Moral relativism is the philosophical position that suggests that moral judgments are not absolute but are relative to the cultural, individual, or situational contexts. This perspective challenges the notion of universal moral truths, which is a foundational element of Christian doctrine. From a biblical standpoint, moral relativism is seen as a threat to the absolute moral standards set forth by God in Scripture.

Biblical Foundation for Absolute Morality

The Bible presents a clear framework for understanding morality as absolute and grounded in the character of God. In the Old Testament, the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17) serve as a foundational moral code, reflecting God's unchanging nature. The psalmist declares, "The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple" (Psalm 19:7), emphasizing the reliability and constancy of God's laws.

In the New Testament, Jesus affirms the enduring nature of God's commandments. In Matthew 5:17-18 , He states, "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not a single jot, not a stroke of a pen, will disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished." This underscores the permanence and authority of divine moral standards.

Challenges of Moral Relativism

Moral relativism poses significant challenges to the Christian worldview by undermining the authority of Scripture and the universality of its moral teachings. When individuals or societies adopt a relativistic approach, they may justify behaviors that contradict biblical principles, leading to moral confusion and ethical inconsistency.

The Apostle Paul warns against conforming to the shifting moral standards of the world. In Romans 12:2 , he exhorts believers, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God." This call to transformation highlights the need for Christians to anchor their moral understanding in the unchanging truth of God's Word.

Guarding Against Relativism

To guard against moral relativism, Christians are encouraged to immerse themselves in Scripture and cultivate a biblical worldview. The Berean approach to Scripture, as exemplified by the Bereans in Acts 17:11 , who "examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true," serves as a model for discerning truth and rejecting relativistic ideologies.

Furthermore, believers are called to uphold and defend the truth with love and grace. In Ephesians 4:15 , Paul instructs, "Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into Christ Himself, who is the head." This balance of truth and love is essential in engaging with a culture that often embraces moral relativism.

The Role of the Church

The Church plays a crucial role in equipping believers to stand firm against moral relativism. Through sound teaching, discipleship, and community, the Church provides a foundation for understanding and living out biblical morality. In 2 Timothy 3:16-17 , Paul reminds Timothy, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work."

By fostering a commitment to biblical truth and encouraging accountability within the body of Christ, the Church helps believers navigate the challenges of a relativistic society while remaining faithful to God's unchanging standards.