The word standard is one of those dictionary entries that in some cases takes up more than a page. More than one of its definitions involve a peculiar , yet applicable model—authoritatively produced—by which morals, or customs, or values, or qualities, or quantities, or weights, or volumes, or units of distance, etc. are universally measured. For example, a yardstick is a universal standard by which we can determine distances. Imagine where we would be without standard units of measure in building automobiles or skyscrapers. Imagine the confusion that would persist if there were not standards for measuring volume or weight in a bakery or a butcher shop. Standards are essential in every realm or discipline.
What about the standards for moral excellence or customs? Who has the authority to decide what is right and wrong in a culture or society? But without universal standards, everyone would simply do what was right in his own eyes, resulting in conflict and discord, and eventually civil unrest or even anarchy. Historical and contemporary examples abound.
Contrary to popular thought, no nation, society or individual has the authority to set the universal standards in the nonmaterial realm. This would require a supreme authority, with unlimited knowledge of that realm—It would require a God. Fortunately for us, there is such a God, and He has revealed Himself to us through His written Word. Paul, the apostle, wrote in his letter to the Romans of old, “O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counsellor? Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again? For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen. (Romans 11:33-36)”
Not only does the God of the Bible have the authority and wisdom to set the standards for every nation and society, He has the right! After all, it all belongs to Him. “The earth is the LORD’S, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein. (Psalms 24:1)”