Details for Christian Ethics
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.
Quick Info
- Currently offered by Alphacrucis: Yes
- Course code: THE201
- Credit points: 10
- Subject coordinator: Grant Buchanan
Prerequisites
The following courses are prerequisites:
Awards offering Christian Ethics
This unit is offered as a part of the following awards:
- Bachelor of Business
- Bachelor of Business and Bachelor of Ministry
- Bachelor of Business and Bachelor of Theology
- Bachelor of Ministry
- Bachelor of Theology
Unit Content
Curriculum Objective
This introductory subject covers most of the key turning points in Christian history, from Christ to the contemporary era, with a view to providing a basis for future historical and theological studies.
Outcomes
- Display a sound understanding of various historical traditions of theological and philosophical ethics.
- Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of the integration of biblical and contemporary Christian theological ethics with philosophical approaches to ethics
- Analyse some contemporary ethical issues in the light of various biblical, historical and theological approaches and the contemporary context
- 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;
- Employ advanced critical tools for making ethical determinations based on a Christian worldview.
Subject Content
- Deontological Ethics
- Ethical Theories and Utilitarianism
- Conscience and Virtue Ethics
- Situational Ethics and Theological Ethics
- Christian Ethics in the Public Sphere
- War and Peace
- Human Life
- Human Sexuality
- Ethics and Creation
- Business Ethics
- Ministerial Ethics
This course may be offered in the following formats
- Face to Face (onsite)
- Distance/E-Learning (online)
- Intensive (One week: 7 hours per day for 5 days = 35 class hours + approx 85 hours out of class time for research, writing, exam preparation and execution, ancillary activities associated with completion of assigned tasks.)
Assessment Methods
- Forum Postings (20%)
- Group Presentation (40%)
- Major Essay (40%)
Prescribed Text
- Rae,Scott B. Moral Choices: An Introduction to Ethics. 4th ed. Grand Rapids, Mi.: Zondervan, 2018. (Available in Kindle)
Please contact your lecturer before purchasing any textbooks