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Humanism's Flooding Influence (Part Four)
Commentary by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Humanism, in the realm of religion, is a term coined by some religionists to describe a form of belief that originates from human thought rather than from God's Word. It embodies what the Bible terms carnality, rejecting the existence of God or asserting that if He exists, He is not actively involved in human affairs. Consequently, there is no fear of Him among humanists. This rejection leads to a liberalization of law and conduct, as God's revealed Word and laws, which place restraints on human behavior, are ignored. Just as Adam and Eve, under satan's influence, removed the restraints of God's command by carnally reasoning and giving themselves permission to eat the forbidden fruit, the carnal mind invariably moves toward liberalization when God is disregarded. Rejecting God's existence and authority also profoundly impacts one's self-perception, magnifying one's opinion of oneself since there is no higher authority to answer to except another human. This can lead to disastrous social consequences, especially if the individual holds a position of influence such as a parent, professor, teacher, or politician. The nineteenth-century Free Thought movement in America and Western Europe enabled the common citizen to reject blind faith and superstition without fear of persecution. The influence of science, technology, and freethinkers like Mark Twain and Robert G. Ingersoll introduced elements of humanist philosophy even into mainline Christian churches, shifting their focus from the next world to this one. At the beginning of the twentieth century, humanists began to dominate universities, appealing to the carnal, intellectual vanity of both teachers and students. This influence gradually spread into high schools, elementary schools, and then into commerce and politics, resulting in a legal system that struggles to distinguish right from wrong and a culture grappling with numerous social issues. Those in power, often termed liberals, exhibit huge egos and a liberal stance toward law, governing with an elitist view that perceives the populace as mere material to be shaped by their expertise, rather than as the source of their empowerment.
Humanism's Flooding Influence (Part Five)
Commentary by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Institutions which started out as Puritan theological schools (Harvard and Yale) are turning out a plethora of godless humanists.
Humanism's Flooding Influence (Part Two)
Commentary by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The world's religions today are steeped in humanism, leaving the church of God standing virtually alone defending God's truth in a world of falsehood.
God, Allah, Rick, and John
Commentary by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Rick Warren, the energetic and ambitious founder of the Purpose Driven Church movement, is now seeking to syncretistically merge Islam and Christian faiths.
Dissatisfaction
Commentary by Martin G. CollinsChange agents have attempted to apply traditional Christian terminology to politically correct referents, distorting and defiling the original meaning.
The Cultural Moral Norm
Commentary by Martin G. CollinsShockingly, two-thirds of the American populace believe truth is relative, while only one-third believe in absolute standards.
The Wisdom of Men and Faith
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe pressures and conflicts that the church has undergone is part of the spirit of the time that has embroiled religious and political institutions worldwide.
Death in the Vatican
'WorldWatch' by Richard T. RitenbaughThe death of Pope Francis revives questions about the direction of the Catholic Church after his progressive agenda created deep divisions within it.
What's in the Bucket? (Part Two)
Commentary by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)If the Founders of the United States had been ardent followers of Christ, they would not have legalized chattel slavery through the Constitution.
Inclusivity?
Sermon by Ronny H. GrahamMany churches have abandoned traditional values and have embraced humanism, using buzzwords such as inclusivity, community, spirituality, and justice.
A Dark Cloud on the Horizon
Commentary by Clyde FinkleaPope Francis' 2030 agenda calls for a one world Holy Catholic Apostolic Church. The Papacy cast out its net to the evangelicals starting in July of 2014.
The Two Wave Loaves of Pentecost
Sermon by David C. GrabbeThe offerings of the Old Testament are like divine parables, acted out to teach about the Messiah, unveiling a beautiful picture once we understand the symbols.
Franchising the Faith
Commentary by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)In churchianity, slick business tactics and advertising take precedence over scriptural knowledge. Yet truth trumps sincerity, emotion, and glitz.
Church Unity Despite the Spirit of the World
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe unity of God's church does not derive from organizational expertise, the conformity of ecumenism, or the tolerance for evil, but from the family model.
A Government Like the Nations
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeSometimes God's most effective judgment is to give His people what they want and let them suffer for it.
Of One Accord
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughConfusion and separation have been man's legacy since Eden. Christ is working to put an end to division, enabling us to be one with the Father and each other.