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In the contemporary world, one of the significant philosophical debates revolves around the nature of morality. Is morality something that changes with culture, time, or personal preference, or is there an objective standard that transcends these variables? This article will explore the arguments for objective morality, asserting that such a moral framework necessitates the existence of a moral lawgiver—Jehovah.

The Concept of Moral Relativism

Moral relativism posits that morality is not absolute but varies according to different cultures, groups, or individuals. From this viewpoint, what is considered morally right or wrong is determined by societal norms or personal beliefs. However, this approach leads to several logical inconsistencies and ethical dilemmas.

For instance, if morality is purely subjective, then there’s no basis to condemn acts universally recognized as heinous, like genocide or child abuse, outside of one’s cultural or personal standards. This would mean that moral judgments are not universally binding, undermining the very notion of justice.

The Argument for Objective Morality

Objective morality, on the other hand, suggests that certain moral truths exist independently of human opinion or cultural variations. These truths would apply universally, regardless of time, place, or circumstance.

One of the strongest arguments for objective morality is the human recognition of intrinsic moral duties. Romans 2:14-15 supports this notion, saying, “Indeed, when Gentiles, who do not have the law, do by nature things required by the law, they are a law for themselves, even though they do not have the law. They show that the requirements of the law are written on their hearts, their consciences also bearing witness, and their thoughts sometimes accusing them and at other times even defending them.” This scripture indicates that even those without the written law of Jehovah possess an innate understanding of moral truths.

Moreover, the consistency of moral laws across different cultures, despite their vast differences, hints at an objective moral framework. For example, nearly all societies agree on the wrongness of murder, theft, and lying, which points to an underlying moral law that transcends human creation.

The Need for a Moral Lawgiver

If moral laws are objective, they must originate from outside human society. The existence of such universal moral truths suggests a transcendent source or lawgiver. Here, the Bible is explicit in attributing these moral standards to Jehovah:

In Micah 6:8, we find, “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does Jehovah require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” This verse clearly delineates what is morally required, implying these are not human constructs but divine mandates.
Similarly, Exodus 20:1-17 lists the Ten Commandments, given by Jehovah, as a clear set of moral absolutes meant to guide human behavior.

Without a moral lawgiver, the question arises: why should one act morally if morality is merely a human construct? The existence of moral duties that are binding on all humanity points to an authoritative figure who can prescribe such duties—Jehovah.

Moral Accountability and the Afterlife

Objective morality also necessitates an accountability system. If moral laws are real, then there must be consequences for breaking them, not just in this life but potentially in an afterlife. Scriptures like Hebrews 9:27 affirm, “Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment,” suggesting that our moral actions have eternal implications, further supporting the idea of a moral lawgiver who judges all.

Conclusion

The debate between moral relativism and objective morality is more than philosophical; it touches on the very essence of human existence and purpose. The consistent recognition of certain moral truths across societies, the innate conscience, and the need for moral accountability all argue for the existence of objective moral values and duties. These cannot exist without a moral lawgiver, whom we identify as Jehovah, based on scriptural evidence. Thus, the existence of objective morality is a compelling argument for the existence of God.

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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).