Examples of Relativism and Pluralism in Jesus' Time

Examples of Relativism and Pluralism in Jesus' Time

Relativism

While the term "relativism" is modern, certain behaviors and attitudes in Jesus' time reflect aspects of moral and cultural relativism. People held diverse and often conflicting views about morality, truth, and religious practices, leading to clashes between different groups.

Examples:

Pontius Pilate's Question:

John 18:37-38: When Jesus stood before Pontius Pilate, Pilate asked, "What is truth?" This question reflects a relativistic attitude, implying that truth is subjective or uncertain. Pilate's dismissal of absolute truth contrasts with Jesus' claim to be "the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:6).

Pharisees vs. Sadducees:

The Pharisees and Sadducees, two prominent Jewish sects, had differing interpretations of the Torah and Jewish law. Pharisees believed in the oral law and resurrection, while Sadducees rejected these beliefs. This diversity of religious views within Judaism illustrates early forms of moral and doctrinal relativism.

Samaritan Beliefs:

John 4:19-24: Jesus' conversation with the Samaritan woman at the well reveals different worship practices and beliefs between Jews and Samaritans. Samaritans worshiped on Mount Gerizim, while Jews worshiped in Jerusalem. Jesus' message that "a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem" challenged the relative beliefs about the proper place of worship.

Pluralism

The Roman Empire was a melting pot of various cultures, religions, and philosophies, exemplifying a pluralistic society. The coexistence of multiple religious practices and beliefs often intersected with Jesus' ministry.

Examples:

Roman Pantheon and Emperor Worship:

The Roman Empire practiced religious pluralism by incorporating gods and religious practices from conquered peoples. The worship of the Roman pantheon and the emperor as a deity was common. This environment of religious diversity posed a challenge to early Christians who proclaimed the exclusive lordship of Jesus Christ.

Gentile Centurion:

Matthew 8:5-13: The story of the Roman centurion who approached Jesus to heal his servant highlights the interaction between different religious and cultural backgrounds. Despite being a Gentile, the centurion exhibited great faith in Jesus, showing the inclusivity of Jesus' ministry.

Parable of the Good Samaritan:

Luke 10:25-37: Jesus' parable of the Good Samaritan challenged Jewish prejudices against Samaritans. By making a Samaritan the hero who showed mercy, Jesus taught that love and compassion transcend ethnic and religious boundaries, promoting a message of inclusivity and universal neighborliness.

Paul's Sermon at the Areopagus:

Acts 17:22-31: Although this took place after Jesus' ascension, it reflects the pluralistic context of the early Christian mission. Paul addressed the Athenians at Mars Hill, acknowledging their religious pluralism ("I see that you are very religious") and using their altar to an unknown god to introduce the message of the one true God. This approach shows engagement with a pluralistic audience while proclaiming the exclusivity of Christ.

Conclusion

In Jesus' time, the presence of relativism and pluralism created a complex environment for his ministry. By navigating these cultural and religious dynamics, Jesus and his followers modeled how to uphold truth and engage with diverse beliefs compassionately and wisely. Recognizing these historical examples can help us address similar challenges in our contemporary context, maintaining fidelity to the Gospel while engaging with a pluralistic society.

Scripture References

Relativism:

John 14:6: “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”John 18:37-38: “‘You are a king, then!’ said Pilate. Jesus answered, ‘You say that I am a king. In fact, the reason I was born and came into the world is to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.’ ‘What is truth?’ retorted Pilate.”

Pluralism:

John 4:19-24: “‘Sir,’ the woman said, ‘I can see that you are a prophet. Our ancestors worshiped on this mountain, but you Jews claim that the place where we must worship is in Jerusalem.’ ‘Woman,’ Jesus replied, ‘believe me, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem...’”Acts 17:22-23: “Paul then stood up in the meeting of the Areopagus and said: ‘People of Athens! I see that in every way you are very religious. For as I walked around and looked carefully at your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: to an unknown god. So you are ignorant of the very thing you worship—and this is what I am going to proclaim to you.’”

By understanding these concepts and their effects in Jesus' time, we can better equip ourselves to uphold the truth of the Gospel in a pluralistic and relativistic society.