Ethics and Sin

Is Being Unethical Sin?

I am reading two books on ethics, “Readings in Christian Ethics” by Clark and “The Moral Quest” by Grenz. Both begin by attempting to define ethics and morality. Grenz says that “Christian ethics is the study of how people ought to live as informed by the Bible and Christian conviction” (23). The etymology of the word “ethic” is Greek, “Ethica or etheos meaning what relates to character” (23). The origin of morality on the other hand is Latin, “Moralis, meaning custom or usage” (23).

It seems there is a slight difference between the use of morality and ethics. Morality focuses on the living out of one’s beliefs whereas ethics hones in on the study of why beliefs are right, wrong or immoral. The question I raise for discussion is, “When does sin occur?” Does sin occur when ethics are established outside of a Biblical framework and universal Christian conviction? Or is sin the act of not being true to ones convictions?”

The post modern era in which we live seems to struggle with normative or “universal” ethics and the church is no different. As I mentioned in yesterday’s post, it seems some clergy struggle with locating true north on the moral/ethical compass these days. What is the universal Christian conviction or standard for clergy or Christians in general today? Should there be one and who should establish it? I would like to hear your thoughts on the matter.

Thanks for stopping by!
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Adrian