Pastoral Ethics

by David J. Atkinson

Publisher:

Lynx

, 1994

Overview

Pastoral Ethics offers clear and practical guidance on the ethical and theological dimensions of the dilemmas to be faced in counseling situations. The volume covers 20 major contemporary issues including marriage, family, forgiveness, divorce, business, power, science, health, bereavement, sexuality and the environment.

Ministry to the morally confused is a vital part of the work of Christian pastors and counselors. So many difficult ethical issues crowd in on us in daily life that we need a resource to point up biblical, practical ways to understand and interpret.

Pastoral Ethics is such a resource. David Atkinson presents a treatment of today’s central ethical questions with a focus on how they affect day-to-day life. The stress here is on practical application rather than abstract moral philosophy. The work’s strength lies in its combination of biblical and practical approaches. Pastoral Ethics will be an invaluable aid for any ministry.

Contents

Top Highlights

“A covenant is a commitment based on a promise; it is publicly known; it leads to the growth of a relationship based on that promise and that commitment.” (Page 20)

“the Bible is first and foremost given to instruct us in our knowledge of God” (Page 12)

“We thus seek theological guidelines, not proof texts” (Page 13)

“The covenant model points to marriage as a dynamic, changing, growing relationship, not a still-life.” (Page 20)

“Leaving’ points to the establishment of a new unit in society” (Page 21)

Praise for the Print Edition

Good biblical theology, clear ethical thinking and sensitive pastoral application.

—Melvin Tinker

His sensitivity rebukes brash, uncaring solutions; his sheer depth and power of ethical penetration takes us beyond the quick answers.

—Alec Moyter

An attractive mix of a biblically based faith, which is willing to question, with an emphasis on acceptance and not judgment.

—Edward Condry

Should be read by all who carry out counseling work, and by ministers and those in training.

—Caroline Berry

Product Details

• Title: Pastoral Ethics: A Guide to the Key Issues of Daily Living
• Author: David Atkinson
• Publisher: SPCK
• Publication Date: 1994
• Pages: 239

About David J. Atkinson

David J. Atkinson is retired as assistant bishop in Southwark Diocese. Previously, he was a fellow of Corpus Christi College in Oxford, England, an assistant curate of The Cathedral Church of St. Andrew, archdeacon of Lewisham, and bishop of Thetford. He is the author of several books and commentaries, including Pastoral Ethics: A Guide to the Key Issues of Daily Living.