Should Religion Be Irrational? – Part 5
The religion of Jesus Christ is NOT irrational. In fact, when Paul went to preach the gospel to others, the scriptures say that he “reasoned” with them (Acts 17:2; 18:4; 18:19; 24:25). We are admonished to “prove all things” (1 Thess.5:19). John tells us to “try the spirits” (John 4:1). In dealing with matters of religion, we are to “speak as the oracles of God” (1 Peter 4:11). John wrote “these are written that you may believe” (John 20:31). We are to “always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear” (1 Peter 3:15). Jesus said, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:31-32).
Additionally, the Bible warns us against accepting the teachings and opinions of men above that of God. Jesus said, “And in vain they worship Me, Teaching as doctrines the commandments of men” (Matthew 15:9). Psalm 118:8 says, “It is better to trust in the LORD Than to put confidence in man.” Jeremiah 10:23 states, “O LORD, I know the way of man is not in himself; It is not in man who walks to direct his own steps.” None of these things involves irrationality. It all boils down to this: these irrationalities are just excuses for not doing the necessary study to know the truth. The religion of Jesus Christ is not irrational as popular culture would have you to believe. God desires us to think and act correctly in regard to His word. There is nothing more valuable or important than one’s own soul (Matthew 16:26). We should apply the same exacting standards of rationality toward it as we would toward any other matter of importance in this life. “Come let us reason together, saith the Lord…” (Isaiah 1:8a).
God bless you, and I love you.
Kevin Cauley