God
It is necessary to note that Christian ethics is a crucial part of the Christian religion that defines appropriate and wrong behaviors, and is based on several sources. The focus on particular virtues such as restraint and prudence is vital. The role of God also should not be overlooked in this case because the primary goal of this branch of theology is to ensure that individuals are aware of what actions would be supported or disapproved. Christian ethics can be viewed as a particular form of divine prescription. The moral stance of God does not change, and each believer has a set of responsibilities. Some of these duties are absolute, and some are dependent on the circumstances of place and time (Geisler 16).
Followers of the Catholic Church regard God as an example, and it helps them to lead better lives. Moreover, they hold that such beliefs should be spread to ensure that sins are avoided, and people treat each other according to the word of God. One could think that some of these teachings are not complicated. However, many individuals act unethically without being aware of it (Kim 36). Some of the behaviors are learned by a person subconsciously because they are a part of natural law, and a person who is focused on ethics would be capable of making reasonable decisions. Therefore, the role of conscience is critical in this case. We have learned various aspects of morality during the semester, and information regarding some of the controversial topics was especially important. Also, now I have a better understanding of the fact that there are several perspectives on moral theology, and it would be reasonable to review the works of several authors.
Others
The way Christianity has affected the life of Martin Luther King Jr. needs to be highlighted. It is suggested that the knowledge he gained in theological seminary caused him to look for ways in which racism and discrimination can be eliminated (Longtin and Peach 110). It is quite evident that he was incredibly motivated by the ideas suggested by various theologians. He analyzed many works and looked for possible solutions that would help to resolve social injustice. The pacifist tradition was one of the central aspects of his approach, and it was based on Christian beliefs. He believed that it was his mission to address discrimination, and did not use violence because he understood that it is not the right way to deal with such conflicts.
One of his central beliefs was that it is necessary to love every individual equally without being focused on such aspects as a race. Moreover, he blessed his enemies even when their actions were questionable. The fact that he frequently cited the Bible during his speeches is also worth mentioning, and it is possible to state that Christianity changed his life dramatically. Also, it is one of the core reasons his efforts to address racism were so successful. The role of ethics was particularly important, and he learned some of the behaviors from his parents (Burrow 18). It is clear that he believed all individuals are connected with each other through God, making racism and mistreatment seem extremely unreasonable. He understood that he had numerous weaknesses, but religion helped him to combat his earthly lusts, and he was actively looking for God’s forgiveness.
Self
It is imperative to mention that morality is vital to me, and I have devoted enormous attention to ethics over the years. I acknowledge the fact that the role of ethics has been increasing in all areas, and such moral philosophy is changing our society for the better. I am focused on continuous improvement because I understand that some aspects of my life may have to be altered. The most significant aspect that should be highlighted is that it is necessary to treat every individual equally and with respect (Clarke and Linzey 296). I am going to devote enormous attention to friends and family because I am loyal, and many people suggest that I am reliable. Also, I am going to support people who are in need of help, and I will look at situations from various perspectives when making decisions to ensure that the principles of Catholic ethics are respected.
All virtues are connected with each other, and I understand that every aspect needs to be developed to reach an ideal (Kim 107). Self-exploration is going to be an important part of my life, and I will continue to examine the literature on this subject matter to improve my understanding of ethics. It is hard to predict what will happen in the future, but my devotion to religion is never going to change. I am determined to become a highly ethical person, and I hope that I will motivate others to change their lives, and focus on morality. I strive to act appropriately, regardless of the situation, and I am dedicated to becoming an honest person who would not cause harm to others.
Works Cited
Clarke, Paul B., and Andrew Linzey. Dictionary of Ethics, Theology, and Society, New York, NY: Routledge, 2013. Print.
Kim, Andrew. An Introduction to Catholic Ethics since Vatican II, New York, NY: Cambridge University Press, 2015. Print.
Geisler, Norman L. Christian Ethics: Contemporary Issues and Options. 2nd ed. 2010. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. Print.
Burrow, Rufus. Martin Luther King, Jr., and the Theology of Resistance, Jefferson, NC: McFarland & Company, 2014. Print.
Longtin, Lucien J., and Andrew Peach. An Introduction to Catholic Ethics, Arlington, VA: National Catholic Educational Association, 2012. Print.