Is Transhumanism a Step Towards Being Like God?
Open Christian Ministries
Bridging the Gap between the Church and the Marketplace
In today's rapidly evolving world, a movement known as transhumanism is gaining momentum. This movement aims to merge human beings with technology, transcending the limitations of our physical bodies through technological advancements. Promising an era where humans can achieve happiness, justice, and even eternal life on Earth, transhumanism raises profound questions about our identity, purpose, and the essence of what it means to be human, especially in light of biblical teachings. Today, we will reflect on the message of Yuval Noah Harari, advisor to Klaus Schwab, the founder and executive chairman of the World Economic Forum (WEF), and the implications of this vision.
Yuval Noah Harari
Yuval Noah Harari, a renowned historian and advisor to Klaus Schwab, has become a prominent voice in discussions about the future of humanity. His influential works, including "Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind," "Homo Deus: A Brief History of Tomorrow," and "21 Lessons for the 21st Century," explore human history and project future trends. Harari’s insights have captivated audiences worldwide, gaining support from influential figures like Mark Zuckerberg, Bill Gates, and Barack Obama.
In "Homo Deus," Harari speculates on the future of humanity, suggesting that advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and biotechnology could lead to humans becoming god-like beings. This idea aligns with his provocative statement in a forum:
"We don't have any answer in the Bible what to do when humans are no longer useful to the economy. You need completely new ideologies, completely new religions, and they are likely to emerge from Silicon Valley or from Bangalore and not from the Middle East. And they are likely to give people visions based on technology. Everything that the old religions promised, happiness and justice and even eternal life, but here on Earth with the help of technology and not after death with the help of some supernatural beings" (Harari, 2018).
The Deception of Eternal Life Through Technology
The transhumanism project aims to merge humans with technology to transcend our biological limitations. This includes efforts to extend human life, enhance cognitive abilities, and possibly even create life itself. Transhumanists, including Harari, envision a future where death can be conquered through technological means, suggesting a future where humans can live forever through technological means. Harari provocatively answers to the question, "what are humans for?" According to him:
“As far as we know, for nothing. I mean, there is no great cosmic drama, some great cosmic plan that we have a role to play in it. And we just need to discover what our role is and then play to the best of our ability. This has been the story of all religions and ideologies and so forth, but as a scientist, the best I can say, this is not true. There is no universal drama with a role in it for Homo sapiens. If you repeat a lie often enough, people will think it's the truth. The bigger the lie, the better. Because people won't even think that something so big can be a lie. And I think that fake news has been with us for thousands of years. Just think of the Bible” (Harari, 2018).
Biblical Reflections on Transhumanism
From a Christian perspective, the transhumanism project and its goals resonate with the age-old temptation depicted in the Bible. In the Garden of Eden, Satan deceived Eve by promising that she and Adam would be like God if they ate from the tree of knowledge of good and evil (Genesis 3:4-5 ). This deception continues today, as efforts to achieve god-like abilities through technology mirror the desire to usurp God's role.
The desire to become like God is not new. In Isaiah 14:12-17 , we see a depiction of Lucifer's fall, driven by his desire to ascend and be like the Most High. This same spirit of rebellion against God's sovereignty is echoed in the transhumanist ambition to transcend human limitations through technology.
The Promise of Eternal Life in the Bible
The Bible clearly teaches that eternal life is a gift from God through Jesus Christ. John 3:16 affirms, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Human attempts to achieve eternal life through technology are futile and deceptive, echoing Satan's original lie, “You will not certainly die” (Genesis 3:4 ).
Harari’s assertion that there is no cosmic drama or divine plan for humanity contradicts the biblical narrative. Jeremiah 29:11 assures us, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Christians believe that each person has a purpose within God's grand design, and our ultimate hope lies in Him, not in technological advancements.
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Historical Context and Biblical Solutions
It's important to recognize that many foundational aspects of modern civilization have their roots in biblical principles. For instance, economic systems can trace their development to the actions of Joseph in Egypt (Genesis 41 ). Early engineering can trace its origins to the Tower of Babel (Genesis 11 ). Despite this, there is a growing narrative that dismisses the Bible as irrelevant. Harari's works often suggest that true power lies in ignoring historical and biblical truths, favoring new technological ideologies instead.?
The world seems to send a message that this is not the time of God, but a time for humans to redefine themselves without Him. This attitude is a clear indication of a hidden agenda to promote ideologies that contradict biblical teachings. As Christians, it is essential to remember that our life and purpose are hidden in Christ (Colossians 3:3 ).
The Role of Christians in These Times
As we approach the end of our journey on earth, it is crucial for Christians to remain vigilant and grounded in their faith. The Bible warns us about the rise of deceptive ideologies and the antichrist spirit. Jesus warned, “when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” (Luke 18:8 ). The allure of transhumanism and technological utopias can be powerful, but believers are called to discernment and steadfastness.
To those who worship science, technology, and self-derived intelligence, this message may sound foolish. Unfortunately, they may never heed the warning but instead continue to be enticed by the allures of this world. 1 Corinthians 1:18-20 reminds us, “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written: ‘I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate.’ Where is the wise person? Where is the teacher of the law? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?” No matter the advances in technology or the promises of new ideologies, God’s wisdom and plan will prevail.
Conclusion
The transhumanist vision of merging humans with technology to achieve god-like status is a modern manifestation of ancient rebellion against God. While technological advancements can offer significant benefits, they cannot fulfill the deepest longings of the human heart or provide true eternal life. Our hope and purpose are found in Jesus Christ, and our eternal life is secured through faith in Him alone. Only through a relationship with Jesus Christ can we find our true purpose and eternal destiny. As we navigate these challenging times, with rapid change and technological allure, let us hold fast to the truth of the Bible and the hope of Christ's return, remaining steadfast in our faith and committed to spreading the gospel.?
"When the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on Earth?" (Luke 18:8 ). Let us ensure that He will find us faithful, standing firm against the deceptions of this age.
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