In considering ethics, one is presented with varied scenarios dealing with what is moral or correct. Differing theories concerning a proper ethic have been explored throughout human history, ranging from utilitarianism to nihilism to universal moralism. The discussions by philosophers and thinkers can be an interesting study, but in the end any ethic which denies the overall authority and power of God is faulty.
We truly live in a blessed age. This statement does not focus upon the modern age (although our conveniences and technology are great wonders), but instead on the Messianic age. We live in the time the Hebrews of the Old Testament would call the “Last Days”. We live in the age of the church – the time when all has been revealed. When we look at Biblical characters, especially those who lived in the Old Testament times, it is important to remember how blessed we truly are.
A common difficulty in planning an outreach for the Gospel in a community is deciding where to start. What should the focus of study be? How should such a focus be said? How should the outreach be structured? These are all important questions to answer, but another question should be answered first: Where are the people?
In describing how one approaches the outlook of one’s life, the contrast between optimism and pessimism is the most powerful. These two philosophies embody two distinct ends of perspective toward how to approach problems, either as obstacles or challenges. While there is a degree of over-simplification in this process, as no person tends to be specifically one or the other, optimism vs. pessimism can tell a lot about an individual’s attitude toward life.
One of the characteristics of established civilization is the creature comforts that established culture brings. Even in ancient times, the civilizations that became dominant were known for their own comforts and “conveniences.” One such example was the earliest use of indoor plumbing which existed during the Roman Empire!