Final answer:
Christian teachings on love and charity are rooted in the Bible, the teachings of Jesus, and historical Christian texts, emphasizing the importance of loving one's neighbor and practicing charity as expressions of faith and morality.
Step-by-step explanation:
The sources of authority for Christian teachings on love and charity are primarily founded in the scriptures and the teachings of Jesus Christ. One of the core sources is the biblical injunction, "A new commandment give I unto you, that ye love one another," illustrating the fundamental Christian principle of love.
The Bible also insists on the importance of charity, as seen in the maxim to "love thy neighbor as thyself." This concept features prominently in the book of Matthew 22:39 and is further emphasized by biblical figures such as the Apostle Paul, suggesting that love is the greatest of the virtues.
Historical sermons such as John Winthrop's "A Modell of Christian Charity," underscore the Christian commitment to charity. Furthermore, Christian philosophy, shaped by ancient thinkers and the theology of logos, supports the morals of Christian love and selflessness.
This philosophy aligns with the idea of Caritas (charity) as taught by Jesus of Nazareth, which advocates treating others as one would wish to be treated.
Moreover, interpretations of Christian charity and love have also been influenced by societal challenges, such as the entanglement of Christianity with issues like slavery and racial discrimination.
Figures like Evangelist Billy Graham have spoken against these issues, calling for Christians to lead in racial reconciliation and live out the true meaning of Christian love and charity.
Thus, the Christian tradition commands love and charity as means to foster peace, equality, and goodness amongst all people.