Biblical Christianity vs Religion of Humanism

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The Religion of Humanism and Biblical Christianity are two distinct philosophical and ethical systems that offer fundamentally different views of the world, human nature, and morality. They are quite different in several key areas.

  • Humanism: Humanism is a progressive philosophy of life that prioritizes human beings, values reason, critical thinking, and evidence-based decision making, and views individuals as responsible for giving meaning and shape to their own lives. It focuses on the welfare of humankind, the importance of compassion and the scientific method, and seeks to build a more humane, just, and democratic society. Humanism is based on naturalism and considers the universe to be the result of evolution under immutable laws of nature. It offers a joyous alternative to religions and considers this life to be of paramount importance, providing purpose through developing one’s talents and using them for the service of humanity. –summarized from https://americanhumanist.org/what-is-humanism/definition-of-humanism/
  • Biblical Christianity: A world view that worships the creator God as a loving heavenly father above all else. It views the Bible as the authoritative word of God and the existence of the triune God (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit). The deity and humanity of Jesus Christ is central to this faith, with the belief that salvation and forgiveness of sins can only be attained through faith in him and his sacrifice on the cross. The work of the Holy Spirit in the believer’s life is essential to their spiritual growth and transformation, and the physical resurrection of the dead and the future return of Jesus Christ give hope for a future beyond this life. The goal of the Christian life is to grow in relationship with God, live in obedience to his teachings, and serve others in love. Biblical Christianity offers a path to hope, peace, and fulfillment in this life and beyond.

At first glance, these seem like two different paths to the same goals. But as we will see, there are key differences between the Religion of Humanism and Biblical Christianity. While humanism places more emphasis on human reason and experience as the sources of knowledge and understanding, Biblical Christianity places more emphasis on the authority of the Bible and the teachings of God. In terms of salvation and forgiveness of sins, Christianity believes in salvation through grace by faith in Jesus, while humanism places trust on human effort and achievements. Christianity emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in shaping the character and behavior of believers, while humanism emphasizes individual autonomy and self-expression.  The Bible highlights the importance of aligning with the teachings of God, rather than human traditions, and seeking guidance and wisdom from God, rather than relying solely on human reason and experience. Overall, Christianity places more emphasis on the authority of God and the importance of aligning with his teachings as learned through the Bible.

Note: I refer to Humanism as a religion because it has a set of beliefs (which must be accepted by faith) that lead to values that guide its followers and provide meaning and purpose to their lives. Humanism also often includes a moral code that provides a framework for ethical behavior, and it often includes a sense of community and shared values among its followers. Additionally, Humanism often includes rituals and practices that help to reinforce its beliefs and values, and it may provide a sense of comfort and support to its followers in times of need. For these reasons, Humanism should be considered a religion, even if it does not involve belief in a deity or supernatural realm.

Note: this study is about Biblical Christianity, which is based on the belief in the Bible as the authoritative word of God and seeks to obey the teachings and example of Jesus as recorded in the Bible. This approach to Christianity places a strong emphasis on personal relationship with God and a focus on individual faith, rather than relying on the traditions and interpretations of the church. But this study is not based on organized religion, which often incorporates other sources of authority that can be influenced by changing cultural and political perspectives and may place more emphasis on the institutions of the church and the role of religious leaders in interpreting scripture and guiding the faithful.

Differences between Humanism and Biblical Christianity

One significant difference is the concept of ultimate authority. Humanism emphasizes human reason, experience, and autonomy, and views individuals as the ultimate arbiters of truth and morality. Biblical Christianity, on the other hand, holds that God’s word, as revealed in the Bible, is the ultimate authority in all matters of faith and practice. This is reflected in verses such as 2 Timothy 3:16-17, which state that “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

Another key difference between humanism and biblical Christianity is the concept of human nature. Humanism sees human beings as inherently good and capable of self-realization and self-fulfillment, while biblical Christianity teaches that human beings are fallen and in need of salvation, as stated in Romans 3:23, “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” This difference is reflected in the priorities of the two systems, with humanism placing more emphasis on individual autonomy and self-expression, and biblical Christianity emphasizing the importance of aligning with the teachings of God and the role of the Holy Spirit in shaping the character and behavior of believers. Galatians 5:22-23 highlights this, stating “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”

Finally, Humanism and Biblical Christianity offer differing views on the concept of morality and ethical behavior. Humanism emphasizes human-centered principles of equality, justice, and compassion, while Biblical Christianity teaches that morality and ethics are grounded in obedience to God’s commands and that true righteousness comes from faith in Jesus Christ. This is reflected in verses such as James 2:17, which states, “In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.”

