UGANDA NATIONAL EXAMINATIONS BOARD (UNEB)

ADVANCED LEVEL (UACE) NEW CURRICULUM 2025

CHRISTIAN RELIGIOUS
EDUCATION / DIVINITY

COMPREHENSIVE STUDY NOTES

Senior Five & Senior Six | All 17 Topics Covered

Based on NCDC Advanced Secondary Curriculum Syllabus (2025)

HOW TO USE THESE NOTES
These notes cover all 17 topics of the UNEB UACE CRE/Divinity new curriculum (2025).
They are arranged in the same order as the official NCDC syllabus programme planner.
Each topic includes:
• Background and context
• Key content and sub-topics
• Key terms and definitions
• Biblical references
• Exam tips and common question areas

EXAM FORMAT REMINDER

Paper 1 (Old Testament + Ethics), Paper 2 (New Testament + Ethics). Sections A, B, and
C. Always read questions carefully and identify whether they ask you to describe, explain,
discuss or evaluate.
 TOPIC 1: THE PENTATEUCH

1.1 The Creation of the Universe

Background
The Pentateuch (Greek: five books) refers to the first five books of the Bible: Genesis,
Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. Also called the Torah in Judaism. These
books form the foundation of both Jewish and Christian faith.

Creation Accounts (Genesis 1 and 2)

There are TWO creation accounts in Genesis:
• Genesis 1:1 - 2:4a: The Priestly account (P source) - creation in 6 days, God rests on
the 7th (Sabbath). Creation by God's spoken word: 'Let there be...'
• Genesis 2:4b - 25: The Yahwist account (J source) - God forms man from dust,
breathes life into him; woman formed from man's rib.

Key Themes in Creation

• God as the sole creator: creation ex nihilo (out of nothing)
• Goodness of creation: 'God saw that it was good'
• Human beings as the pinnacle of creation: made in God's image (Imago Dei)
• Stewardship: humans given dominion over creation (Genesis 1:28)
• The Sabbath: rest as holy and sacred

Imago Dei: Latin for 'image of God' - humans are created in God's image and likeness,
giving them special dignity
Ex nihilo: Latin for 'out of nothing' - the doctrine that God created the universe from nothing
Sabbath: The seventh day of rest; a holy day commanded by God

EXAM TIP
Questions often ask: 'What does the creation account teach about (a) the nature of God (b)
the nature of humanity (c) human responsibility.' Prepare points for each.

1.2 Nature of God

Attributes of God Revealed in the Pentateuch
• Omnipotent (all-powerful): God creates by word alone; performs miracles
• Omniscient (all-knowing): God knows Adam and Eve's sin before they confess
(Genesis 3)
• Omnipresent (everywhere): God walks in the garden; appears to Moses
• Holy: God is set apart from all evil; demands holiness from Israel
• Loving and merciful: God makes covenants; shows compassion
 • Just: God punishes sin but also delivers the righteous
• Personal: God speaks, hears, and responds to human beings
• Transcendent: God is above and beyond creation
• Immanent: God is present with and involved in human affairs

Names of God in the Pentateuch

Elohim: General name for God, used in the Priestly account (Genesis 1)
Yahweh (YHWH): The personal, covenant name of God, revealed to Moses at the burning
bush (Exodus 3:14: 'I AM WHO I AM')
El Shaddai: God Almighty - used in covenant with Abraham (Genesis 17:1)

1.3 Nature of Man

Human Dignity and Identity
• Created in God's image and likeness (Genesis 1:26-27)
• Given life directly by God: 'breathed into his nostrils the breath of life' (Genesis 2:7)
• Relational beings: it is not good for man to be alone (Genesis 2:18)
• Moral beings with free will: capable of obedience or disobedience
• Responsible stewards: given dominion over creation

The Fall (Genesis 3)

Adam and Eve disobey God by eating the forbidden fruit, tempted by the serpent.
Consequences of the Fall:
• Shame and guilt: awareness of nakedness
• Broken relationship with God: hiding from God
• Broken relationship with each other: blame-shifting
• Broken relationship with creation: toil, pain in childbirth, mortality
• Expulsion from the Garden of Eden

Cain and Abel (Genesis 4)

Cain murders his brother Abel out of jealousy when God accepts Abel's offering but not his.
This shows the spread of sin from the individual (Adam/Eve) to relationships between
people. God still shows mercy to Cain by placing a mark of protection on him.

1.4 The Theme of Salvation

The Flood (Genesis 6-9)
Humanity becomes utterly corrupt. God decides to send a flood to cleanse the earth. Noah is
chosen because he is righteous. Themes:
• God's judgment on sin and evil
• God's mercy in saving Noah and his family
• New beginning: after the flood, God makes a covenant with Noah (rainbow)
 • Human responsibility: Noah obeys God faithfully

Tower of Babel (Genesis 11)

Humanity tries to build a tower to reach heaven, demonstrating pride and self-sufficiency.
God confuses their language and scatters them across the earth. Teaches humility before
God.

Call of Abraham (Genesis 12)

God calls Abram (later Abraham) to leave his homeland and go to a land God will show him.
God promises to make him a great nation, bless him, and bless all peoples through him. This
marks the beginning of salvation history - God's plan to restore humanity through a chosen
people.

1.5 The Covenant and Election

Key Covenants in the Pentateuch
• Covenant with Noah (Genesis 9): God promises never to destroy the earth by flood
again. Sign: rainbow.
• Covenant with Abraham (Genesis 15, 17): God promises land, descendants, and
blessing. Sign: circumcision. Abraham believed God and it was credited to him as
righteousness.
• Covenant with Moses/Israel at Sinai (Exodus 19-24): God gives the Law (Ten
Commandments). Israel is God's chosen people. Sign: keeping the Sabbath.
Conditions: obedience to the Law.

