Human Dignity and Purpose
1) What do you think about the following statement: “My morality is mine and mine alone, and it is not my place to judge the morality of others”? Are there any times when you should judge the morality of others? Why or why not? If so, when and why?
2) How do the Christian beliefs about creational purpose and human nature affect how Christianity sees human dignity and human value? How do they affect ethical decision-making in the Christian worldview?
3) After reviewing the “Find Your Purpose” section in The Beginning of Wisdom, discuss some of the ways that people might discover their purpose. How does the Christian concept of m issio Dei fit into a Christian’s sense of purpose?
4) How might someone in your academic discipline or future vocation be able to live out a Christian missional purpose? Human Dignity and Purpose
Should morality be judged?, How does Christianity view dignity?, How does Christianity guide ethics?, How do people discover purpose?, How is missio Dei lived out?
1. Judging Morality
The statement, “My morality is mine and mine alone…” reflects a relativistic view, suggesting morality is purely individual. While respect for personal freedom is important, Christians believe some moral truths are universal because they are grounded in God’s nature. Therefore, there are times when judging morality is necessary—particularly when actions cause harm or injustice to others. For example, Scripture calls believers to discern good from evil (Hebrews 5:14) and to stand against wrongdoing (Ephesians 5:11). Judging morality is not about condemning others but about promoting truth, justice, and love.
2. Creational Purpose, Human Nature, and Dignity
Christianity teaches that all humans are created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). This foundational belief means that human dignity and value are intrinsic, not dependent on social status, abilities, or achievements. Since God designed humans with purpose and moral capacity, Christian ethics emphasizes respect for life, justice, and compassion. Ethical decision-making is thus guided by the principle of honoring God’s design for humanity. Choices that uphold life, promote justice, and reflect love affirm human dignity, whereas choices that harm others undermine God’s purpose for creation.
3. Discovering Purpose and Missio Dei Human Dignity and Purpose
People discover their purpose in various ways—through relationships, talents, experiences, and reflection on their values and goals. According to The Beginning of Wisdom, purpose is tied to one’s identity and role in God’s larger plan. In Christianity, the concept of missio Dei (the mission of God) frames purpose as participating in God’s work of reconciliation, justice, and love in the world. This means a Christian’s sense of purpose extends beyond personal fulfillment to include service, witness, and contributing to God’s redemptive plan.