This is a big, thick book and written with such depth and detailed explanations for the uninitiated like me. Since the writing is very good, I am appreciating the topic very much. Honestly, I am still reading and it will take me a while to get through the book. However, I can rate this book as a "5" because I am enjoying it soooo much! A great purchase for me! :)

Another great work from Dr. Grudem. As is his custom, Grudem is not pedantic or pushy but approaches every issue with grace and balance and always with Scripture and historical interpretation as his guide.

In "Christian Ethics," Wayne Grudem embarks on the daunting task of helping Christians learn how to use the Bible as the primary means to assess and make morally correct and wise decisions. Grudem first introduces the subject of Christian ethics, the reasons for studying the topic, and the tools by which one should use to evaluate ethical issues. Next, Grudem discusses specific areas by using the Ten Commandments as the structure to group both traditional and contemporary topics including global warming and reproductive technologies. Grudem's core assertions stays well within the bounds of traditional evangelical thought and upholds the Bible as the ultimate authority by which we base our ethical decisions. Readers will find that significant parts of the book have been adapted from previous material that Grudem has written but has been updated to include recent developments and the author's current stance on these issues. Grudem has largely been consistent with his methodology and approach over the years so those who are familiar with Grudem's other works may find the material to be less surprising. Despite the length of the book, Grudem labours to make the material readable to a wide audience and includes extensive footnotes and bibliographies of Christian ethics textbooks that readers can refer to for further reading. At the end of the chapter, Grudem adds a devotional touch by incorporating a key verse and a hymn that summarizes the topic discussed. Of the various chapters, Grudem devotes an inordinate amount of time on two sections namely environmental and wealth/poverty issues. This is likely because Grudem has written extensively on these two topics over the years and there are numerous controversial claims and arguments that need to be addressed. Not everyone will agree with Grudem's conclusions such as his belief that the Earth's resources will never be completely depleted. However, the interactions between the author's thoughts against other sources provide readers with exceptional examples of the logical thought processes utilized to sort through questions on ethics.

I would gladly recommend this introductory book on ethics to all those who have never engaged this subject before. I believe that even nonbelievers could benefit in gaining an increased understanding of the Christian worldview in evaluating ethical dilemmas in everyday life. The most helpful part of the book likely lies in the first eight chapters where Grudem lays down a solid overview of what ethics is and how Christians should approach making God-honouring and neighbour-loving choices. The effects of relativism have deeply impacted our society and churches so that Christians are often left confused and paralyzed as to what is the most prudent and godly decision to make. Christians need to develop a vigorous ethical framework undergirded by God's Word and Spirit so that they can engage in constructive discussions with both believers and nonbelievers on contentious issues in an informed, respectful manner that adorns the gospel. To this end, Grudem's book is an excellent resource to equip Christians on this lifelong journey of seeking and applying God's wisdom to all the decisions we make.

In compliance with Federal Trade Commission regulations, I was provided a review copy of this book from Crossway.

Big reader of Wayne Grudem. When I received this book and started reading and studying it, I just couldn't put this book down. I do not review that many books, but I had to on this one. This is the best book of Wayne Grudem. Keep up the good work.

overwhelming; where to begin:

use as a reference, not as a read-through for the average joe.

His true & devoted heart for God comes through on each subject