Covenant (Berith): A solemn, binding agreement between God and his people, involving
promises and obligations
Election: God's choice of Israel as his special people, not because of their greatness but by
grace and love (Deuteronomy 7:7-8)
Circumcision: The physical sign of the Abrahamic covenant, marking membership in God's
covenant community

The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20)

The Decalogue (Ten Commandments) forms the core of the Mosaic covenant:
• Commandments 1-4: Duties toward God (no other gods, no idols, no misuse of God's
name, keep Sabbath)
• Commandments 5-10: Duties toward others (honour parents, no murder, no adultery,
no theft, no false witness, no coveting)

EXAM TIP
Be able to state the Ten Commandments, classify them (duties to God / duties to
neighbour), and explain their relevance to Christians and Ugandan society today.
1.6 Priesthood
The Levitical Priesthood
The tribe of Levi was set apart for priestly service. Aaron (brother of Moses) became the first
High Priest. Priests served as intermediaries between God and the people.

Functions of Priests in the Pentateuch

• Offering sacrifices (burnt offerings, sin offerings, peace offerings)
• Teaching the Law to the people
• Maintaining the Tabernacle (later Temple)
• Interceding for the people
• Declaring clean and unclean (Leviticus)

Tabernacle: The portable sanctuary built by Israel in the desert as a dwelling place for
God's presence
High Priest: The chief priest, the only one allowed to enter the Holy of Holies on the Day of
Atonement (Yom Kippur)
Atonement: Making amends for sin through sacrifice; restoring the relationship with God
 TOPIC 2: THEOCRACY IN ISRAEL

Theocracy means 'rule by God.' In ancient Israel, God was considered the supreme ruler
and king. The period of theocracy includes the time of the Judges, when Israel was
governed by charismatic leaders raised up by God.

2.1 Israel in the Time of Judges

Background
After Moses, Joshua led Israel into Canaan. After Joshua's death, Israel was ruled by
Judges - military and spiritual leaders chosen by God. The book of Judges shows a repeated
cycle:
• Israel sins and worships idols
• God allows enemies to oppress Israel
• Israel cries out to God
• God raises a Judge to deliver them
• Peace in the Judge's lifetime, then the cycle repeats

Key Judges
• Deborah: Female judge and prophetess; led Israel to victory over the Canaanites
with Barak (Judges 4-5)
• Gideon: Defeated the Midianites with just 300 men; refused to be king, saying 'God
will rule over you'
• Samson: Had supernatural strength; defeated the Philistines but was weakened by
his relationship with Delilah
• Samuel: Last of the judges and first of the prophets; anointed the first two kings of
Israel

Lessons from the Period of Judges

• Israel's repeated unfaithfulness and God's repeated mercy
• God uses weak and unlikely people to accomplish his purposes
• The danger of syncretism (mixing worship of Yahweh with worship of other gods)
• Leadership must be God-centred, not self-seeking

2.2 The Demand for a King (1 Samuel 8)

Israel demanded a king to be 'like other nations.' Samuel warned them of the dangers: a king
would take their sons for war, their daughters as servants, their land and produce. Despite
the warnings, Israel insisted. God told Samuel: 'they have not rejected you but they have
rejected me as their king.' This marked the transition from theocracy to monarchy.

Theocracy: A system of government in which God is regarded as the supreme ruler

Syncretism: The mixing or blending of different religious beliefs and practices
EXAM TIP
Explain why Israel's demand for a king was seen as a rejection of God. What are the
dangers of following the world's ways instead of God's?
 TOPIC 3: MONARCHISM IN ISRAEL

3.1 Saul - The First King

Saul was anointed first king of Israel by Samuel. He began well but disobeyed God by:
• Offering a sacrifice himself instead of waiting for Samuel (1 Samuel 13)
• Failing to destroy all the Amalekites and their possessions as commanded (1 Samuel
15)
Samuel declared: 'To obey is better than sacrifice' (1 Samuel 15:22). God rejected Saul as
king and the Spirit of God departed from him.

3.2 David - The Ideal King

Selection and Anointing
God sent Samuel to Jesse's family in Bethlehem. God said to Samuel: 'Man looks at the
outward appearance, but God looks at the heart.' David, the youngest and a shepherd, was
chosen and anointed.

Key Events in David's Reign

• Defeat of Goliath - faith in God, not weapons
• Established Jerusalem as the capital ('City of David')
• Brought the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem
• Desired to build God a temple - God said his son would build it instead
• Sin with Bathsheba and murder of Uriah (2 Samuel 11) - David abused power
• Nathan's parable confronts David; David repents (Psalm 51)

The Davidic Covenant (2 Samuel 7)

God made an everlasting covenant with David: his dynasty would endure forever. This is
significant because it forms the basis for the Messianic hope - the expectation of a greater
Son of David (Jesus Christ).

Davidic Covenant: God's promise to David that his throne and kingdom would be
established forever (2 Samuel 7:16)
Messianic Hope: The expectation of a future deliverer (Messiah/Christ) from David's
lineage

3.3 Solomon - The Wise King

Solomon's Wisdom
Solomon asked God for wisdom to govern the people. God was pleased and gave him
wisdom, as well as wealth and honour. Famous for the Judgment of the Two Mothers (1
Kings 3).
Building the Temple
Solomon built the magnificent Temple in Jerusalem as a permanent dwelling for God's
presence, replacing the Tabernacle. The Temple became the central place of worship for all
Israel.