In conclusion, Humanism and Biblical Christianity present distinct and contrasting views on a range of important issues, including the ultimate authority, human nature, morality and ethics, salvation, and the nature of God and the supernatural realm.

Authority of Humanism

The sources of truth for humanism vary among different humanist organizations and individuals, but some common sources of truth include:

  1. Reason and Science: Humanism places a strong emphasis on reason and the scientific method as a means of gaining knowledge and understanding of the world. Humanists may view reason and science as the most reliable sources of truth, and may reject claims that cannot be supported by evidence or reason.
  2. Human Experience and Empathy: Humanism values human experience and empathy as important sources of truth. Humanists may believe that the subjective experiences and perspectives of individuals can provide valuable insights into the nature of the world and the human condition.
  3. Ethics and Morality: Humanism views ethics and morality as central to its philosophy and often sees a commitment to universal human values, such as equality, justice, and compassion, as sources of truth. Humanists may view ethical principles and moral reasoning as essential for guiding individual and collective action.
  4. Human Creativity and Culture: Humanism values human creativity and culture as important sources of truth, and may view artistic expression, literature, and cultural traditions as valuable ways of exploring the human experience and gaining insight into the world.

It is important to note that these are generalizations, and that different humanist organizations and individuals may place different levels of importance on these sources of truth and may include other sources as well. Humanism is a diverse and evolving philosophical movement, and its sources of truth may vary widely among its practitioners.

And, finally, there are some consequences of humanism not having a divinely inspired source of truth:

  1. Lack of Objectivity: Without a divinely inspired source of truth, humanism may be vulnerable to subjectivity and relativism, making it difficult to establish objective standards of truth and morality.
  2. Difficulty in Answering Life’s Big Questions: Humanism’s emphasis on reason and scientific evidence may not provide sufficient answers to life’s big questions, such as the meaning and purpose of life, the existence of an afterlife, and the nature of ultimate reality.
  3. Potential for Moral Confusion: Without a divinely inspired source of morality, humanism may struggle to provide a clear and consistent framework for ethical decision-making, which could lead to moral confusion and conflicting values.
  4. Limitations in Addressing Spiritual Needs: Humanism’s focus on reason and scientific evidence may not provide sufficient resources for addressing the spiritual needs and desires of individuals, such as a sense of transcendence and connection to something greater than themselves.

Therefore, the ultimate end result of humanism not having a divinely inspired source of truth can be a lack of a common moral framework or a universal standard of right and wrong. In the absence of a divinely inspired source of truth, humanists rely on reason, science, and individual experience to determine what is true and what is right.

This can lead to a diversity of opinions and beliefs, which can be a positive aspect of humanism as it allows for free thought and expression. However, it can also lead to confusion, disagreement, and a lack of consensus on important moral and ethical issues.

Furthermore, without a divine source of truth, humanism may struggle to provide answers to deep and meaningful questions about the purpose of life, the nature of reality, and the existence of an afterlife. This can lead to feelings of existential emptiness or a sense of meaninglessness.

In conclusion, the ultimate end result of humanism not having a divinely inspired source of truth can be a lack of a common moral framework and a struggle to provide answers to deep and meaningful questions about the nature of reality and the purpose of life.

Authority of Biblical Christianity

For biblical Christians, the Bible is the ultimate source of truth and authority. This belief is based on verses such as 2 Timothy 3:16-17, which state that “All scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”

  1. Divine Revelation: Biblical Christians believe that truth has been revealed through direct communication from God, such as through personal experiences, dreams, visions, and other spiritual encounters, as recorded in the Bible.
  2. Teaching of Godly Leaders: Biblical Christians view the writings of men and women of exemplary godliness as important sources of truth. These writings, which often reflect personal experiences and insights into the nature of God and the Christian faith, are valued as resources for spiritual growth and understanding, and can help shape the beliefs and practices of biblical Christians.
  3. Personal Experience and Testimony: Biblical Christians may also view personal experience and testimony as important sources of truth. For example, they may believe that their own experiences of God’s presence, guidance, and provision are evidence of God’s reality and truth.
  4. Reason and Evidence: Although the Bible is considered the ultimate source of truth, biblical Christians may also use reason and evidence to support their beliefs. For example, they may see the complexity and beauty of the natural world as evidence of a creator, and may use logical arguments to defend their beliefs.

It is important to note that these are generalizations, and that different biblical Christians may place different levels of importance on these sources of truth, and may include other sources as well. Biblical Christianity is a diverse and dynamic religious movement, and its sources of truth may vary widely among its practitioners.

