Biblical Truth vs. Cultural Relativism: What Should Christians Believe?

MARCH 24, 2025 BY ARCH KENNEDY 

We’re living in a time when truth is no longer seen as fixed. Instead, many in our culture believe that truth is fluid, personal, and ever-changing. “What’s true for you may not be true for me” has become a common phrase—and a dangerous one. This mindset, known as cultural relativism, directly contradicts the eternal, unchanging truths found in God’s Word.

As believers in Jesus Christ, we must wrestle with the growing tension between Biblical truth and cultural relativism. How do we stand firm in the truth while living in a world that’s constantly shifting its moral compass? Let’s dig deep into Scripture and examine why this topic is not only important but urgent.

God’s truth stands firm—even in the storm.

What Is Cultural Relativism?

Cultural relativism is the belief that moral values and truths are not absolute but are instead shaped by cultural context. In other words, what is right or wrong depends on the society or time period, not on a fixed standard.

This philosophy tells us that:

• No single belief system has the right to claim absolute truth.

• Moral values evolve with culture.

• Tolerance and personal freedom outweigh objective standards.

At first glance, cultural relativism may sound open-minded—even loving. But beneath the surface lies a dangerous rejection of God’s authority. When everything becomes relative, nothing becomes sacred.

What Does the Bible Say About Truth?

The Bible doesn’t leave truth up for interpretation. In fact, the Scriptures go out of their way to emphasize the unchangeable, eternal nature of truth.

“Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.” – John 17:17 (NIV)

Jesus doesn’t say that the Word contains truth—He says it is truth. This distinction matters deeply. God’s truth doesn’t bend to culture, personal feelings, or modern trends. It stands eternal.

Additional verses that reinforce this:

• Malachi 3:6 – “I the Lord do not change…”

• Hebrews 13:8 – “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”

• Isaiah 40:8 – “The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever.”

These verses dismantle the core premise of cultural relativism. Truth is not defined by man—it is revealed by God.

How Cultural Relativism Creeps into the Church

Sadly, cultural relativism hasn’t stayed confined to secular universities or political movements—it has made its way into many churches and Christian circles.

Some examples include:

• Churches redefining marriage to align with societal norms.

• Watered-down sermons that avoid controversial truths for fear of offending.

• Christians affirming “my truth” over God’s truth.

This trend is not only concerning—it’s prophesied.

“For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather… teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear.” – 2 Timothy 4:3

When cultural comfort replaces Biblical conviction, we are no longer salt and light. We become indistinguishable from the world we are called to reach.

Why Christians Must Stand on Biblical Truth

1. Truth Leads to Freedom

Jesus said,

“Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” – John 8:32

Only God’s truth can free people from sin, deception, and eternal separation from Him. If we bend truth to fit culture, we rob people of the very freedom they’re searching for.

2. Truth Guards Against Deception

The enemy is a liar by nature (John 8:44). Cultural relativism is one of his most subtle tools—it appears tolerant and progressive, but leads people away from the God who loves them.

Standing on Biblical truth is like building a house on rock (Matthew 7:24–27). When the winds of culture blow, we remain unshaken.

3. Truth Is an Act of Love

Love without truth is empty sentimentality. Truth without love is cold legalism. But when we speak the truth in love(Ephesians 4:15), we offer the world something that no ideology can replicate: real hope.

Common Cultural Relativist Beliefs vs. Biblical Truth

• Cultural belief: “Love is love.”
  Biblical truth: God defines love and sets boundaries for it (1 Corinthians 13; Genesis 2:24).

• Cultural belief: “You do you.”
  Biblical truth: We are called to deny ourselves and follow Christ (Luke 9:23).

• Cultural belief: “Truth is personal.”
  Biblical truth: Truth is rooted in God’s nature and Word (John 14:6).

• Cultural belief: “Morality evolves.”
  Biblical truth: God’s moral law is eternal (Psalm 119:89).

How Should Christians Respond?

Know the Word of God Deeply

You cannot stand on truth if you do not know it. Commit to regular Bible reading, study, and prayer. Equip yourself so you can discern truth from deception (Hebrews 5:14).

Speak Boldly—but Humbly

Truth-telling does not mean being abrasive. As Paul reminds us,

“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt…” – Colossians 4:6

Stand firm, but do it with humility and kindness. The goal isn’t to win arguments—it’s to win hearts.

Teach the Next Generation

Relativism is aggressively targeting young people through media, education, and social platforms. Parents and mentors must intentionally disciple children in Biblical truth.

Expect Opposition

Standing for truth will make you unpopular. Jesus warned us of this (John 15:18–19). But remember: we don’t live for the applause of man—we live for the approval of God.

A Personal Word from Arch

This topic is close to my heart. For years, I lived under the illusion that personal truth could bring fulfillment. But it only led to confusion and brokenness. Only when I surrendered to God’s truth did I begin to experience peace.

Our culture is loud—but God’s voice is clear. He has spoken through His Word, and that Word still has power to save, transform, and guide. We must not compromise it.

Final Thoughts: Truth Never Changes

In a world where people are encouraged to create their own truths, Christians are called to uphold the one Truth that never changes. We aren’t being hateful or rigid—we’re being faithful. We love people too much to let them build their lives on sand.

So stand firm. Know the Word. Speak it in love. And remember: truth is not a concept—it’s a Person. Jesus said,

“I am the way and the truth and the life.” – John 14:6

Cling to Him. Follow Him. And trust that His truth will outlast every cultural storm.

Explore More on This Topic

If this article encouraged you, check out my related post: Christianity & Cancel Culture: How Should Believers Respond?— it explores how believers can stand strong when truth becomes unpopular.

To learn more about how cultural relativism distorts objective truth, check out this excellent resource from GotQuestions: What is Cultural Relativism?