christian spirituality

In an era of moral relativism, Christians should stand out as moral beacons.  In fact, however, it is increasingly the case that Church is seen not as a community of love but, rather, as a legalistic, dogmatic, mean-spirited and hypocritical institution.  This unit helps students to think through how they go about making ethical decisions.  It argues against legalism, and sets up a theological method of approaching ethics that prioritises grace and the power of the Spirit. It also facilitates guided reflection on personal morality and societal ethical issues.

Unit Content

Outcomes

  1. Display a sound understanding of various historical traditions of theological and philosophical ethics.
  2. Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of the integration of biblical and contemporary Christian theological ethics with philosophical approaches to ethics
  3. Analyse some contemporary ethical issues in the light of various biblical, historical and theological approaches and the contemporary context
  4. Illustrate the importance of an articulate Christian response to a range of ethical issues facing Christians and the Church in a complex changing secular society;
  5. Employ advanced critical tools for making ethical determinations based on a Christian worldview.

Subject Content

  • Ethical Issues and Theories (e.g. Utilitarianism, Situational Ethics, Deontological Ethics, Conscience and Virtue Ethics)
  • Biblical Foundations and Agape Ethics
  • Christian Ethics in the Public Sphere
  • Human Life, Relationships, and Sexuality
  • War and peace
  • Eco-Ethics and Creation
  • Vocational Ethics: Business Ethics and Ministerial Ethics

Prescribed Text

  • Rae,Scott B. Moral Choices: An Introduction to Ethics. 4th ed. Grand Rapids, Mi.: Zondervan, 2018. (Available in Kindle)
  • Please consult your instructor before purchasing any texts

Quick Info

  • Course code: THE201
  • Credit points: 10

Prerequisites

  • Christian Worldview

Assessment Methods

  • Reading Responses (30%)
  • Minor Essay (20%)
  • Creative Personal Reflection (in class or video presentation) (25%)
  • Final Exam (25%)