A study of ethical principles and moral theory informed by Western Philosophy. The course will be a treatment of several contemporary moral and ethical problems in light of philosophical, critical and biblical thinking.
The following learning objectives will be achieved by this course:
- State with clarity why a study of ethics is necessary and important for an effective lifestyle and ministry.
- Develop a working understanding of and comfort with the terms related to a study of ethics within a philosophical framework.
- Analyze the nature of truth and its source of authority as suggested in the approaches taken by science, philosophy, and religion.
- Appreciate the roles of the Christian Scriptures, the Holy Spirit, human conscience, and community environments in the formation of character.
- Identify and apply at least four models of decision-making to life and ministerial issues of ethics.
The following are competencies for Ministry as outlined in the Sourcebook for Ministerial Development that will be addressed in this course:
- Ability to reason logically for discernment, assessment, and problem solving. (CP5)
- Ability to apply theological and philosophical ethics to nurture faithful living in the Christian community. (CH1)
- Ability to discern and make ethical decisions in the midst of a complex and/or paradoxical context within a Wesleyan framework. (CH2)
- Ability to practice a moral pastoral leadership, informed by philosophical and theological ethics. (CH3)
- Ability to practice holistic stewardship (mutual submission in gender relationships, sexual purity, marriage and family, personal finance, professional conduct, practicing Sabbath, etc.). (CH8)