Chapter 2: Moral Theology Our Moral Life in Christ

What is moral theology? Moral theology is the study of both the principles and actions revealed to us by Jesus Christ and taught by the Catholic Church that will lead us to a life of holiness and to eternal salvation.

Moral theology is based on Divine Revelation Is transmitted to us through Sacred Scripture and Church Tradition and communicated to us by the Magisterium, the teaching authority of the Catholic Church. It acknowledges that the origin and purpose of all moral actions are found in God.

Moral theology is beyond human reason, but not contrary to human reason. When human reason is separated from the wisdom of God as found in the teachings of the Church, false conclusions are often reached that can have disastrous effects for the individual and society at large. It also includes the study of both moral principles and actions that comprise the natural law, which is inscribed in the mind and heart of every individual and can be known by reason, with the help of grace.

Moral theology is compatible with natural sciences. The moral teachings of the Church, for example, may use modern scientific findings in the area of psychology or medicine to support what Christ has ultimately revealed.

Moral theology recognizes and understands the dignity of the human person. The moral law taught by Christ and in the teachings of the Catholic Church derive from the Great Commandment of love, which itself comprises the call to respect the dignity of all human persons.

The Christian concept of mankind Our immortal souls are what make us human. Recognition of the soul is essential for human dignity. Our desire to search for truth is evidence of the existence of the soul. The human soul is created by God. The human person comprises a body and a soul. Death temporarily separates the soul from the body. Moral theology involves both the physical and spiritual realities of the human person. In Baptism, the soul is united to Christ.

Moral expectations of Christians Christians have a greater moral responsibility. Jesus sets higher standards for his followers.

Moral requirements for man as a social being Relating to other persons is very much a part of the human condition. This is reflected in the sacraments—Baptism and Holy Eucharist, which both have individual and communal characteristics. Baptism: Person being baptized is united both to Christ and to the members of his Mystical Body, the Church. Eucharist: the gathered community is strengthened and renewed in its union with Christ.

Moral requirements for man as a social being…con’t. The Christian is never alone. He/she is an integral part of God’s family. Objective moral norms exist: We have a right to own and use property for our basic needs. We are obligated t respect the property of others in order to preserve social harmony and the common good.

Our sources of moral theology Sacred Scripture Sacred Tradition The Magisterium Natural Law Natural sciences and moral theology

Conclusion Christ was sent by the Father to bring his message of love, hope, and reconciliation to all people. Moral theology is a reflection upon revealed truth as expressed in Sacred Scripture, Tradition, and natural law. Although every person enjoys the dignity of being made in the image of God, every person has moral weaknesses and is inclined to sin.

Conclusion… Through the Sacrament of Baptism a person is formed in the image of Christ and can again enjoy the divine life offered by his Redemption. Realistic view of the human condition helps us to aspire to a life of morality. We must remain aware of our continuous need of God’s grace: With grace, we are able to live a faithful life of prayer, sacrifice, and good moral decisions based upon the rich moral teachings of the Catholic Church.