Book Review: Introduction to Biblical Ethics: Walking in the Way of Wisdom 3rd Edition by Paul Copan and Robertson McQuilkin

 An Introduction to Biblical Ethics: Walking in the Way of Wisdom 3rd Edition By  Paul Copan and  Robertson McQuilkin. IVP Academic, 2014, pp.669-0830828184

It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to realize that we when it comes to present culture, we are living in a day when there is great ignorance and confusion about ethics. Even among Christians, there is debate as well as great ignorance about issues such as homosexuality, abortion, politics/the relationship between Church/State, and a host of other practical issues such as dating, the importance of the Christian home, sexual ethics, etc. I could go on and on But the good news is that the text An Introduction to Biblical Ethics: Walking in the Way of Wisdom 3rd Edition by Paul Copan and  Robertson McQuilkin covers the topics just mentioned as well as many more. I don’t hesitate to say that it one of the most comprehensive treatments of ethical topics that you will ever find. In some chapters, each author gives their own perspective on specific topics (e.g.egalitarian-equal ministry opportunity for both genders and complementarian-ministry roles differentiated by gender).

The strengths of the book is that gives practical solutions to a variety of topics. I found myself learning more about the different kinds of poverty as well as discovering many solutions to issues that can be incorporated into basic discipleship. Many of the topics in the book come up in Christian discussions on a regular basis. Also, another strength of the book is that at the end of each chapter, the authors provide additional reading suggestions. It is evident that each author has not only done personal study and research but also provide answers personal and practical experience from their own lives.

I also want to commend the authors for providing a partial and detailed explanation about Knowing God’s Will at the end of the book. Obviously, both authors have read Friesen’s work on the topic as well as critiques of it. In my opinion, they come to a fairly balanced conclusion of the topic.

I have read some smaller treatments of ethics in the past. But this book has stirred me to take some of this material and teach it on a congregational level. We desperately need Christians to read such as book as this and teach it to others. A holistic apologetic is not just about what we know, but what we do as well. How we live and approach ethical matters is of the utmost importance. The authors clearly show that the Biblical world view still is as relevant as ever and  that it can be applied to many of the pressing ethical issues of our present day culture.