I. DEFINITIONS<\/p>\n
At the end of the eighteenth century, an intelligentsia movement in Germany called the \u201chigher critical school\u201d began a siege on Scripture. In the nineteenth century, \u201chigher criticism\u201d attacked the validity of the Bible with a vengeance. From this era came some of the world\u2019s most influential minds: Karl Marx, Charles Darwin, Sigmund Freud and Friedrich Nietzsche. What they shared in common was a total disregard or utter disdain for deity. And today what these atheists proclaimed still permeates our culture.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe wisdom of this world is foolishness in God\u2019s sight.\u201d
\n(1 Corinthians 3:19)<\/p>\n
A. What Is Atheism?<\/p>\n
\u2022 The Greek word for \u201catheism\u201d is atheos, which means \u201cno God\u201d and is derived from a, which means \u201cno\u201d and theos, which means \u201cGod.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u2022 The atheist believes with emphatic conviction that God does not exist.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe fool says in his heart, \u2018There is no God.\u2019 \u201d (Psalm 14:1)<\/p>\n
\u2022 A \u201cpractical atheist\u201d is a person who doesn\u2019t deny the existence of God but lives as if there is no God.<\/p>\n
Some who claim the name \u201cChristian\u201d behave as if God does not exist. They acknowledge Him intellectually, but do not rely on His presence and power in their daily lives. This position is not surprising because the Bible describes certain people as \u2026<\/p>\n
\u201c\u2026 having a form of godliness but denying its power.\u201d
\n(2 Timothy 3:5)<\/p>\n
\u2022 Atheism is the doctrine or belief that denies the existence of God. This worldview is also called philosophical naturalism and secular humanism.<\/p>\n
PHILOSOPHICAL NATURALISM \u2026<\/p>\n
is an atheistic worldview that explains reality only within the confines of the physical universe and the laws of nature (for example, the law of gravity). The naturalist has no belief in the supernatural. The naturalist cannot accept supernatural miracles, especially the magnificent message of full forgiveness through Christ\u2019s death on the cross.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.\u201d
\n(1 Corinthians 1:18)<\/p>\n
SECULAR HUMANISM (OR SECULARISM) \u2026<\/p>\n
is an atheistic worldview that centers on the self-sufficiency and fulfillment of the human being through reason (or self-realization). The secularist does not believe in the supernatural.<\/p>\n
\u201cIn his pride the wicked does not seek him; in all his thoughts there is no room for God.\u201d
\n(Psalm 10:4)<\/p>\n
Q \u201cWhat\u2019s the difference between the two worldviews?\u201d<\/p>\n
A A person can be both a philosophical naturalist and a secular humanist. However, a naturalist who believes that a person has no more worth than a worm cannot be a humanist. The secular humanist places the highest value on the worth of the individual.<\/p>\n
Q \u201cWhich term is generally preferred?\u201d<\/p>\n
A Most atheists don\u2019t refer to themselves as atheists, for the word has negative connotations. More tend to use instead the term secular humanists.<\/p>\n
BASIC BELIEFS OF HUMANISM<\/p>\n
In 1963 the Supreme Court of the United States mandated that certain atheistic organizations could be classified as religions. One such philosophy is secular humanism. From this \u201creligion\u201d came the Humanist Manifestos I and II, which contain the following basic beliefs:<\/p>\n
\u2022 The universe is self-existing and was not created.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Humans emerged as a result of evolution.<\/p>\n
\u2022 No deity or divine purpose exists.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Moral values are determined by human experience (situation ethics), not by moral absolutes.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Moral and sexual values are developed through secular education.<\/p>\n
\u2022 The individual has a right to determine life and death, a view that permits abortion, euthanasia and suicide.<\/p>\n
The Bible presents very different beliefs \u2026<\/p>\n
\u201cI have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live and that you may love the LORD your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. For the LORD is your life.\u201d
