WAEC Christian Religious Studies (CRS) 2021 Theory — Question 1

Model answer

(a) Contributions of Cyrus to the return of the Jews from exile (Ezra 1:1-11): In 539 BC, Cyrus, king of Persia, defeated Babylon and took control of the Babylonian empire. In the first year of his reign, God inspired Cyrus to pass a decree to return the Jews to Jerusalem, fulfilling the prophecy of Jeremiah. Cyrus acknowledged that God made him ruler and that he should see to the rebuilding of the temple. He declared that whoever was among God's people should return and rebuild the temple. He asked that returnees be given silver, gold, material goods and freewill offerings for the rebuilding. He also returned the vessels of gold and silver taken from the temple by Nebuchadnezzar, counted and handed to Sheshbazzar, who was appointed to lead the returnees. (b) Measures a nation can take to prevent God's wrath: i. Avoid sinful acts/live a righteous life. ii. Avoid worshipping other gods/idolatry. iii. Be obedient to God. (Also: provision for the needy and marginalized, ensure fairness and justice, confess and repent from sin, avoid sexual immorality.)