Guided Analysis: Truth And Morality Worksheet

Guided Analysis: Truth and Morality Worksheet

In this guided analysis, you will interact with issues concerning truth and morality. Address the following questions, responding directly below each question with the appropriate specified number of words.

Part I – Truth

Psalm 19:1-2 states that the heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky proclaims his handiwork, revealing knowledge through nature. As one may learn about Vincent van Gogh through his painting, is it possible to learn something about God through natural beauty (general revelation)? Is this sufficient knowledge about God? Explain why or why not. (words)

At Jesus’ trial before Pilate, Jesus said he was born to bear witness to the truth and that those of the truth listen to his voice. How would you answer Pilate’s question, “What is truth?” Address your position on absolute and relative truth, referencing Chapter 7 or the lecture. (words)

Part II - Morality

Read the Ten Commandments in Exodus 20:1-17 and respond to the following in 500–700 words. Write your responses directly below each question:

  • Briefly list the Ten Commandments in your own words. Which three commandments are enforced by our legal system?
  • Explain how the first four commandments might impact someone’s life.
  • Explain how the tenth commandment might impact someone’s life.
  • What was Jesus’ response to the question, “What is the greatest commandment?” (Matthew 22:34-40). Why do you think he gave that answer?

Paper For Above instruction

The exploration of truth and morality raises fundamental questions about human understanding and ethical conduct. In Part I, the biblical assertion in Psalm 19 highlights that natural revelation provides a glimpse into God's divine qualities, but it is insufficient for a comprehensive understanding of divine nature. The beauty and order of the natural world suggest an intelligent designer; however, human limitations and fallen nature prevent us from fully knowing God through nature alone. Therefore, natural revelation serves as a starting point—what theologians term “general revelation”—but it cannot replace the detailed knowledge furnished through special revelation, such as the teachings of Scripture and the person of Jesus Christ.

Regarding the question posed by Pilate in John 18:37 about “What is truth?”, various philosophical perspectives come into play. Absolute truth refers to unchanging, objective facts that are universally valid, whereas relative truth depends on individual perspectives or cultural contexts. As outlined in Chapter 7, many believe that absolute truth exists and can be known through divine revelation, whereas others contend that truth is subjective and varies among individuals and societies. Personally, I lean toward the view that absolute truth exists—a reality grounded in God's unchanging character—though human understanding of this truth is often limited and imperfect. Recognizing the existence of absolute truth underscores the importance of divine guidance and Scripture in our moral and spiritual development.

In Part II, the Ten Commandments serve as foundational moral principles that influence personal conduct and societal laws. These commandments, in my own words, are: (1) Worship only God; (2) Avoid idolatry; (3) Use God's name respectfully; (4) Observe the Sabbath and honor rest; (5) Honor parents; (6) Do not murder; (7) Avoid adultery; (8) Do not steal; (9) Do not lie or bear false witness; (10) Do not covet what belongs to others. Of these, laws against murder, theft, and perjury are directly enforced by our legal system, ensuring justice and societal order.

The first four commandments foster a personal relationship with God and influence individual behavior. They remind believers to prioritize worship, respect God's name, observe a day of rest, and maintain reverence for divine authority—values that impact daily life, community involvement, and moral integrity. For example, honoring the Sabbath encourages rest and reflection, which can lead to mental and spiritual well-being. The tenth commandment, forbidding covetousness, cultivates contentment and guards against greed, which can lead to destructive behaviors and social discord.

Jesus’ response to the question about the greatest commandment is that loving God wholeheartedly and loving one's neighbor as oneself are the highest commandments (Matthew 22:34-40). He emphasized love because it encapsulates the essence of God's moral law—exemplifying care, humility, and selflessness. By framing love as the greatest commandment, Jesus highlighted the importance of ethical relationships grounded in genuine concern and devotion. This teaching underscores that moral living is rooted not merely in rule-following but in genuine love and compassion, shaping both individual character and societal harmony.

References

  • Holy Bible, English Standard Version. (ESV). Crossway Bibles.
  • Craig, W. L. (2008). Reason and revelation: A study in the philosophy of religion. InterVarsity Press.
  • Erickson, M. J. (2013). Christian theology (2nd ed.). Baker Academic.
  • Grudem, W. (1994). Systematic theology: An introduction to biblical doctrine. Inter-Varsity Press.
  • Lewis, C. S. (1952). Mere Christianity. HarperOne.
  • Nelson, B. (2011). The Jesus questions: Loving dialogues with people seeking truth. Thomas Nelson.
  • Plantinga, A. (2000). Knowledge and Christian belief. Eerdmans Publishing.
  • Sire, J. W. (2004). The universe next door: A basic worldview catalog. InterVarsity Press.
  • Van Til, G. (1975). An introduction to apologetics. Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing.
  • Williams, R. (2011). The moral law: A biblical perspective. Zondervan Academic.

Related Assignments