Greg Bahnsen and "Theonomy and Christian Ethics": An Overview

 

Introduction

 

Gregory L. Bahnsen (1948-1995) was a significant figure in Christian apologetics, theology, and philosophy. He is particularly noted for his contributions to presuppositional apologetics and theonomy. His work "Theonomy in Christian Ethics" remains one of his most influential publications, providing a comprehensive argument for the application of Old Testament civil laws in contemporary Christian societies.

 

Biographical Context

 

Bahnsen earned his Ph.D. from the University of Southern California, where he specialized in philosophy. He was deeply influenced by the thought of Cornelius Van Til, a key proponent of presuppositional apologetics, which contends that one must start with Christian presuppositions to make sense of reality. Bahnsen's academic career was marked by his rigorous defense of the Christian worldview against secularism, employing logical and philosophical arguments.

 

Theonomy Defined

 

The term "theonomy" comes from Greek words meaning "God's law." In Bahnsen's context, theonomy advocates for the application of biblical law, particularly the judicial laws of the Old Testament, as the standard for civil governance in societies today. This contrasts with traditional interpretations that might view the Mosaic law as applicable only to ancient Israel or as superseded by the New Testament.

 

Overview of "Theonomy in Christian Ethics"

 

Published in 1977, "Theonomy in Christian Ethics" is divided into three main parts:

 

The Foundations of Theonomy:

 

Here, Bahnsen establishes the theological and philosophical groundwork for theonomy. He argues that the moral law of God, as expressed in the Torah, is binding on all people, not merely the Jews of antiquity. He defends this position through an examination of scriptural continuity, emphasizing that Christ's teachings do not abrogate but fulfill the law (Matthew 5:17).

 

The Application of Theonomy:

 

Bahnsen delves into how Old Testament civil laws should be applied in the modern era. He addresses common objections like the supposed obsolescence of these laws post-Christ's ministry. He argues for a selective but principled application, where the principles behind the laws are upheld, even if the exact practices might change due to different cultural contexts.

 

The Implications of Theonomy:

 

This section discusses the practical implications for Christian ethics in law, politics, and societal norms. Bahnsen posits that a theonomic approach would lead to a more just society by ensuring laws are grounded in divine revelation rather than human subjectivity. He explores issues like crime and punishment, economics, and personal ethics under a theonomic framework.

 

Key Arguments and Contributions

 

Presuppositional Apologetics: Bahnsen's defense of theonomy is deeply tied to his presuppositional approach, where he argues that one must start with biblical presuppositions to truly understand ethics and law.

 

Critique of Autonomy: He critiques the modern separation of church and state, arguing that this leads to moral relativism and societal decay, whereas theonomy provides a stable, divine moral foundation.

 

The Role of General Equity: Bahnsen introduces the concept of "general equity" in applying biblical law, suggesting that while specific laws might not be directly applicable, their underlying principles are universally binding.

 

Criticisms and Controversies

 

Historical Discontinuities: Critics argue that Bahnsen overlooks significant theological shifts

from the Old to the New Testament, particularly regarding legal applications.

 

Legalistic Tendencies: Some theologians and ethicists have criticized Bahnsen for applying ancient laws dangerously literally in modern contexts, potentially leading to a form of legalism.

 

Theocratic Implications: There's debate over whether his theonomy could lead to a form of Christian theocracy, which raises concerns about religious freedom and pluralism in democratic societies.

 

Conclusion

 

Greg Bahnsen's "Theonomy in Christian Ethics" stands as a seminal work in the discussion of Christian ethics, law, and governance. While it has provoked significant debate and critique, it has also inspired a reevaluation of how biblical principles might inform contemporary legal and ethical systems. Bahnsen's work continues to influence Reformed and Evangelical circles, offering a robust, if controversial, framework for thinking about divine law in modern times.

 

Greg Bahnsen's Presuppositionalism: An Analytical Overview

 

Introduction

 

Greg Bahnsen was a leading proponent of presuppositional apologetics, a method rooted in Cornelius Van Til's theological and philosophical thought. Presuppositionalism, as expounded by Bahnsen, challenges traditional evidentialist approaches to apologetics by arguing that the very foundation of human reasoning and knowledge must presuppose the truth of the Christian worldview.

 

Core Principles of Bahnsen's Presuppositionalism

 

Starting with God:

 

Bahnsen argued that one must begin with the presupposition that the Christian God exists because, without this foundational belief, epistemology (the theory of knowledge), ethics, and metaphysics collapse into incoherence. This approach is famously encapsulated in Van Til's assertion that "there is no neutral ground."

 

The Impossibility of the Contrary:

 

A key argument in Bahnsen's methodology is that any worldview or system of thought that does not start with the Christian God leads to ultimate absurdity or self-contradiction. He often used transcendental arguments to demonstrate that only Christian presuppositions can account for logic, morality, and the uniformity of nature.

 

Critique of Autonomy:

 

Bahnsen emphasized that human autonomy in reasoning (i.e., reasoning independently of divine revelation) is an illusion. He believed that all human knowledge is derivative, dependent on God's revelation. This critique extends to secular philosophy, science, and ethics, which he saw as inherently self-defeating without presupposing God.

 

Internal Consistency vs. External Critique:

 

Bahnsen's approach involved showing the internal consistency of the Christian worldview while critiquing other worldviews on their own terms, exposing their inconsistencies or presuppositional weaknesses. He would often engage in what he called "transcendental critique," where he would question how non-Christian worldviews could justify their basic presuppositions.

 

Methodological Application

 

Debate and Public Discourse:

 

Bahnsen was known for his debates, in which he challenged opponents to justify their own epistemological foundations. His most famous debate was with Gordon Stein in 1985, in which he used presuppositional arguments to argue against atheism, claiming that atheistic attempts at grounding knowledge and morality are futile.

 

Teaching and Writing:

 

Through his books, such as "Van Til's Apologetic: Readings and Analysis" and "Always Ready: Directions for Defending the Faith," Bahnsen spread the methodology of presuppositionalism. He not only defended the approach but also provided practical guidance on how to apply it in discussions and debates.

 

Criticisms and Challenges

 

Over-intellectualization: Critics argue that Bahnsen's approach might be too complex or abstract for many believers, potentially distancing the layperson from apologetics.

 

Circular Reasoning: Some opponents see presuppositionalism as a form of circular reasoning, where one assumes the truth of Christianity to prove Christianity. Bahnsen would counter that all systems of thought are circular to some extent, and the Christian circle is the only one that doesn't lead to an infinite regress or contradiction.

 

Lack of Empirical Engagement: There is a critique that presuppositionalism can bypass empirical evidence or fail to engage sufficiently with scientific or historical arguments.

 

Conclusion

 

Greg Bahnsen’s version of presuppositionalism remains a significant challenge to traditional apologetics. His method insists on a holistic approach where philosophy, theology, and logic are interwoven, arguing that the truth of Christianity is not just one part of the puzzle but the very framework within which all knowledge and reasoning must occur. While it has its detractors, Bahnsen's contributions to presuppositional apologetics continue to influence Christian apologists, theologians, and philosophers, providing a robust defense of the faith that starts from its most foundational claims.

 

The above study was Groked, under the direction of Jack Kettler, and perfected using Grammarly AI.

 

“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15)

 

Mr. Kettler is an author who has previously published articles in the Chalcedon Report and Contra Mundum. He and his wife, Marea, are active Westminster, CO, RPCNA Church members. Mr. Kettler’s extensive work includes 18 books defending the Reformed Faith, which are available for order online at Amazon.