Eternal law

Definition

Eternal law is the divine plan that governs the universe, established by God and reflecting His eternal wisdom. This concept emphasizes that all moral truths and principles are grounded in the nature of God and the order He created, guiding human behavior towards good and away from evil. Understanding eternal law is essential for grasping the foundations of moral reasoning in Christian ethics, as it forms the basis for distinguishing right from wrong.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Eternal law represents God's unchanging nature and His ultimate authority over moral truths.
2. It serves as the foundation for both natural and divine laws, helping to articulate how humans can discern morality.
3. According to Christian teaching, eternal law is accessible through reason and faith, providing a framework for ethical living.
4. The concept of eternal law affirms that all creation reflects God's order and purpose, encouraging humans to align their actions with this divine plan.
5. Understanding eternal law is vital for developing a coherent Christian ethical framework that informs how individuals should act in various situations.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of eternal law inform our understanding of moral decision-making?
  • Eternal law provides the foundational framework for moral decision-making by establishing universal truths that guide human behavior. It emphasizes that moral principles are not subjective but rooted in God's nature and will. By understanding eternal law, individuals can make ethical choices that align with divine wisdom, fostering a deeper connection between their actions and God's intended order.
• In what ways do natural law and divine law relate to eternal law in Christian ethics?
  • Natural law and divine law are both derived from eternal law, creating a cohesive moral framework within Christian ethics. Natural law allows individuals to discern moral truths through reason, reflecting the principles found in eternal law. Divine law complements this by providing explicit instructions revealed through scripture, further clarifying how eternal law applies to specific situations. Together, they reinforce the importance of adhering to a consistent moral standard grounded in God's eternal nature.
• Evaluate the implications of rejecting the concept of eternal law for Christian ethical teachings and practices.
  • Rejecting the concept of eternal law would significantly undermine the coherence of Christian ethical teachings and practices. Without an objective standard for morality grounded in God's nature, ethical principles could become subjective and relative, leading to confusion and inconsistency in moral decision-making. This shift could diminish the authority of both natural and divine laws, weakening the foundation upon which Christians build their understanding of right and wrong. Ultimately, embracing eternal law is crucial for maintaining a robust ethical framework that aligns with God's design for humanity.

Related terms

Natural Law: Natural law is the moral law that can be understood through reason and is derived from eternal law, guiding human conduct based on universal moral principles.

Divine Law: Divine law refers to laws explicitly revealed by God, such as the commandments found in scripture, which further clarify and illuminate the eternal law.

Moral Law: Moral law encompasses the standards of right and wrong behavior, derived from eternal law, natural law, and divine law, guiding individuals in their ethical decisions.