Christian Ethics

by Timothy Gaines

Overview

How can Christians make decisions in a morally complex world? What makes ethics particularly “Christian”? One of the primary aims of Christian ethics is to discover how we can convert our work toward God’s purposes so that God can make our work holy. In Christian Ethics, Timothy R. Gaines illuminates this topic as something the people of God can use to reorient our lives toward the way of Jesus and the mission of God in the world. Reason alone will not convert our work to the way of Jesus. Christians are called to action in God’s created world, which is why reasoning engages practice in the chapters of this book so that Wesleyan readers can think and act morally in ways that are faithfully Christian and holy in response to the leading of God. Christians are used to hearing theological language in the church but may not feel they have adequate resources to enhance their understanding of what certain terms or concepts mean. The Wesleyan Theology Series aims to discuss Christian doctrines in accessible language that states clearly what we believe and why. Each volume is written by an author with a particular expertise who also has the ability to simplify and clarify complex ideas. The Wesleyan Theology Series is written specifically for the theologically curious layperson, student, or pastor. Topics include: the Trinity, creation, eschatology, the church, the sacraments, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, Scripture, sin, grace, salvation, sanctification, Christian ethics, and atonement.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780834140837
Publisher:	The Foundry Publishing
Publication date:	09/01/2021
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
File size:	6 MB

About the Author

Timothy R. Gaines, PhD, is associate professor of religion at Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville, where he teaches courses in theology and ethics and directs the graduate program in theology and biblical studies. He also serves as associate pastor at Trevecca Community Church. Dr. Gaines has coauthored and co-edited multiple previous titles, including A Seat at the Table, Kings & Presidents, and Following Jesus, all available from The Foundry Publishing.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments 7

Introduction: The Way of Wesleyan Ethics 9

Part I Beginning the Work of Christian Ethics

1 The Work of Christian Ethics 21

2 The Tools of the Trade 32

3 Working With Scripture 48

4 The Work of Discernment 59

5 Working with a Limp: Divine Encounter and Holiness Ethics 69

6 The Work of Love in the Created Order 83

7 The Work of Jesus Christ 97

8 The Work of Being Human 107

9 The Work of the People: New Creation Ethics and the Life of the Church 118

Part II Discerning the Work of Christian Ethics

Discernment Dialogue 1: Biomedical Ethics 133

Discernment Dialogue 2: Technology and Ethics 142

Discernment Dialogue 3: Economic Ethics 149

Discernment Dialogue 4: Political Ethics 156

Discernment Dialogue 5: Creation Care Ethics 163

Discernment Dialogue 6: Race, Culture, and Ethics 171

Discernment Dialogue 7: Sexual and Family Ethics 178

Bibliography 189