T. David Gordon, a former professor and PCA minister, discusses ethical decision-making based on his book, 'Choose Better'. He outlines five biblical models—law, imitation, communion, wisdom, and warfare—highlighting their relevance for everyday choices. The conversation emphasizes the need to integrate these models for effective guidance, illustrating the complexity of morality in both personal and pastoral contexts. Gordon’s insights aim to empower listeners to make better ethical decisions, enriching their understanding of biblical teachings.
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Pastoral Conversations
Pastors frequently discuss ethical decision-making with congregants.
Consider a biblical framework for these discussions.
insights INSIGHT
Ethical Models
Christians often lean towards law or imitation-based ethical models.
Explore other models to enhance your decision-making.
insights INSIGHT
Law vs. Imitation
The law model focuses on obeying God's commands.
The imitation model focuses on emulating God's attributes and actions.
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In 'Why Johnny Can't Preach', T. David Gordon critiques the state of modern preaching, attributing its decline to societal changes, particularly the shift from language-based to image-based media. He argues that preachers lack the necessary analytical tools due to their inability to read texts deeply, write effectively, and discern what is significant. The book emphasizes the need for a counter-cultural approach to improve preaching skills.
Choose Better
Choose Better
Five Biblical Models for Making Ethical Decisions
T. David Gordon
In "Choose Better," T. David Gordon offers a practical framework for ethical decision-making rooted in five biblical models: law, imitation, communion, wisdom, and warfare. Each model provides unique insights, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of relying solely on one approach. The book emphasizes the importance of considering multiple perspectives to navigate complex ethical dilemmas. Gordon's concise writing style makes this a valuable resource for both laypeople and pastors seeking guidance in applying biblical principles to everyday life. The book encourages a balanced approach, avoiding legalism while maintaining a strong moral compass.
How do we know if we're making the best choices possible? Todd and Carl discuss this important topic with their guest, T. David Gordon, former professor at Grove City College and the author of Choose Better: Five Biblical Models for Making Ethical Decisions. Over the centuries, Christians in different traditions have distilled scriptural guidance into five models for ethical decision-making: law, imitation, communion, wisdom, and warfare. Today, the discussion centers around the relevance and application of these five models in everyday life and pastoral ministry.
"One of the things I really appreciate about the book, David, is with each of the models, you give sort of pluses and minuses in order to bring out the fact that we can't just have one model or even two models. They all complement each other." – Carl Trueman
Biblical, profound, and practical, these models provide clear questions to ask in every situation. They help us improve our choices and better understand the choices of fellow believers—especially when they differ from ours.
We were pleased to award two copies of Choose Better to our listeners, thanks to the generosity of our friends at P&R Publishing. Congratulations to Jon C. from Covington, LA and Francine C. from Louisburg, KS!
Show Notes:
Why Johnny Can’t Preach by T. David Gordon: https://reformedresources.org/why-johnny-cant-preach-paperback/
Mortification of Spin 