Relationship between Systematic Theology and Christian Ethics - Essay Example

Relationship between systematic theology and Christian ethics Introduction Systematic theology and Christian ethics are two broad fields of study that bear rich knowledge on matters regarding Christianity and religion at large. Systematic theology can be termed as a field of study that tries to explore and explain the Christian faith and beliefs (Pannenberg, 2004). Several scholars have raised varied opinions regarding systematic theology that facilitate comprehensive study on religion and people’s beliefs. On the other hand, Christian ethics refers to the prescribed code of conduct that every Christian is expected to portray (Wogaman, 2011). Christian ethics is mainly guarded by the biblical scriptures and other sacred teachings. In essence, ethics plays a significant role in molding people’s behavior and way of life. In addition, ethics aids in bring order in the society and ensuring that everyone acts accordingly in areas of resident, social gatherings and places of work. In this essay, investigation of the assertion that, there exists a certain relationship between Christian ethics and systematic theology is going to be investigated. Emphasis on morality Both disciplines focus on instilling good moral values to Christians. In fact, the core objective of these two fields of study is to enhance upright moral behaviors for Christians. For instance, Fedler (2006) argues that Christian ethics provides a guideline on how Christians should conduct themselves in private and public places. Similarly, systematic theology explores the Christian behaviors in order to set a platform for proper application of the Christian ethics. In essence, the two work hand in hand in building and developing the Christianity base. Christians are expected to be good ambassadors of Christ by acting according to the provisions of the bible and other holy texts. According to Christian ethics, a Christian should be an individual whose character is admirable to the members of the society. Actually, Christians should behave in such a way that non-Christians envy to emulate their character. The advancement in technology and education has eroded the good human morals and, therefore, systematic theology and Christianethics need to be applied together in order to restore and uphold acceptable morals in the society. Teachings on spiritual growth According to Jenson (2001), systematic theology is not only an endeavor for Christianity knowledge but also an exposure to God’s truth on humanity. Through systematic theology, people are able to understand the reasons why God ordered some things to be done the way they are done and, this aids in building a well-founded spiritual background. On the other hand, Christian ethics facilitates safeguarding of the established spiritual faith so that it cannot be eroded by emerging religions and the massive advancement in technology. In essence, advancement in technology has made it difficult for people to believe in Christian teachings and, therefore, it is important to embrace both systematic theology and Christian ethics for comprehensive spiritual growth. The two disciplines (Christian ethics and systematic theology) are very important in matters relating to spiritual growth. Guarding Christian faith Systematic theology aims at coveringcertain topics or fields of knowledge such soteriology and eschatology in order to impact Christians with the knowledge that can enable them fight storms such as scientific inventions and technological advancements which sway their faith. On the other hand, Christian ethics focuses on impacting believers with the discipline required to exist harmoniously in the Christian family. In essence, both disciplines are equally important as far as Christian faith and religion are concerned. Sociology scholars have observed that the western countries have been undergoing a transformation from modernism to postmodernism. Basically, postmodernism has been viewed as an enemy to Christian teachings since its major focus is on technology and scientific inventions as the core sources of wisdom and truth. In essence, postmodernism contradicts the scriptures and Christian values since God is regarded as the sole source of wisdom and truth. In this regard, Christian ethics acts as a reinforcement of systematic theology in that, it aids in preparing Christians to adhere to teachings provided in theology studies. For instance, Christian ethics prepare Christians to be obedient and faithful to the scriptures. Therefore, this lays a firm foundation for systematic theology to set foot and provide comprehensive teachings on religion, Christianity and the Christian faith. In essence, Christian ethics set the pace for systematic theology in that, the more ethical people become, the easier the application of systematic theology. Share similar objectives The two fields basically emphasis on changing people’s live and the way of thinking. In essence, systematic theology brings people closer to the Christian faith and the Christian ethics aid in maintaining Christians in Christianity by upholding upright moral behaviors. Systematic theology exemplifies on the importance and needs of glorifying the name of God so that Cristian believers do not fall victims of dark religions. In fact, people are made to understand the human origin through biblical facts. However, systematic theology cannot stand on its own and, therefore, the discipline of Christian ethics plays an essential role in ensuring that whatever that is taught in any sub-branch of systematic theology takes root effectively without resistance. Sources of Christian ethics and systematic theology Systematic theology and Christian ethics derive their content from diverse sources. However, these source appear to be quite similar. The sources include; Christian traditions, the bible, philosophical principles and science among others (Lovin, 2011). Generally, the sources of systematic theology and Christian ethics are the sacred texts and human learning writings. These sourcesform a broad base on which Christianity and the Christian faith are founded. Conclusion Religion has been in existence since time in memorial. The world comprises of varied religions that have diverse beliefs and ways life. The Christian religion has had a long history of theology and ethics. Systematic theology and Christian ethics are related in a number of ways such as values and objectives. The relationship can be seen on areas such as the emphasis on Christian faith, sacred teachings and teachings relating to the truth about God’s existence(Webster, Tanner& Torrance, 2007). Both Christian ethics and systematic theology focus on making people understand the roots of Christianity, its impacts on human life and the sources of divine authority among other things. Usually, Systematic theology and Christian ethics work together in molding the Christian religion. Reference list: Fedler, K. D. (2006). Exploring Christian ethics: Biblical foundations for morality. Louisville, Ky: Westminster John Knox Press. Jenson, R. W. (2001). Systematic theology. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Lovin, R. W. (2011). An introduction to Christian ethics: Goals, duties, and virtues. Nashville: Abingdon Press. Pannenberg, W. (2004). Systematic theology. London: T & T Clark International. Webster, J. B., Tanner, K. E., & Torrance, I. (2007). The Oxford handbook of systematic theology. Oxford: Oxford university press. Wogaman, J. P. (2011). Christian ethics: A historical introduction. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press. Read More