As Christians, we're called to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30). In my seminary class on philosophy, we are currently looking at Aristotle’s various works on logic. Let's explore how we can use logic and reason to deepen our faith.

Faith and Reason: Not Enemies

Some people think faith and reason don't mix, but that's not true (it’s a logical fallacy!). The Bible actually encourages us to use our brains. God invites us to "reason together" with Him (Isaiah 1:18), and Paul often "reasoned" with people about the gospel (Acts 17:2-3, 18:4).

The Bible even praises those who think carefully about what they're taught. Remember the Bereans? They were commended for checking Paul's teaching against Scripture (Acts 17:11).

How Logic Helps Us

Logic is just a fancy word for correct reasoning. It helps us:

1. Understand the Bible better
2. Make sense of Christian teachings
3. Explain our faith to others
4. Spot false teachings

Reason: A Gift from God (But Not Perfect)

Our ability to reason is part of being made in God's image. It helps us understand His Word and His world. But like everything else about us, our reasoning isn't perfect because of sin. That doesn't mean it's useless—just that we should use it humbly, always checking our thoughts against the Bible.

Limits of Reason

While logic and reason are helpful, they can't explain everything about God. Some things in our faith are mysteries that go beyond what we can fully understand. As Paul writes, "For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known (1 Corinthians 13:12)."

Heart and Mind Together

The goal isn't to become cold, detached thinkers. Our emotions and experiences are important too. We're aiming for a faith that involves both heart and mind.

Common Logical Fallacies

Understanding logical fallacies can help us think more clearly and spot weak arguments. Here are some common ones:

1. Ad Hominem: Attacking the person instead of their argument.
   • Example: "Pastor Bob's sermon on generosity isn't worth listening to because he drives an expensive car."
2. Straw Man: Misrepresenting someone's argument to make it easier to attack.
   • Example: "Calvinists believe that faith isn’t necessary for salvation because of election."
3. False Dichotomy: Presenting only two options when there are more.
   • Example: "Either you evangelize everywhere you go, or you aren't committed to your faith."
4. Slippery Slope: Arguing that a small step will lead to extreme consequences without evidence.
   • Example: "If we allow contemporary music in church, soon we'll abandon all biblical teachings."
5. Appeal to Popularity: Arguing that something is true because many people believe it.
   • Example: "Most people in our church believe that homeschooling is the only biblical option for Christian parents, so it must be true."
6. Appeal to Authority: Arguing that something is true because an authority affirms it.
   • Example: "The early church believed that a person can lose salvation, so it must be true."
7. Circular Reasoning: Using the conclusion as part of the premise.
   • Example: "You should trust the pastor’s interpretation of scripture because he is guided by the Holy Spirit, and we know he is guided by the Holy Spirit because his interpretations are trustworthy."

Recognizing these fallacies can help us build stronger arguments for our faith and avoid weak reasoning.

Putting It Into Practice

Here are some practical ways to use logic and reason in your faith:

• Study the Bible Thoughtfully: Approach Scripture with a discerning mind, considering its true meaning and context. Emulate the Bereans by examining everything carefully.
  • Scripture: "Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true (Acts 17:11)."
• Embrace Tough Questions: Don’t shy away from asking challenging questions about your faith. Equally, be prepared to seek and provide thoughtful answers.
  • Scripture: "But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15)."
• Clarify Your Beliefs: Practice articulating your beliefs clearly, whether in conversation or writing. This helps you solidify your understanding and communicate effectively with others.
  • Scripture: "Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone (Colossians 4:6)."
• Engage with Christian Thought: Read books on theology and philosophy, and utilize biblical commentaries. Recognize and appreciate the wisdom God has provided through various scholars and thinkers throughout history.
  • Scripture: "So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up (Ephesians 4:11-12)."
• Respectful Dialogue: Engage in respectful discussions about differing beliefs. Understand the reasons behind your disagreements, and express your perspective with humility and respect.
  • Scripture: "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen (Ephesians 4:29)."
  • Scripture: "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone (Romans 12:18)."
• Pray for Wisdom: Continually seek God’s guidance as you strive to deepen your understanding of His truth. Pray for the wisdom to discern and apply it in your life.
  • Scripture: "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you (James 1:5)."

Wrapping Up

Logic and reason are useful tools that can help us understand God and the Bible better. They can help us explain our faith to others too. But remember, our trust is ultimately in God, not in human wisdom (1 Corinthians 2:5).

As we grow in faith, let's use all parts of ourselves—heart, soul, mind, and strength—to love God more. May our thinking about God always lead us to greater awe and love for Him.