\n(Deuteronomy 30:19\u201320)<\/p>\n
B. What Is Agnosticism?<\/p>\n
\u2022 Agnosticism is the doctrine or belief that nothing is or can be known about the existence of God. Thomas Huxley coined the term and introduced the word agnostic in 1869 to a Metaphysical Society in which most people were either pantheists, deists, theists or atheists. The \u201c-ists\u201d identified themselves as knowing something that Huxley didn\u2019t know. Thus, he created the word agnostic\u2014not known. The agnostic was the antithesis of the \u201cgnostics\u201d of church history, who professed to know more about the very things of which Huxley was ignorant. To Huxley\u2019s great satisfaction, the term agnostic became widely accepted by the public.<\/p>\n
\u2022 The Greek word for \u201cagnosticism\u201d is agnostos, which means \u201cnot known,\u201d and is derived from a, which means \u201cno\u201d and gnostos, which means \u201cknowledge.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u2022 The agnostic believes there is insufficient evidence to verify the existence of God.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe man without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned.\u201d
\n(1 Corinthians 2:14)<\/p>\n
C. What is Apologetics?<\/p>\n
\u2022 Apologetics is a systematic, logical argument or answer in defense of a doctrine. Apologetics is also a branch of theology devoted to the defense of such issues as the origin of the universe, the existence of God, the authority of Scriptures and the deity of Christ.<\/p>\n
\u2022 The Greek word for \u201capologetics\u201d is apologia, which means \u201ca defense or reply.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u2022 Christianity is a reasonable faith rather than a blind faith. Christians who are apologists give reasons for believing in the one true God based on His revelation through the creation, the Bible and the Lord Jesus Christ.<\/p>\n
APOLOGETICS IS AN IMPORTANT PART OF THE BATTLE \u2026<\/p>\n
\u2022 to disprove false teaching<\/p>\n
\u2022 to challenge the thinking of unbelievers<\/p>\n
\u2022 to strengthen the faith of believers<\/p>\n
\u2022 to keep theology based on the Bible<\/p>\n
\u201cAlways 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.\u201d
\n(1 Peter 3:15)<\/p>\n
REVELATION IS THE FUNDAMENTAL DEFENSE FOR A BELIEF IN GOD<\/p>\n
\u2022 General Revelation<\/p>\n
\u2014Revelation through the creation<\/p>\n
\u201cThe living God, who made heaven and earth and sea and everything in them.\u2026 Has not left himself without testimony: He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy.\u201d (Acts 14:15, 17)<\/p>\n
\u2014Revelation through the conscience<\/p>\n
\u201cWhen Gentiles, who do not have the law, do by nature things required by the law \u2026 they show that the requirements of the law are written on their hearts, their consciences also bearing witness, and their thoughts now accusing, now even defending them.\u201d (Romans 2:14\u201315)<\/p>\n
\u2022 Special Revelation<\/p>\n
\u2014Revelation through the Scriptures \u2026 the inerrant Word of God<\/p>\n
\u201cAll Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.\u201d (2 Timothy 3:16)<\/p>\n
\u2014Revelation through the Savior \u2026 the incarnate Word of God<\/p>\n
\u201cIn the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.\u2026 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.\u201d (John 1:1\u20133, 14)<\/p>\n
II. CHARACTERISTICS OF ATHEISTS AND AGNOSTICS<\/p>\n
\u201cReligion is the opiate of the people\u201d\u2014so Karl Marx proclaimed. Darwin\u2019s theory of evolution discounted the Genesis creation. Freud defied God and looked to the human psyche and sex for answers. Nietzsche viewed Christianity as a religion invented and perpetuated by people too weak to face a universe that has no ultimate goals, no ultimate truths, no ultimate meaning. Yet during this same period, Abraham Lincoln, considered the most beloved President of the United States, said, \u201cI can see how it might be possible for a man to look down upon the earth and be an atheist, but I cannot conceive how he could look up into the heavens and say there is no God.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cLift your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one, and calls them each by name. Because of his great power and mighty strength, not one of them is missing.\u201d
