CHRISTIAN PERSPECTIVES ON PERSONAL, SOCIAL AND WORLD ISSUES

 

Background

Issues for study

 

Throughout this paper candidates should be aware of the basic Christian teaching, from the Bible and from statements from churches when appropriate, which may guide the modern Christian in making decisions about contemporary moral issues. Texts are suggested which might help candidates to interpret the teaching of the Bible in relation to the issue being studied. The Background section is intended to inform candidates about Christian ways of making moral decisions. Specific questions on the content of this Background section will not be asked, but candidates will be expected in their discussion of moral issues to demonstrate an understanding

of the ways in which Christians might form their opinions.

 

Background

Candidates should have considered the following influences on Christian moral decision-making: the importance of the Bible for Christians, especially the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17) and the example of Jesus; the role of the church for Christians: the ways in which statements made by the churches, the advice of clergy, and the support of the local Christian community might influence the decisions of individual Christians; the importance of prayer, conscience and the guidance of the Holy Spirit for Christians. Love (agape) as a guiding Christian principle:

Issues for study

For each topic, candidates should consider the ways in which Christians might respond to the issues raised. They should be aware of biblical passages which could be used in discussion about the topics, as well as the teachings of the churches when appropriate. They should refer, when appropriate, to individuals, agencies and organisations. The texts listed may be used as a basis for developing an understanding of Christian teachings on the issues studied. They are not prescriptive; questions will not be asked which require knowledge of any particular texts, and candidates will not be disadvantaged if they have studied other appropriate passages instead of or in addition to those suggested.

 

Marriage and Divorce; Relationships within the Family

Candidates should consider the importance of family life for Christians, and Christian views about the roles of family members. They should have considered Christian teaching about divorce, and different Christian opinions about marriage after divorce.

Birth and Death

Candidates should have considered issues related to the sanctity of life, and Christian responses to these issues. They should have considered issues related to birth control (contraception), fertility treatment (the right to a child and the use of embryos), abortion, suicide, and euthanasia. They should be aware of biblical teachings about the value of human life, and the teachings of the Christian churches.

Prejudice and equality

Candidates should have considered Christian understandings of issues concerning race and gender. They should be aware of the work of one or more well-known Christians who have worked to overcome prejudice and discrimination.

War, peace and human rights

Candidates should have considered Christian understandings of a ‘Just War’; pacifism, and violent and non-violent protest; human rights, and prisoners of conscience.

Christian responsibility for the planet

Candidates should have considered Christian teaching relating to the problems facing the planet:

the world as the creation of God, the concept of stewardship, environmental issues and Christian

responses to them.

Christian responsibility towards disadvantaged people

Candidates should have considered Christian attitudes towards the poor and the weak. They should have considered biblical teaching, the responses of the churches to poverty, and the work of at least one explicitly Christian aid organisation, e.g. Christian Aid, CAFOD or Tearfund.