Solomon's Failures
• Married many foreign wives who turned his heart to other gods (1 Kings 11)
• Built high places for foreign deities
• Heavy taxation and forced labour caused resentment
• After his death, the kingdom divided: Northern Kingdom (Israel) and Southern
Kingdom (Judah)

EXAM TIP
Compare and contrast Saul, David, and Solomon as kings. What qualities make a good
leader according to the Bible? What were their failures and what do we learn from them?
 TOPIC 4: PROPHETISM IN ISRAEL

Prophets were messengers of God, called to speak God's word to the people, challenge
injustice, call people to repentance, and announce future events. Prophecy was both
foretelling (predicting) and forthtelling (proclaiming God's message).

4.1 Nature and Role of the Prophets

Characteristics of a True Prophet
• Called directly by God (e.g., Moses at burning bush, Isaiah's vision, Jeremiah's call)
• Spoke God's word - 'Thus says the LORD'
• Message came true (Deuteronomy 18:22)
• Led people toward Yahweh, not away from him
• Willing to suffer for the message

Functions of Prophets
• Moral watchdogs: condemning sin, injustice, and corruption
• Political advisors: speaking truth to power/kings
• Social justice: defending the poor, widow, orphan
• Covenant enforcement: reminding Israel of its obligations
• Announcing judgment (doom) and hope (salvation)

4.2 Key Old Testament Prophets

Amos - Prophet of Social Justice
Amos was a shepherd from Tekoa. He prophesied to the Northern Kingdom (Israel) during a
time of prosperity. He condemned:
• Economic exploitation of the poor (selling the poor for silver, Amos 2:6)
• Corruption in the courts
• Religious hypocrisy - elaborate worship without justice
• Famous verse: 'Let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing
stream' (Amos 5:24)

Hosea - Prophet of God's Love

Hosea married Gomer who was unfaithful. His marriage became a symbol of God's
relationship with Israel. Despite Israel's unfaithfulness (spiritual adultery - worshipping other
gods), God's love remains. Key themes:
• God's steadfast love (hesed) for unfaithful Israel
• Call to repentance and return to God
• Promise of restoration
Isaiah - The Messianic Prophet
Isaiah had a vision of God's holiness in the Temple (Isaiah 6). He prophesied to both Israel
and Judah. Key themes:
• God's holiness and majesty
• Judgment on Israel and surrounding nations
• The coming of the Messiah: 'A virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will
call him Immanuel' (Isaiah 7:14)
• The Suffering Servant (Isaiah 52-53) - interpreted by Christians as a prophecy of
Jesus Christ
• A future peaceful kingdom (Isaiah 11:6 - 'wolf will live with the lamb')

Jeremiah - The Weeping Prophet

Jeremiah prophesied during the fall of Jerusalem to Babylon. He suffered greatly for his
message and was often rejected and persecuted.
• Called before birth (Jeremiah 1:5)
• Announced God's judgment: Babylon would conquer Judah
• Announced the New Covenant (Jeremiah 31:31-34): God would write his law on
hearts, not stone tablets
• Laments and confessions show his humanity and inner struggle

Hesed: Hebrew word for God's steadfast, loyal, covenant love - used frequently by Hosea
New Covenant: Jeremiah's prophecy of a future covenant where God's law is written on
hearts, not stone - fulfilled in Christ
Suffering Servant: A figure in Isaiah 52-53 who suffers on behalf of others - Christians see
this as fulfilled in Jesus

EXAM TIP
Be ready to discuss: (a) the social justice message of Amos and its relevance to Uganda
today, (b) the meaning of the New Covenant, (c) the Messianic prophecies of Isaiah.
 TOPIC 5: WISDOM LITERATURE

Wisdom Literature refers to books of the Bible that reflect on the meaning of life, suffering,
morality, and proper living. These include Psalms, Proverbs, Job, Ecclesiastes, and Song of
Songs.

5.1 The Psalms

The book of Psalms is a collection of 150 songs and prayers, many attributed to David.
Types of Psalms:
• Praise Psalms (Hymns): Celebrate God's greatness (Psalm 8, 100, 150)
• Lament Psalms: Cries to God in suffering (Psalm 22, 51)
• Thanksgiving Psalms: Thank God for deliverance (Psalm 30)
• Royal Psalms: About the king and Messianic hope (Psalm 2, 110)
• Wisdom Psalms: Teach about righteous living (Psalm 1, 37)

5.2 The Book of Job

Story Summary
Job is a righteous man who suffers greatly - loses his wealth, children, and health. His three
friends (Eliphaz, Bildad, Zophar) argue that he must have sinned to deserve such suffering
(the traditional view of retributive justice). Job protests his innocence. God appears in a
whirlwind and challenges Job with questions about creation. Job's faith is vindicated, and
God restores his fortunes.

Key Themes in Job

• The problem of suffering: Why do innocent people suffer?
• Rejection of simplistic retribution theology: Not all suffering is punishment for sin
• Integrity and faith in the face of suffering
• God's sovereignty and the limits of human understanding
• The role of Satan as an accuser (in the heavenly court, not an enemy of God per se)

5.3 Proverbs
Proverbs is a collection of wise sayings, largely attributed to Solomon. Key themes:
• Fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 1:7)
• Practical wisdom for daily life: family, work, speech, money
• The contrast between the wise and the foolish
• Personification of Wisdom as a woman (Proverbs 8)

Wisdom (Hokhmah): The Hebrew concept of wisdom - skill in living rightly, beginning with
reverence for God
Retributive Justice: The belief that good deeds bring rewards and evil deeds bring
punishment - challenged by Job

EXAM TIP
Job is a key text. Be able to explain the problem of suffering as raised in Job, the
inadequacy of the friends' answers, and what God's answer from the whirlwind means.
 TOPIC 6: THE PRE-GOSPEL PERIOD

The Pre-Gospel period refers to the era between the end of the Old Testament and the
beginning of Jesus' ministry. It covers approximately 400 years (known as the 'silent years'
in terms of canonical scripture) and the historical and religious context of first-century
Judaism.