And, finally, there are some advantages of biblical Christianity having a divinely inspired source of truth recorded in the Bible:

  1. Objectivity and Consistency: By having a divinely inspired source of truth, biblical Christianity can provide a clear and consistent framework for beliefs and practices, which can help individuals navigate complex ethical and spiritual questions.
  2. Address for Life’s Big Questions: The Bible provides answers to many of life’s big questions, such as the meaning and purpose of life, the existence of an afterlife, and the nature of ultimate reality, which can provide comfort and guidance to individuals.
  3. Clear Moral Framework: The Bible provides a clear and consistent framework for ethics and morality, which can help individuals make ethical decisions and live in a way that reflects their faith.
  4. Spiritual Nourishment: The Bible provides a rich source of spiritual nourishment and growth, with teachings and stories that inspire and encourage individuals in their faith.
  5. Sense of Community and Fellowship: The shared beliefs and practices of biblical Christians can provide a sense of community and fellowship, which can provide support and encouragement for individuals in their spiritual journeys.

For Biblical Christians, the authority of Jesus Christ and the Bible offers many advantages as a means of understanding the nature of God and their relationship with Him.

One of the key advantages is the belief in the love and grace of God, as expressed through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross. This belief provides a source of comfort and hope, as Christians understand that God loves them and has provided a way for them to be forgiven and reconciled to Him through faith in Jesus.

The Bible is also seen as a source of guidance and wisdom, providing Christians with a framework for living a virtuous and meaningful life. The teachings of Jesus and the principles outlined in the Bible are believed to offer a path towards eternal life with God and help individuals to grow in their faith and relationship with Him.

Another advantage of the authority of Jesus Christ and the Bible is the community it provides. Through their shared beliefs and practices, Christians can connect with others who share their values and form strong relationships based on their faith.

In conclusion, for Biblical Christians, the authority of Jesus Christ and the Bible offers a source of comfort, guidance, wisdom, and community. These eternal characteristics of a loving God who gave His life to pay for the sins of the whole world provide a foundation for their faith and a means of understanding their relationship with God.

Positive Aspirations of Humanism

Humanism can motivate a person to aspire to these attributes:

  1. Empowerment and Self-Determination: Humanism places a strong emphasis on human agency and the ability of individuals to make choices and shape their own lives. This can motivate individuals to take control of their own destinies and pursue their goals and aspirations with confidence and determination.
  2. Compassion and Empathy: Humanism promotes the values of compassion, empathy, and respect for others. This can motivate individuals to act in ways that promote the well-being and happiness of others, and to work towards a more just and equitable world.
  3. Pursuit of Knowledge and Understanding: Humanism places a high value on reason, critical thinking, and the pursuit of knowledge. This can motivate individuals to seek understanding of the world and their place within it, and to use their knowledge and skills to make a positive impact on the world.
  4. Personal Growth and Self-Realization: Humanism encourages individuals to explore their own potential, interests, and passions, and to pursue personal growth and self-realization. This can motivate individuals to pursue their own goals and aspirations, and to seek fulfillment and meaning in their lives.
  5. Responsibility and Service to Others: Humanism emphasizes the importance of individual responsibility and a commitment to making a positive impact on the world. This can motivate individuals to engage in acts of service and volunteerism, and to work towards creating a more just, equitable, and compassionate society.

Positive Aspirations of Biblical Christianity

Biblical Christianity can motivate a person to aspire to these attributes:

  1. Love for God and Neighbor: Biblical Christianity teaches that the greatest commandment is to love God with all one’s heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love one’s neighbor as oneself (Matthew 22:37-40). This can motivate individuals to live lives characterized by love, compassion, and selflessness, and to seek to bring glory to God in all they do.
  2. Pursuit of Righteousness: Biblical Christianity emphasizes the importance of obedience to God’s commands and a pursuit of righteousness. This can motivate individuals to strive to live lives that reflect the character and values of God, and to seek to grow in their faith and understanding of God’s will.
  3. Hope and Assurance of Salvation: Biblical Christianity teaches that salvation and forgiveness of sins are possible through faith in Jesus Christ, and that those who trust in him have the assurance of eternal life (John 3:16). This can motivate individuals to live lives that reflect their faith, and to share the message of salvation with others.
  4. Service and Mission: Biblical Christianity emphasizes the importance of serving others and being a witness for Christ in the world. This can motivate individuals to engage in acts of service, evangelism, and missions, and to use their gifts and talents to further the work of God’s kingdom.
  5. Community and Fellowship: Biblical Christianity places a strong emphasis on the importance of community and fellowship with other believers. This can motivate individuals to build deep relationships with other Christians, to participate in communal worship and service, and to support one another in their walk with Christ.

