Last week, we began this series discussing “dangerous isms” by looking at the poisonous system known as Atheism.
This week, we want to examine “Humanism.” Our goal is to define our terms, then look to the Word of God to find the answer to our question.
What is Humanism?
Humanism is a worldview that elevates mankind as the source of truth and morality. It promotes the idea that humans are self-sufficient and can determine right and wrong without God.
Even religious forms of humanism place human desires or experiences above divine revelation.
Some famous phrases that echo Humanism include: “Man is the measure of all things” (Protagoras), “Follow your heart,” and “Live your truth” (ChatGPT).
The Dangers of Humanism
The main danger of humanism can be classified into four parts: Man as his own authority, moral relativism, denial of divine revelation, and exaltation of self over God.
With the space remaining, we want to break down and discuss these four complaints of Humanism.
Man as his own authority.
First, what is the danger of “man as his own authority?”
The prophet Jeremiah said, “It is not in man who walks to direct his own steps” (Jer. 10:23). The Proverbs writer proclaimed, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death” (Prov. 14:12).
The truth of the matter is that man is not his own authority for God, as the Creator and Sustainer of the universe, is the One Who is in control and has all authority!
God spoke this world into existence, not man (Gen. 1:1; Psa. 19:1; 24:1; 33:6, 9). There is only One God, and He is the Supreme Ruler:
“I am the Lord, and there is no other; There is no God besides Me” (Isa. 45:5).
Moral relativism.
Second, what is the danger of “moral relativism?”
The idea is that if I think it is right, it is right. If I feel like something is wrong, then it is wrong. There is no standard. Obviously, this directly conflicts with what the Bible says. There is a vast difference in the wisdom of man and the wisdom of God:
“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. For it is written: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, And bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent.” Where is the wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the disputer of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of this world? For since, in the wisdom of God, the world through wisdom did not know God, it pleased God through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe. For Jews request a sign, and Greeks seek after wisdom; but we preach Christ crucified, to the Jews a stumbling block and to the Greeks foolishness, but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men” (1 Cor. 1:18-25).
God, in His infinite wisdom, determines what is right and wrong. We are subject to the standard He has set forth (Mark 7:21-23).
Denying divine revelation.
Third, what is the danger of “denying divine revelation?”
To deny divine revelation is to deny God’s power and wisdom! His word is fixed and unchanging: “Forever, O Lord, Your word is settled in heaven” (Psa. 119:89). The entirety of His Word is truth (Psa. 119:160; John 16:13; 17:17), and regardless of what man tries to do or say, the standard is set. The truth is the truth!
God’s revelation is flawless:
“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Tim. 3:16-17).
Exalting self over God.
Fourth and finally, what is the danger of “exalting self over God?”
Jesus said, “And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted” (Matt. 23:12). Submission to God and His Word is absolutely essential:
“But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.” Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Lament and mourn and weep! Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up” (Jas. 4:6-10).
We have noticed the dangerous and damaging effects of Humanism. May we appreciate and submit to the sovereignty of God and obey Him!
Drew Suttles is a minister for the Quitman church of Christ in Quitman, Georgia, and one of my best friends in this world. They live-stream all their Bible classes and sermons on their YouTube channel.
Drew also hosts the “Weathering the Storm” podcast on the Scattered Abroad Network. Drew talks about facing life’s challenges as a child of God. His podcast will be a blessing to your life.
