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Hello, Church Family!
Let's take a journey today, not just in our hearts and spirits, but also in our minds. You see, there's a common misconception out there—that to be a Christian is an exercise in intellectual suicide. Let’s unravel that myth, piece by piece, and see why our faith stands strong, even in the face of skepticism.
Let me tell you about Thomas, a young man who grew up much like many of us did—faithfully attending church, soaking up Sunday school stories, and contemplating a future in ministry. But, like many young believers, his faith was tested when he stepped into the wider world of a liberal arts college.
At first, Thomas kept up his spiritual habits, doing his devotionals and attending church. But as he mingled with fellow students, their carefree lifestyles rubbed off on him. Soon, he was skipping church for parties, inching away from his steady prayer life for the hollow thrill of late-night celebrations. He felt the pull to fit in, something we all recognize in our own lives at times.
The real challenge, however, came when Thomas hit the lecture halls. There, seated before professors who dismissed Biblical teachings as archaic myths, he faced lectures on evolution presented as undeniable truths. Thomas’s faith, already chipped away by worldly distractions, began to wobble more dangerously.
In a moment of clarity, Thomas returned to the church he’d begun attending on campus. He sought guidance, craving reassurances he couldn’t quite articulate. Yet, instead of receiving thoughtful counsel, his questions were met with impatience. When he voiced his doubts, he was essentially told to silence his so-called sinful skepticism.
That pastor's reaction was not just unhelpful—it was the turning point that led Thomas away from the faith entirely, claiming he couldn't adhere to a religion that condemned his quest for understanding as sinful. And honestly, who could blame him? None of us should follow a belief system that squelches intellectual curiosity. But here’s the thing: that’s not what Christianity teaches at all!
Scripture encourages us to seek truth unabashedly. In Matthew 22:37, Jesus exhorts us to love God “with all our heart, soul, and mind.” Yep, you read that right—our minds are critical in this equation! This means our faith isn't a blind leap into the dark, but a walk grounded in thoughtful engagement.
1 Peter 3:15 echoes this sentiment, urging believers to always be ready to explain their faith with “gentleness and respect.” God isn't asking for mindless acceptance. Rather, He invites us to explore, ask questions, and find joy in discovering the depth of His wisdom.
And that’s the kicker—when you really dig into it, there's ample evidence supporting the Christian faith, more than any other worldview combined! The Bible withstands scrutiny; its teachings align with real-world truths and offer a coherent worldview that resonates through time.
For those among us wrestling with doubts or apprehensions about our faith appearing ‘intellectually inferior,’ know this: querying isn’t just allowed, it’s welcomed. If you’re struggling or just plain curious, come ask those burning questions. Let's dive into the Word together, seek academic perspectives, or get into a book like "I Don’t Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist."
Christianity doesn't fear scrutiny. Instead, it invites it, confident in the truth it holds. So lift your heart and your mind—allow them both to be drawn upwards by a faith that stands robust and unwavering. Let’s keep dialogue open and our hearts receptive to God’s great wisdom.
Keep asking questions!
Pastor Justin Wyckoff |
