The divine command position
A divine command theory holds that moral obligations are created or grounded by the commands of a god. Right action therefore depends upon obedience to divine will.
The problem of arbitrariness
If anything becomes moral merely because it is commanded, then cruelty could appear moral if commanded. This makes morality depend upon power rather than reasons concerning suffering, fairness or wellbeing.
The problem of independence
If a god commands actions because they are already good, then goodness is not created by the command. Moral reasons would exist independently of divine authority.
A good nature response
Some believers argue that commands reflect a perfectly good divine nature rather than arbitrary preference. This still requires an account of what goodness means and how humans can recognise it.
Knowledge remains difficult
Religions disagree about divine commands, scriptures require interpretation and claimed revelations may conflict. Moral responsibility therefore cannot be avoided by simply claiming obedience.
Reasons can remain morally relevant
Even within religious ethics, compassion, justice, harm and fairness often explain why a command is considered good.
Evidence notes
Assessment should distinguish claims about divine authority from independent reasons concerning harm, fairness, consent and wellbeing. It should also examine disagreement between claimed revelations and interpretations.
Ethical questions
Could cruelty become moral merely because a powerful being commanded it?
If divine commands reflect goodness, how is goodness defined?
How should conflicting claims about divine commands be judged?
Conclusion
A command alone does not explain why an action is moral. Religious belief may influence moral understanding, but moral judgement still requires reasons concerning harm, justice, compassion and the interests of those affected.