Glossary - Christian Moral Principles

Bible/Scripture

the collection or canon of books in the Bible which contain the revelation of God

Church Tradition

the traditional of how Christian life in community works, in worship, practical moral life and prayer, and the teaching and reflection of the Church handed down across time

Sacred Tradition

the idea that the revelation of Jesus Christ is communicated in two ways. In addition to scripture, it is communicated through the apostolic and authoritative teaching of the Church councils and the Pope

Agape Love

unconditional love, the only ethical norm in situationism

Theonomous

(divine command) asserts that God’s commandments, particularly as revealed in the Bible, are the ultimate source of moral authority

Heteronomous

relies on external sources, such as the church the Bible, combined with reason, to determine moral guidance

Autonomous

(linked to situation ethics) places the authority for ethical decision-making on the individual