The Laurel Canyon church of Christ

The Bible vs. Humanism

Steven F. Deaton

Humanism is a pervasive and pernicious religion. It exalts man above his place in the universe, declaring that man has the answers to life’s most perplexing questions and problems. We must resist its doctrines if we hope to please God and find true meaning and satisfaction in life.

Life After Death

        The humanist denies there is any life after death. He believes when we die, our existence ends. The Humanist Manifesto II puts it this way, “There is no credible evidence that life survives the death of the body.” They ignore the best evidence there is because it contradicts their theory.
        It is true there is no laboratory at a research facility where life after death can be tested and retested. There is no formula or mathematical equation to be applied for proof of the afterlife. No vehicle exists to take us to the other side and bring us back. It is also true that there is no test, formula, or evidence that life does not exist beyond death.
        The evidence that does exist is testimony. It is the same type of evidence that is the foundation for much of this world’s history; people and events of the past are known because of testimony. The accounts of life after death are credible and powerful. One example will suffice. Jesus was raised from the dead (John 20:1-9). The evidence tells us that He was seen by many people, including over 500 people on one occasion, after His resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:5-8).
        We not only have the life of Jesus after His death to prove the afterlife, but we also have His declarations about it (Matthew 10:28; 22:23-33; Luke 16:19-31). This being true, we need to prepare for life after death.

Salvation

        Humanists do not believe in a Savior or salvation, because they do not believe in moral standards. They say, “No deity will save us; we must save ourselves,” and “Promises of immortal salvation or fear of eternal damnation are both illusory and harmful” (Humanist Manifesto II). Their idea of saving ourselves has nothing to do with morality, but everything to do with things like animal rights, homosexual tolerance, and gutting God from society (because religion is the scourge of the earth).
        A brief look at humanity will quickly bring the sober-minded person to the conclusion that man does not have the answers; man cannot save himself. Turmoil and confusion reign. There are almost as many opinions as there are people. Thus, we know the way of man is not in himself (Jeremiah 10:23). We must look to a higher standard. That standard is God’s Word.
        It tells us we are sinners and need salvation (Romans 3:23-26). Salvation can only be found in Jesus (Acts 4:12). If we do not turn to the Savior for redemption, then when we stand before God on judgment we will lose our souls (Hebrews 9:27; Matthew 25:14-30; 2 Corinthians 5:10).

Counteracting Humanism

The way to resist humanist doctrine is by filling our hearts and minds with God’s Word. We need to teach it in the home and the church (Ephesians 6:4; 2 Timothy 4:2). Moses overcame the corruption of Egypt, due in large part, no doubt, to the training he received from his parents (Hebrews 11:24-27). Preachers, elders, and Bible class teachers need to address the false concepts of humanism as opportunities arise. They need to be informed on what is going on and tackle the issues affecting brethren and their children. Compromise and silence is a sure way to lead people astray.
Keep your faith in the Lord, your eyes on the Word, and your head bowed in prayer.