Philosophical systems of thought are nothing new. Long before the New Testament was even written, many philosophical schools were in existence and drew a large number of adherents. These philosophical movements often provided unique perspectives on foundational subjects such as the nature of man, the nature of reality, the relationship of material and immaterial world, etc. These viewpoints often served as the basis for a particular body of ethical teachings, and it was not uncommon for these schools of philosophy to advocate a particular manner in which individuals were to live their lives. In other words, philosophical schools of thought were keen to understand not only the nature of humanity and the universe, but how man is to live life. For this reason, philosophers often emphasized certain virtues and sought to emulate them in their lives. This was the case in the centuries before the New Testament was composed, during the time it was written, and in the many centuries that followed.
An interesting feature of Christianity is that it emphasized much more than beliefs, principles, and virtues. To be sure, the New Testament is full of instructions, exhortations, and admonitions. How we live is obviously of great concern to the biblical authors. Countless passages throughout the Old and New Testaments correct behavior or provide instruction related to how God’s people are to live. It is helpful to recognize, however, that Christianity is not simply a philosophical system of thought which holds to certain principles and emphasizes certain virtues. Significantly, the authors of the New Testament base their instruction on the reality of historical events. In 1 John 1:1-4, the Apostle John emphasizes the fact that he and many others had personally witnessed Jesus in human flesh. Christ is the one that they had heard, seen, touched, and now proclaim (1 John 1:1).
While a temptation of Christians for the last several centuries has been to dismiss the Bible’s historical claims and to simply hold on to the ethical teaching of Jesus, it must be recalled that the entirety of the Christian faith rests upon the reality of God’s work in human history. Jesus came to this world not simply to offer a new set of philosophical principles and insights, but to save us from our sins, something that took place at the cross.
As you consider the reality of God’s work in human history, please answer the following questions.
- How would you describe the main difference between human philosophies and the entirety of the Gospel message?
- How would you defend the Gospel message to one who only believes in the humanistic philosophies of the world?
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