Introduction
Moral law serves as a fundamental guide for human conduct, compelling individuals to reject evil and pursue good. Throughout history, philosophers have debated its origins, leading to three primary perspectives: human nature, societal influence, and divine authority. This article explores these perspectives, evaluates their implications, and distinguishes between absolute and universal moral principles in ethical decision-making.
Sources of Moral Law
1. Human Nature as the Source of Moral Law
Immanuel Kant, a leading moral philosopher, argued that moral law is inherent in human rationality. According to Kant, every rational being possesses an internal moral compass – an obligation imposed by their own will rather than external influence. Morality, therefore, is a natural extension of reason and autonomy.
2. Society as the Source of Moral Law
Philosophers such as Henri Bergson and Thomas Hobbes contend that moral law emerges from social influence. They argue that norms, traditions, and legal systems shape individuals’ moral perceptions, making morality a product of collective human experience and cultural evolution.
3. Divine Origin as the Source of Moral Law
A widely accepted perspective asserts that moral law originates from God. This view holds that morality is not merely a human construct but is grounded in divine authority. If God created humankind, moral law becomes an extension of His will, making Him the ultimate source of moral guidance.
Evaluating the Sources of Moral Law
While society plays a significant role in shaping moral behaviour, it cannot be the original source, as society itself is a product of human history. Similarly, if morality were solely based on rationality, individuals could justify conflicting moral choices through personal reasoning. The divine origin theory offers a more comprehensive explanation: if God created human beings with rationality and free will, then He is both the ultimate source and highest authority of moral law.
As Christians, we affirm that true morality is not just a human construct – it stems from God. Scripture teaches:
‘For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.’ (Proverbs 2:6)
While reasoning and social influence shape decisions, divine authority remains the foundation. In a world of shifting moral values, Christians must remain anchored in God’s truth. Can society exist without God?
Furthermore, the relationship between law and morality is complex. While legal systems serve as enforcement mechanisms, true morality transcends mere legislation. Morality unites individuals, fostering harmony in society and a deeper connection with God.
Moral Principles: Absolute vs. Universal
Moral principles guide human behaviour, but they can be categorised into two distinct types: absolute and universal.
Absolute Moral Principles
Absolute moral principles are unchanging, allowing no exceptions regardless of circumstance. A prime example is truthfulness – across all cultures, lying is condemned as immoral. Kant upheld this principle, arguing that lying is always wrong, even if done with good intentions. This position aligns with the biblical injunction:
‘You shall not bear false witness against your neighbour.’ (Exodus 20:16)
Christians are called to uphold truthfulness, even at great personal cost.
Universal Moral Principles
Universal moral principles are widely accepted but allow exceptions based on specific contexts. Consider the Hebrew midwives who deceived Pharaoh to preserve innocent lives: “The midwives said to Pharaoh, ‘Because the Hebrew women are not like the Egyptian women, for they are vigorous and give birth before the midwife comes to them.’ So God dealt well with the midwives… because they feared God, He gave them families.” (Exodus 1:19-21)
Would absolute truth-telling have been the correct moral stance? Let’s examine a few ethical scenarios.
Truth-Telling Exception
Returning rightful property is a universal moral principle. However, if a murderer entrusts someone with a weapon intended for harm and later demands its return, withholding or deceiving may be justified to protect life.
Medical Confidentiality Exception
Doctors have ethical obligations to maintain patient confidentiality. However, revealing an HIV-positive diagnosis to a spouse could prevent harm – here, the duty to protect life supersedes strict confidentiality.
Concealing Truth for Justifiable Reasons
If a criminal demands personal details about a potential victim, withholding that information is a morally sound decision. The Hebrew midwives, driven by reverence for God, withheld the truth to save lives.
‘The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.’ (Proverbs 9:10)
A Persecuted Preacher
A preacher, St. John, was pursued by persecutors. When questioned about his whereabouts, he falsely claimed to have boarded a departing vehicle, allowing him to escape safely. Did he lie? His decision reflects the biblical principle of self-preservation – a foundational moral law secondary only to loving God.
‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbour as yourself.’ (Matthew 22:36-40)
These examples illustrate that while absolute moral principles remain rigid, universal moral principles allow for exceptions when ethical complexities arise.
Conclusion
The origin of moral law has been debated for centuries, with arguments supporting human nature, societal influence, and divine authority. While reasoning and cultural norms influence morality, the most compelling source remains God.
Distinguishing between absolute and universal moral principles is essential for navigating ethical dilemmas. Absolute principles remain unyielding, while universal principles offer flexibility in morally complex situations. A thoughtful approach to moral reasoning ensures that ethical decisions serve the greater good.
In leadership, marriage, and business, ethical challenges arise daily. Should we follow man-made standards, or uphold God’s moral law? While society may redefine right and wrong, Christians are called to remain steadfast in biblical truth. True integrity goes beyond legal compliance – it is about honouring Christ in every decision.
How do you apply biblical morality in your workplace, marriage, and personal life?
About the Author
Rev. Joel Beddim is a researcher and writer specialising in ethics, philosophy, history, and moral theology. You can reach him at joelbeddim@gmail.com or 0246906239
About The Author
