The Counsel of Trent #1103 - Why Christians Must Convert "Savages"
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Dec 3, 2025 Explore the complex discussion on whether it's bigoted for Christians to convert so-called 'savages.' Trent critiques the myth of the noble savage, contrasting romanticized portrayals with harsh historical realities, especially regarding indigenous sacrifices. He highlights the role of missionaries in halting barbaric practices and challenges the notion of cultural relativism. By examining both historical and modern examples, he argues that moral savagery transcends ethnicity and emphasizes the importance of evangelizing with mercy.
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Myth Of The Noble Savage
- The 'noble savage' myth romanticizes indigenous peoples as inherently peaceful and pure.
- Trent Horn argues historical accounts show many indigenous cultures practiced brutal rituals that contradict that myth.
Gruesome Death Of John Ratcliffe
- Trent Horn recounts John Ratcliffe's real death to challenge sanitized film portrayals.
- He cites George Percy describing Ratcliffe's flesh being scraped from his bones and thrown into the fire.
Precontact Human Sacrifice
- Human sacrifice existed in parts of the Americas before European contact and is archaeologically documented.
- Horn uses this to argue Christianity helped abolish some brutal practices like child sacrifice.
