Christian Ethics

Course Title: Christian Ethics

Course Description:

Christian Ethics is a course that explores the moral principles and ethical teachings rooted in the Christian faith. This course provides an in-depth examination of the biblical, theological, and philosophical foundations of Christian ethics, emphasizing how these principles can be applied to contemporary moral issues. Students will engage with ethical theories, scriptural teachings, and historical perspectives, and will learn to critically analyze and respond to moral challenges from a Christian worldview. The course aims to equip students with the tools necessary for ethical decision-making in personal, social, and professional contexts.

Course Overview:

• Duration: Typically one semester (12-16 weeks)
• Format: Lectures, readings, discussions, case studies, and exams
• Prerequisites: None, though a foundational understanding of Christian doctrine is recommended
• Target Audience: Theology students, church leaders, and anyone interested in understanding and applying Christian ethical principles

Course Objectives:

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

1. Understand the Foundations of Christian Ethics:
   • Define Christian ethics and its significance in the Christian life.
   • Explore the biblical and theological basis for ethical decision-making.
   • Recognize the role of Jesus’ teachings and the Holy Spirit in guiding ethical behavior.
2. Analyze Ethical Theories from a Christian Perspective:
   • Compare and contrast major ethical theories such as deontology, utilitarianism, virtue ethics, and situation ethics.
   • Evaluate these theories in light of Christian principles and scriptural teachings.
   • Understand the unique aspects of Christian ethics compared to secular ethical systems.
3. Explore Key Ethical Issues in Christian Ethics:
   • Examine critical topics such as human dignity, justice, love, truth, and stewardship.
   • Understand the ethical implications of core Christian doctrines like creation, sin, redemption, and eschatology.
4. Apply Christian Ethical Principles to Contemporary Issues:
   • Engage with current ethical challenges, including bioethics, sexual ethics, social justice, environmental ethics, and economic ethics.
   • Develop skills in ethical reasoning and moral decision-making from a Christian worldview.
5. Cultivate Personal and Communal Ethical Practices:
   • Reflect on personal moral development and character formation.
   • Learn how to foster ethical living within community settings, including church, family, and society.
6. Develop a Christian Ethical Framework for Decision-Making:
   • Create a structured approach to ethical decision-making that integrates biblical teachings, prayer, and communal discernment.
   • Equip students to articulate and defend ethical positions in various contexts.

Course Outline:

Week 1: Introduction to Christian Ethics

• Definition and scope of Christian ethics
• The importance of ethics in the Christian life
• Overview of key terms: morals, values, virtues, and ethics

Week 2: Biblical Foundations of Christian Ethics

• Ethical teachings in the Old and New Testaments
• The Ten Commandments and the Sermon on the Mount
• The role of Jesus as the ethical model for Christians

Week 3: Theological Foundations of Christian Ethics

• Understanding human nature, sin, and moral responsibility
• The role of the Holy Spirit in ethical living
• Christian doctrines that shape ethical perspectives: creation, fall, redemption, and new creation

Week 4: Ethical Theories and Christian Perspectives

• Overview of major ethical theories: deontology, utilitarianism, virtue ethics, and situation ethics
• Critically evaluating these theories from a Christian perspective
• Understanding the distinctiveness of Christian ethics: love, grace, and community

Week 5: The Principle of Love and Justice in Christian Ethics

• Agape love as the central ethical principle in Christian ethics
• The relationship between love and justice
• Biblical examples of love and justice in action

Week 6: Christian Virtue Ethics

• The role of virtues in Christian moral life
• Key Christian virtues: faith, hope, love, humility, patience, and courage
• The process of character formation and spiritual growth

Week 7: Ethical Decision-Making in Christian Ethics

• Developing a Christian ethical framework for decision-making
• The role of Scripture, prayer, and community in ethical discernment
• Case studies in ethical decision-making

Week 8: Bioethics and Life Issues

• Christian perspectives on the sanctity of life
• Ethical issues in bioethics: abortion, euthanasia, genetic engineering, and end-of-life care
• Navigating complex life issues with a Christian ethical lens

Week 9: Sexual Ethics and Family Life

• Biblical teachings on sexuality, marriage, and family
• Christian responses to contemporary sexual ethics: premarital sex, homosexuality, divorce, and pornography
• Promoting healthy relationships and family values

Week 10: Social Justice and the Christian Response

• Understanding biblical justice: caring for the marginalized and oppressed
• Christian perspectives on poverty, racism, immigration, and human rights
• Engaging in social action and advocacy as a reflection of Christian ethics

Week 11: Environmental Ethics and Stewardship

• The biblical basis for environmental stewardship
• Christian responses to environmental challenges: climate change, conservation, and sustainable living
• Living out the call to care for God’s creation

Week 12: Economic Ethics and the Marketplace

• Christian teachings on wealth, generosity, and stewardship
• Ethical issues in business and economics: honesty, integrity, and social responsibility
• The role of Christians in shaping ethical practices in the marketplace

Week 13: Ethical Challenges in Technology and Media

• Christian perspectives on the ethical use of technology and media
• Navigating issues such as privacy, digital addiction, misinformation, and artificial intelligence
• Developing discernment and wisdom in the digital age

Week 14: Review, Reflection, and Future Directions in Christian Ethics

• Review of key principles and topics covered in the course
• Personal reflection on ethical growth and challenges
• Preparing for ongoing ethical engagement and leadership

Assessment Methods:

• Reading Assignments: Engaging with foundational and contemporary texts on Christian ethics.
• Lectures & Discussions: Participating in class lectures, discussions, and group work.
• Case Studies: Analyzing real-world ethical dilemmas through a Christian lens.
• Written Assignments: Essays, reflection papers, and position papers on key ethical issues.
• Examinations: Midterm and final exams assessing comprehension of ethical theories and principles.
• Practical Projects: Developing a personal ethical framework and applying it to specific scenarios.

Recommended Texts:

• “Christian Ethics: A Case Method Approach” by Robert L. Stivers, Christine E. Gudorf, Alice Frazer Evans, and Charles Bellinger
• “Kingdom Ethics: Following Jesus in Contemporary Context” by Glen H. Stassen and David P. Gushee
• “Introducing Christian Ethics” by Scott Rae
• “The Moral Vision of the New Testament” by Richard B. Hays

This course on Christian Ethics is designed to equip students with a thorough understanding of the ethical dimensions of the Christian faith and to empower them to navigate complex moral challenges with biblical wisdom and discernment.