\n(Isaiah 40:26)<\/p>\n
A. Two Types of Atheists<\/p>\n
\u2022 The Absolute Atheist<\/p>\n
The classic or traditional atheist believes that to suggest the evidence of a supreme being is utterly ridiculous.\u2026 God is simply a creation of the human imagination.<\/p>\n
Example:<\/p>\n
Jean-Paul Sartre: There is not a God, there never was a God, there never will be a God.<\/p>\n
Problem:<\/p>\n
Where did reason, logic and the law of noncontradiction come from? Atheists must answer that all logical reason and scientific laws are a result of chance (irrational causes and evolution). If no God exists to impose it, then morality had to develop by chance.<\/p>\n
Conclusion:<\/p>\n
Reason that is based on chance is not trustworthy. God does not call people to live by blind faith but by reasoning\u2014even reasoning about beginning a new life through faith in the Lord.<\/p>\n
\u201c \u2018Come now, let us reason together,\u2019 says the LORD.\u201d (Isaiah 1:18)<\/p>\n
\u2022 The Allegorical Atheist<\/p>\n
This adaptable atheist believes that deity may have been helpful to primitive humans but is no longer necessary because society has evolved to a higher level of sophistication.<\/p>\n
Example:<\/p>\n
Friedrich Nietzsche: The God myth was once alive as a model for man to live by, but the myth is no longer needed or workable.<\/p>\n
Thomas Altizer adopted Nietzsche\u2019s position of the \u201cGod is dead\u201d movement, proposing God was once alive but died at the crucifixion of Christ.<\/p>\n
Problem:<\/p>\n
This theory cannot be proven or justified by reason.<\/p>\n
Conclusion:<\/p>\n
Today the theory that \u201cGod is dead\u201d is dead.<\/p>\n
\u201cSee to it, brothers, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God.\u201d (Hebrews 3:12)<\/p>\n
B. Two Types of Agnostics<\/p>\n
\u2022 The Antagonistic Agnostic<\/p>\n
This \u201chard\u201d agnostic does not know whether God exists or not and therefore states that no one can ever know.<\/p>\n
Example:<\/p>\n
A. J. Ayer: God is untouchable and unseeable, therefore God is a meaningless word. Ayer proposed the verification principle: something can be verified only by the five senses or by definition. (Example: A triangle has three sides.)<\/p>\n
Problem:<\/p>\n
The verification principle doesn\u2019t pass the verification test because the test itself cannot be verified by the five senses, nor is its definition true.<\/p>\n
Conclusion:<\/p>\n
We cannot trust the verification test. The verification test itself is untrustworthy and meaningless.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is what God the LORD says\u2014he who created the heavens and stretched them out, who spread out the earth and all that comes out of it, who gives breath to its people, and life to those who walk on it.\u201d (Isaiah 42:5)<\/p>\n
\u2022 The Accessible Agnostic<\/p>\n
The \u201csoft\u201d agnostic does not know whether God exists or not, but could be willing to investigate.<\/p>\n
Example:<\/p>\n
Immanuel Kant: There is not enough information to know if there is a God. There are too many unavoidable contradictions in life. We can\u2019t know the way anything is no matter how it appears because there is a difference between appearance and reality.<\/p>\n
Problem:<\/p>\n
When you undermine all knowledge, you undermine confidence in everything.<\/p>\n
Conclusion:<\/p>\n
We can\u2019t have confidence in Kant\u2019s theory because he says you can\u2019t have confidence in anything; therefore, we can\u2019t have confidence in his conclusion. Just because we don\u2019t have complete information about the brain doesn\u2019t mean we reject the reality of the brain and refuse to depend on it. Just because we don\u2019t have complete information about God doesn\u2019t mean we reject the reality of God and refuse to depend on God.<\/p>\n
\u201cSeek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near.\u2026 \u2018For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,\u2019 declares the LORD. \u2018As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.\u2019 \u201d (Isaiah 55:6, 8\u20139)<\/p>\n
III. CAUSES OF DISBELIEF<\/p>\n
