Back to Bible Basics for Orthodox Christians Session 6

Back to Bible Basics for Orthodox Christians

Session 6 – The Bible as the Source of Morality

Patristic Reference: Saint John Chrysostom Homilies

Didache – The Teachings of the Holy Apostles to the Nations 70-100 AD

Prayer before reading of the Holy Scriptures: Shine within our hearts, loving Master, the pure light of Your divine knowledge, and open the eyes of our minds that we may comprehend the message of Your Gospel. Instill in us also reverence for Your blessed commandments so that, having conquered sinful desires, we may pursue a spiritual life, thinking and doing all those things which are pleasing to You. For You, Christ our God, are the light of our souls and bodies, and to You we give glory, together with Your Father who is without beginning and Your all holy, good and life giving Spirit, always now and forever and to the ages of ages.

  1. Definitions
    1. Morality – “A doctrine or system of moral conduct”
    2. Morals – “Principles relating to right and wrong behavior”
    3. In other words, morality is a code of conduct we all agree to live by
  2. The Source of Christian Morality is Love
    1. The Greatest Commandment – Matthew 22.34-40 OSB 1312
    2. “A new commandment I give to you…” John 13.34 OSB 1453
    3. “If you love Me, keep My commandments.” John 14.15 OSB 1454
  3. How do we love?
    1. Love your enemies – Matthew 5.43-44 OSB 1277
    2. Love your enemies – Luke 6.27-36 OSB 1375-1376
    3. Take care of others – John 21.15-17 OSB 1466-1467
    4. Love is… 1 Corinthians 13 OSB 1567
  4. Morality is not about following the Law
    1. When did we see you and not help you? Matthew 25.31-46 OSB 1318-1319\
    2. Prodigal Son’s Older Brother – Luke 15.11-32 OSB 1397
    3. All things are lawful… 1 Corinthians 10.23-24 OSB 1562
  5. The First Christian Moral Code affirms the Old Testament Moral Code
    1. Didache Chapter 1 – Commandment to love leads to life
    2. Didache Chapter 2 – Gross Sins Forbidden
    3. Didache Chapter 3 – Flee from evil
  6. Contemporary Moral Issues
    1. How do we evaluate current moral questions?

How does our response to current moral questions reflect our love? SJC By this He at the same time showed that the company should never be extinguished, when He gave them a distinguishing token. This He said when the traitor was cut off from them. But how calls He that a new commandment which is contained also in the Old (covenant)? He made it new Himself by the manner; therefore He added, As I have loved you.