Throughout life I have observed many times that people view Christianity as something for “needy”, “weak minded”, or “ignorant” people. In fact several years ago, former governor of Minnesota Jessie Ventura remarked, “Organized religion is a sham and a crutch for weak-minded people.” Why do people have this idea about Christianity? Could it be that we who claim to be Christians enable the idea? How do we enable it? One way is by our lack of using reasoning.
A few years ago I sat through a School Board meeting where individuals wanted to allow teachers the ability to teach that there were holes in the theory of evolution. This is a very true statement. It shouldn’t have been a problem to convince a School Board of facts, however that didn’t happen. Instead, one by one I heard well meaning Christians get up and make comments like “The Bible says….” Or “God created Adam and Eve ….” And on and on they went, never dealing with the facts being debated or the issue that was before them. Needless to say, the proposal was defeated.
If we are going to actively engage our culture and present them with the truth that is found in Jesus Christ, then we must use the intellect that God has given to us. Recently I heard Virginia Delegate Bob Marshall speak and say “faith is a gift but everyone can reason.” He went on to say that reasoning could lead to faith. As I pondered this statement I realized the truthfulness of it. (Romans 10:14-17)
As we use the brain that God has given us, we will be able to present today’s society with unarguable truth based on God’s Word. John Maxwell has been doing this for years when it comes to leadership development and training. John is highly respected in not only Christianity but also in the business world. Why, because he realized early on that the Bible offers practical, intellectual thoughts for every day life. Our faith is not based on fiction but some amazing facts that the world cannot rationalize away. Jesus is who He said He is – “The WAY, the TRUTH, and the LIFE!” (John 14:6) How do we discover these amazing facts?
- Read the Bible. – God’s word does not return void (Hebrews 4:12)
- Read apologetics books that will help you understand and defend your faith. (II Timothy 2:15)
- Evidence That Demands a Verdict by Josh McDowell
- Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis
- Case for Christ by Lee Strobel
- Pray for illumination and for God to use you.
All humanity is in need of a savior (Isaiah 53:6) and Jesus desires for “all men to come to a knowledge of the truth.” (I Timothy 2:3-5). As Christians, we possess that truth. It’s a truth that should be highly treasured and shared with those lacking. When we make a decision to follow Jesus Christ it is one of the most intellectually sound decisions that we can make with benefits that will last for all eternity. May God help us to use the intellect that He has given to us to reason and share the good news that Jesus Christ offers.
Next week I will continue with this topic by sharing a second way we enable others – the focus of our communications. May God bless you this week! See you in church on Sunday!
Because of HIS Amazing Grace,
Myron D. Atkinson
Pastor