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Writer's pictureEdward D. Andrews
Aug 1011 min read

Can Something Be True for You and Not for Me?

Updated: Aug 11

A Biblical Examination of Relativism


Understanding Relativism and Its Claims


Relativism, a philosophy that denies absolute truth, has become prevalent in modern society. Phrases like "It's all relative," "That's true for you but not for me," or "Who are you to impose your values on others?" reflect a worldview where truth is subjective, varying with individual perspectives, cultures, and contexts. However, this notion stands in stark contrast to the biblical concept of truth, which is rooted in the unchanging nature of Jehovah and His Word.


The relativist perspective often leads to the dangerous conclusion that actions, regardless of their moral implications, can be justified based on personal or cultural reasoning. For example, the atrocities committed by the Nazis or terrorists are sometimes explained away as being aligned with their particular belief systems. This relativistic approach, however, is fundamentally flawed when examined through the lens of Scripture.


In John 14:6, Jesus declares, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." This statement illustrates the biblical position that truth is not relative but absolute, anchored in the very person and teachings of Jesus Christ. Truth, according to the Bible, is not a mere concept subject to human manipulation but is an objective reality that corresponds with the nature and character of Jehovah.



The Incoherence of Relativism


The relativist's assertion that "truth is relative" is self-defeating. If truth were genuinely relative, then the statement "truth is relative" would itself be relative, meaning it could not be universally true. This contradiction exposes the incoherence of relativism.


Consider the relativistic idea that "Reality is like a wet lump of clay—we can shape it any way we want." This analogy suggests that individuals or societies have the power to mold reality according to their desires or beliefs. However, if reality is indeed malleable, then the statement itself should be subject to the same pliability, leading to the question: Is the belief that reality is malleable also subject to change? If not, then the statement is not truly relativistic but an objective claim, which undermines the very foundation of relativism.


The Bible provides a clear contrast to this view. In Malachi 3:6, Jehovah states, "For I, Jehovah, do not change; therefore you, O children of Jacob, are not consumed." The unchanging nature of Jehovah ensures that truth is consistent and reliable, not subject to the whims of human interpretation or desire. This immutability of God underscores the absurdity of relativism, which, when scrutinized, cannot stand on its own principles.



The Universal Nature of Truth


One of the central flaws of relativism is its selective application. Relativists may claim that moral truths or religious beliefs are subjective, but they do not apply the same logic to scientific or mathematical truths. For instance, no one argues that the law of gravity is relative or that mathematical equations like 2+2=4 are matters of personal preference. This inconsistency reveals that relativism is often employed selectively, particularly in areas where individuals wish to avoid moral accountability or responsibility.


This selective application is evident in how relativists approach issues such as God's existence, sexual morality, or ethical behavior. They may argue that these are matters of personal belief and that no absolute standards exist. However, the moment their personal rights are violated—whether through theft, violence, or injustice—they quickly appeal to universal principles of right and wrong. This hypocrisy underscores the biblical assertion that moral truth is not subjective but is grounded in the very nature of God.


Romans 2:14-15 speaks to this innate understanding of moral truth, stating, "For when Gentiles, who do not have the law, by nature do what the law requires, they are a law to themselves, even though they do not have the law. They show that the work of the law is written on their hearts, while their conscience also bears witness, and their conflicting thoughts accuse or even excuse them." This passage reveals that, despite the relativist's claims, there is an inherent knowledge of right and wrong within every person, reflecting the universal nature of God's moral law.



The Relativist's Agenda: A Quest for Autonomy


Relativism is often motivated by a desire for autonomy rather than a genuine pursuit of truth. Atheist philosopher John Searle acknowledged this when he stated, "It satisfies a basic urge to power. It just seems too disgusting, somehow, that we should have to be at the mercy of the 'real world.'" This sentiment captures the underlying drive behind relativism: a rejection of objective truth in favor of personal freedom and control.


