The Truth Against Relativism: A Christian Perspective
"Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." John 8:32
In today's society, especially in America, the concept of relativism has grown in popularity. Relativism asserts that truth is subjective and variable: what's true for one person might not be true for another. "You have your truth and I have mine," is a common refrain we hear. However, as believers, we must understand why this perspective is flawed, both logically and from a biblical standpoint.
The Self-defeating Logic of Relativism
Relativism claims there is no absolute truth. But if we take a step back and critically analyze this statement, we quickly run into a paradox. If it is absolutely true that there is no absolute truth, then the statement contradicts itself. In essence, by claiming to be true, it denies its own validity. This can be likened to the Scripture in Proverbs 14:12 that says, "There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death."
Objective Truths that Transcend Individual Belief
There are matters in this world that are inherently wrong, irrespective of individual beliefs. Consider heinous acts such as racism, child sex-trafficking, or torturing animals for mere amusement. If we concede that these are universally and objectively wrong actions, then we have effectively acknowledged the existence of absolute moral truths. "Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter!" (Isaiah 5:20).
Acknowledging Various Forms of Truths
Truth is not limited to morality alone. It spans across various spheres of knowledge:
Historical truths: For instance, George Washington was the first President of the United States.
Geographical truths: The Nile River flows through Egypt.
Mathematical truths: Four is the square root of sixteen.
Scientific truths: Two hydrogen atoms combined with one oxygen atom results in water.
Moral truths: Acts such as rape are inherently wrong.
As believers, we affirm the existence of these truths, understanding that God, the source of all truth, has instilled order and structure in His creation. The Bible reminds us, "The sum of your word is truth, and every one of your righteous rules endures forever." (Psalm 119:160).
Conclusion
As Christians, we believe that God is the foundation of all truth. His Word provides us with an unwavering standard by which we can measure and understand the world around us. While the idea of relativism may seem appealing to a world that shies away from absolutes, it is both logically flawed and inconsistent with the biblical worldview. As believers, we are called to stand firm in the truth, knowing that it is the truth of Christ that truly sets us free.
