RE: [asa] A question on morals (OT and NT)

Gordon said:
"How do you define right and wrong? Against what standard do you measure
the rightness or wrongness of certain acts? For Christians God sets the
standard."

How do I define right and wrong? I think it depends on specific examples, because I think examples may draw out different methods (some examples may use logic heavily, while others maybe draw out a person's values and opinions). If you want more info, pick a specific example and we can analyze it. That's why I chose the "eye for eye" and "turn the other cheek" examples, based on scripture.

You say "For Christians God sets the standard." But I don't think you can prove that at all. Go ahead and try, with an example, if you want. I already talked with George about euthanasia and an article he wrote on the subject. His bottom line- he gave guidelines to consider, but said ultimately the decision is up to the people. I guess that means God has no say in the SPECIFIC answer.

I'm starting to see how theology is quite the opposite of philosophy. In theology, there are broad principles, but nothing at all specific, and in fact, people get defensive and abusive when pressed for specifics. In Philosophy, there are also broad principles, but specific examples are lauded as illustrations of how to apply concepts. In philosophy, specific examples are promoted to aid understanding; in theology, they are insults and considered a 'test' and 'trap' and the motives/honesty of the questioner are questioned. (This is a general observation. Some people, like Ted & Randy and some others, are good role models for Christians to be level-headed and even-tempered and non-slandering.)

...Bernie

-----Original Message-----
From: asa-owner@lists.calvin.edu [mailto:asa-owner@lists.calvin.edu] On Behalf Of gordon brown
Sent: Monday, November 09, 2009 12:39 PM
To: asa@calvin.edu
Subject: RE: [asa] A question on morals (OT and NT)

On Mon, 9 Nov 2009, Dehler, Bernie wrote:

> Furthermore, I don't think it is the right answer ("turn the other cheek" in that example). I think the right answer is to defend yourself and/or remove yourself from the situation. I think "turning the other cheek" in this example is extreme and wrong, just as is "repaying evil for evil" is.
>

Bernie,

How do you define right and wrong? Against what standard do you measure
the rightness or wrongness of certain acts? For Christians God sets the
standard.

Gordon Brown (ASA member)

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Received on Tue Nov 10 12:00:16 2009