Topical Encyclopedia Humanism, as a philosophical and ethical stance, emphasizes the value and agency of human beings, individually and collectively. It often rejects the supernatural and focuses on human reason, ethics, and justice. From a biblical perspective, humanism can be seen as a worldview that contrasts with the theocentric focus of Scripture, which places God at the center of all things.Biblical Perspective on Humanism The Bible presents a worldview that is fundamentally theocentric, meaning God-centered. In Genesis 1:1, "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth," the Scriptures establish God as the Creator and Sustainer of all life. Humanism, by contrast, often elevates human reason and experience above divine revelation, which can lead to a worldview that is at odds with biblical teachings. Humanism and the Nature of Man Humanism tends to emphasize the inherent goodness and potential of humanity. However, the Bible presents a different view of human nature. In Romans 3:23, it states, "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." This verse underscores the biblical teaching that humanity is fallen and in need of redemption, a concept that humanism typically does not acknowledge. Humanism and Morality Humanism often promotes a system of ethics based on human reason and consensus. In contrast, the Bible provides a moral framework grounded in the character and commandments of God. Proverbs 9:10 declares, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." This suggests that true wisdom and moral understanding begin with a reverence for God, rather than human reasoning alone. Humanism and the Purpose of Life Humanism generally posits that the purpose of life is to seek fulfillment and happiness through human endeavors. The Bible, however, teaches that the ultimate purpose of life is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever. Ecclesiastes 12:13 states, "Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind." Humanism and the Role of God In humanism, the role of God is often minimized or dismissed altogether. The Bible, however, emphasizes the sovereignty and centrality of God in all aspects of life. Colossians 1:16-17 affirms, "For in Him all things were created, things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities. All things were created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together." Humanism and Salvation Humanism typically focuses on human effort and achievement as the means to improve the human condition. The Bible, however, teaches that salvation and true transformation come only through faith in Jesus Christ. Ephesians 2:8-9 states, "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast." Conclusion While humanism emphasizes human potential and achievement, the Bible presents a worldview that acknowledges human limitations and the need for divine intervention. The biblical narrative consistently points to God as the source of wisdom, morality, purpose, and salvation, contrasting sharply with the human-centered focus of humanism. Topical Bible Verses Genesis 1:27So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. Topicalbible.org Genesis 1:26 Galatians 5:19-21 Romans 5:12 Romans 3:23 Hebrews 11:6 John 3:3 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 1 Timothy 4:1 Library Sebastian Franck: an Apostle of Inward Religion The Main Current of the Reformation The Vatican Decrees. The Constitution on the Catholic Faith. Causes of the Reformation Benjamin Whichcote, the First of the "Latitude-Men" Theological Controversies and Studies Spiritual Reformers in the 16th and 17th Centuries Introduction The Religious Revolution Christian Cemeteries. Resources What is human nature? What does the Bible say about human nature? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible teach about human trafficking? | GotQuestions.org Would a human clone have a soul? | GotQuestions.org Human: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics The Human Nature of Christ is Proved by His: Being a Man of Sorrows The Human Nature of Christ is Proved by His: Being Buffeted The Human Nature of Christ is Proved by His: Being Nailed to the Cross The Human Nature of Christ is Proved by His: Being Scourged The Human Nature of Christ is Proved by His: Being Subject to Weariness The Human Nature of Christ is Proved by His: Birth The Human Nature of Christ is Proved by His: Burial The Human Nature of Christ is Proved by His: Circumcision The Human Nature of Christ is Proved by His: Conception in the Virgin's Womb The Human Nature of Christ is Proved by His: Death The Human Nature of Christ is Proved by His: Enduring Indignities The Human Nature of Christ is Proved by His: Having a Human Soul The Human Nature of Christ is Proved by His: Hungering The Human Nature of Christ is Proved by His: Increase in Wisdom and Stature The Human Nature of Christ is Proved by His: Partaking of Flesh and Blood The Human Nature of Christ is Proved by His: Resurrection The Human Nature of Christ is Proved by His: Side Being Pierced The Human Nature of Christ is Proved by His: Sleeping The Human Nature of Christ is Proved by His: Thirsting The Human Nature of Christ is Proved by His: Weeping The Human Nature of Christ was Like Our own in all Things Except Sin The Human Nature of Christ was Necessary to his Mediatorial office The Human Nature of Christ was of the Seed of Abraham The Human Nature of Christ was of the Seed of David The Human Nature of Christ was of the Seed of The Woman The Human Nature of Christ was Submitted to the Evidence of the Senses The Human Nature of Christ was Without Sin The Human Nature of Christ: Acknowledged by Men The Human Nature of Christ: Attested by Himself The Human Nature of Christ: Confession of, a Test of Belonging to God The Human Nature of Christ: Denied by Antichrist The Human Nature of Christ: Genealogy of Related Terms |
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