6.1 Historical Background

• After exile in Babylon, Jews returned to Palestine under Persian rule
• Hellenistic period: Alexander the Great spread Greek culture (Hellenism)
• Maccabean revolt (167-164 BC): Jews resisted forced Hellenization under Antiochus
IV
• Roman rule began in 63 BC; Palestine was under Roman occupation during Jesus'
life

6.2 Religious Groups in First-Century Judaism

Pharisees: Strict observers of the Law; believed in resurrection, oral tradition, and
synagogue worship; major opponents of Jesus
Sadducees: Priestly aristocracy; accepted only the Pentateuch; denied resurrection;
collaborated with Rome
Scribes: Experts in the Law (Torah); copied and interpreted scripture
Zealots: Jewish nationalists who advocated armed resistance against Roman occupation
Essenes: A monastic group (possibly connected to Qumran/Dead Sea Scrolls) who
separated from society to live purely
Samaritans: Mixed-race people (Jews and Assyrians) despised by orthodox Jews;
worshipped at Mt. Gerizim not Jerusalem

6.3 Oral Tradition and the Preservation of Jesus' Teachings

Before the Gospels were written (c. AD 65-100), the stories and teachings of Jesus were
passed on through oral tradition - memorized and repeated in early Christian communities.
Forms included:
• Kerygma: the core proclamation of the Gospel message
• Didache: teaching/instruction for new believers
• Parousia: stories told in worship settings
• Pronouncement stories: accounts that climax in a memorable saying of Jesus

6.4 Religious Expectations and Messianic Hope

Jews expected God to send a Messiah (Anointed One) who would:
• Restore David's kingdom
 • Defeat the Romans and foreign oppressors
• Bring in the Kingdom of God
Jesus fulfilled these hopes in unexpected ways - as a suffering servant, not a military king.

EXAM TIP
Be able to explain why the Jewish religious groups (Pharisees, Sadducees, etc.) opposed
Jesus. Also explain the significance of oral tradition for the formation of the Gospels.
 TOPIC 7: THE GOSPELS

The word 'Gospel' means 'Good News.' The four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John)
present the life, teaching, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The syllabus focuses on
Mark and John.

7.1 The Gospel of Mark

Overview
• Written c. AD 65-70, likely the earliest Gospel
• Author: traditionally John Mark, companion of Peter and Paul
• Audience: Roman Christians facing persecution
• Key theme: Jesus as the Son of God and Suffering Servant
• Characterized by urgency ('immediately/straightaway' used frequently)

Key Events in Mark

• Baptism of Jesus (Mark 1:9-11): Heavenly voice declares 'You are my Son, whom I
love'
• Temptation in the desert (Mark 1:12-13)
• Calling of the disciples (Mark 1:16-20)
• Healing of the paralytic - Jesus forgives sins (Mark 2:1-12)
• Stilling the storm - Jesus commands nature (Mark 4:35-41)
• Feeding of 5,000 (Mark 6:30-44)
• Transfiguration (Mark 9:2-13): Peter, James and John see Jesus' glory
• Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem (Mark 11:1-11)
• Institution of the Lord's Supper (Mark 14:22-26)
• Gethsemane, arrest, trial, crucifixion, and resurrection

Key Miracles in Mark

• Exorcism in the synagogue (Mark 1:21-28)
• Healing of Simon's mother-in-law
• Cleansing of a man with leprosy
• Healing of Jairus' daughter and the woman with bleeding (Mark 5)
• Walking on water (Mark 6:45-52)

Key Parables in Mark

• The Sower (Mark 4:1-20) - different responses to the word of God
• The Mustard Seed (Mark 4:30-32) - the Kingdom of God starts small but grows
• The Tenants (Mark 12:1-12) - God's judgment on Israel's leaders
The Messianic Secret
A distinctive feature of Mark: Jesus repeatedly tells those he heals or demons he exorcises
to be silent about his identity. This is called the Messianic Secret (Wrede's term). Possible
reasons:
• Jesus did not want to be seen as a political/military Messiah
• True understanding of his identity comes through the cross
• The disciples' full understanding comes after the resurrection

7.2 The Gospel of John

Overview
• Written c. AD 90-100, the latest of the four Gospels
• Author: traditionally John the Apostle (the 'Beloved Disciple')
• Audience: possibly Christians in Ephesus facing Gnostic challenges
• Key theme: Jesus as the eternal Word (Logos), the Son of God
• Very different in style from the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke)

The Prologue (John 1:1-18)

John begins with 'In the beginning was the Word' - the Logos (Word) was with God and was
God. The Word became flesh (Incarnation) in Jesus Christ. This establishes Jesus' pre-
existence and divine nature.

The Seven Signs in John

• Water into wine at Cana (John 2) - glory revealed
• Healing of the official's son (John 4)
• Healing of the paralytic at Bethesda (John 5)
• Feeding of 5,000 (John 6)
• Walking on water (John 6)
• Healing of the man born blind (John 9)
• Raising of Lazarus (John 11) - 'I am the resurrection and the life'

The Seven 'I AM' Sayings

• I am the Bread of Life (John 6:35)
• I am the Light of the World (John 8:12)
• I am the Gate/Door (John 10:7)
• I am the Good Shepherd (John 10:11)
• I am the Resurrection and the Life (John 11:25)
• I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6)
• I am the True Vine (John 15:1)
Key Discourses in John
• Jesus and Nicodemus (John 3): born again/from above; God so loved the world
(John 3:16)
• Jesus and the Samaritan Woman (John 4): living water; worship in spirit and truth;
Jesus crosses racial and gender barriers

Logos: Greek for 'Word' - John uses it to describe Jesus as the divine reason/creative
power through whom all things were made
Incarnation: The doctrine that God the Son took on human flesh in Jesus Christ ('The Word
became flesh')
Signs: John's term for Jesus' miracles - they point beyond themselves to reveal Jesus'
identity and glory

EXAM TIP
Know the differences between Mark and John. Mark: action-focused, miracles, short
sayings, Messianic Secret. John: long discourses, I AM sayings, signs, theological
reflection. Be able to discuss specific events in detail.
 TOPIC 8: THE EPISTLES

The Epistles are letters written to early Christian communities. The syllabus focuses on
Paul's letters: Romans, 1 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1 & 2
Thessalonians, Philemon, and the Pastoral Epistles (1 & 2 Timothy, Titus).

