ISSUES & DIVERSITY

Question 1

Give two reasons why Christian ethics may be seen as distinctive.

Answer 1

1. Christianity is underpinned by the incarnation and resurrection.
2. Particularly the focus on love and forgiveness seem to break Christianity away from its more authoritarian Abrahamic routes.

Question 2

Give two reasons why Christian ethics are not distinctive.

Answer 2

1. So much of Christian ethics is taken from the Old Testament so it is essentially Jewish ethics.
2. The Golden Rule is found in many cultures.

Question 3

Why may Christian ethics be seen as personal?

Answer 3

• Individuals have their own conscience which comes from God.
• Salvation is personal and therefore we all have a responsibility to act according to conscience.

Question 4

Why might Christian ethics be seen as communal?

Answer 4

• Jesus spoke more to groups than individuals e.g. Sermon on the Mount.
• Communities work by rules being used the rules found in the Bible are for the community.

Question 5

How can the Bible be seen as a comprehensive moral guide? (Give two reasons)

Answer 5

1. There are so many moral systems that have developed out of it , almost overly comprehensive.
2. It is possible to find many example of how the people of God rescinded to different moral dilemmas - comprehensively popular.

Question 6

How can the Bible not be seen as a comprehensive moral guide? (Give two reasons)

Answer 6

1. It contradicts itself - between OT and NT.

2. The Bible can be read and interpreted in a number of different ways.