Biblical Christianity Versus Secular Humanism

Biblical Christianity Vs Secular Humanism

The worldview under critical consideration is Secular Humanism. Josh McDowell described this philosophy as, “One of the most organized, most challenging and most clearly non-Christian philosophies of today” (McDowell & Stewart, 1983, p. 259). The ensuing article discloses the fundamental tenants of this religion and worldview.

Regarding the origins of the universe, “some have concluded matter has always existed and given enough time and chance, the end result is what you see around you today (Naturalism)” (Weider & Gutierrez, 2011, pp. 55-56). Humanist insist the existence of the universe is sufficiently explained through Darwinian evolution and naturalistic processes (Halverson, 2005, p. 2)

When it comes to identity, Scientific Naturalism rejects the supernatural and views human beings as “products of evolutionary forces” and “simply a more sophisticated animal” (Weider & Gutierrez, 2011, p. 57). Essentially, human beings are accorded no inherent distinction or superiority to other animals.

A consideration of the meaning and purpose of life points to naturalistic principles as well. As products of evolutionary processes humans have no vital significance if the Secularist remains consistent with his worldview. However, many Humanists reason that highly evolved humans have the right and responsibility to give meaning to their own life by making a positive impact on the world (Weider & Gutierrez, 2011, p. 59).

Now regarding morality, many secular humanists subscribe to Relativism rejecting any idea of absolute truth, but there is no common consensus among them. Many believe “truth is dependent upon society and is subject to change” (Weider & Gutierrez, 2011, p. 60, 61). They see no need for an absolute moral standard beyond humans themselves (Halverson, 2005, p. 3).  

Finally concerning destiny, life after death is not a point of anxiety or interest for the Secular Humanist. They reason that death is a cessation of life and the body simply decomposes (Weider & Gutierrez, 2011, p. 63, 64). 

Critical scrutiny of Secular Humanism involving a contrast with the Biblical Christian Worldview reveals how extraordinarily incompatible the two worldviews are.

To begin with Biblical Christians regard the origins of the universe as the specific creation of a God who transcends space, time, and matter. This is the polar opposite of Darwinian naturalistic principles. “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth” asserts Genesis 1:1 (KJV). The mighty Creator is the First Cause. He brought the universe into existence out of absolutely nothing; thus the universe is not eternal.

Then any consideration of humanity’s biblical identity involves the specific creation of people in the “image of God” (Gen. 1:26, 27) distinct from the animal kingdom. Contrary to Humanists evolutionary concept, people are distinct designees of God placed over the earth as stewards. Baring the image of God enables humans to commune and relate to the Creator as they manage the world God made (Gen. 1:26-31; 2:15).

Naturally out of unique creation arises meaning and purpose. Inherent in any consideration of the “image of God” is relationship, personality, likeness to God and representation of God in the earth. The highest purpose then of humanity is to know God and glorify Him in all aspects of life (John 17:3; Eph. 1:6, 12, 14). In contrast, Secular Humanists essentially view life as having no meaning or as meaningful because of what they contributed to society. Accordingly, there is no trans-mundane significance to life. Biblical Christians; however, have meaning and purpose in this life and for all eternity (Eph. 1:18; 1 Pet. 2:9; 4:11).

Morality and ethics are matters that Secular Humanist struggle with, but biblical Christianity centers matters of morality and ethics on the Bible (Ex. 20:1-17; 2Tim. 3:15-17; Deut. 32:4) and the scriptural nature of God (McDowell & Hostetler, 1994). While Secularists have no ontic point of reference for ethics, objective Christian morality is rooted in the person of God as the absolute standard of goodness (Hindson & Caner, 2011, p.199). Thus, Christian ethics are intensely anchored in the wisdoms and activities of the Lord Jesus Christ (Matt. 5-7).

Then finally regarding destiny, Christians believe in the resurrection and the continuance of the human soul beyond physical death. Accordingly, the redeemed will live with God for ever in Heaven and on the new earth (Rev. 21:1-7), and non-believers will live forever separated from God in Hell (Rev. 20:11-15; 21:8). The only thing Secular Humanism has to offer here is death and decomposition; in contrast, biblical Christians have a wonderful eternal destiny.

References

Halverson, D. (1992, 2005). Secularism. Colorado Springs, CO: International Students Inc.

Hindson, E. & Caner, E. (2008). The popular encyclopedia of apologetics. Eugene, OR: Harvest House Publishers.

McDowell, J. & Hostetler, B. (1994). Right and wrong: What you need to know to help youth make right choices. Dallas, TX: Word Publishing.

McDowell, J. & Stewart, D. (1983). Handbook of today’s religions. San Bernardino, CA: Here’s Life Publishers

Weider, L. & Gutierrez, B. (2011). Consider. Virginia Beach, VA: Academx Publishing Services, Inc.