An Achievement of Man

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Apr 8, 1909

An Achievement of Man

In a recent address before the students of the Chicago University, Dr. Geo. B. Foster is reported to have said:—

Religion is not of divine or miraculous origin. It is not a donation from God, but an achievement of man. . . . The fact that religion is an achievement of man and not a donation is the best proof that it is good for man.

It would be difficult to put into fewer words a more sweeping denial of the entire purpose and providence of God toward men. The expounder of such views sets man above God, by making him a better judge than God as to what is best for man. It needs hardly be said that in such a system there is no place for prophecy; no need of the reconciliation Christ gave his life to effect; no place for the sacrifice of the Lamb of God, or of the return of the risen Lord for the resurrection and glorification of his saints. If man's judgment and desires are the highest standard for man, the whole foundation laid in the Word of God is laid on sand. This is the ultimate of the ruinous teachings concerning religion and the Bible so prevalent in the great institutions of learning where pastors of the present generation are “fitted” for their work. With young pastors sitting at the feet of infidels to learn theology, is it to be wondered at that the flock is being scattered and that the wolves are finding easy prey?