8.1 Paul's Background and Conversion

• Born in Tarsus; educated under Gamaliel in Jerusalem; a zealous Pharisee
• Persecuted early Christians; present at Stephen's stoning (Acts 7)
• Dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus (Acts 9): vision of the risen Jesus,
temporary blindness, baptism
• Became the greatest missionary of the early church, making three missionary
journeys

8.2 Key Themes in Paul's Letters

Justification by Faith (Romans and Galatians)
Central to Paul's theology: a person is declared righteous before God not by keeping the
Law but by faith in Jesus Christ. Key points:
• All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23)
• The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life (Romans 6:23)
• We are justified by faith, not by works of the Law (Galatians 2:16)
• Abraham was justified by faith, not circumcision - he is father of all who believe
(Romans 4)

Grace
Grace (Charis): God's undeserved love and favour; salvation is a gift, not earned - 'For by
grace you have been saved through faith' (Ephesians 2:8)

The Body of Christ and Spiritual Gifts (1 Corinthians 12)

The church is one body with many members, each with different gifts from the Holy Spirit:
• Gifts: wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, miraculous powers, prophecy, speaking in
tongues, interpretation
• All gifts are given for the common good, not personal glory
• Love is greater than all gifts (1 Corinthians 13)

The Resurrection (1 Corinthians 15)

• If Christ has not been raised, faith is futile (1 Corinthians 15:17)
• Christ is the 'firstfruits' of the resurrection
• Christians will also be resurrected with glorified bodies
 • 'Death is swallowed up in victory' (1 Corinthians 15:54)

The Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23)

Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. These
grow from living by the Spirit, in contrast to the works of the flesh.

Christian Living in Ephesians

• Unity in the body of Christ across racial and social divisions
• The armour of God (Ephesians 6:10-18): belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness,
shield of faith, helmet of salvation, sword of the Spirit
• Husbands and wives: mutual submission, love sacrificially (Ephesians 5)
• Children and parents: obey parents; fathers do not exasperate children

Humility and Service (Philippians 2)

The famous Christ Hymn (Philippians 2:5-11): Christ, though divine, humbled himself by
becoming human and dying on the cross. Therefore God exalted him. Christians are called
to have the same attitude of humility and service.

Philemon - Letter on Slavery

Paul writes to Philemon asking him to receive back his runaway slave Onesimus, now a
fellow Christian, as 'a dear brother' (Philemon 1:16). This letter has been used in discussions
about Paul's view on slavery - he does not directly condemn the institution but appeals to
Christian brotherhood as a transforming principle.

Justification: Being declared righteous/innocent before God; the legal term Paul uses for
salvation
Sanctification: The ongoing process of being made holy by the Holy Spirit
Parousia: Greek word for the second coming of Christ, a major theme in 1 & 2
Thessalonians

EXAM TIP
Key exam areas in Epistles: (1) Justification by faith vs works - be very clear on what Paul
argues in Romans and Galatians. (2) The body of Christ and spiritual gifts. (3) The
resurrection in 1 Corinthians 15. (4) Christian ethics in daily life.
 PART B: CHRISTIAN APPROACHES TO SOCIAL
AND ETHICAL ISSUES

TOPIC 9: SEX AND SEXUALITY

9.1 Christian Teaching on Human Sexuality

Creation and Sexuality
God created human beings as sexual beings - 'male and female he created them' (Genesis
1:27). Sexuality is a good gift from God, not something shameful. The Song of Songs
celebrates physical love between a man and woman.

Biblical Standards for Sexuality

• Sex is intended for marriage between a man and a woman
• Sexual union creates 'one flesh' - a profound spiritual and physical bond (Genesis
2:24)
• Paul teaches that the body is a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)
• Sexual immorality (porneia) is condemned throughout the New Testament

Issues in Contemporary Sexuality

Fornication (Sex before marriage)
• Christian view: sex belongs within marriage; premarital sex violates God's design
• Traditional African view: strongly opposes it; virginity before marriage is valued
• Secular view: acceptable between consenting adults

Adultery
• Condemned in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:14)
• Jesus deepened the definition: looking with lust is adultery in the heart (Matthew
5:28)
• Destroys marriage, family, trust

Homosexuality
• Traditional Christian and African view: not in accordance with God's design (Genesis
1-2; Romans 1:26-27; 1 Corinthians 6:9)
• The debate continues in some denominations between 'traditional' and 'revisionist'
interpretations
• All humans, regardless of sexual orientation, are to be treated with dignity
Sexual Abuse, Rape, and Gender-Based Violence
• Strongly condemned as violations of human dignity
• The Bible condemns exploitation and oppression
• Victims deserve justice, compassion, and care

HIV/AIDS
• Not a punishment from God - Christians are called to show compassion
• Prevention through faithfulness in marriage, abstinence before marriage
• The church has a role in education, support, and reducing stigma

