JAMB UTME - Christian Religious Studies - 2023

The Babylonian Exile was a consequence of the Israelites' disobedience to God and their social injustices. The Bible records that the Israelites had turned away from God and were worshipping idols, and their society was marked by injustice and oppression. God allowed the Babylonians to conquer them as a punishment for their sins.

The apostle who famously doubted Jesus' resurrection until he saw the wounds in His hands and side was Thomas.

Thomas, also known as "Doubting Thomas," was one of the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus. After Jesus was crucified, the other apostles told Thomas that they had seen Jesus alive. However, Thomas found it hard to believe their account and said, "Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe."

It was only when Jesus appeared before Thomas and invited him to touch His wounds that Thomas believed. Jesus told Thomas, "Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe."

This incident highlights Thomas' doubting nature and the need for physical evidence to believe in Jesus' resurrection. However, Jesus also gently rebuked Thomas, saying, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."

Thomas' doubt eventually transformed into unwavering faith. After seeing Jesus and His wounds, Thomas exclaimed, "My Lord and my God!" This encounter reinforced the reality of Jesus' resurrection and strengthened Thomas' belief in Him.

According to the Bible, Jesus ascended into heaven 40 days after his resurrection.

After Jesus was crucified, he rose from the dead on the third day. He then spent some time appearing to his disciples and others, to prove to them that he was alive. During these appearances, he taught them about the Kingdom of God.

On the fortieth day after his resurrection, Jesus led his disciples to the Mount of Olives. While they were there, he blessed them and then ascended into heaven. This event is often referred to as the Ascension.

After Jesus ascended, the disciples were filled with joyful hope and eagerly waited for the promised Holy Spirit, which was sent to them on the day of Pentecost, which is 50 days after the resurrection.

So, the correct answer is 40 days.