It’s Good To Be Human (Whose Rules Rule 6)
First published 19 December 2011 In order to start to sketch out Christian moral foundations we need to understand that the way Christians talk about equality is different to the way modern secular atheists talk about it. That’s because secular atheists can often appeal to equality as the fundamental truth on which to base moral…
No Harm Done (Whose Rules Rule 5)
First published 5 December 2011 If I were to say to a couple who were sexually active with each other outside of a heterosexual marriage (to each other!) that their sexual activity is wrong or sinful, I guess their response would probably be, “why is it wrong? What harm is it doing to anyone?” It’s…
Why Should We Care About Morality? (Whose Rules Rule 4)
First published 14 November 2011 I’ve been writing recently about morality, and comparing non-religious concepts with the Christian source of morality. I am writing this series of articles for two reasons. Firstly, I have noticed the apparent paradox whereby many non-religious people, who seem to have strong moral repulsion to awful acts such as rioting,…
What’s So Special About Being Human? (Whose Rules Rule 3)
First published 24 October 2010 What I’ve done so far in this series of blog articles is only to sketch outlines. I’ve tried to outline the fundamental difference between Christian morality and non-religious philosophies of morality – the final authority. For the Christian the final authority in all matters is God, and He communicates through…
What Makes Something Wrong? (Whose Rules Rule 2)
First published 10 October 2011 I made a big assertion in my last article. I said that the non-religious people of the West basically see themselves as the final authority when it comes to deciding what is right and wrong. I see that as the primary reason for conflict between Christian moral standards and the…
What is Sin? (Whose Rules Rule 1)
First published 28 September 2011 When non-religious people talk with Christians about morality they normally do so with the belief that there is common ground that can form the basis of discussion. But there ultimately isn’t! In terms of the ultimate principles that underpin and guide what we feel is right and wrong, we are…
Riots in England 2011 – Thinking About the Reaction
First published 16 August 2011 A lot of articles have been written trying to come to terms with the recent riots and looting in England (August 2011). Most people I spoke to while it was going on were asking “Why?” In fact, just stating the fact that the incidents occurred in England says a lot.…
Where Shall We Turn in Times of Doubt?
First published 21 May 2010 Times of doubt A while ago I wrote to encourage those who are worried that they don’t have strong enough faith. I was, to be honest, concerned that my previous reflections may be overly dogmatic, and end up discouraging those who read and say, “I still don’t get it!” I…
Is Christian Comfort ‘Pie in the Sky’?
First published 18 March 2010 This post is now incorporated with 22 other similar ‘reflections’ in my book, Facing Cancer with Faith. Well it’s not quite what I expected to be dwelling on when I started my blog just over 6 months ago, but my thoughts on hardship and suffering as a Christian do seem…
Christian Foundations
First published 31 January 2010 For those who are not (yet) Christians I guess I intended my last few blog articles for those who are Christians like me. However, a few people who have read my articles may not have been Christians. If that’s you, I am a little bit conscious that what I have…