PE001-812 – Christian Ethics

Credit Points

12 Credit Points (CPS)

On successful completion of this unit, students will

Demonstrate Functional knowledge and understanding of biblical and philosophical ethics.

1. Discuss the major themes of biblical ethics

2. Demonstrate skills of Christian ethical reasoning and decision making in relation to a selection of contemporary ethical issues

3. Present Critical evidence-based perspectives on Christian ethics

1. Applying perspectives from ‘Christian Ethics’ to contemporary Christian living and ministry practice as a reflective practioner

Section A: Biblical Ethics

Using the Bible in Ethics:
- Methodological issues raised in moving from the Bible to modern ethical issues.
- A brief survey of how the Bible has been used in ethics.
Old Testament Ethics:
- Framework: creation, sin, covenant, prophecy and wisdom;
- Ethical themes in the Old Testament;
New Testament Ethics:
- Sermon on the Mount, Pauline ethics, 1 Peter, James.
- Ethical themes: Kingdom and eschatology, righteousness/justice, love command.

Section B: Philosophical Ethics

Introducing Ethics as a discipline: its nature and function.
Types of Ethical Theories:
- Theories of Obligation: deontological & teleological;
- Theories of Virtue: traits, character, motivation, disposition;
- The relationship between obligation and virtue.

Section C: Ethical Issues