Why Believe? (1 Peter 3:15)
“Why do I believe?” I whispered to myself. It was a question that had been nagging at me for weeks, challenging the very foundation of my faith. But in that moment of uncertainty, I set out on a journey of discovery, one that would strengthen my faith and reveal the beautiful harmony between reason and belief.
Contrary to popular belief, Christianity is not a blind leap into the dark. It is a step into the light of reason and evidence. Apostle Paul encourages us to “test everything; hold fast what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:21). This biblical mandate invites us to engage our minds and critically examine our faith.
The rationality of Christian faith is rooted in historical evidence, logical reasoning, and personal experience. Apostle Luke, for instance, wrote his gospel with the explicit purpose of providing an orderly account based on eyewitness testimony (Luke 1:1-4). As we observe the intricate design of the universe, we’re reminded of the Psalmist’s words: “The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork” (Psalm 19:1).
Faith and Reason
Some might argue that faith and reason are incompatible, but this is a false dichotomy. Faith and reason are not adversaries but allies in the pursuit of truth. The prophet Isaiah invites us to “Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord” (Isaiah 1:18). God doesn’t ask us to check our brains at the door of the church; He invites us to engage our minds in understanding Him and His creation.
The relationship between faith and reason is beautifully illustrated in the life of the apostle Thomas. When confronted with the news of Jesus’ resurrection, Thomas initially doubted. But Jesus didn’t rebuke him for his skepticism. Instead, He invited Thomas to examine the evidence – His wounds – which led Thomas to a profound declaration of faith: “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28).
The Role of Personal Experience
While rational arguments provide a solid foundation for faith, personal experience plays a crucial role in deepening our belief. As we walk with God, study His Word, and see His work in our lives, our faith is strengthened. The Psalmist encourages us to “taste and see that the Lord is good” (Psalm 34:8), inviting us to experience God personally.
My own journey of faith has been marked by moments of divine intervention, answered prayers, and transformative encounters with God’s Word. These experiences, while subjective, are no less real or significant in shaping my belief. They serve as personal evidence of God’s reality and goodness in my life.
Addressing Doubts and Questions
Doubt is not the enemy of faith; it can be the catalyst for deeper understanding and stronger conviction. The father in Mark 9:24 honestly expressed his struggle: “I believe; help my unbelief!” This raw honesty is welcomed by God, who invites us to bring our questions and doubts to Him.
When we encounter challenging questions or apparent contradictions in our faith, we’re called to dig deeper, study more, and seek wisdom. Proverbs 2:3-5 encourages us: “If you call out for insight and raise your voice for understanding, if you seek it like silver and search for it as for hidden treasures, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God.”
Conclusion
As I reflect on my journey from doubt to conviction, I’m reminded of Peter’s words: “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have” (1 Peter 3:15). Our faith in Christ is not a leap into irrationality, but a step into a deeper understanding of reality.
We are still called to trust in God, even when we don’t have all the answers. But this trust is not blind; it’s grounded in reason, evidence, and personal experience.
As you study your Bible, spend time in God’s presence, and engage with the deep questions of life, I hope you discover the beautiful synergy between faith and reason. Remember, “Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1). This assurance and conviction are not just emotional experiences, but are rooted in the solid ground of God’s revealed truth and the rational exploration of His creation.
Let us continue to grow in our understanding, never afraid to ask questions, always eager to learn, and forever grateful for the grace that allows us to know and experience the living God. As we do so, may our faith become not just a set of beliefs, but a transformative force that shapes our lives and impacts the world around us.
