Episode Details

References: In this episode, Dr. Joe L. Mott explores the shift from modernism to postmodernism, identifying how society moved from exalting human reason to denying the existence of objective truth altogether. By examining the Greek origins of the word "truth" in the Gospel of John, Dr. Mott reveals that God’s Word is not merely a collection of true statements, but the ultimate reference point for all existence. He provides a sharp critique of pluralism, the idea that every perspective is equally valid, and demonstrates how a worldview without absolute truth eventually destroys our ability to communicate and understand the world around us. -- Postmodernism is defined as a philosophy that denies objective or absolute truth, especially regarding religion and spirituality. -- While modernism exalted human reason and science while denying the supernatural, postmodernism was born out of disillusionment when those promises failed to improve humanity. -- Pluralism treats truth like a preference for an ice cream flavor, suggesting that no one can ever be wrong, which ultimately renders "truth" meaningless. -- The Bible is the final standard of truth (alathia), meaning it is the reference point by which every other claim must be measured. -- Postmodernism is logically self-defeating because it affirms one absolute truth: the statement that there is no absolute truth. -- The Gospel of John stands in direct opposition to postmodern thought, using words for "truth," "testimony," and "knowing" hundreds of times to emphasize objective reality. -- Without an objective truth outside of ourselves, we are left only with subjective experiences, which destroys the possibility of meaningful communication between people. Scriptures for Further Study -- John 17:17 -- John 18:37 -- John 14:6 -- John 8:31-33 -- Mark 1:15 -- Luke 13:3-5 -- Revelation 1:8 This is episode 275.