Chastity: Sexual purity - abstaining from sexual activity outside of marriage

Porneia: Greek word translated as sexual immorality; includes fornication, adultery, and
other sexual sins

EXAM TIP
Questions on sex and sexuality often ask you to compare Christian, traditional African, and
secular views. Always give the Christian biblical basis, then contrast with other
perspectives.
 TOPIC 10: MARRIAGE

10.1 The Nature and Purpose of Christian Marriage

Biblical Basis
• Instituted by God at creation: 'a man shall leave his father and mother and be united
to his wife' (Genesis 2:24)
• Marriage is a covenant, not just a contract - a solemn, life-long commitment
• Jesus affirmed marriage as between one man and one woman and condemned
divorce (Mark 10:6-9)
• Paul compares marriage to the relationship between Christ and the church
(Ephesians 5:22-33)

Purposes of Marriage
• Companionship and mutual support: 'it is not good for man to be alone'
• Procreation: 'be fruitful and multiply'
• Sexual satisfaction within a faithful relationship: prevention of immorality
• Reflection of God's love: husband's love for wife should mirror Christ's love for the
church

10.2 Types of Marriage

• Christian marriage: monogamous, before God in the church
• Civil marriage: legal union before the state
• Traditional African marriage: includes bride price (bride wealth), often extended
family involved
• Polygamy: having multiple wives; practiced in some African cultures and in the Old
Testament (Abraham, David, Solomon)

Christian Views on Polygamy

• Most churches oppose it on the basis of Genesis 2 (one man + one woman) and NT
teaching (bishop must be 'husband of one wife' - 1 Timothy 3:2)
• Some argue the OT did not condemn it outright
• Practical concerns: jealousy, inequality, effect on children

10.3 Divorce and Remarriage

• Jesus' teaching: 'What God has joined together, let no one separate' (Mark 10:9)
• Matthew adds the 'exception clause': divorce permissible in case of marital
unfaithfulness (Matthew 5:32)
• Paul: a believer may separate if an unbelieving spouse leaves (1 Corinthians 7:15)
• Catholic Church: marriage is indissoluble; annulments rather than divorce
 • Protestant Churches: generally allow divorce in cases of adultery, abuse,
abandonment

10.4 Bride Price (Bride Wealth)

In many African cultures, the groom's family pays cattle, money, or goods to the bride's
family. Different perspectives:
• Traditional view: shows value and respect for the woman; seals the marriage
agreement between families
• Christian concern: can lead to treating women as property; can be a barrier to
marriage for poor men
• Modern view: should be a symbol of appreciation, not a commercial transaction
EXAM TIP
Common exam question: 'Discuss the Christian teaching on divorce.' Use biblical
references. Also: 'What is the Christian view of polygamy?' Compare with traditional African
and secular views.
 TOPIC 11: FAMILY LIFE

11.1 The Christian Family

Biblical Foundation
• Family is the basic unit of society, established by God
• The commandment to honour father and mother (Exodus 20:12)
• Psalm 128: children are a blessing from the Lord
• Proverbs 22:6: 'Train up a child in the way he should go'
• Ephesians 6:1-4: children obey parents; fathers bring children up in godly instruction

Roles in the Family

• Husband/Father: provider, protector, spiritual leader, loving servant-leader
• Wife/Mother: partner, nurturer, equal dignity but different role (Proverbs 31 describes
the virtuous wife)
• Children: obedience, honour, and learning

11.2 Challenges to Family Life

• Poverty: economic pressure, inability to provide basic needs
• HIV/AIDS: orphans, single-parent families, stigma
• Domestic violence and abuse: condemned by Christian ethics
• Urbanisation: family members separated, weakening of extended family
• Modern media influence on children
• Teenage pregnancy and single parenthood

11.3 Extended Family and African Traditions

• African concept of family includes grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins - the
extended family
• Ubuntu philosophy: 'I am because we are' - communal identity
• Elders are respected custodians of wisdom and tradition
• Clan system provides identity, support, and social security

11.4 The Role of the Church in Supporting Families

• Marriage preparation and counselling
• Children's and youth ministries
• Support for widows, orphans, and vulnerable families
• Addressing domestic violence with biblical principles of dignity and justice
 TOPIC 12: WORK

12.1 Biblical Teaching on Work

Work as Part of God's Design
• Before the Fall: Adam was given work - to 'till and keep' the garden (Genesis 2:15)
• Work is a dignity, not a punishment
• After the Fall: work became toilsome (Genesis 3:17-19) but remains meaningful
• God himself is portrayed as a worker: creator, sustainer

New Testament Teaching on Work

• Paul: 'If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat' (2 Thessalonians 3:10)
• Colossians 3:23: 'Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men'
• Ephesians 4:28: 'Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labour, doing honest
work'
• Jesus was a carpenter; most disciples were fishermen - ordinary workers

12.2 Issues Related to Work

Unemployment
• A major challenge in Uganda; causes poverty, frustration, crime
• Christian response: compassion, job creation, advocacy for justice

Child Labour
• Condemned as it deprives children of education and childhood
• Common in Uganda's agriculture and domestic work
• Churches advocate for children's rights

Business Ethics
• Honesty and fair dealing: 'Do not use dishonest standards when measuring'
(Leviticus 19:35)
• Fair wages: 'The labourer deserves his wages' (Luke 10:7)
• Exploitation condemned: Amos condemns those who cheat the poor

Traditional African View of Work

• Work is communal - done together for the benefit of the community
• Every type of work has dignity
• Elder members of society are respected for their lifetime of work
 TOPIC 13: LEISURE

