(iii) The disciples' reliance on God's provision during their mission teaches the Church to trust in God's guidance and provision, even in challenging circumstances.  

(iv) Their experience of facing persecution and rejection encourages the Church to stand firm in its faith and continue sharing the gospel, despite opposition.  

(v) The miracles performed by the disciples demonstrate the power of the Holy Spirit and encourage the Church to believe in and seek God's supernatural intervention today.  

(vi) The mission of the twelve disciples shows the importance of unity and teamwork, teaching the Church to work together in spreading the message of Christ.

(5a)

In St. Luke’s Gospel, the trial of Jesus before Herod occurs after He is initially brought before the Roman governor, Pontius Pilate. Pilate, finding no fault in Jesus, learns that Jesus is a Galilean and thus decides to send Him to Herod Antipas, the ruler of Galilee, because Herod is the authority over that region. At the time, Herod was in Jerusalem for the Passover festival, and Pilate hoped that Herod would handle the matter.

Herod was very eager to see Jesus, as he had heard much about Him and had long desired to meet Him, hoping to witness a miracle. When Jesus was brought before him, Herod questioned Him at length, but Jesus did not respond to his inquiries. The chief priests and scribes stood by, vehemently accusing Jesus of various crimes, but Jesus remained silent. Herod, disappointed by Jesus’ refusal to speak, mocked Him and treated Him with contempt, dressing Him in a royal robe in a sarcastic gesture, as if to mock the claim of Jesus being a king.

Despite his attempts to demean Jesus and the charges levied by the religious leaders, Herod could find no legitimate cause to condemn Him. Realizing that Jesus had not committed any crime deserving of punishment, Herod decided to send Him back to Pilate. Interestingly, the relationship between Pilate and Herod, who had previously been political enemies, was unexpectedly mended through their collaboration on this matter. After this trial, the two rulers 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' became friends, their enmity dissolving as they united in their handling of Jesus’ case.

(5b)

(PICK ANY THREE)

(i) Jesus' silence teaches us the importance of integrity in the face of false accusations.  

(ii) We learn to trust God's plan, even when we don’t understand the situation.  

(iii) The episode warns against political manipulation for personal gain.  

(iv) It shows that mockery doesn't define our true worth.  

(v) Jesus teaches us to remain firm in our convictions, even under pressure.  

(vi) The alliance between Pilate and Herod reminds us that conflicts can sometimes be resolved, but not at the cost of truth.

*NECO GCE CRS*

(6a)

After the healing of the lame man at the Beautiful Gate of the temple, Peter and John were confronted by the religious authorities. The miraculous healing caused a stir among the people, and many were amazed by the act. As Peter and John preached to the crowd, proclaiming that the healing was done in the name of Jesus Christ, the priests, the captain of the temple guard, and the Sadducees became disturbed. They were upset because the apostles were teaching the resurrection of the dead, which contradicted their beliefs. 

The authorities seized Peter and John, and, since it was evening, they were thrown into prison overnight. The next day, they were brought before the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council. Despite the threats and questioning from the council, Peter boldly declared that the healing was done in the name of Jesus, whom they had crucified, and that salvation could only be found in Him. The council, seeing the courage of Peter and John, and realizing that the lame man was standing before them healed, could not deny the miracle. They were then set free and they joined the other apostles to pray, thanking God and asking for more boldness to speak the word of God and perform miracles. As they prayed, the place where they stood shook and they were filled with the Holy Spirit.

(6b)

(PICK ANY THREE)

(i) The disciples' courage in the face of persecution teaches us to stand firm in 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' our faith, even when faced with threats.  

(ii) Their unwavering focus on Jesus’ message reminds us to prioritize the gospel over personal safety or comfort.  

(iii) The disciples' boldness to speak openly about Jesus shows the importance of witnessing without fear of opposition.  

(iv) Their willingness to suffer for Christ's sake demonstrates the value of enduring hardships for the sake of righteousness.  

(v) The disciples' reliance on the Holy Spirit during their trial teaches us to trust in God’s guidance in difficult situations.  

(vi) Their response to threats with humility, rather than retaliation, teaches us the power of responding to hostility with grace and patience.

(7a)

John's teaching in his Gospel and epistles emphasizes that Jesus Christ is the Light of the World. This message conveys that Jesus is the source of spiritual light that dispels the darkness of sin, ignorance, and evil. His light reveals the truth about God, humanity, and the path to eternal life. The light that Jesus brings is not just a symbol of guidance but a representation of hope, purity, and divine revelation.

According to John, Jesus’ light exposes the hidden realities of sin and the moral darkness that engulfs the world. It reveals the true nature of humanity’s condition, confronting people with the need for repentance and transformation. However, Jesus’ light does not merely reveal sin but also offers a solution, providing hope and redemption to those who choose to follow Him. His light points the way to freedom from sin and a renewed relationship with God.

