Modernity and the Role of Human Reason

The 20th century is characterized by a strong belief in the power of human reason, emerging from a post-Reformation worldview that embraced modern philosophy and technological advancements. There was a prevailing confidence in the capacity of human reason to uncover truths about the world, particularly through scientific observation and methodical naturalism. This era also witnessed a growing skepticism toward traditional religious claims, leading many in both the church and academia to adopt a more subjective understanding of faith, distancing themselves from objective truths about God. The result was a significant ideological shift, causing a rift between classical religious teachings and the modern inclination towards internal experience and personal interpretation.