Virtue ethics is an approach to ethics that emphasizes the cultivation and practice of virtues or moral character. In contrast to other ethical theories like utilitarianism or deontology, virtue ethics focuses less on moral rules and duties, and more on becoming a virtuous person.
The roots of virtue ethics can be traced back to ancient Greek philosophers like Plato and Aristotle. The concept was later adapted and developed extensively within Christian tradition. Biblical texts and figures provide rich resources for virtue ethics, as Scripture places great emphasis on moral character, human flourishing, and the pursuit of holiness.
Some key aspects of virtue ethics include:
- Emphasis on character – Virtue ethics is concerned with who we become, not just what we do. The goal is to cultivate virtues and become persons of moral character.
- Focus on habits and practices – Moral formation requires habituation and effort. We must regularly practice virtuous actions to develop good moral character.
- Promotion of human flourishing – Virtue ethics aims at human excellence and the ultimate goal of eudaimonia (happiness, blessedness). Virtues enable us to fulfill our created purpose.
- Situation-sensitive discernment – Virtuous persons have practical wisdom to navigate complex situations. Rules can’t address every scenario, so discernment is key.
- Agent-centered morality – In virtue ethics, morality stems from who we are. Character comes first, then actions. This contrasts with rule-based approaches.
- Wholeness and integration – Virtues work together to shape character as a whole. Cultivating individual virtues fosters integrity.
- The means matter – Virtuous activity involves not just doing the right thing, but doing it in the right way and for the right reasons.
Scripture affirms many of these basic elements of virtue ethics. The Bible repeatedly emphasizes the importance of moral character and virtue. Passages like the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1-12), and the armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18) all illustrate virtues that reflect God’s character and enable human flourishing. Becoming Christlike is the ultimate goal of Christian discipleship and formation.
At the same time, the Bible makes clear that virtue involves right actions and not just good intentions (James 2:14-26). Virtuous character expresses itself through practicing love, justice, generosity, and other virtues habitually. Scripture also warns against vices like greed and pride that distort moral character. So biblical virtue ethics maintains the necessary link between character, actions, and consequences.
A few key virtues that receive substantial attention in Scripture include:
Faith
Faith is fundamental to the Christian life. Scripture defines faith as “the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1). Faith trusts God’s character and promises without always having visible evidence. Abraham exemplifies faith in the Bible; his willingness to follow God’s call even to sacrifice Isaac demonstrated radical trust (Genesis 22). The “faith chapter” of Hebrews 11 highlights many other people of faith. Cultivating faith as a virtue enables deep reliance on God and confidence in His will.
Hope
Closely tied to faith is the virtue of hope. Biblical hope is not mere optimism, but rather a firm assurance regarding God’s intentions and the certainty of His promises. Paul writes that faith, hope, and love abide together (1 Corinthians 13:13). The Psalms frequently express hope in God amid suffering. Hope sustains believers in affliction and motivates ethical living in light of Christ’s return. As a fruit of the Spirit, hope is essential for Christian formation (Galatians 5:22-23).
Love
Love is arguably the premier virtue in Scripture. The two great commandments are to love God and neighbor (Matthew 22:37-39). Love fulfills the whole law (Galatians 5:14) and reflects the very character of God (1 John 4:7-12). Love is patient, kind, not arrogant, does not insist on its own way (1 Corinthians 13:4-8a). The love passage in 1 Corinthians 13 has been called the “hymn of love” – it shows that above all, love binds the virtues together in harmony and sustains moral living.
Justice
Justice is another cardinal virtue in the Bible. God Himself loves justice (Psalm 99:4). The Psalms repeatedly link justice with righteousness and uprightness. Justice involves defending the cause of the vulnerable and needy, giving fair treatment to all people, and acting with equity. God calls His people to “do justice” continually (Micah 6:8; Isaiah 1:17). Justice establishes right relationships, opposes oppression, and restores shalom in the community.
Courage
Courage empowers action in the face of difficulty. Biblical courage is not mere bravado, but doing what is right and necessary even when it is unpopular or dangerous. The Old Testament valorizes courage in various forms – physical, moral, and spiritual. Jesus Himself encouraged courage in His followers, warning that they would face persecution (Matthew 10:16-39). Courage strengthens endurance and faithfulness through adversity. It is a martial virtue frequently linked with discipline.
Self-Control
Self-control restrains passions and appetites that can lead people astray. In the Bible, lack of self-control characterizes fools, while the wise exhibit discipline. The book of Proverbs repeatedly warns against lack of sexual self-control and overindulgence. Self-control enables temperance and an ordered life. Paul emphasizes self-control as a fruit of the Spirit that aids godly living (Galatians 5:23). Believers must cultivate self-control to resist temptation and grow in maturity.
Humility
Humility recognizes one’s creatureliness and dependence on God. Scripture warns frequently against pride and exalts humility. Jesus exemplified radical humility in His incarnation and willingness to serve others (Philippians 2:5-11). James says God gives grace to the humble (James 4:6). Humility acknowledges limitations and sees oneself accurately without inflation or deflation. It combats pride, arrogance, and hypocrisy. The humble trust God rather than their own understanding.
These and other virtues comprise moral character pleasing to God. Some additional virtues emphasized in Scripture include honesty, wisdom, kindness, patience, generosity, diligence, gratitude, and hospitality. No definitive list exhausts biblical virtue ethics. But Scripture praises some form of these virtues in many places, presenting them as worthy of cultivation.
At the same time, the Bible strongly warns against vices and corruption of character. teachings on virtue imply flipping them to reveal their corresponding vices. Scripture often portrays vices as enslaving sins that destroy moral character. Common vices include greed, lust, gluttony, sloth, envy, pride, and anger. Vices distort human desires and relationships in ways that hinder flourishing.
In summary, virtue ethics focuses on moral character development. It aims at human excellence, reflection of God’s nature, and the abundant life God desires for people. Virtue ethics in the Bible provides resources for spiritual formation andChristlike living. Some key features of a biblical virtue ethic include:
- Primary emphasis on character, virtues, and becoming Christlike
- Cultivating virtues as moral and spiritual habits
- Linking virtues strongly with the pursuit of shalom, human flourishing, and the common good
- Warn against corrupting effects of vice and sinful desires
- Stress importance of prudence, discernment, and wisdom in application
- Ultimate goal of glorifying God and delighting in Him
Pursuing virtue ethics biblically demands dependence on God’s grace to transform character. It involves committed spiritual formation and Christian discipleship within community. And it looks forward to the day when redeemed characters perfectly reflect God’s virtuous nature.