This quest for autonomy is not new; it echoes the original sin in the Garden of Eden, where Adam and Eve sought to define good and evil for themselves, independent of Jehovah's command (Genesis 3:1-7). The relativist's rejection of absolute truth is, at its core, a rebellion against the authority of God and an attempt to place oneself in the position of determining truth.


However, the Bible warns against such a mindset. Proverbs 16:25 declares, "There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death." This verse highlights the dangers of relying on one's subjective judgment rather than adhering to the objective truth revealed by God. The pursuit of autonomy apart from God leads to spiritual and moral destruction, as illustrated throughout Scripture.



The Inescapability of Objective Truth


Despite the relativist's attempts to deny it, objective truth is inescapable. The very act of making a truth claim, even one that denies the existence of objective truth, is an acknowledgment of the concept of truth itself. This paradox reveals the self-defeating nature of relativism.


In John 17:17, Jesus prays to the Father, "Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth." This declaration affirms that truth is not a human construct but is rooted in the Word of God. The Bible, as the divinely inspired Word of God, provides the ultimate standard for truth, against which all human ideas and philosophies must be measured.


Moreover, the Bible consistently presents truth as something that corresponds to reality, not as a subjective experience. In 1 Corinthians 15:3-4, Paul emphasizes the objective nature of the gospel, stating, "For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures." The resurrection of Jesus Christ is presented as a historical fact, not merely a symbolic or spiritual truth. This event serves as the foundation of Christian faith, demonstrating that truth is grounded in actual events and the reality of God's work in history.



The Moral Implications of Rejecting Objective Truth


The rejection of objective truth has significant moral implications. If truth is relative, then moral standards become subjective, leading to moral chaos and the breakdown of societal order. This is evident in the relativist's selective application of relativism, as previously discussed. When moral standards are no longer based on an objective foundation, society becomes vulnerable to the whims of individual desires and preferences, resulting in injustice and immorality.


The Bible provides a stark warning against such moral relativism in Isaiah 5:20, which states, "Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter!" This verse highlights the dangers of confusing moral categories and abandoning the objective moral standards established by God. When society embraces relativism, it loses the ability to distinguish between good and evil, leading to moral decay and spiritual blindness.


Furthermore, the rejection of objective truth undermines the concept of justice. In Micah 6:8, the prophet declares, "He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does Jehovah require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?" Justice, according to the Bible, is not a subjective concept but is rooted in the character of God and His righteous standards. Relativism, by denying objective truth, erodes the very foundation upon which justice is built, leading to the proliferation of injustice and oppression.



The Christian Response to Relativism


As Christians, we are called to stand firm in the truth of God's Word, resisting the influence of relativistic thinking. Ephesians 6:14 exhorts believers to "Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness." The "belt of truth" symbolizes the importance of grounding our lives in the objective truth of Scripture, which provides stability and protection against the deceptive philosophies of the world.


In a world increasingly dominated by relativism, Christians must be vigilant in proclaiming the truth of the gospel and defending the authority of Scripture. 1 Peter 3:15 urges believers to "always be prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect." This verse highlights the importance of being equipped to articulate and defend the truth of Christianity in a relativistic culture.


Moreover, Christians must recognize that truth is not merely an abstract concept but is embodied in the person of Jesus Christ. John 1:14 declares, "And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth." Jesus, as the incarnate Word of God, reveals the fullness of truth, demonstrating that truth is both personal and relational. Our commitment to truth, therefore, must be rooted in our relationship with Christ and our adherence to His teachings.



The Eternal Consequences of Rejecting Truth


The rejection of objective truth has not only temporal but also eternal consequences. Jesus warns in John 12:48, "The one who rejects me and does not receive my words has a judge; the word that I have spoken will judge him on the last day." This verse underscores the reality that truth is not merely a matter of personal opinion but has eternal significance. Those who reject the truth of the gospel will face judgment based on their response to the Word of God.


