Understanding Biblical Ethics

Welcome to a deep dive into biblical ethics, where we explore the principles that guide our moral understanding and behavior as believers. This discussion is rooted in the experiences and teachings that emphasize the importance of ethics in our daily lives and our relationship with God and one another.

Returning to Our Roots

It’s always refreshing to reconnect with our community and share insights that can transform lives. Recently, I had the honor of visiting our sister church, New Wine Assembly in North Austin. During my time there, I had the privilege of teaching and ordaining 14 of their members. It was a powerful reminder of how God shows up and changes lives when we respond to His truth.

Miracles began happening almost immediately. The pastor received a brand-new, fully paid-for 2018 Mitsubishi. This was a significant blessing, not just for him but as a testimony that God provides when we are faithful. One man, who had been searching for a job for a year, finally landed a position. Others received pay raises, and a generous donor contributed $40,000 to support the church’s mission. This is evidence that when God moves, He can change circumstances in remarkable ways.

Everything We Need is in the House

One of the key messages I shared with the congregation was that everything we need is already in the house. We often look outside for solutions, but God has equipped us with everything we need to fulfill our calling. This includes finances, encouragement, wisdom, and prophetic words. We are not meant to be isolated; we are contingent beings who rely on one another.

As I continued my conversation with the pastor, I emphasized that a poor church cannot fulfill its mission. This doesn’t only refer to financial poverty but also an attitude of scarcity. God desires to bless His people so they can be a blessing to others. Christ’s sacrifice on the cross symbolizes the ultimate success, and we must tap into that success to impact our communities positively.

Engaging with the World: Ethics and Psychology

During a recent dinner with a perceptive individual, we discussed my philosophy of life, which has been crystallizing over the past few weeks. I introduced the concepts of biblical psychology and ethics. These two areas are deeply intertwined, as both require an understanding of truth to heal and restore our souls.

As it says in Psalms 23, God restores our souls. This restoration is rooted in the truth we receive. Ignorance is not a virtue; it’s something we must overcome to move forward. We all have areas of ignorance, and acknowledging this is the first step toward growth and understanding.

The Role of Institutions and Ethics

Historically, there has been a tension between institutions and individual morality. Think back to the Enlightenment era when philosophers like Rousseau posited that institutions corrupt human beings. This led to a dangerous ideology that sought to dismantle institutions, which are necessary for societal order.

In our current context, we see echoes of this thinking in the way people engage with politics and morality today. Whether it’s the divisive political landscape or the challenges faced by our communities, we must remember that ethics is the lubricant that helps us navigate these tensions. Respect and civility are essential in our discourse, even when we disagree.

Understanding the Zeitgeist of Our Times

There’s a term in German, “zeitgeist,” which means the spirit of the times. We must recognize that we are living through a period where right seems wrong and wrong seems right. This cultural confusion is not new; it has been a recurring theme throughout history. Our response as believers is to anchor ourselves in biblical truth and ethics.

We are called to be the salt and light in our communities, standing firm in our convictions while engaging with others respectfully. The challenges we face today require us to be informed and courageous in our actions. Whether we are discussing issues like abortion or societal norms, we must remember that our stance should be grounded in love and truth.

Ethics: A Framework for Relationships

Ethics provides a framework for understanding right and wrong, guiding us in our interactions with others. The Ten Commandments are a classic example of this moral code. They reflect the inherent values that already exist within us as human beings created in God’s image.

When we adhere to these commandments, we reduce friction in our relationships. We must remember that we are part of a larger community and that our actions can either bring joy or heartache to God. Our behavior matters, and we have the power to influence those around us positively.

God’s Desire for Our Lives

In Ezekiel 6:9, God expresses that He is brokenhearted over His people’s disobedience. This illustrates the intimate relationship God desires with us. He does not want us to simply follow rules; He wants us to understand that our actions affect Him deeply.

Our purpose in life begins with gratitude. When we cultivate a grateful heart, we open ourselves to discovering our true calling. This is especially important for the younger generations who are searching for direction. By focusing on what we have to be thankful for, we can find clarity and purpose in our lives.

Bringing Joy to God’s Heart

Our actions have the power to bring joy or sorrow to God’s heart. When we treat one another with respect and kindness, we are fulfilling our purpose. We are called to love one another, and this includes everyone, even those who may not share our beliefs.

As we navigate the complexities of our society, we must remember that our ultimate goal is to reflect God’s love in all we do. This means standing up for justice and compassion while also being willing to engage in difficult conversations.

Conclusion: The Call to Action

As we close this discussion, I urge each of you to consider your role in this world. We are called to be active participants in our communities, embodying the principles of biblical ethics in our daily lives. Let’s strive to be used by God to make a difference, not just for ourselves but for those around us.

Whether through our words, actions, or prayers, let’s commit to being a force for good in our society. Remember, everything we need is already in the house. Let’s release it and watch God work through us to change lives.