01/30/06

Wells speaks of the three strands that he has developed that arch over the writings of Christian Ethics. They are “universal”, “subversive”, and “ecclesial.” Universal ethics is the idea that ethics can be made to suit anybody. This definitely has not been my experience. There is such a difference in ethics between the Mennonites (the community I am a part of while at school) and Methodists (the denomination I have grown up in). Christian ethics definitely has not been made broad enough to suit these two parties. Also, I do not think it is necessary. I think the uniqueness within Christianity on both a micro and mezzo level is what makes life interesting and open for discussion. How fun would it be if we all agreed all the time? The idea of subversive ethics is something that I have witnessed before, both within my Methodist ideals and with the Mennonites. Many times, it seems as if people develop their ethics based on what some other group’s ethics is not. People feel that the “universal” way that things are being done oppresses certain people, such as minorities. Ecclesial ethics tries to create an ethics for the church. Even if universal ethics works for people from the view of humanity, that does not necessarily mean that it follows the doctrines of the church. Thus, the ecclesial view of ethics is as closer to accuracy scripturally and through faith in Jesus than universal and subversive.
Ecclesial ethics will definitely not always be agreed with by non-Christians. It is not a natural human view. Wells says that the church must resists three temptations: we cannot look for theology in the world, we cannot ignore the rest of God’s creation (the non-Christians), and we must avoid Gnosticism (communing with God secretly and heretically). All of these temptations can bring vulnerability, thus further temptations. To make ecclesial ethics work, we must be in a community, we must have a base of our beliefs, and we must act out exactly what we believe. Any of these things could bring a downfall to one’s faith or reputation. I have definitely seen all of this, most of it even in my life. It is so hard to act without support or a strong grounding in what I believe. I am just so much more vulnerable in a situation like that. Wells also mentioned that in the Bible, the word “Saint” is never seen as a singular. There are always other people there, helping each other out and supporting each other. This is how I feel life should be lived. It makes Christianity more fun, interesting, and secure.

01-23-06
Even in the introduction, Samuel Wells brings up many good points which intrigue me. I am excited to dive into this book – I think it will be a very unique, new way of learning.
Wells will be comparing Christian ethics with theatrical improvisation. He will not be comparing technical things such as actors, audience, or set, but rather ideas such as uninhibited freedom and the growth of trust.
Wells plans to talk about Christian ethics as something which has developed over many years. Not necessarily something that a Christian brings up when necessary, but something which a Christian constantly has in his/her mindset. I am anxious to hear of Wells’ thoughts on the new paradigms of Christian ethics, its evolvement, and the changing of modern to postmodern ideas, especially involving the new imagination.
Wells also speaks about what this book is not. Though ethics stems strongly from norms, beliefs, and developed ideas, Wells asserts that it definitely also comes from Scripture and tradition. The book will bring about ideas, thoughts, and suggestions, but it is not meant to be a revolution. Also, on the technical side, this book, when talking of theatrical improvisation, does not apply to music, technicalities, or the stage, to name a few. His thesis statement contains the overarching words “overaccepting” and “reincorporation.” I am very eager to hear these words extensively defined and put into context.
Apart from the book, class discussions have been very mind opening, intriguing, and unique. This class is definitely different than any other I have experienced. The music at the beginning of each class session has aided in my learning so much. That has always been a way which I learn and express myself, so it all comes very natural to me. I hope to have more involved discussions in class rather than just me and a couple other students. I am very excited to see what the rest of the semester has in store!