The moral law, as set forth by God, and human laws Ethical Norms and Law The moral law, as set forth by God, and human laws

Law Law – an ordinance of reason for the common good, made and promulgated by those who are in charge of the community 1. ordinance of reason 2. exists for the common good 3. made by those who are responsible for the community 4. officially promulgated 5. fairly enforced

Eternal law Cosmic order established by God Chaos/cosmos Properties Primordial – starting point Foundation Intrinsic Universal

Natural law Eternal law, written in the heart of every human being, as it applies to human life. Characteristics Universality – applies to everyone Immutability – does not change. Interpreted by the magisterium

Positive law Promulgated by those who have authority to communicate laws to society Three kinds of positive law Divine positive law– legislated by God Ecclesiastical positive law – legislated by he power of the Church Civil positive law – legislated by legitimate government

Conscience and law One is not bound in conscience to cooperate with an unjust law. Laws that contravene the natural law and inflict serious injury upon the members of a society cannot be cooperated with. They must be opposed and lawful means to overturn them must be sought.

Evangelical law Specifically Christian Interior law – law of the Spirit Exterior -- found in the sermon on the Mount Also called the law of love or the law of grace

Just law Promotes the common good Burdens must reflect an equality of proportion Authority is a share in God’s authority