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Essay / The theory of divine command and the theory of absolutism
The theory of divine command is a branch of absolutism which fits perfectly into the Christian perspective. Any action that God commands is morally right. An action is wrong if it is contrary to the will of God. God's will can be found through Scripture, personal revelation, tradition, and reason. If one loves God, then one must obey His will. Morality is based on the commandments and ever unchanging character of God and if God did not exist, so would morality. Following God's will not only benefits oneself but often benefits others because it is good. God is competent, strategic, just and wise and understands what is best for each person. I choose to follow God's will because it is right, not because I always enjoy the results, but rather because I know it is for the best. Divine Command theory encourages its followers to place the will of No other ethical system we have looked at so far, do they have any higher power to which they conform. The only reason a relativist might do any good is because they fit within the context of a certain culture. The egoist does good because he will feel bad if he does not do it or because he is motivated to do good so as not to face the consequences of doing something wrong. A utility will do good because it can benefit as many people as possible. A Divine Command theorist has someone to hold him accountable and a reason to do good, not only because God commands us, but also for our own good. Throughout the Bible, it describes the repercussions of wrongdoing. We could say that we are motivated by consequences, but we could also say that we are motivated by doing what is right, by the knowledge and feelings, even by the rewards, that come from doing what is right. is good in the eyes of God and