Moral Principal of Scandal

Definition

Leading other people into sin, either by bad example, poor teaching, or the appearance of sin.

Explanation

Within the human family, and even moreso the Catholic family, we are responsible for one another’s spiritual welfare. Our sins affect every other person in some way. Leading someone to sin is a grave evil because it jeopardizes their immortal soul. We must always be careful to be aware of the message our actions send others.

When we sin, and especially if people know that we are serious about our faith, we can send the message that the sin is not a sin afterall.

Some people who disagree with certain aspects of the moral law teach others that evil is good or that good is evil, leading others into sin.

We must not perform any action that may be perceived as sinful to others, even when it is not actually sinful. St. Paul tells people not to eat meat dedicated to pagan gods, not because eating such meat would be sinful but because others would think eating the meat indicated embracing paganism and foresaking Christ.

Application

• Christians who are dating sometimes choose to chastely live together or sleep together, but doing so makes others assume that they are sexually involved.
• Politicians against whom the bishops have spoken publicly are giving the impression that it is OK for Catholics to be pro-choice. The public stance of Catholic politicians teaches error and so is considered scandal.
• Catholic theology teachers who teach error are guilty of scandal because they lead others to believe that evil is good and good is evil.