Beyond Biohacking: Why Existence Isn’t the Highest virtue – And Where True Hope Lies
Bryan Johnson, a prominent biohacker and venture capitalist, recently articulated a worldview centered on existence as “the highest virtue.” He suggests current generations may be the last to experience death, fueled by a belief in a finite life devoid of afterlife. While his pursuit of longevity is captivating, this perspective clashes fundamentally with a faith-based understanding of life, death, and purpose.
Johnson’s journey reflects a departure from his upbringing in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He now champions the idea that maximizing earthly existence is paramount, given the perceived absence of anything beyond it.this viewpoint was recently explored in a Jubilee “surrounded” episode, where he debated 20 skeptics. Notably, the discussion lacked a robust, Gospel-centered response to his claims.
let’s address those claims directly.
The Core Issue: Is Existence Truly the Greatest Good?
The assertion that existence is the ultimate virtue feels intuitively appealing, especially in a culture obsessed with self-improvement and extending lifespan. However, a deeper look reveals a more profound truth: love is the greatest of all virtues.
The Apostle Paul, in 1 Corinthians 13:13, clearly states, “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love” (NIV). This isn’t simply an emotional sentiment; it’s a foundational principle for a meaningful life.
Consider Jesus’ own words in John 15:12-13: “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (NIV).
This highlights a crucial distinction. Jesus doesn’t call us to preserve our lives at all costs. He calls us to give them – even to the point of sacrifice – for the benefit of others.This principle is echoed throughout Scripture, such as in Ephesians 5:25, where husbands are instructed to love their wives as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.
Love, thus, isn’t about self-preservation. It’s about self-sacrifice and selfless giving.It’s about prioritizing the well-being of others above your own.
The Illusion of Engineered Immortality
Johnson’s belief hinges on the idea that humans can engineer their way to eternal life through science and technology. But Scripture presents a different narrative. Death isn’t a biological malfunction to be fixed; it’s a consequence of sin.
Romans 6:23 states plainly, “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (NIV). This isn’t a condemnation, but a recognition of a brokenness within the human condition.
You can’t overcome death through willpower, scientific advancement, or any technological breakthrough. Death is fundamentally a spiritual problem, not a biological one. It stems from separation - separation from God.
The Gift of Eternal Life
Only one person has bridged the gap between humanity and death: Jesus Christ. His death and resurrection offer a solution that transcends human capability.He provides what we could never earn and what science will never discover.
Immortality isn’t something we achieve; it’s a gift we receive through faith in Jesus (John 3:16).This gift isn’t contingent on our efforts to prolong life, but on God’s grace and love.
Eternal life doesn’t originate in a laboratory. It doesn’t come from a cutting-edge technology. It comes from the cross. It’s a restoration of relationship with the Creator, offering hope beyond the limitations of our earthly existence.
Ultimately, focusing solely on extending life misses the point.A life lived in love,guided by faith,and filled with hope is a life of true meaning and purpose – a life that transcends the fear of death and embraces the promise of eternal life.
Link to Jubilee “Surrounded” episode
