Character Quote by R.C. Sproul
““Ethics involves the question of authority. The Christian lives under the sovereignty of God, who alone may claim lordship over us. Christian ethics is theocentric as opposed to secular or philosophical ethics, which tend to be anthropocentric. For the humanist, man is the norm, the ultimate standard of behavior. Christians, however, assert that God is the center of all things and that His character is the absolute standard by which questions of right and wrong are determined.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Holiness of God, 1995
Christian ethics defines morality by God’s character and authority, contrasting with human‑centered secular ethics that place humanity as the ultimate standard.
In simple terms: God’s character is the moral standard, not human opinion.
Key Takeaway
Align decisions with divine character.
Themes
ethics
authority
theocentrism
anthropocentrism
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
theological
philosophical
When to use this quote
- church teaching
- personal decision making
- public policy
- interfaith dialogue
Key Concepts
theology
moral philosophy
divine sovereignty
Questions to Reflect On
- How does divine authority shape moral choices?
- Can secular ethics address ultimate questions without God?
A Different Perspective
Human‑centered ethics can claim universal relevance without divine reference.
