Bible Church & Reason as the Sources of Authority

“Bible, Church and Reason as the Sources of Authority”

Understanding of Bible, Church and Reason as sources of moral authority varies amongst different Christian traditions and scholars.
The Bible is considered a primary source of authority in Christianity. It is viewed by many as the inspired word of God, exploring moral dilemmas and giving teachings on moral conduct.
Both the Old and New Testaments provide ethical teaching, for instance, the Ten Commandments in Exodus 20 and Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5-7.
Understanding and interpretation of the Bible can vary. Some Christians interpret it literally (fundamentalists) and consider all teachings relevant today, while others view it in a cultural-historical context, considering societal changes.
Church tradition and authority is another key source. The Church continues Jesus Christ’s teachings, providing guidance on ethical issues. The Church’s moral authority can be seen through tradition (handed down teachings), Magisterium (official Church teaching authority), and oecumenical councils.
The Catholic Church emphasises the concept of ‘Natural Law’ – the belief that God’s purpose is written into the laws of nature, which can be discerned through human reason.
Protestantism, on the other hand, gives greater emphasis on individual’s conscience, relationship with God and personal interpretation of the Bible, following the principle of Sola Scriptura (“Scripture alone”).
Reason and conscience are also considered to play a role in moral decision-making. This is part of the Christian belief, God has given humans the ability to reason and make judgements.
In Anglicanism for example, the ‘three-legged stool’ metaphor is often used to describe the balance between scripture, tradition and reason, with all three needed for a balanced moral decision.
However, the use of reason can differ among scholars: some argue reason should be fully guided by faith and revelation (fiath and reason are in harmony), others see a potential for conflict (faith vs reason debate).
Famous Christian philosophers like St. Augustine and St. Thomas Aquinas have contributed significantly to the discussion of faith and reason. They believed God could be understood through both revelation and rationality.
Modern issues continue to challenge the balance between these sources of authority. For example, on issues like contraception, same-sex relationships, and euthanasia, Christians may turn to a combination of the Bible, Church teaching, and personal conscience guided by reason.