Can Truth Be Absolute?
In a world that increasingly embraces relativism—the idea that truth is subjective and varies from person to person—the concept of absolute truth is often seen as outdated or restrictive. Yet, as Christians, we affirm that absolute truth not only exists but is essential to understanding God, humanity, and the world around us. Absolute truth provides the foundation for morality, justice, and meaning. It offers a beacon of hope and stability in a culture marked by fear and confusion. In this post, we will explore why absolute truth exists, evidence of absolute truth, and how it is grounded in the person and work of Christ.
The Origin of Truth
To begin, it is important to define what we mean by “absolute truth.” Absolute truth refers to something which is true at all times, in all places, and for all people. It is objective, unchanging, and independent of personal opinions or feelings. This contrasts with relativism, which claims that truth is fluid and can vary based on individual perspectives or cultural contexts.
In the Christian worldview, absolute truth is rooted in the nature of God. Scripture declares that God is truth itself. Jesus proclaims in John 14:6, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” This powerful statement establishes that truth is not just a concept but a person—Jesus Christ. God, as the Creator of the universe, defines reality and establishes the standards by which all things are measured.
Evidence of Absolute Truth
The existence of absolute truth is visible in the natural world. Consider the laws of physics, mathematics, and biology. These principles are not subject to human whims or cultural differences; they are consistent and universal. Gravity does not cease to exist because someone denies its reality. Mathematical truths, such as 2 + 2 = 4, hold true regardless of personal beliefs or preferences.
This consistency in nature reflects the order and rationality of its Creator. Romans 1:20 tells us that “For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made.” The reliability of the natural world points to a God who is both rational and trustworthy. If the physical universe operates according to absolute truths, it is rational that moral and spiritual truths would also be absolute, as they originate from the same Creator.
One of the clearest indicators of absolute truth is the existence of moral absolutes. Across cultures and throughout history, there has been a remarkable consistency in certain moral principles. For example, murder, theft, and deceit are universally regarded as wrong, while virtues like kindness and honesty are universally admired. This moral law, written on the hearts of humanity, aligns with the biblical teaching that we are made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27).
The apostle Paul speaks to this innate sense of morality in Romans 2:15, where he writes that the law of God is written on human hearts, and our consciences bear witness to it. While human cultures may vary in their specific applications of morality, the underlying principles remain consistent. This shared moral framework points to a higher, absolute standard—one that transcends individual or cultural opinions.
The Truth of Christ
As Christians, we believe that absolute truth is not an abstract concept but is embodied in the person of Jesus Christ. In John 18:37, Jesus tells Pontius Pilate, “For this purpose I was born and for this purpose I have come into the world—to bear witness to the truth.” Jesus reveals the truth about God, humanity, and salvation. His teachings provide a clear and unchanging standard for how we are to live.
The resurrection of Jesus is the ultimate affirmation of absolute truth. It is a historical event with profound implications. If Jesus truly rose from the dead, then His claims about Himself and the nature of reality are true. The resurrection is not merely a matter of personal belief but a declaration of objective truth that transforms lives and shapes history.
Understanding that absolute truth exists calls us to live in alignment with it. For Christians, this means submitting to God’s Word as the ultimate authority. Psalm 119:160 declares, “The sum of your word is truth, and every one of your righteous rules endures forever.” The Bible is not a collection of subjective opinions but the inspired and inerrant Word of God, providing a trustworthy guide for faith and life.
Living in light of absolute truth also means standing firm in our convictions, even in the face of opposition. In a culture which celebrates relativism, proclaiming the existence of absolute truth can be challenging. Yet, as followers of Christ, we are called to be salt and light (Matthew 5:13-16), speaking the truth with grace and love.
Conclusion: Hope in Absolute Truth
The rejection of absolute truth has profound consequences for individuals and cultures. Relativism, while appealing in its promise of personal freedom, ultimately leads to chaos and despair. Without absolute truth, there is no objective basis for morality, justice, or human rights. If truth is subjective, then concepts like right and wrong become mere matters of opinion. What is to prevent one person’s preference for kindness from being outweighed by another’s preference for abuse? Without a shared understanding of truth, society becomes fragmented and unstable.
The existence of absolute truth is not merely a philosophical concept; it is a source of profound hope. In a world that often feels uncertain and chaotic, absolute truth provides a firm foundation on which to build our lives. It assures us that there is a God who is faithful, just, and unchanging. It reminds us that we are not floating in a sea of relativism but are anchored in the truth of God’s love and purpose.
