What serves as the standard for determining good and evil?

The standard for determining good and evil, as articulated in the Westminster Shorter Catechism, is the word of God. This perspective is grounded in theological principles that hold the Bible as the authoritative source for moral guidance and ethical conduct. The Word of God provides a clear framework for understanding righteousness, sin, and the moral duties of individuals.

The theological position emphasizes that God's character and commandments, as revealed in scripture, are immutable and universally applicable. This means that morality is not subject to changing human opinions, societal trends, or personal experiences, which can often be subjective and variable. Instead, it finds its foundation in divine revelation, allowing individuals and communities to look to a consistent and ultimate source of truth in their moral decision-making processes.

By utilizing the word of God as the standard, one can engage in a more objective assessment of actions and behaviors, aligning them with divine teachings rather than fluctuating human philosophies, social norms, or emotional responses. This approach encourages a reliance on scriptural truths, promoting adherence to a moral code rooted in what is deemed good and evil according to God’s will.