13.1 The Christian View of Leisure

Biblical Basis
• The Sabbath principle: God rested on the seventh day (Genesis 2:2-3), establishing
the pattern of work and rest
• Jesus withdrew to pray and rest (Mark 1:35; 6:31)
• Leisure is a gift from God; rest is necessary for human flourishing
• Ecclesiastes: 'There is a time for everything' (3:1-8) - including leisure

Positive Uses of Leisure

• Prayer and worship
• Family time and building relationships
• Sport and physical exercise (Paul uses athletic metaphors: 'run the race')
• Creative arts, music, reading
• Community service and volunteering

13.2 Misuse of Leisure

• Alcohol and substance abuse: 'Do not get drunk with wine' (Ephesians 5:18)
• Gambling: encourages greed and exploitation
• Pornography: corrupts the mind and degrades human dignity
• Idleness: the sluggard in Proverbs is condemned
• Television/social media addiction

13.3 Sport and the Christian

• Physical exercise has some value (1 Timothy 4:8 - 'physical training is of some
value')
• Paul uses athletic metaphors: running the race, fighting the good fight (1 Corinthians
9:24-27)
• Sport can build community, discipline, teamwork, and character
• Concerns: excessive competition, idolatry of sport, violence, corruption
 TOPIC 14: MONEY AND WEALTH

14.1 Biblical Teaching on Money and Wealth

Wealth as a Blessing
• Old Testament: prosperity is often seen as God's blessing (Abraham, Solomon were
wealthy)
• Deuteronomy 28: obedience to God leads to material blessings
• Proverbs: hard work leads to prosperity

Dangers of Wealth
• The love of money is the root of all evil (1 Timothy 6:10) - not money itself, but the
love of it
• Jesus: 'You cannot serve both God and money (Mammon)' (Matthew 6:24)
• The Rich Young Ruler (Mark 10:17-22): riches can be a barrier to the Kingdom
• Parable of the Rich Fool (Luke 12): accumulating wealth without regard for God or
others
• Amos: wealthy who oppress the poor face God's judgment

Christian Duty Regarding Wealth

• Stewardship: wealth belongs to God; we are managers, not owners
• Generosity and sharing: 'Give, and it will be given to you' (Luke 6:38)
• Zacchaeus (Luke 19): converted, gave half his possessions to the poor
• Early church: sharing with those in need (Acts 2:44-45)
• Tithing: giving 10% of income to God (Malachi 3:10)

14.2 Poverty and Christian Response

• Jesus: 'Blessed are the poor in spirit' (Matthew 5:3); identification with the poor
• Preferential option for the poor: liberation theology perspective
• Isaiah: caring for the poor is true worship (Isaiah 58:6-7)
• Churches run schools, hospitals, food programs for the poor

Stewardship: The responsible management of resources that belong to God

Tithing: Giving a tenth of one's income to God and the church

EXAM TIP
Common question: 'What does the Bible teach about the dangers of wealth?' Also: 'How
should Christians use their money?' Use specific biblical examples: the Rich Young Ruler,
Zacchaeus, the Rich Fool, Paul in 1 Timothy 6.
 TOPIC 15: LAW, CRIME AND PUNISHMENT

15.1 The Concept of Law

Biblical Basis for Law
• God is the source of law and justice (Deuteronomy 4:8)
• The Mosaic Law (Torah) governed all areas of Israelite life: moral, ceremonial, civil
• Jesus: 'I did not come to abolish the Law but to fulfil it' (Matthew 5:17)
• The Two Great Commandments: Love God with all your heart; Love your neighbour
as yourself (Mark 12:28-31)
• Paul: the Law is a 'tutor/schoolmaster' that leads us to Christ (Galatians 3:24)
• Natural law: God's moral law written on the hearts of all people (Romans 2:15)

Civil Law and the Christian

• Romans 13:1-7: Christians should submit to governing authorities, which are
ordained by God
• Acts 5:29: 'We must obey God rather than human beings' - when law contradicts
God's law
• Christians pay taxes (Jesus: 'Give to Caesar what is Caesar's' - Mark 12:17)

15.2 Crime
Causes of Crime
• Poverty and inequality
• Moral breakdown and lack of religious values
• Peer pressure and bad company
• Corruption and injustice in society
• Drug and alcohol abuse

Common Crimes
• Corruption: abuse of public trust; condemned in Proverbs; the prophets condemn
unjust judges
• Murder: condemned in the Ten Commandments; Cain and Abel
• Theft: condemned; Paul says the thief should work honestly (Ephesians 4:28)
• Bribery: condemned in Exodus 23:8; destroys justice

15.3 Punishment
Purposes of Punishment
• Retribution: the wrongdoer receives what they deserve
• Deterrence: discourages others from committing crime
 • Rehabilitation: restoring the offender to a law-abiding life
• Protection of society

Capital Punishment
• Old Testament: 'eye for an eye' (Lex Talionis) - proportionate punishment; death
penalty for murder (Genesis 9:6)
• Jesus: 'eye for an eye' was a limit on revenge, not a command; he calls for
forgiveness
• Some Christians support capital punishment for heinous crimes on basis of Genesis
9:6 and Romans 13
• Others oppose it: sanctity of life, possibility of wrongful conviction, rehabilitation

Forgiveness and Justice

• Christianity holds forgiveness and justice together
• God is just and punishes sin; God is merciful and forgives the repentant
• The cross: God's justice and mercy meet in Jesus' death
• Christians are called to forgive (Matthew 18:21-22: forgive 'seventy times seven')
 TOPIC 16: THE STATE AND THE CITIZEN

16.1 Christian Teaching on the State

The Role of Government
• Government is ordained by God for the good of society (Romans 13:1-7)
• The state's role: maintain order, punish evil, reward good
• Jesus acknowledged the legitimate authority of the state: 'Render to Caesar the
things that are Caesar's' (Mark 12:17)
• Peter: 'Submit yourselves for the Lord's sake to every human authority' (1 Peter 2:13)

