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Introduction: Defining Agnosticism

Agnosticism, broadly defined, is the position that the existence of God is unknown or unknowable. It contrasts with atheism, which denies God’s existence, and theism, which affirms it. The term “agnosticism” was coined in 1869 by T.H. Huxley to describe skepticism about ultimate matters, particularly the existence of God. However, the biblical worldview directly challenges this position by affirming the knowability of God through His creation, His Word, and His Son, Jesus Christ. This article examines agnosticism from a biblical perspective, using the historical-grammatical method to evaluate Scripture’s claims about God’s self-revelation and humanity’s accountability.

Agnosticism and the Self-Revelation of God

General Revelation: God’s Witness in Creation

The Bible asserts that God’s existence and attributes are evident through His creation. Romans 1:19-20 states:

“Since what can be known about God is evident among them, because God has shown it to them. For his invisible attributes, that is, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen since the creation of the world, being understood through what he has made. As a result, people are without excuse.”

This passage directly refutes agnosticism by affirming that God’s existence and nature are evident to all people through the created order. The intricate design and complexity of the universe point to an intelligent Creator, leaving humanity without excuse for denying or doubting His existence.

Psalm 19:1-3 similarly declares:

“The heavens declare the glory of God, and the expanse proclaims the work of his hands. Day after day they pour out speech; night after night they communicate knowledge. There is no speech; there are no words; their voice is not heard.”

The psalmist emphasizes that creation itself is a testimony to God’s reality and majesty, speaking universally to all mankind.

Special Revelation: God’s Word and His Son

In addition to general revelation, God has made Himself known through special revelation. Hebrews 1:1-2 explains:

“Long ago God spoke to our ancestors by the prophets at different times and in different ways. In these last days, he has spoken to us by his Son. God has appointed him heir of all things and made the universe through him.”

This passage affirms that God’s self-revelation culminates in Jesus Christ, who provides the ultimate expression of His character and will. The Scriptures, inspired by the Holy Spirit, serve as a written record of God’s revelation and are essential for knowing Him (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

Agnosticism and Human Accountability

Suppression of Truth

While agnostics claim ignorance regarding God, Scripture attributes such ignorance to a willful suppression of the truth. Romans 1:21-22 states:

“For though they knew God, they did not glorify him as God or show gratitude. Instead, their thinking became worthless, and their senseless hearts were darkened. Claiming to be wise, they became fools.”

This passage suggests that agnosticism is not a neutral position but a rejection of the knowledge of God that is plainly available. By refusing to acknowledge and worship God, agnostics place themselves under His judgment.

The Accountability of All People

The Bible teaches that every person is accountable to God, regardless of their claimed ignorance. Ecclesiastes 12:14 warns:

“For God will bring every act to judgment, including every hidden thing, whether good or evil.”

Similarly, Acts 17:30-31 declares:

“Therefore, having overlooked the times of ignorance, God now commands all people everywhere to repent, because he has set a day when he is going to judge the world in righteousness by the man he has appointed. He has provided proof of this to everyone by raising him from the dead.”

Paul’s sermon on Mars Hill underscores that ignorance of God is no longer an acceptable excuse. The resurrection of Jesus Christ serves as the ultimate proof of God’s existence and His plan for redemption.

The Flawed Logic of Agnosticism

The Incoherence of Neutrality

Agnosticism often claims neutrality, asserting that the existence of God is unknowable. However, this position is inherently self-defeating. By asserting that knowledge of God is impossible, agnosticism makes a definitive claim about reality—ironically adopting a dogmatic stance it claims to avoid. Psalm 14:1 critiques such skepticism:

“The fool says in his heart, ‘There’s no God.’ They are corrupt; they do vile deeds. There is no one who does good.”

The biblical view equates denial or doubt of God with foolishness, emphasizing the moral and spiritual implications of rejecting His self-revelation.

The Demand for Evidence

Many agnostics demand empirical evidence for God’s existence, yet Scripture highlights the inadequacy of human wisdom to comprehend divine truths apart from faith. 1 Corinthians 1:20-21 states:

“Where is the one who is wise? Where is the teacher of the law? Where is the debater of this age? Hasn’t God made the world’s wisdom foolish? For since, in God’s wisdom, the world did not know God through wisdom, God was pleased to save those who believe through the foolishness of what is preached.”

Faith, rather than empirical proof, is the means by which people come to know God. Hebrews 11:6 affirms:

“Now without faith it is impossible to please God, since the one who draws near to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.”

Responding to Agnosticism

Proclaiming the Gospel

The most effective response to agnosticism is the proclamation of the gospel, which reveals God’s character and plan for salvation. Romans 10:17 explains:

“So faith comes from what is heard, and what is heard comes through the message about Christ.”

By sharing the good news of Jesus Christ, Christians confront the ignorance of agnosticism with the truth of God’s Word.

Living as a Testimony

Christians are called to live as testimonies to God’s reality and goodness. Matthew 5:16 encourages:

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.”

By demonstrating the transformative power of the gospel, believers provide evidence of God’s existence and His work in the world.

Conclusion: Agnosticism in Light of Biblical Truth

The Bible leaves no room for agnosticism. God’s existence and attributes are evident through creation, His Word, and His Son. Those who claim ignorance of God are not exempt from accountability but are called to repent and believe in the gospel. Far from being an intellectually neutral position, agnosticism represents a rejection of the truth and places individuals in spiritual peril. As Christians, it is our duty to confront this worldview with the clarity and authority of Scripture, offering the hope of salvation through Jesus Christ.

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About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).