The Bible also speaks of the danger of being led astray by false teachings and deceptive philosophies. In Colossians 2:8, Paul warns, "See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ." Relativism, as a deceptive philosophy, seeks to undermine the authority of Christ and lead people away from the truth. Christians must be discerning and reject any ideology that contradicts the clear teachings of Scripture.


In contrast to the fleeting and unstable nature of relativism, the truth of God's Word endures forever. Psalm 119:89 declares, "Forever, O Jehovah, your word is firmly fixed in the heavens." The eternal nature of God's Word assures us that His truth is unchanging and will stand the test of time. As believers, we can take comfort in the fact that, despite the shifting sands of cultural and philosophical trends, the truth of Scripture remains steadfast and reliable.


TRUTH IS ABSOLUTE


It's important to distinguish between facts, truths, and opinions, especially in today's cultural context, where terms like "my truth" and "your truth" are often used. Here's a clearer explanation from a conservative evangelical Christian perspective:


Facts:


Definition: Facts are objective, verifiable pieces of information. They are indisputable and can be proven through evidence.


Example: "Water boils at 100°C at sea level." This is a fact because it can be consistently observed and measured.


Truths:


Definition: Truths are interpretations or understandings of facts that are universally accepted and not subject to personal belief or opinion. Absolute truths are unchanging and apply universally.


Example: "If you jump off a building, you will fall to the ground due to gravity." This is an absolute truth based on the fact of gravitational force.


Opinions:


Definition: Opinions are subjective beliefs or judgments that can vary from person to person. They are not necessarily based on verifiable facts and can be influenced by personal experiences and perspectives.


Example: "Chocolate ice cream is the best flavor." This is an opinion because it is based on personal preference and cannot be objectively proven.


Truths are not opinions: Truths are based on facts and are absolute, whereas opinions are subjective and can vary until they are established as truths.


Facts make up truths: Facts provide the foundation for truths. Once a fact is established, the truth derived from it is absolute.


Opinions are subjective: Opinions are personal interpretations and can be subjective until they are supported by facts and become accepted as truths.


Scientific Example:


Fact: The Earth orbits the Sun.


Absolute Truth: The heliocentric model of the solar system is an absolute truth based on the fact of Earth's orbit.


Opinion: "I believe the geocentric model is correct." This opinion was held historically but was proven wrong by the fact of Earth's orbit.


Medical Example:


Fact: Smoking can cause lung cancer.


Absolute Truth: The statement "Smoking increases the risk of lung cancer" is an absolute truth based on extensive scientific evidence.


Opinion: "I think smoking is not harmful." This opinion is subjective and not supported by the factual evidence linking smoking to lung cancer.


Addressing "Wokeism" and Relative Truths:


In today's cultural context, terms like "my truth" and "your truth" are often used to avoid offending others and to promote inclusivity. However, this can lead to confusion and the dilution of what constitutes an absolute truth. Truth is not relative; it is absolute. If something is not absolute, it should be called a view, a belief, an opinion, or a hypothesis, but not a truth.


For example, someone might believe that the Earth is flat. This belief is an opinion based on ignorance of the subject. The absolute truth, supported by overwhelming scientific evidence, is that the Earth is an oblate spheroid.


I am emphasizing that truths are grounded in facts and are absolute, whereas opinions are subjective and can vary until they are substantiated by facts. This distinction is crucial for understanding the nature of truth and the role of facts in establishing it. By maintaining this clarity, we can ensure that discussions about truth remain meaningful and grounded in reality.



Conclusion


As Christians, we are called to live according to the truth revealed in God's Word, resisting the relativistic tendencies of our culture. The Bible affirms that truth is objective, unchanging, and rooted in the character of Jehovah. Relativism, with its inherent contradictions and moral implications, fails to provide a coherent or satisfying explanation of reality. By grounding our lives in the truth of Scripture and maintaining our commitment to Christ, we can navigate the challenges of a relativistic world and remain faithful to the truth that sets us free (John 8:32).


About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220 books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).


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