Christian Ethics in an Evil World: A Reflection

The paper “Christian Ethics in an Evil World” presents a clashing and

conflicting idea of idealism and realism; it presents how the world and men
should be, nevertheless it also presents how, in truth, the world works and
what the nature of man truly is, evil.

The abovementioned premise now presents to us another clashing and

conflicting idea of the use and necessity of teaching Christian Ethics when the
world and human nature is, admittedly, naturally evil. What is the purpose of
teaching the “standard of behavior that would be expected of all who were
admitted into his kingdom” when evil is naturally lurking in the hearts and
deeds of men and in the mechanisms of nature?

Personally, the essay burdens its readers with more questions rather
than answers. Firstly, the author presented several comments on the ethical
requirement of god’s kingdom, which is highly relatable to every human being.
The author presents that the “ethical requirements” are: 1. Often contrary to
popular accepted human standards; 2. Must be carried out in practice and not
remain mere theory; and 3. Apply not only to outward acts, but to inward
thoughts and motives. This “standard of behavior” is highly improbably
considering the very nature of man. Even granting that man is not naturally
evil, these so-called standards is very impossible to attain. Again, the clash of
idealism and realism shows into perspective. Is it truly

Take for example the ministers, priests and all the members of the clergy
who have dedicated most of their lives in the service of god. These people, no
matter how dedicated they are to living a holy life, has committed acts which
are contrary to the so-called “standard of behavior” and some have even
committed the most heinous and atrocious crimes. Even the slightest thought
of evil is already considered a violation of the said standards.

Another apparent contradiction is the fact that human beings are created
with their own will, hence, can freely and voluntarily decide based on their own
volition and emotions. As human beings, it is only natural for man to feel
sorrow, happiness and even anger. If it is what makes man a man, then how is
it a sin for man to feel anger and think treacherous thoughts against another
when it is only natural for man to feel anger?

The author of the paper “Christian Ethics in an Evil World” also recognizes
man’s inability to keep God’s law based on two premises: a. Man is basically
evil; and b. Man is a rebel against God. These two premises supports the
dilemma on the difficulty, if not, the impossibility, of fulfilling the “standard of
behavior”. Even Jesus, himself, recognizes man’s “inability to keep God’s law
well enough to qualify for entry into the kingdom of God.”

Given the said premise, what is now the purpose of learning Christian
Ethics, or any moral teachings for that matter?