Unintended Consequences of Humanism

Like any other philosophical or ethical system, humanism can have unintended consequences. Some of these may include:

  1. Over-Emphasis on Individualism: Humanism places a strong emphasis on individual autonomy and self-determination, but this can sometimes lead to a disregard for the well-being of others or for the common good.
  2. Skepticism or Rejection of Religion: Humanism’s commitment to reason and scientific evidence can sometimes lead to skepticism or rejection of religious beliefs and practices, which can be divisive and lead to conflict in communities and societies.
  3. Ethical Relativism: Humanism’s focus on individual experience and subjectivity can sometimes lead to a view of ethics as relative and subjective, rather than absolute and objective. This can make it difficult to make moral judgments and to address complex ethical issues in a consistent and fair manner.
  4. Over-Reliance on Science: Humanism’s emphasis on science and reason can sometimes lead to an over-reliance on these methods as the sole sources of truth and knowledge, which can overlook other important sources of understanding, such as personal experience and spiritual insight.

It is important to note that these are generalizations, and that the unintended consequences of humanism can vary widely among different humanist organizations and individuals. It is important to realize that not everyone who practices the Religion of Humanism falls into all these categories.

Unintended Consequences of (Un-)Biblical Christianity

Like any other religious or philosophical system, Christianity can have unintended consequences. But I do have to remove the “Biblical” adjective from this section because the Bible clearly teaches not to fall into these traps. Some of these unintended consequences may include:

  1. Division and Conflict: Biblical Christianity’s emphasis on certain beliefs and practices as essential to salvation can sometimes lead to division and conflict among Christians, as well as between Christians and members of other religions.
    • Romans 12:18 says, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” The Greek word for “peace” in this verse is “eirene,” which refers to a state of harmony, concord, and tranquility. This verse teaches that Christians are called to strive for peace with others and to avoid division and conflict wherever possible.
    • James 3:16 says, “For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice.” The Greek word for “jealousy” in this verse is “zelos,” which refers to a strong or intense rivalry or envy. The Greek word for “selfish ambition” in this verse is “eritheia,” which refers to a pursuit of personal gain or advantage at the expense of others. This verse highlights the importance of avoiding divisive behavior and instead promoting humility, compassion, and love, which can help to maintain unity and peace.
    • The sin of stubbornness (arrogance)
    • Acts 15 Grace changes everything
    • The Prodigal God: Recovering the Heart of the Christian Faith by Timothy Keller
  2. Intolerance and Discrimination: Biblical Christianity’s emphasis on certain moral and ethical values can sometimes lead to intolerance and discrimination towards those who hold different beliefs or engage in different behaviors.
  3. Resistance to Scientific and Technological Progress: Biblical Christianity’s commitment to a literal interpretation of the Bible can sometimes lead to resistance to scientific and technological progress, and a rejection of scientific findings that conflict with biblical teachings.
  4. Stifling of Critical Thinking: Biblical Christianity’s emphasis on the authority of scripture and tradition can sometimes lead to a stifling of critical thinking and a rejection of new ideas and perspectives.

It is important to note that these are generalizations, and that the unintended consequences of biblical Christianity can vary widely among different Christian communities and individuals. These verses and their accompanying definitions provide guidance for Christians on how to avoid some of these unintended consequences, and how to live in a way that is consistent with biblical teachings. Therefore, it is important to realize that not everyone who practices Biblical Christianity falls into all these categories.

Digging deeper

The following list of verses amplifies the significant differences between humanism and Biblical Christianity. Humanism prioritizes human reason and experience as the basis of knowledge and understanding, while Biblical Christianity emphasizes the authority of the Bible and the teachings of God. Christianity believes in salvation through grace by faith in Jesus, while humanism places more importance on human effort and achievements. Furthermore, Christianity emphasizes the influence of the Holy Spirit in shaping the character and behavior of believers, whereas humanism values individual autonomy and self-expression. The verses also stress the significance of aligning with God’s teachings rather than human traditions and seeking wisdom and guidance from God instead of relying solely on human reason and experience. Overall, these verses showcase the fundamental distinction between humanism and Biblical Christianity, with the latter placing greater emphasis on the authority of God and the importance of following his teachings.

