A Primer in Christian Ethics
Christ and the Struggle to Live Well

An introduction to Christian ethics that provides a new critical and constructive framework for Christian moral and political deliberation.

Luke Bretherton (Author)

9781009329026, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 9 November 2023

300 pages
22.8 x 15.3 x 2.3 cm, 0.586 kg

'This is an incredible book to which I will return again and again. It is rich with wisdom from a variety of different philosophical and theological sources from throughout the ages and has real-life application for how this thinking can help us to live life today. Instead of providing answers, Bretherton guides us in how we might think about the issues we are presented with in our daily lives. What I particularly valued about this book is how it demonstrates how the Bible might be used well in public discourse, but shows that it matters how we do so. I also particularly valued the way in which Bretherton draws on the work of Black theologians to not just illustrate points about race and racism, but show their contribution to the vast span of Christian ethical thought and ideas.' Chine McDonald, broadcaster, writer, and director of the religion and society think tank, Theos

How does Christian belief and practice relate to living well amid the difficulties of everyday life and the catastrophes and injustices that afflict so many today? In his introduction to Christian ethics, Bretherton provides a new, constructive framework for addressing this question. Connecting the theory and practice of Christian moral thought to contemporary existential concerns, this book integrates classic approaches to the pursuit of wisdom with contemporary liberationist and critical voices. The relationship between human and nonhuman life provides a central focus to the work, foregrounding environmental justice. As well as addressing a broad range of ethical questions, Bretherton situates moral formation and the pursuit of human and nonhuman flourishing alongside a concern for spirituality, pastoral care, and political struggles to survive and thrive in the contemporary context. Written for those seeking a place to start, as well as those seasoned in the field, Bretherton's book provides an innovative ethical framework that moves beyond many of the impasses that shape current moral and political debates.

1. Christ and the struggle to live well
I. Describing Well: 2. Listening to creaturely life
3. Listening to Scripture
4. Listening to strangers
5. Listening to cries for liberation
6. Listening to ancestors
II. Acting Well: 7. Finitude and fallenness
8. Call and commands
9. Rules and regulations
10. Virtues and vision
11. Deliberation and judgment
III. Living Well with Others: 12. Intimacy
13. Work
14. Politics.

Subject Areas: Religious ethics [HRAM1]