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:

THE101—Christian Worldview

Awards offering Christian Ethics

This unit is offered as a part of the following awards:

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

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

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.)

Please consult your course prospectus or enquire about how and when this course will be offered next at Alphacrucis University College.

Assessment Methods

Forum Postings (30%)
Creative Personal Reflection (20%)
Major Essay (50%)

Business Students Assessment Methods (applicable to Bachelor of Business (BBus) or BBus Double Degree students only)

For students enrolled in the Bachelor of Business (or a BBus Double Degree), the following assessment methods apply:

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

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