  • 2 Peter 1:21 – “For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit” – This verse highlights the idea that God’s message was communicated through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, rather than by the will or intellect of the prophet. This belief contrasts with humanism, which places more emphasis on human reason and experience as the sources of knowledge and understanding.
  • Proverbs 1:7 – “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction” – This verse emphasizes the importance of respecting and fearing God as the foundation of true knowledge. In contrast, humanism values reason and science as the primary sources of knowledge and understanding.
  • Proverbs 12:15 – “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice” – This verse highlights the danger of pride and self-reliance, and the importance of seeking counsel and wisdom from others. In contrast, humanism may place more emphasis on individual autonomy and self-expression.
  • Proverbs 14:12 – “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death” – This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking God’s guidance and wisdom, as our own understanding and perspectives can lead us astray. In contrast, humanism may place more emphasis on human reason and experience as the sources of knowledge and understanding.
  • John 14:6 – “Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” – This verse emphasizes the belief in Jesus as the only way to salvation and the forgiveness of sins. This belief is central to Christianity, but is not necessarily shared by humanism, which may focus more on individual autonomy and self-expression.
  • Matthew 12:30 – “For whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters” – This verse highlights the idea that there are two sides in the spiritual realm, and that one must align with God in order to be on the right side. In contrast, humanism values individual autonomy and self-expression, and may place less emphasis on the importance of aligning with a divine authority.
  • Mark 7:7 – “They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men.” – This verse emphasizes the importance of aligning with the teachings of God rather than human traditions, contrasting with the humanistic emphasis on human reason and experience as the sources of knowledge and understanding.
  • Romans 3:23 – “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” – This verse highlights the belief in original sin and the need for salvation, which is a central doctrine in Christianity. Humanism, on the other hand, may place more emphasis on human potential and the power of individuals to improve their own lives and the world.
  • Ephesians 2:8-9 – “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.” – This verse emphasizes the belief in salvation by grace through faith, rather than by works. This belief contrasts with humanism, which may place more emphasis on human effort and achievements as the means of progress and improvement.
  • 1 Corinthians 1:18 – “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” – This verse emphasizes the belief in the power of the cross as the means of salvation, which may be seen as foolish or unbelievable by non-believers. Humanism, which may place more emphasis on reason and scientific evidence, may view this belief as irrational or superstitious.
  • Colossians 2:8 – “See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ.” – This verse warns against being misled by philosophies and traditions that are not based on Christ, but on worldly elements. Humanism, as a philosophy that places emphasis on reason and human experience, may be seen as one of the hollow and deceptive philosophies that this verse warns against.
  • Galatians 5:22-23 – “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” – This verse highlights the importance of the Holy Spirit in shaping the character and behavior of believers. Humanism, which may focus more on individual autonomy and self-expression, may place less emphasis on the role of the divine in shaping human behavior.
  • Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” – This verse highlights the belief in the power of Christ to give strength and enable believers to overcome challenges and difficulties. Humanism, in contrast, may place more emphasis on human determination and self-reliance.

Next steps

According to Biblical Christianity, the primary source for learning about God is the Bible, which provides guidance, wisdom, and teachings about God’s nature, character, and will. In addition to the Bible, Christians also believe in the guidance of the Holy Spirit, who helps believers understand and interpret the teachings of the Bible. Christians also learn about God through prayer, worship, and fellowship with other believers, as well as personal experiences and observations of God’s presence and work in the world.

  • Why is the Bible called the Word of God? – The word of God created the universe, revealed himself throughout history in a personal way, and wants to be your personal savior
  • The controversy of the Bible – A series on the controversy of the Bible. Not a book written about God, not written about religion, not written about morality, but a book written by God.
  • 7 important reasons to study the Bible – Thy word, Jesus’ prayer of thanksgiving, Jesus’ rebuke to study, learning from examples, assurance of salvation, encouragement to do what the Bible says
  • The Sinner’s Prayer – The sinner’s prayer involves repentance, faith in Jesus Christ, confession of sin, surrender to God, and sincerity/humility
  • How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth by Gordon D. Fee – Understanding the Bible isn’t for the few, the gifted, the scholarly. The Bible is accessible. It’s meant to be read and comprehended by everyone from armchair readers to seminary students. A few essential insights into the Bible can clear up a lot of misconceptions and help you grasp the meaning of Scripture and its application to your twenty-first-century life. Covering everything from translational concerns to different genres of biblical writing, How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth is used all around the world. In clear, simple language, it helps you accurately understand the different parts of the Bible―their meaning for ancient audiences and their implications for you today―so you can uncover the inexhaustible worth that is in God’s Word.

 

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