Man Defined:
Earth's Choicemaker
James Baxter
Date: Mon, 20 Oct 1997 08:55:16-0700
From: James Baxter
To: Positive Atheism <editor@positiveatheism.org>
Subject: Man Defined: Earth's Choicemaker
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Because definitions rule in the minds, behaviors, and institutions of men, it is essential to specify that distinction which naturally and most uniquely defines the human being.
Man is earth's Choicemaker. He is by nature and nature's God a creature of Choice -- and of Criteria. His unique and definitive characteristic is, and of Right ought to be, the natural foundation of his environment, institutions, and respectful relations to his fellow-man. Thus, he is oriented to a Freedom whose roots are in the natural Order of the universe.
Human knowledge is a fraction of the universe. The balance is a vast void of ignorance. Human reason cannot function in a void, thus, the intellect can rise no higher than the criteria by which it perceives and measures values.
Humanism makes man his own standard of measure, however, as with all measuring systems, a standard must be greater than the value measured.
Based on ignorance and an egocentric carnal nature, humanism demotes reason to the simpleton task of excuse-making for the rule of feelings and glands.
Because man cannot invent criteria greater than himself, the humanist lacks a predictive capability. Without transcendent criteria, humanism cannot evaluate options with foresight for survival and progression. Lacking instinct and foresight, man is blind to potential consequence and is unwittingly committed to averages, mediocrity, and regression.
The void of human ignorance can easily be filled with a functional faith while not-so-patiently awaiting the foot-dragging growth of human knowledge and behavior. Faith, initiated by the Creator and revealed and validated in the Bible, brings a Transcendent Standard to man the Choicemaker. Other philosophies and religions are man-made and thereby lack transcendent prophetic validation. The foresight vision of faith in God and His Word is survival equipment for today and the future.
Best regards,
James Fletcher Baxter
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