Moral Theology (CT9094L)

Postgraduate, 18.0 points

Content

This unit examines the theological foundations of Christian ethics from a Lutheran perspective and reflects on how the sanctified life is expressed in our moral decision making. Selected contemporary ethical issues are considered in class and through students' own research.

Unit code: CT9094L

Unit status: Approved (New unit)

Points: 18.0

Unit level: Postgraduate Elective

Unit discipline: Systematic Theology

Proposing College: Australian Lutheran College

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Learning outcomes

1.

Understand the nature and complexity of ethical issues in today's world

2.

Contrast Christian ethics enacted from a Lutheran perspective with a different Christian approach to ethics
3.

Defend ethical positions on the basis of Scripture and a Lutheran ethical model
4.

Develop and critique pastoral responses to ethical issues

Pedagogy

This unit uses teaching strategies (eg engagement with online learning materials, including audio/video, tasks, forums, and synchronous and asynchronous discussion with lecturer) which encourage student engagement and participation in a variety of learning tasks and opportunities which foster deep learning.

Indicative Bibliography

  • Althaus, Paul. The ethics of Martin Luther. Translated by Robert C. Schultz. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress. 1972.
  • Bayer, Oswald. Freedom in response: Lutheran ethics: sources and controversies. Translated by Jeff Cayzer. Oxford, UK. Oxford University Press, 2007.
  • Biermann, Joel D. A case for character: towards a Lutheran virtue ethics. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress, 2014.
  • Bloomquist, Karen L., and John R. Stumme, eds. The promise of Lutheran ethics. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress Press, 1998.
  • Childs, James M., Jr. Ethics in the community of promise: faith, formation and decision. 2nd ed. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg, Fortress, 2006.
  • Hultgren, Stephen. ‘The problem of freedom today and the third use of the law: biblical and theological considerations.’ In The necessary distinction: a continuing conversation on law and gospel. Edited by Albert Collver et al. Saint Louis, MO: Concordia, pages 185–251, 2017.
  • Nessan, David L. The heart of Lutheran ethics. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress Press, 2022.
  • Peters, Ted. God—the world’s future: systematic theology for a new era. 3rd ed. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress, 2015.
  • Press, Michael, ed. Introduction to Lutheran ethics. Sabah, Malaysia: The Lutheran Study Centre, 2014.
  • Rae, Scott B. Moral choices: an introduction to ethics. 3rd ed. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2009.
  • Stjerna, Kirsi I. Encounters with Luther: new directions for critical studies. Louisville, Ky: Westminster John Knox Press, 2016.
  • Worthing, Mark. When choice matters: an introduction to Christian ethics. Millswood, SA: Pantaenus Press, 2004.

Assessment

Type Description Word count Weight (%)
Report

Consideration of the Lutheran emphases and approach to ethics

 1000 20.0
Essay

Critically evaluate an ethical issue in a local setting using the ethical model provided (this essay includes an oral presentation by the student on the topic)

 1800 35.0
Case Study

Examination of an ethical issue including critiquing a range of possible pastoral responses

 2400 45.0
Approvals

Unit approved for the University of Divinity by Prof Albert Haddad on 7 Apr, 2025

Unit record last updated: 2025-04-07 14:25:37 +1000