Ethics?

One more thing today!

Last night a few friends and I went to a Christian vs. Atheist debate if God is needed for ethics.
My friend Joel pointed out that the atheist always complimented people as to how healthy minded they were and was always encouraging others in themselves. Now encouraging others to find strength in themselves is not wrong, but we cannot depend upon ourselves, our history proves that we will fail!
This man also stated that his definition of ethics was the avoidance of harm.
Here are a few dictionary definitions I have found at www.dictionary.com
1. A set of principles of right conduct.
2. A theory or a system of moral values: “An ethic of service is at war with a craving for gain”
3. Motivation based on ideas of right and wrong
4. Ethics (used with a sing. Verb) The study of the general nature of morals and of the specific moral choices to be made by a person; moral philosophy.
I found no definition that was remotely close to avoiding harm. All definitions had to do with what was right and what was wrong.
He also made the statement that humans are nothing but animals. Well, wild animals don't know right or wrong unless they are taught what is right and wrong. So who or what taught us that killing someone was wrong?
Also, my friend Glen made a good point. If faith helps people to lead a better life, and this guy is all about avoiding harm, why is he going around trying to destroy peoples faiths? Isn't this causing harm?
I just want to Give God the Glory, He is the creator and all will answer to Him when He comes again in Glory and Power.
Dave