Hiii! here's some of my short answer questions on Christianity. I'm a bit lost on what to focus on for the 5 marker because I feel as though I'm not giving enough of an explanation? So advice on that and another example that I could possibly add into it to make it a stronger response would be immensely appreciated. Thanks!
a) i) Outline ONE ethical teaching with reference to ONE of the aspects below: (3 marks)
* Bioethics
* Environmental ethics
* Sexual ethics
Sexual ethics are of great significance within adherents lives, as they provide the fundamental framework in which sexuality can be expressed with respect to different contexts, ie. premarital/extra marital sex. For most Christians, the purpose of human sexual activity is to express love and create new life in the context of marriage. This is due to Jesus’ affirmation of the covenental relationship of marriage (Mt 19.3-9) and the commandment of “You shall not commit adultery” (exodus 20:14) which both explicity highlight the importance of sexual activity being kept within the boundaries of marriage. Henceforth, any sexual activity or expression that is not consistent with, or against against these purposes, is considered to be morally wrong or questionable.
ii) Explain how ethical teachings guide adherents in their practice of Christianity (5 marks)
Ethical teachings provide a fundamental framework of morals which govern the way in which Christians behave and practice their faith. Christian ethical teachings are based on the belief of humans as an image of God. A central aspect of this is the concept of agape (unconditional love) for all people, as seen in - “Love your neighbour as yourself. Love does no harm to its neighbour. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.” (Romans 13:9-10) and “Though shall love thy neighbour.” (Decalogue, Exodus 20) whereby adherents are constantly guided to ‘love’ others and treat others with respect as Jesus loved them through dying for the sins of all of humanity. Furthermore Jesus’ Golden rule of “So in everything, do onto others what you would have them do to you” (Matthew 7:12) does not merely forbid adherents in doing wrong to others, but it rather guides adherents in doing all good to others that the individuals would like to have themselves be treated. This is reflected in the practices of almsgiving (tith) whereby adherents donate one tenth of their earnings to the needy in order to fulfill Jesus’ Golden rule of behaviour. Therefore, it can be seen that through the ethical teachings of sacred texts and writings, the way in which individuals practice Christianity is governed through striving to embody the spirit of Christ.