As the Light of the World, Jesus illuminates the way to salvation, showing humanity how to live in harmony with God’s will. He leads people out of the darkness of despair, ignorance, and rebellion into the brightness of truth, grace, and eternal life. His teachings and example provide wisdom and understanding, enabling believers to navigate the complexities and challenges of life while remaining faithful to God’s purposes.

John stresses the importance of following Jesus, who is the true Light. In John 8:12, Jesus declares, “I 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” This means that those who accept Jesus’ light will experience clarity, direction, and spiritual insight. They will not be lost in the darkness of sin but will live in the truth and freedom that Jesus provides.

John’s teaching shows that Jesus’ light not only transforms individuals but also impacts the world. Believers are called to reflect His light, becoming bearers of His truth and love to others. Walking in the light means living a life of obedience, righteousness, and fellowship with God and fellow believers. In 1 John 1:5-7, John writes, “God is light, and in Him there is no darkness at all. If we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus purifies us from all sin.”

(7b)

(PICK ANY THREE)

(i) Jesus as the Light of the World reveals the truth about God, guiding humanity toward salvation.  

(ii) His light exposes sin and moral darkness, encouraging repentance and transformation.  

(iii) The light of Christ offers hope and redemption to those who are lost or struggling in spiritual darkness.  

(iv) Jesus illuminates the path to righteousness, teaching believers how to live according to God's will.  

(v) His light provides wisdom and clarity, helping Christians navigate the 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' challenges of life with faith and understanding.  

(vi) Believers are called to reflect His light, spreading His love and truth to bring others out of darkness.

(8a)

Paul’s teaching on justification by faith is a central theme in his epistles, especially in Romans and Galatians. Justification, according to Paul, refers to being declared righteous before God. He emphasizes that this status cannot be achieved through human efforts or adherence to the Law but is a gift of grace, received through faith in Jesus Christ.

In Romans 3:23-24, Paul explains that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God but are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. He argues that the Law highlights human sinfulness but lacks the power to save. Instead, faith in the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus is the means by which believers are made right with God. This faith includes trusting in Jesus’ atoning work and accepting His righteousness in place of one’s own failings.

Paul also teaches that justification brings peace with God and freedom from condemnation. This new relationship is made possible through Christ, granting believers access to God’s grace and the hope of eternal life. However, Paul clarifies that this gift of grace does not encourage sin but calls for a life transformed by the Spirit, producing good works as evidence of faith.

Paul’s teaching on justification by faith highlights the supremacy of grace over works, the inclusiveness of salvation, and the transformative power of faith in Christ. It remains a 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' cornerstone of Christian doctrine, emphasizing that salvation is a gift from God, received through faith, not earned through human effort.

(8b)

(PICK ANY THREE)

(i) Peace with God  

(ii) Access to God’s grace 

(iii) Hope of the glory of God

(iv) Rejoicing in sufferings 

(v) Growth in character and perseverance.

(vi) Love of God poured into our hearts

(vii) Freedom from condemnation

(viii) Eternal life through Jesus Christ

(9a)

James strongly admonished Christians to avoid any form of partiality within the church, emphasizing that favoritism contradicts the faith they profess in Jesus Christ. He explained that partiality often manifests in the treatment of individuals based on their appearance or social status. For instance, when a well-dressed individual is given a place of honor in the church, while a poorly-dressed individual is disregarded or treated as unimportant, it reveals a lack of Christian love and fairness. James described this as an act of discrimination that is inconsistent with the character of God, who does not show favoritism.  

According to James, God often honors those who are despised on earth but are rich in faith and heirs of His kingdom. On the contrary, it is often the earthly rich who oppress the faithful poor, exploiting them and dragging them to court without just cause. This injustice highlights the need for Christians to uphold the royal law, which commands, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” James warned that partiality is a sin, and those who practice it are guilty of breaking God’s law.  

He further explained that the law of God is indivisible. Breaking one part of it, such as showing partiality, is equivalent to breaking the entire law. For instance, a person who avoids adultery but commits murder is still guilty of violating the law. This teaching underscores the need for Christians to live in 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' complete obedience to the law of liberty, which encompasses love, mercy, and justice.  

James also emphasized the importance of showing mercy to the oppressed and disadvantaged. A Christian who fails to show mercy will face God’s condemnation, as mercy triumphs over judgment. By treating all individuals with equality, love, and respect, believers demonstrate the impartial nature of God and reflect His grace and justice in their lives. This call to avoid partiality serves as a reminder of the core Christian values of love, humility, and fairness in all interactions.

(9b)

(PICK ANY THREE)

(i) Impartiality promotes equality, ensuring everyone is treated fairly regardless of their background.  

(ii) It fosters social harmony by reducing conflicts and discrimination.  

(iii) Impartiality builds trust in institutions and leaders by upholding justice.  

(iv) It encourages meritocracy, allowing individuals to succeed based on their abilities and efforts.  

(v) Impartiality strengthens community bonds by valuing diversity and inclusion.  

(vi) It creates a sense of security, as people feel respected and valued equally.