An Introduction to Biblical Ethics
Walking in the Way of Wisdom
- Ethics, Culture & Social Issues
- Publisher: InterVarsity Press
- Published: 2026
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Publisher's Description
The Latest Edition of a Comprehensive, Classic Guide to Christian Ethics What should we do or not do? Can we be good without God? What is the highest good, the purpose of human existence? These kinds of enduring questions are at the heart of the study of ethics. This classic textbook, now in its fourth edition, offers a distinct approach to ethics grounded in and structured around God’s revelation in Scripture. It provides a thorough overview of biblical ethics that addresses the life of love and wisdom to be lived out by Christians as virtuous individuals, as well as their calling in community, in society, and throughout God's creation. Paul Copan and Robertson McQuilkin explore a wide range of ethical issues organized around the Ten Commandments and themes springing from them—loving God and loving others. In this essential resource, Copan and McQuilkin lay a foundation by discussing key topics of love, law, sin, and virtue; compare ethical alternatives such as relativism, social contract, utilitarianism, and evolutionary ethics; examine contemporary issues in light of objective moral truths from Scripture; present differing views in areas where Christians often disagree; and include recommended reading in each chapter for further study. An essential textbook for undergraduate and seminary ethics courses, this book is also a valuable guide for pastors and ministry leaders who are navigating complex ethical questions in their ministry. The authors stay focused on the question of how we are fulfilling God’s purposes for our lives—a will that is for our good. This comprehensive study is the ideal place to begin on the journey of living wisely, faithfully, and obediently. What's New in the Fourth Edition The fourth edition features an expanded comparison of ethical theories and covers new, timely topics such as deification, church and state, immigration, Old Testament ethical challenges, just war theory, stewardship of creation, gay marriage, gender identity, artificial intelligence, and transhumanism.
Endorsements (4)
“An Introduction to Biblical Ethics combines the winsome wisdom of Robertson McQuilkin, one of the sage professors of Christian ethics, with the penetrating rigor of Paul Copan, one of the premier thinkers of today. What could be better than this?”
“Although as a Catholic I part ways with the authors on a couple of issues—such as birth control and the use of images—this is an amazingly careful piece of work. Robertson McQuilkin and Paul Copan offer to their readers a clear and compelling account of an evangelical Protestant understanding of biblical ethics, one from which those outside this tradition can learn much. What makes this book historically interesting is that it is a third edition of a classic originally authored by McQuilkin, a legendary figure in American evangelicalism and a pioneer in the field of contemporary biblical ethics. But now it has been revised and authored in collaboration with one of the most prolific Christian philosophers alive today, Copan. As one would expect, this rare combination of talents makes for an important contribution to the study of ethics.”
“Ethics without the Bible is a matter of cultural mores. The Bible without ethics is a textual relic without life or relevance. This superb introduction to biblical ethics brings the two together through the wisdom of two noted evangelical thinkers and leaders. This book does not duck the tough issues but presents them in the light of God's unfailing revelation in Jesus Christ and the revelation of God in Holy Scripture. Highly recommended!”
“A first-rate discussion of ethics from a Christian worldview. I'm very glad to see Robertson McQuilkin's work be updated by such a capable scholar as Paul Copan.”
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