DESCRIPTION: While overly simplistic, the popular Evangelical phrase "WWJD"
captures an important truth about Christian morality. Yet we live in a
radically different time and place than Jesus, and sincere believers often
disagree about how to follow him today. In addition, we must also assume that
Jesus--the Living Word--not only would do something but is acting in the world;
our task in ethics is to discern how to participate in his Spirit's ongoing
work. A central text for the course utilizes the Sermon on the Mount to help us
understand God's central concerns and provides a good starting point for
understanding divergent theological convictions and their evidence in our
ethics. The course offers an opportunity to reflect together on the current
challenges we face as disciples in all aspects of our lives, from the intimate
sphere of sexuality and family to politics and social justice. It will pay
particular attention to these issues as they arise in diverse Latino contexts
and communities.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: First, students will analyze their own and others' ethical
reasoning, particularly the importance of convictions, principles, and rules
and their impact on specific moral judgments. Second, students will analyze the
social, historical, and cultural context in which they minister, reflect on key
ethical issues within it, and articulate how Biblical faith should shape the
church's response to them. Third, they will practice communal discernment
through discussion during the term on a complex case study as well as
individual reflection on the case in a paper due at the end of the term.
Fourth, students will develop an approach to theological ethics that enables
them to address moral issues not specifically discussed in the course.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: Ministers and leaders throughout the body of Christ
are daily required to lead others and live their lives in a way that models the
character of a disciple of Jesus Christ. The Christian tradition consists of a
particular way of life in which habits, virtues, practices, beliefs, and
convictions are not only inherited, and passed on from one generation to
another, but also extended and further developed through the numerous
challenges that each generation faces. It is essential that ministers not only
take an in-depth look at the way in which Biblically based beliefs shape the
ethical life, but also the way in which those beliefs are embodied and
testified to through lived practices. Teaching and leading others to be
faithful and committed disciples of Jesus Christ requires one to have a firm
understanding of the ethical shape and character of the Christian life.
COURSE FORMAT: Class will meet in three weekend (Friday-Saturday) sessions:
Jan. 23, 24, Feb. 20, 21, March 6, 7 (30 contact hours), for lectures, small
group discussions, video & in-class student presentations.
REQUIRED READING: