Topic 3: Jesus and Natural Law

Moral Decision Making

Stages in Moral decision making

Jesus and Natural Law

 The Natural law, Known by reason, is the Universal moral law of Human nature for
living well.
 The Natural law is “natural”.
 The Natural law is valid for all people in all societies

“When Gentiles who have not the law do by nature what the lae requires, they are law to themselves, even
though they do not have the law. They show that what the law requires is written on their hearts” Roman
2:14-15

 THE GIVING OF TEN COMMANDMENTS

“Someone came to him and said, “Teacher, what good deed must I do to have eternal life?“ And he said
to him... “If you wish to enter into life, keep the commandments.“ Mt 19: 16-17

 The Ten Commandments are the ten universal laws given directly by God to Moses on Mount
Sinai.
WHAT IS DECISION MAKING AS A CHRISTIAN?

 When we make decisions the one thing that is must is to be in God’s will for our lives

How does God help us in moral decision-making?

 Life is filled with difficult decisions and winnes are those who make them.

How do we make moral decisions?

7 Steps in decision making

1. Stop and Think
2. Clarify Goals
3. Determine Facts
4. Develop Options
5. Consider Consequences
6. CHOOSE and Make a Decision
7. Monitor and Modify

Topic 4: Freedom
John Paul II on Human Freedom
Man’s Freedom and his Rationality
What is freedom?
  Freedom is the ability to make choices and do what you want without being forced or
controlled by others.
 Freedom is a responsibility

John Paul II on Human Freedom

Introduction:
 Pope John Paul II: Pope John Paul II, who served as the head of the Roman Catholic
Church from 1978 until his passing in 2005, was a prominent figure known for his
extensive writings and teachings on a wide range of topics, including human freedoms.
His views on human freedoms were deeply rooted in his faith and philosophical
background, and they continue to have a significant influence on discussions about
human rights and dignity.
 Pope John Paul II emphasized the significance of human freedoms throughout his
papacy. He believed that these freedoms were rooted in human dignity and that they
should be used responsibly and in accordance with moral values. He particularly stressed
the importance of religious freedom, the right to life, and the need to defend and protect
human rights. His teachings on these subjects had a significant impact on Catholic social
doctrine and influenced discussions on human rights and freedom worldwide.
 The Dignity of the Human Person
- The Dignity of the Human Person, as discussed by Pope John Paul II, refers to the
belief that every individual possesses inherent worth and value by virtue of being
human. This concept is a fundamental principle in Catholic social teaching and
emphasizes the importance of respecting and upholding the rights and well-being of
all people. It encompasses ideas such as human rights, the sanctity of life, and the
need to promote justice and solidarity.
 Freedom as a Gift from God
- The Pope's view on freedom as a gift from God emphasizes that our ability to make
choices and act according to our conscience is a sacred blessing from the divine. He
believes that God has granted humanity the freedom to live in accordance with their
beliefs and values, reflecting God's love for all people. In this perspective, freedom is
not just a human right but a fundamental aspect of our relationship with the divine.

 The Role of Conscience

-Pope John Paul II saw conscience as a vital guide for making moral decisions. He
believed that our conscience helps us determine right from wrong. It's like our inner
moral compass, and he stressed the importance of listening to it and following its
guidance to live in accordance with our values and God's will.

Man’s freedom and his Rationality

Man’s freedom
 John Paul II: Human freedom is an inherent aspect of human dignity, enabling free
choices guided by conscience, setting humans apart.
Rationality
 John Paul II: Rationality is a divine gift enabling individuals to reason, make ethical
choices, and harmonize faith with reason for the pursuit of truth.

John Paul II's understanding of man's freedom and his rationality was deeply rooted in the
belief that humans are endowed with the capacity to make free choices, guided by their
intellect and reason. He emphasized that true freedom is not a license for arbitrary actions but
should be exercised responsibly, respecting the dignity of every person and informed by
rationality and faith.

References:

https://catholicstand.com/what-is-freedom/

https://www.catholiceducation.org/en/religion-and-philosophy/social-justice/john-paul-ii-and-the-truth-
about-freedom.html

https://www.catholiceducation.org/en/religion-and-philosophy/social-justice/john-paul-ii-and-the-truth-
about-freedom.html

https://opusdei.org/en-ph/article/topic-7-human-freedom/