Theology
Core Definition of Truth
That which corresponds to reality; a judgment that "conforms to the external reality" (St. Thomas Aquinas).
Relativism
The belief that there are no absolute truths and that every truth depends on the mind of the individual believer.
Objective Truth
A truth that corresponds with reality and is true for everyone, whether they agree with it or not.
Religious Model of Truth
Truth is absolute as set by God, and we access this truth through faith alone.
Reason Model of Truth
God's truth is revealed through the exercise of reason.
Empirical Model of Truth
-
Scientific Model of Truth
Truth is what your experience defines it to be.
-
Truth is attained through knowledge.
The Source of Truth (Biblical Perspective)
God is the Author and source of all truth.
Objective Moral Truths
Obligations that come from principles that are opinion-independent.
What will "set you free" (John 8:32-33)?
Knowing the truth.
Morality
Knowledge based on human experience, reason, and God's revelation that helps us discover what we ought to do to live fully human lives.
Barna Research statistic on absolute truth
66% of people now believe there is no such thing as absolute truth.
Moral Theology
The specific study of the principles and actions revealed by Jesus Christ and taught by the Catholic Church.
Purpose of Moral Theology
To lead us to a life of holiness and eternal salvation.
Starting Point for Catholic Morality
Jesus Christ himself.
Requirements for Responsibility
To be a responsible person, one must have freedom and intelligence.
Requirement of Morality
It's not enough to simply know what is right; it requires "following up by doing what ought be done".
How we respond to God
Through our intelligence and freedom, as well as the help of the Holy Spirit.
The 3 Pillars of Moral Knowledge
Human Reason, Human Experience, and Divine Revelation.
A Moral Good
A virtuous act that is judged on a scale of good or evil (e.g., standing up for someone being bullied).
A Practical Good
An act that maximizes beneficial outcomes and is judged on a scale of smart or dumb (e.g., saving money for college).
Goal of Ethics/Morality
To achieve human goodness by being virtuous (possessing the cardinal virtues).
Goal of Moral Theology
To achieve holiness, which is described as being above human goodness and requires having BOTH the cardinal and the theological virtues.
A benefit of the moral life
It attracts other people to God and the Christian faith, which helps to build up the Church
Core Definition of Truth
That which corresponds to reality; a judgment that "conforms to the external reality" (St. Thomas Aquinas).
Beliefs cannot change a fact
A key characteristic of truth stating that a fact remains true no matter how sincerely a contrary belief is held.