The WAEC Christian Religious Studies (CRS) exam tests your knowledge of Christian teachings, the Bible, and the ethical principles that guide Christian life. The 2025/2026 session will assess your understanding of key biblical stories, characters, doctrines, and moral teachings. To excel in the exam, you need to focus on the highly repeated topics and practice past questions. This guide provides you with everything you need to prepare effectively.
Overview of the WAEC CRS Exam
The WAEC CRS exam consists of two main sections:
- Theory Section: This includes essay-type questions based on biblical stories, teachings of Jesus Christ, and the moral and ethical teachings in Christianity.
- Objective Section: Multiple-choice questions based on the facts of Christianity, Bible knowledge, and key figures and events in Christian history.
Exam Structure:
- Theory (2 hours): Essay questions covering various aspects of Christianity, including the teachings of Jesus, Old and New Testament stories, and Christian ethics.
- Objective (1 hour): Multiple-choice questions testing basic knowledge of Christian teachings, Bible stories, and ethics.
Highly Repeated Topics in WAEC CRS (2025/2026)
Based on trends from previous exams, the following topics have been frequently tested in the WAEC CRS exam. Focusing on these areas will help you improve your chances of success.
1. The Life and Teachings of Jesus Christ
- Birth and Early Life of Jesus:
- Nativity story: The birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, the role of Mary and Joseph.
- Visit of the Magi: The significance of the Wise Men and their gifts.
- Ministry of Jesus:
- Preaching the Kingdom of God: Key teachings and parables of Jesus (e.g., the Good Samaritan, Prodigal Son).
- Miracles: Healing the sick, raising the dead, feeding the 5,000.
- Sermon on the Mount: Key teachings, such as the Beatitudes and the Lord's Prayer.
- Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus:
- Crucifixion: The events leading to Jesus' crucifixion and his death on the cross.
- Resurrection: The significance of Jesus’ resurrection for Christians.
2. Old Testament Characters and Stories
- Creation Story:
- The creation of the world in six days and the role of Adam and Eve in the fall of man.
- Patriarchs:
- Abraham: God's covenant with Abraham and the significance of Isaac's birth.
- Moses: His role in leading the Israelites out of Egypt, the Ten Commandments, and the significance of the Exodus.
- King David and Solomon:
- David: His rise to kingship, relationship with God, and his role in Israel's history.
- Solomon: The building of the temple and his wisdom, along with the downfall of his reign.
- Prophets:
- Elijah and Elisha: Their miracles and challenges against idolatry.
- Isaiah: The prophecies about the coming of the Messiah and the restoration of Israel.
3. Christian Doctrines and Teachings
- The Nature of God:
- Trinity: Understanding the concept of God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
- God's omnipotence, omnipresence, and omniscience.
- Salvation:
- The concept of salvation through Jesus Christ: His death as atonement for sin.
- The role of grace, faith, and repentance in Christian salvation.
- The Church:
- The role of the Church in Christian life, its sacraments, and missions.
- The Great Commission: Jesus' command to his followers to go and make disciples of all nations.
- The Second Coming:
- End times: The Christian belief in the return of Christ, judgment, and the establishment of God's Kingdom.
4. Christian Ethics and Morality
- The Ten Commandments:
- The moral law given to Moses, emphasizing love for God and others.
- Adultery, theft, murder, and the importance of respecting parents.
- Christian Teachings on Love:
- Jesus' commandments to love God and love your neighbor as yourself.
- The concept of agape love (selfless, unconditional love).
- Ethical Issues in Society:
- Christian views on issues like abortion, divorce, and justice.
- The role of Christians in addressing social justice, poverty, and inequality.
5. The New Testament Letters (Epistles)
- Paul’s Letters:
- Romans, 1 Corinthians, and Philippians: Key themes in Paul's letters, including justification by faith, the role of love, and Christian unity.
- The Fruit of the Spirit: Love, joy, peace, kindness, and self-control as Christian virtues (Galatians 5:22-23).
- The Book of Revelation:
- Apocalyptic vision of the end times, the coming of Christ, and the final judgment.
- The significance of symbols and allegories in Revelation.
6. The Sacraments of the Christian Church
- Baptism:
- The significance of baptism in the Christian faith, including its role in salvation.
- The different types of baptism: infant and believer's baptism.
- Holy Communion (Eucharist):
- The meaning of communion, the body and blood of Christ, and its role in the life of the Church.
- The Last Supper and its institution by Jesus.
7. The Role of Christians in Society
- Christianity and Social Responsibility:
- Christians' duty to serve others, promote peace, and work for justice.
- The Good Samaritan Parable: Christians' role in caring for the needy.
- Christian Missions:
- The importance of evangelism, mission work, and spreading the Gospel globally.
Past Questions for WAEC CRS Exam
Here are sample past questions based on the topics listed above to help with your exam preparation:
Sample Past Question 1:
Question:
Explain the Sermon on the Mount and its significance to Christian ethics.
Answer:
The Sermon on the Mount is a collection of teachings given by Jesus, which include the Beatitudes, the Lord’s Prayer, and teachings on love, forgiveness, and humility. It provides the foundation for Christian moral conduct and highlights the importance of inner purity and righteousness.
Sample Past Question 2:
Question:
Discuss the role of King David in the history of Israel.
Answer:
King David is considered one of Israel’s greatest kings. He was chosen by God to unite the 12 tribes of Israel and establish Jerusalem as the capital. He is known for his military victories, his deep relationship with God, and his role in preparing for the building of the Temple. David’s story is central to the understanding of God’s covenant with Israel.
Sample Past Question 3:
Question:
What are the main teachings of Jesus on love?
Answer:
Jesus taught that love is the greatest commandment, emphasizing that one should love God with all their heart, soul, and mind, and love their neighbor as themselves. He also taught love for enemies, the importance of forgiveness, and sacrificial love through His own actions.
Sample Past Question 4:
Question:
Write about the Creation Story in Genesis and its significance to Christian beliefs.
Answer:
The Creation Story in Genesis teaches that God created the heavens, the earth, and all living things in six days. Humans were created in the image of God, and this story emphasizes the sacredness of creation and the inherent dignity of human beings. It also sets the foundation for Christian teachings on stewardship of the earth.
Sample Past Question 5:
Question:
Explain the concept of salvation in Christian doctrine.
Answer:
Salvation in Christianity is the deliverance from sin and its consequences, offered by God through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is received by grace through faith, not by works, and requires repentance and acceptance of Jesus as Lord and Savior.
Study Tips for WAEC CRS Exam
- Understand Biblical Concepts: Focus on understanding the core Christian doctrines, especially teachings of Jesus and the stories in both the Old and New Testaments.
- Practice Past Questions: Regularly solve past questions to familiarize yourself with the exam format and types of questions.
- Memorize Key Scriptures: Familiarize yourself with significant Bible verses and their implications in Christian life.
- Review Christian Ethics: Pay close attention to Christian ethical teachings, as these are often tested in the exam.
Conclusion
The WAEC CRS exam covers a broad range of topics, from the life of Jesus Christ and Old Testament stories to Christian doctrines and ethics. By focusing on the highly repeated topics and practicing with past questions, you'll be well-prepared for the exam. Consistent study, understanding core concepts, and reviewing past exams will give you the confidence to succeed.
Good luck with your WAEC CRS exam preparation for 2025/2026!
