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1. Why do Christians believe that morality is absolute and objective, rather than relative and subjective? If morality is objective, where do Christians get their moral standard? Cite Chapter 7 of The Beginning of Wisdom textbook and/or topic overview
More often than not, Christians assert that morality is objective rather than subjective, rooted in God’s unchanging nature rather than human opinion or cultural norms. The Bible is seen as a way of finding moral guidance because its teachings and commandments reflect God’s will and ethical principles (Holland & Jibben 192). Through Christan’s eyes, God has revealed Himself and His moral standards to humanity through personal experiences and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Understanding morality as something objective, firmly anchored in the very nature of God, shows the importance of aligning our actions with divine principles.
2b. the elements of a worldview (ultimate reality, nature of the universe, humanity, knowledge, ethics, purpose) are presented. In the case you chose, which worldview element is going to be the biggest factor for determining right and wrong in the case you chose? Why? Decisions of Life and DeathJanie is your sister’s best friend, and when Janie was a senior in high school, she fractured her neck in a diving accident. The doctors say that she is a quadriplegic–paralyzed from the shoulders down. All of Janie’s dreams for college, romance, and a meaningful life seem to be over; she cannot even take care of her own basic needs. Janie has even talked to your sister about whether it makes sense to keep on living. Knowing that you are reading the Bible for your Christian worldview class, they want to know if the Bible has anything to say about life and death issues, such as suicide and euthanasia
Ultimate reality is the most relevant reality in this case because it delves into foundational beliefs about existence, the divine, and life’s purpose. Jaines has succeeded in answering the question about what sense it makes to keep living because she feels her purpose is nonexistent, and that question connects to the ultimate reality (Hiles & Smith 43). Therefore, in contemplating Janie’s predicament through the prism of ultimate reality in a Christian context, one delves into the intersection of her circumstances with God’s intentions and the profound value of her existence under divine sovereignty and care.
c. How does the Christian worldview describe the worldview element you identified? Ultimate reality is the foundation of truth because all existence depends on it. It centers on the belief that the divine being is perceived as the source of everything, sustaining the world through divine providence (Hiles & Smith 43). Christians also view God as infinite in wisdom, power, and goodness, possessing attributes like love, justice, and mercy. Thus, the ultimate reality in the Christian worldview shapes beliefs about human identity, morality, and purpose, providing a framework for interpreting the world and guiding ethical decisions.
d. What are Bible passages (cite two or three) that will guide the ethics for the case you choose? How do these Bible passages apply to this case?
Genesis 1:27 emphasizes the profound truth that people are created in God’s image. This passage underscores the meticulous care with which God crafted the universe, imbuing all creation with intrinsic worth and value (Diffey 83). In Janie’s case, Her identity is not defined by her physical condition but by her status as a beloved creation of God, uniquely fashioned in His image. Philippians 2:4 urges believers to prioritize the interests of others over their own. This principle of selfless love is deeply intertwined with faith (Greever 151). In the context of Janie’s situation, this passage challenges Christians to empathize with Janie’s struggles by offering support in all forms.
E. Based on your answers to b and c, explain the Christian response to the case you chose. In other words, how might the Christian worldview resolve the issue?
Genesis 1:27 shows that Jane is uniquely crafted in God’s image. This perspective shifts the focus away from Janie’s physical limitations towards her identity as a cherished child of God. Philippians 2:4, in Jane’s case, encourages believers to empathize with her struggles, providing her with the encouragement and assistance needed to navigate her circumstances with grace. The ultimate reality in Janes’s situation emphasizes the sanctity of human life and the importance of upholding the dignity and worth of every individual, irrespective of physical abilities. By embracing Janie with empathy and support, she and those around her will feel better also. embracing Janie with empathy and support, she and those around her will feel better also.
3. Your previous responses built a Christian ethical stance and provided a Christian resolution for the case. How might this Christian resolution to the issue increase human dignity and human value?
The Christian resolution to Janie’s case significantly enhances human dignity and value because compassionate care within the Christian resolution prioritizes Janie’s well-being and affirms her worth by demonstrating genuine empathy and support. By surrounding her with a network of caring individuals who offer encouragement and assistance, Janie experiences a sense of belonging and inclusion, reinforcing her worth as a valued community member. Thus, it validates her as a person deserving of love. Through these actions, the Christian resolution not only elevates Janie’s dignity and value but also reflects the foundational Christian belief in the inherent worth and significance of every human being, regardless of their circumstances.
4. The Christian position that humans should flourish comes from belief in the goodness of God. How so? What are the connections between God’s goodness and human flourishing
Christians believe that God’s goodness is the cornerstone of their conviction that humans should flourish. This connection comes from God as the creator of the universe. Central to this belief is the acknowledgment that God’s intentions for humanity are inherently benevolent and tied to his love and care, which offers hope for humanity. Jesus Christ offers salvation and restores humanity to a state of wholeness and abundant life. The Christan understanding of God’s goodness underpins the belief that humans should flourish.
5. Considering the Christian resolution you built for the case and everyone involved in the scenario, what might be some benefits or unintended consequences that come from this resolution? What might be challenging for people to accept or do?
The Christian resolution resulted in numerous benefits for all involved, alongside potential unintended consequences and challenges that could occur because of the resolution. For example, focusing on spiritual growth allows people to experience selfness. However, this resolution may inadvertently strain emotions, lead to conflicts or resistance within the community, and raise questions about resource allocation. Upholding healthy boundaries while offering support, navigating differences in belief, and embracing vulnerability are among the challenges individuals may face. Despite these challenges, the Christian resolution is the best option for Janie and the entire community as they journey together toward greater compassion and understanding.
6. What are some ways that Christians should be active in helping to alleviate the suffering related to this issue? Give specific examples that ordinary people can do.
Christians play a vital role by alleviating the suffering related to Janie’s case through practical and compassionate actions. Providing emotional support by being present and listening can help Janie feel less isolated and alone. Christians can also offer financial support by organizing fundraisers or donation drives to help cover Janie’s medical expenses and other financial needs. Furthermore, advocating for disability-friendly infrastructure and promoting inclusion in social gatherings and community events are essential to ensure Janie’s accessibility and integration into the community.