So whilst believing that all authorities have been instituted by God we mustn't fall into the trap of thinking that their decisions, even in their own areas of expertise, are therefore infallible. We are not discounting completely the above means as guides in human conduct - but merely recognising their limitations. Emotions buzz and fade. Reason may fail or start from flawed premises. Conscience can be blunted, oversensitive or uneducated.
Consensus is subject to prejudice and perversion.
Consequences are often difficult to judge before the event and human authorities are not infallible. Christian ethical decision making It's worthwhile reflecting at this point on the bases by we ourselves make ethical decisions, because if we are honest we come to hold the beliefs we do as a result of a combination of these different reasons. In fact, all of them have to be tested against the wisdom and authority of God. If you love me you will obey my commandments'. But there are several reasons why, especially in the area of medical ethics, this can be easier said than done.