What is existentialism?

TL;DR:

Secular existentialism is a philosophy emphasizing individual freedom, responsibility, and subjectivity in creating one's own meaning and purpose in a world that seemingly lacks inherent meaning.

The book of Ecclesiastes exhibits strong existential themes, starting with this opening declaration (Ecclesiastes 1:2, NLT): “Everything is meaningless,” says the Teacher, “completely meaningless!” The author of Ecclesiastes (likely Solomon from some clues in the book),as well as modern existential authors, explore the transitory nature of life, the futility of human endeavors, and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent universe. Both Ecclesiastes and modern existentialist authors present a profound critique of a life lived without divine context.

However, Ecclesiastes functions as an antidote to the hopelessness of existentialism by redirecting the search for meaning from self to God. Ecclesiastes concludes with this resolution to the existential inquiries posed throughout the book: "Fear God and obey His commandments" (Ecclesiastes 12:13). The pursuit of wisdom, pleasure, and achievement is ultimately meaningless without a relationship with God. Our purpose is found in living according to His design.

from the old testament

"Everything is meaningless" (Ecclesiastes 1:2) is how Ecclesiastes begins. This existential phrase sets the tone for the book, which explores the limitations of human wisdom and the temporary nature of worldly pursuits.
Even seemingly noble pursuits like wisdom are ultimately meaningless since both the wise and the foolish share the same fate: death (Ecclesiastes 2:13-17).
The book ends by concluding that without God, all human pursuits are ultimately without purpose: "fear God and obey His commandments" (Ecclesiastes 12:13) is the cure for the hopelessness of existentialism.

from the new testament

After telling His followers that they must prioritize Him above anything else in life, Jesus asks this thought-provoking rhetorical question: “For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? “ (Mark 8:36). The things of the world—money, fame, etc.---are ultimately temporary and useless.
No matter how “successful” our circumstances in worldly terms, everything is ultimately fruitless without God. Paul reminded believers in Ephesus that they were among those “having no hope and without God in the world” before they came to faith in Christ (Ephesians 2:12).
Paul was an exemplary Jew, having prestige as a Pharisee, but he saw that it meant nothing without Christ: “Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ” (Philippians 3:8).
God's wisdom provides clarity and direction (James 1:5), helping believers live a meaningful life in relationship with God.

implications for today

Existentialism is more of a basket of various philosophical thoughts than it is a philosophy on its own. It reached its prime in Europe during the first part of the twentieth century as a counter-response to the Enlightenment, which emphasized human reason as supreme over all else. Atheist existential philosophers wrestled with the idea of a meaningless existence and humankind’s responsibility for creating their own meaning.

So, what is a Christian perspective on existentialism? Christianity and existentialist thought align in some ways. For instance, both would agree that placing all hope in human reason is foolish. Christian existentialist philosopher Soren Kierkegaard stated that Christianity cannot be confined to rationale alone, because it carries larger relational and emotional significance. But where existentialism would claim that experience is most important and that life is often hopeless or unable to be known or overcome, the Christian has hope in Christ (1 Peter 1:3) and the grace of God that enables believers to overcome (1 John 5:4). Atheist existentialists place their hope in self whereas Christians place their hope in God.

understand

Existentialism is an early twentieth century philosophy that was a reaction against eighteenth century rationalism.
Atheist existentialists believe people must make their own meaning in an essentially meaningless life.
Christians realize that life is ultimately meaningless without God.

reflect

How has your faith in Christ shaped the way you find meaning and purpose in life compared to a secular worldview?
In what areas of your life do you still struggle with seeking meaning outside of God, and how can you redirect those pursuits?
How does the message of Ecclesiastes influence the way you prioritize your decisions and long-term goals?

engage

What aspects of secular existentialism resonate with people today, and how can Christians respond?
How can we help others see that ultimate purpose and hope are found in God?
How does the contrast between worldly priorities and God-centered priorities challenge the way we live and engage with the culture around us?