If morality is simply following a written or commonly accepted code, then that is more like religion or conformity. In this sense morality makes life somewhat easier by keeping people’s actions within certain boundaries—societal “guardrails”. It’s a useful way of protecting ourselves from the aggressions of others.
I think the Pope Emeritus expressed the meaning of Christian spirituality well;
“Being Christian is not the result of an ethical choice or a lofty idea, but the encounter with an event, a person, which gives life a new horizon and a decisive direction.”
When we really do “encounter” The Person, then our entire perspective about what it is to live will be changed. That Person will affect us dramatically. Paul referred to this as “fruit of the Spirit”. That Spiritual fruit transcends “morality” and moral living. Personally, I think that perhaps the “bedrock” change is that my mystical encounter with Christ has allowed me to be more open and present with other people. I’m really beginning to understand that we’re all brothers, not just theoretically, but experientially. I’m beginning to understand and be able to practice (haltingly); “love one another just as I have loved you.”
If you haven’t read read Instruments in the Redeemer’s Hands by Paul Tripp I bet you’d enjoy it. He talks about Christianity doesn’t offer a program/system/idea but a Redeemer (of course he goes into great detail about what this means and entails.
Thanks for the recommendation, Chris. From what you’ve described I’d say that Tripp is spot-on.
T
I absolutely agree. In the garden, Jesus prayed that we would all be one – not moral soldiers marching lock-step to the same commander, but one family of the same Father, all loving one another.
Hi there. I only just saw your comment on my blog from March (regarding Eternal Subordination)! I have responded to it here: http://blog.scottandlori.co.uk/2012/04/maundy-thursday-not-my-will-but-yours.html
Thanks so much for your comment, very helpful!