How should Christians respond to moral relativism taught publicly?
Introduction
Moral relativism is the dominant moral philosophy in many modern public spaces. Its core slogan is often: "That's true for you, but not for me." This perspective makes all moral statements (e.g., "Stealing is wrong," "Justice is necessary") subjective, denying any universal, objective standard that applies to all people at all times.
For the Christian, this position is a direct attack on the nature of God, who is the source of all truth. The Bible affirms that truth is not invented; it is revealed by God (Psalm 33:4). Therefore, our response to public relativism must be both lovingly firm and logically compelling.
Three Ways to Engage Moral Relativism
Christians are called to engage the public sphere with courage and wisdom, using both logical reasoning and the demonstration of a life transformed by absolute truth.
1. Lead with Gentleness and Respect (The Posture)
Public engagement must start with the correct heart attitude, remembering that the person espousing relativism is an image-bearer of God.
Be Prepared, Be Gentle: The Apostle Peter provides the essential rule for all public defense of faith: “But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being 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” (1 Peter 3:15).
Affirm the Person, Not the Philosophy: Engage the idea of relativism, but never attack the person who holds it. A harsh, arrogant, or condescending response immediately discredits the truth you are trying to share. Our defense should be characterized by the humility of Christ.
2. Expose the Logical Flaws (The Reasoning)
Moral relativism, when applied consistently, is rationally self-defeating. Gently exposing these inconsistencies opens the mind to the need for objective truth.
The Self-Refuting Claim: The most powerful logical argument is the simplest: The statement "There are no absolute truths" is itself presented as an absolute truth. If all moral claims are subjective, then the claim that "relativism is the best philosophy" is also only subjective and cannot be imposed on anyone else.
The Problem of Evil: Ask the relativist if they believe anything is universally wrong (e.g., child abuse, genocide). If they say yes, they have admitted an objective moral standard exists (a "Moral Law"). If they say no, they have revealed a philosophy that is practically unlivable and morally horrifying. The existence of injustice and moral outrage (which everyone feels) is strong evidence for a universal Moral Law given by a Moral Lawgiver.
The Word of God is Fixed: Remind them that the Christian framework is built on an unchanging standard: “For the word of the Lord is upright, and all his work is done in faithfulness” (Psalm 33:4). This is the only source that can provide a firm foundation for ethics.
3. Demonstrate the Fruit of Absolute Truth (The Witness)
Ultimately, the most effective response is not just intellectual, but relational and practical—showing that Christian morality leads to a better, more flourishing life.
Live a Life of Integrity: As discussed in Question 54, a life lived according to God's fixed, righteous commands (honesty, sacrificial love, forgiveness) is a powerful, silent witness against the chaos of subjective morality.
Offer Hope, Not Just Rules: Relativism may promise freedom, but it often delivers meaninglessness and anxiety. The Christian response is to point to the truth that sets people free (John 8:32). God's moral law is not oppressive rules, but a loving design for abundant life (Deuteronomy 10:13).
Conclusion
Do not be intimidated by the public promotion of moral relativism. It is a philosophy that collapses under its own weight and fails to satisfy the human heart’s deep desire for real, unchanging justice and meaning.
Your role as a Christian is to stand firmly on the absolute truth of God's Word, engaging the public with courage, unwavering conviction, and the gracious, loving respect modeled by Jesus Christ. In a chaotic world, the truth of God is the only secure anchor.