When to Disobey the State

• When the state commands what God forbids, Christians must obey God (Acts 5:29)
• Examples: Daniel and his friends refusing to worship idols; Peter and John preaching
despite orders to stop
• The Book of Revelation uses Rome ('Babylon') as a symbol of a corrupt, oppressive
state
• Dietrich Bonhoeffer: a Christian who resisted Hitler, showing civil disobedience

16.2 Democracy and Good Governance

• Democracy: government by the people; protects rights and freedoms
• Christians support democracy as it respects human dignity (all made in God's image)
• Good governance: accountability, transparency, rule of law, servant leadership
• Corruption is a major challenge; Christians are called to be salt and light in society
(Matthew 5:13-14)

16.3 Human Rights

• Based on Imago Dei: every person has dignity and rights by virtue of being made in
God's image
• Right to life, liberty, equality, education, health, expression
• The church advocates for human rights, especially for the vulnerable
• Christian concern: some human rights claims conflict with Christian ethics (e.g.,
sexual rights debates)

16.4 Civic Responsibility of Christians

• Vote and participate in governance
• Pay taxes honestly
• Speak out against injustice (prophetic role)
• Serve in public office with integrity
• Pray for leaders (1 Timothy 2:1-2)
 TOPIC 17: INTERNATIONAL ORDER

17.1 Biblical Vision for International Peace

• Isaiah's vision: nations will 'beat their swords into ploughshares' (Isaiah 2:4)
• Jesus: 'Blessed are the peacemakers' (Matthew 5:9)
• Paul: 'If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone'
(Romans 12:18)
• The Great Commission: Jesus sends disciples to all nations (Matthew 28:19) - a
universal, international vision

17.2 War and Peace

Just War Theory
Developed by Augustine and Aquinas; criteria for a 'just war':
• Must be declared by a legitimate authority
• Must have a just cause (e.g., self-defence, protecting innocents)
• Must be a last resort after all peaceful means have failed
• Proportionality: the harm caused must not exceed the good achieved
• Non-combatants (civilians) must not be targeted

Pacifism
• The view that all war is wrong; some Christians (Mennonites, Quakers) hold this view
• Based on Jesus' teaching: 'Love your enemies'; 'Turn the other cheek'
• Jesus did not use violence in Gethsemane ('put your sword back' - Matthew 26:52)

17.3 Terrorism and Violence

• Christian condemnation: terrorism kills innocents; violates all principles of love and
justice
• Root causes: injustice, poverty, religious extremism, political oppression
• Christian response: address root causes, advocate for justice, pray for peace, refuse
to dehumanize the enemy

17.4 International Organisations

• United Nations (UN): promotes peace, human rights, development
• African Union (AU): promotes peace and unity on the African continent
• World Council of Churches (WCC): promotes Christian unity and global justice
• Christian NGOs (e.g., World Vision, Caritas, UNICEF partnerships): promote
development
17.5 Racism and Tribalism
• Condemned by the Bible: God 'does not show favouritism' (Acts 10:34); in Christ
'there is neither Jew nor Greek' (Galatians 3:28)
• Tribalism is a major challenge in Uganda and Africa
• Christians are called to be a community that transcends ethnic and tribal divisions
• The church as a model of reconciliation: 'ministry of reconciliation' (2 Corinthians
5:18-19)

Just War Theory: A framework of criteria to determine when going to war is morally
justifiable
Pacifism: The belief that war and all forms of violence are morally unjustifiable
Reconciliation: Restoring broken relationships; a key theme in Paul's letters and relevant to
international relations

EXAM TIP
Topics 15-17 often feature questions like: 'Discuss the Christian view on the use of
force/war.' Know Just War Theory and be able to contrast with pacifism. For Topic 17, know
what the church does to promote international peace.
EXAM SKILLS AND REVISION GUIDE

How to Answer UACE Divinity Questions

Essay Questions
• Plan before you write: jot down 5-6 key points
• Introduction: define key terms and outline your argument
• Body: develop each point with biblical references and examples
• Compare views: Christian, traditional African, secular/modern
• Evaluation: assess the strengths and weaknesses of different views
• Conclusion: summarise your main argument clearly

Key Comparison Areas (Frequent Exam Topics)

• Christian vs African Traditional Religion (ATR) on: marriage, family, death, God
• Old Testament vs New Testament on: law, sacrifice, covenant
• Mark vs John: structure, themes, portrayal of Jesus
• Old vs New curriculum: the new curriculum emphasises applying knowledge to real-
life scenarios

Top Biblical Passages to Know

• Genesis 1-3 (Creation and Fall)
• Exodus 20 (Ten Commandments)
• 2 Samuel 7 (Davidic Covenant)
• Jeremiah 31:31-34 (New Covenant)
• Isaiah 52-53 (Suffering Servant)
• Amos 5:24 (Justice)
• Mark 1, 4, 5, 9, 10, 14-16
• John 1:1-18, 3, 4, 6, 11, 14-15
• Romans 3-6, 13
• 1 Corinthians 12-15
• Galatians 3, 5
• Ephesians 5-6
• Matthew 5-7 (Sermon on the Mount)
• Romans 12:18; Isaiah 2:4 (peace)

FINAL NOTE
The new NCDC/UNEB curriculum (2025) uses a competency-based approach. This means
questions will ask you to APPLY knowledge to real situations, not just recall facts. Practice
answering questions like: 'How should a Christian respond to...' or 'What guidance does the
Bible give for...' Always connect the biblical teaching to modern Ugandan/African contexts.
 END OF NOTES
Based on NCDC Advanced Secondary CRE Syllabus, Uganda 2025