As Christians, we have the privilege and responsibility of sharing this truth with others. In doing so, we point them to the One who is the way, the truth, and the life. May we be bold in proclaiming and living out the reality of absolute truth, for the glory of God and the good of all people.
The Origin of Truth
To begin, it is important to define what we mean by “absolute truth.” Absolute truth refers to something which is true at all times, in all places, and for all people. It is objective, unchanging, and independent of personal opinions or feelings. This contrasts with relativism, which claims that truth is fluid and can vary based on individual perspectives or cultural contexts.
In the Christian worldview, absolute truth is rooted in the nature of God. Scripture declares that God is truth itself. Jesus proclaims in John 14:6, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” This powerful statement establishes that truth is not just a concept but a person—Jesus Christ. God, as the Creator of the universe, defines reality and establishes the standards by which all things are measured.
Evidence of Absolute Truth
The existence of absolute truth is visible in the natural world. Consider the laws of physics, mathematics, and biology. These principles are not subject to human whims or cultural differences; they are consistent and universal. Gravity does not cease to exist because someone denies its reality. Mathematical truths, such as 2 + 2 = 4, hold true regardless of personal beliefs or preferences.
This consistency in nature reflects the order and rationality of its Creator. Romans 1:20 tells us that “For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made.” The reliability of the natural world points to a God who is both rational and trustworthy. If the physical universe operates according to absolute truths, it is rational that moral and spiritual truths would also be absolute, as they originate from the same Creator.
One of the clearest indicators of absolute truth is the existence of moral absolutes. Across cultures and throughout history, there has been a remarkable consistency in certain moral principles. For example, murder, theft, and deceit are universally regarded as wrong, while virtues like kindness and honesty are universally admired. This moral law, written on the hearts of humanity, aligns with the biblical teaching that we are made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27).
The apostle Paul speaks to this innate sense of morality in Romans 2:15, where he writes that the law of God is written on human hearts, and our consciences bear witness to it. While human cultures may vary in their specific applications of morality, the underlying principles remain consistent. This shared moral framework points to a higher, absolute standard—one that transcends individual or cultural opinions.
The Truth of Christ
As Christians, we believe that absolute truth is not an abstract concept but is embodied in the person of Jesus Christ. In John 18:37, Jesus tells Pontius Pilate, “For this purpose I was born and for this purpose I have come into the world—to bear witness to the truth.” Jesus reveals the truth about God, humanity, and salvation. His teachings provide a clear and unchanging standard for how we are to live.
The resurrection of Jesus is the ultimate affirmation of absolute truth. It is a historical event with profound implications. If Jesus truly rose from the dead, then His claims about Himself and the nature of reality are true. The resurrection is not merely a matter of personal belief but a declaration of objective truth that transforms lives and shapes history.
Understanding that absolute truth exists calls us to live in alignment with it. For Christians, this means submitting to God’s Word as the ultimate authority. Psalm 119:160 declares, “The sum of your word is truth, and every one of your righteous rules endures forever.” The Bible is not a collection of subjective opinions but the inspired and inerrant Word of God, providing a trustworthy guide for faith and life.
Living in light of absolute truth also means standing firm in our convictions, even in the face of opposition. In a culture which celebrates relativism, proclaiming the existence of absolute truth can be challenging. Yet, as followers of Christ, we are called to be salt and light (Matthew 5:13-16), speaking the truth with grace and love.
Conclusion: Hope in Absolute Truth
The rejection of absolute truth has profound consequences for individuals and cultures. Relativism, while appealing in its promise of personal freedom, ultimately leads to chaos and despair. Without absolute truth, there is no objective basis for morality, justice, or human rights. If truth is subjective, then concepts like right and wrong become mere matters of opinion. What is to prevent one person’s preference for kindness from being outweighed by another’s preference for abuse? Without a shared understanding of truth, society becomes fragmented and unstable.
The existence of absolute truth is not merely a philosophical concept; it is a source of profound hope. In a world that often feels uncertain and chaotic, absolute truth provides a firm foundation on which to build our lives. It assures us that there is a God who is faithful, just, and unchanging. It reminds us that we are not floating in a sea of relativism but are anchored in the truth of God’s love and purpose.
As Christians, we have the privilege and responsibility of sharing this truth with others. In doing so, we point them to the One who is the way, the truth, and the life. May we be bold in proclaiming and living out the reality of absolute truth, for the glory of God and the good of all people.
Categories
Tags
Archive
2025
2024
February
March
April
2023
May
November
December