What does ethical relativism say about ethics and morality?

Fall Worldview

TL;DR:

Ethical relativism says right and wrong change with culture, circumstance, or personal preference, leaving morality entirely subjective. The Bible, however, grounds ethics in God’s unchanging character, giving a universal standard for all people across all times.

what does the bible say?

Ethical relativism is a form of ethics that argues that there is no universal moral standard, with morality changing according to circumstance. Cultural relativism bases ethics on the values of a society, claiming an action is right if a community approves it. Moral relativism locates morality in the individual, allowing each person to decide what is right for themselves.

Another form of ethics, pragmatic ethics, is not technically a category of ethical relativism. However, its focus on just doing “whatever works” in a given situation often produces conclusions that shift as knowledge, culture, or desired outcomes change.

All of these are claims based on human wisdom; however, Scripture teaches the opposite view. It declares that God’s character is perfectly righteous and that His commands define what is right and wrong for all people (Deuteronomy 32:4; Psalm 19:7–9). Because God does not change (Malachi 3:6), His moral standards never change. That does not mean there are no culturally specific expressions of law; for example, the difference between Jewish and Gentile laws (Acts 15:19–20). However, it does mean that the core moral imperatives behind the laws never shift.

from the old testament

In contrast to ethical relativism, the Bible says that morality is rooted in the character and commands of our perfectly righteous God (Deuteronomy 32:4; Psalm 19:7–9). And because God does not change (Malachi 3:6), His moral expectations remain constant across cultures and time. Proper ethics, therefore, is built on the unchanging and perfectly righteous nature of God and the commands He gives.

from the new testament

Ethical relativism teaches that individuals or cultures may define morality for themselves. Scripture shows that doing so removes accountability and justifies doing whatever one desires. Paul said, “The wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth” (Romans 1:18). Romans 1:19–32 shows that suppressing God’s truth only leads to deeper sin and God’s judgment both in this life and the next. While relativism feels freeing, it simply masks the reality that every person already knows God’s moral standard and the knowledge that God is angry with them for disobeying it.
Specific cultural laws can change, but unlike ethical relativism,the underlying moral imperatives remain the same. Acts 15 is an example of this. At this first church council, Gentile believers were not required to adopt Jewish dietary laws or ceremonial practices. However, they were still called to live in holiness, turn from idolatry, and avoid sexual immorality. So, while the cultural expression varied, the core moral imperatives remained the same. That is because true morality reflects God's unchanging character.

implications for today

Nepotism, bribes, cronyism—the world is full of unfair practices, people bending the rules to suit the circumstances. Thank God that He doesn’t operate that way. God’s absolute moral standard means that every person will be judged by the same measure. He does not bend the rules according to culture or personal background.

As Christians, we may encounter those who find the Bible “outdated,” even some who claim to be Christian but ignore the parts of the Bible they don’t like. For instance, maybe you’ve encountered some who scoff at your views about the role of husband and wife, abortion, or sexual ethics. But God’s ethical standards aren’t like a preference for Rocky Road over Butter Pecan. We don’t get to pick and choose based on our likes and dislikes. The real question believers must ask is, “Do I want to please God, or am I more concerned with pleasing people?” The answer should be obvious.

understand

Ethical relativism says morality is subjective and ever-changing.
God’s character defines unchanging, universal moral standards.
Cultural laws may vary, but core moral imperatives remain constant.

reflect

How do you understand the basis for morality?
In what areas of your life are you tempted to adjust your sense of right or wrong rather than basing it on God’s unchanging moral standards?
How can you ensure your choices reflect God’s character rather than your personal preferences, cultural norms, or societal pressures?

engage

What helps us recognize when culture is shaping our morality more than Scripture?
What is the importance of upholding God’s unchanging moral standards in a world that values relativism?
How do we understand cultural differences while still holding firmly to what God says is right and wrong?

More Resources

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What does moral absolutism say about ethics and morality?

Moral absolutism asserts that certain moral principles are universally true, regardless of context or consequences. While the Bible supports some aspects of moral absolutism, it ultimately points to God's unchanging character as the foundation for morality.

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What does moral relativism say about ethics and morality?

Moral relativism asserts that there are no universal moral truths, but the Bible teaches that God's unchanging character provides an absolute foundation for morality.

Worldview

How does cultural relativism influence society?

Cultural relativism, while useful in anthropology, poses challenges to Christian ethics by potentially conflicting with absolute moral standards set by God.

Worldview

How does applied ethics work?

Applied ethics considers overarching moral or societal beliefs and determines actions in real-life situations. God’s Word is the only absolute standard for true ethics, which can be applied to specific life circumstances.