In Schleiermacher the emphasis shifts from the objective to the subjective, from revelation to religion. The term “revelation” is still retained, but is reserved as a designation of the deeper spiritual insight of man, an insight which does not come to him, however, without his own diligent search. What is called revelation from one point of view, may be called human discovery from another. this view has become quite characteristic of modern theology. – Systematic Theology by Lewis Berkhof

As the church is gradually adopting a post-modern epistemology (repackaged modern liberal theology with a hip new label), we see a greater shift occurring further from objective revelation towards an emotional subjectivity. Instead of approaching the text as something outside of ourselves containing the thoughts and intent of the original author, the question is now posed, “How does this make you feel?” This concept is even applied as a mantra in many evangelical circles by using the catch phrase, “Christianity is not a religion, it’s a relationship.” Our own emotional experience now determines personal faith and practice. Truth is no longer outside of us, but is instead dictated by the feelings we may experience.

Of even more concern is that this practice attempts to self-vindicate it’s rejection of dogmatics by claiming a true or pure spirituality untainted by doctrines of men. Those who would raise an objection are labeled as oppressive, mean-spirited, legalistic, and the all famous, Pharisaical. In most cases, a corrective prescriptions are dismissed and/or ignored.

Scripture remains as the only authority by which we can justify our knowledge of God. Apart from scripture the human heart is an idol factory. Our inherent fallen disposition is to create and define gods to suit our own desires. We exchange the truth of God for a lie. This is our natural condition. However, God in his mercy, condescends to us through means of mediated revelation and, by the power of his Spirit, illumines our heart and mind, calling us to repent of our narcissistic self-efficiency; overcoming our predisposition to throw off and rebel against the authority of God or creator and Lord.