To live with integrity, it is important to know what's right and what's wrong, to be educated morally. However, merely KNOWING is not enough. Virtuous character matters more than moral knowledge. The reason is simple: like the self-confessing apostle Paul in Romans 7, most of those who do wrong know what's right but find themselves irresistibly attracted to its opposite. Faith idles when character shrivels
To live with integrity, understanding the distinction between right and wrong is crucial, which speaks to the importance of moral education. However, having this knowledge alone is insufficient. The essence of virtuous character holds greater significance than mere moral awareness. This truth is highlighted by the experience of the apostle Paul in Romans 7, where he reveals that many people are aware of what is right yet still gravitate toward wrongdoing.
The underlying issue is that when one’s character is weak, faith and moral knowledge can become ineffective. Miroslav Volf, in his book "A Public Faith," emphasizes that a robust character is essential for individuals, particularly followers of Christ, to genuinely serve the common good. Cultivating virtuous character enables one to act in accordance with their moral beliefs, ultimately leading to a more integrated and faithful life.
