No, a third viable alternative to achieving the same end is not always available. Rahab was not a Samson, and silence would have raised suspicions, warranting a search and the captivity of the spies, and if found, likely death. .
And i do not think pope is a Samson either.
Thank you for your response. Can you anticipate the answer to your points? Will he agree that the third alternative is not always available? Can you anticipate the answer to the point that Rahab was no Samson?
I always fear getting involved in "a striving of words to no profit," so please don't let me waste your time. I did study ethics; I have taught ethics at church, and I would want to share in your interest in the subject if you are so inclined.
Do you know the technical name for your own ethics dilemma position? There are several ways to arrive at the conclusions you have stated here, but most people will shy away from letting their position be categorized. You at this point have concluded the conversation. There is really nothing left for Msgr. Pope to say and you are still left unconvinced. He may not even understand the objections that you raise.
As a working pastor/counselor, the temptation in the work is to oversimplify, especially when working with someone who does not really want to do right. I cannot remember when I might have counseled a real person who really wanted to do what was right and who also really needed my help knowing what that would be. They usually have made up their minds and want me to help get their family to excuse what they are gonna do anyway.