Morals without Religion

Abstract

Morality is possible without religion, as Margaret Knight asserted. However such a position is based on experiencing perfect love from perfect parents. The further question arises: are people as moral as they ought to be? Standards of morality are determined by how correctly people know the natural environment, society, history, culture and their Maker. Non-religious moral standards tend to shrink to in-group loyalties, whereas Christian moral standards are universalized, and are applied even to enemies. Christianity embraces bringing our own conduct under review (repentance); cancelling offences (forgiveness); and imagination on behalf of others (love). Further, Christian morality provides strength for what it requires. Its enabling grace is God's love through Jesus Christ.