Badaracco's Study Of Good Christian Characters

What is Character?

Olivia Seeney

Regent University

Abstract

Throughout the books that we have read many of them cover the topic of good Christian character. Through study of the Greek moral code Wright was able to expand on the moral code that Christians are trying to figure out today. This also raises questions about what transforms good character. Badaracco uses the example of Okonkwo to show how important a balanced moral code is, especially in a position of leadership. Ultimately, without a good set of values and a sound Christian character it is difficult if not impossible to inspire those around you to follow so that you can accomplish your goals.

Main Body Wright’s definition of character is “the pattern of thinking and acting which

As stated in the book, Aristotle was actually the one “who developed the threefold pattern of character transformation (Wright, 2010).” During this time the final goal that Aristotle encouraged people to reach for was the development into a “fully flourishing human being (Wright, 2010).” Wright compares this goal with that of the Christian perspective and demonstrates how Jesus focused on bringing all of the individuals together to reach for the ultimate goal that God has given us. As for the second thing needed for character transformation Aristotle saw the need to develop virtues like courage and justice, while Jesus encouraged his followers to develop virtues like love, kindness, and forgiveness. Finally, in order for both the goal of Greek and the biblical moral framework to be reached, the steps towards this end must be carried out habitually. The Christian moral framework is much like a heavily expanded version of the Greek moral framework. Wright’s position seems to be defending the moral structure that we need in order to transform our character into one that we can use to achieve the end goal of Christianity. This reasoning leads me to agree with him. Firstly, Wright not only provides scripture in which he shows that Jesus has in fact died for our sins and

As a child, Okonkwo’s strength and determination in defending his tribe was a great asset to those that he loved. However, when British colonists came into his land and tried to help them, Okonkwo refused to be flexible. In most situations a strong, unshakeable moral code is an ideal trait that leaders can possess. But, in this case Okonkwo’s refusal to move from his ideals and moral code ultimately caused the collapse of his leadership opportunity. Okonkwo tried to defend his tribe by showing his physical strength and through brute force, however he did not exhibit the values that a more successful leader may have, like compassion and diversity. Badaracco’s book Questions of Character states that “leaders need moral codes that are as complex, varied, and subtle as the situations in which they often find themselves in (Badaracco Jr., 2006).” Although it is important to stand by your values, it is important not to let these values determine your leadership in every situation. The tension that is caused by this contrast can cause leaders to have to make important decisions on the spot that may or may not follow their exact moral code. I believe that there should be some flexibility within one’s moral code, but not enough to compromise values that are important to you. Without flexibility leaders would be unable to adapt to the challenges and