FROM DOUBTS TO DENIAL<\/p>\n
Madalyn Murray O\u2019Hair\u2014the most vocal American atheist of the twentieth century\u2014was responsible for removing prayer and Bible reading from the public schools.<\/p>\n
What caused her caustic criticism and war against God? In 1945, this unmarried mother was angry when the father of her son refused to marry her. Nevertheless, she called herself by his last name. Eight years later, she became pregnant again, bearing a second son by a second man who also rejected her.<\/p>\n
In 1960, Madalyn sought to escape the \u201coppression of the USA\u201d with the ultimate hope of becoming a citizen of the USSR; however, once again she was rejected. Upon returning to America she sought to enroll her sons in schools that required birth certificates. Madalyn was too embarrassed to produce them because of the multiple last names on the certificates. So instead, she attacked the school system \u2026 not because of a political belief, but because of a moral dilemma.<\/p>\n
Her son Bill Murray has said, \u201cRather than confront her conscience, she determined to deny God\u2019s existence and refused to accept any moral constraints.\u2026 If there was a Deity, then He could make demands on her life. From that point on she was at war with God.\u201d Madalyn Murray\u2019s doubts about a loving God turned into denial as she arrogantly hardened her heart and trusted only in herself.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is what the LORD says: \u2018Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who depends on flesh for his strength and whose heart turns away from the LORD.\u2019 \u201d
\n(Jeremiah 17:5)<\/p>\n
A. Atheism and Agnosticism \u2026 Begins with Doubts<\/p>\n
Damaged emotions \u2026 rejection, trauma or lack of love in early life<\/p>\n
Obliterated trust \u2026 no confidence in authority figures<\/p>\n
Unrealistic expectations \u2026 faulty thinking about God and religion<\/p>\n
Buried belief \u2026 no all-powerful God of love<\/p>\n
Twisted truth \u2026 significance comes from what I do<\/p>\n
Seared consciences \u2026 calloused to the touch of God<\/p>\n
\u2026 and Ends with Denial!<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron.\u201d
\n(1 Timothy 4:1\u20132)<\/p>\n
B. Root Cause<\/p>\n
Everyone is created with three God-given inner needs: the need for love, for significance and for security. If there has been repeated rejection instead of love, constant criticism instead of significance, trampled trust instead of security, you might try to protect your heart from further hurt.<\/p>\n
If you find it too threatening to yield to the wisdom of a Higher Authority, you may \u201cbecome\u201d an authority unto yourself in order to reinforce your own sense of value. However, the Bible does say,<\/p>\n
\u201cDo not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun evil.\u201d
\n(Proverbs 3:7)<\/p>\n
Wrong Belief:<\/p>\n
\u201cSeeing is believing\u2014and I don\u2019t see enough moral, intellectual, scientific or experiential knowledge to prove the existence of a God who is in control of the universe. I can\u2019t give up control of my life to a God I can\u2019t see.\u201d<\/p>\n
Right Belief:<\/p>\n
Believing is seeing\u2014a universe with design must have a Designer. God reveals His invisible qualities, eternal power and divine nature to all who humbly and honestly seek truth. I\u2019ve given the Lord control of my life for Him to fulfill His purpose for me.<\/p>\n
\u201cFor since the creation of the world God\u2019s invisible qualities\u2014his eternal power and divine nature\u2014have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.\u201d (Romans 1:20)<\/p>\n
IV. STEPS TO SOLUTION<\/p>\n
A. Key Verse to Memorize<\/p>\n
\u201cYou will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.\u201d
\n(Jeremiah 29:13)<\/p>\n
B. Key Passage to Read and Reread<\/p>\n
Romans 1:18\u20132:29<\/p>\n
TRUTH ON TRIAL<\/p>\n
Imagine a courtroom in the midst of a trial. The charge is high treason against the King of the Universe. The defendants plead \u201cnot guilty\u201d on the grounds of ignorance. As the case continues, evidence reveals that God has made Himself known to all people through nature and through their conscience. All have been exposed to the truth about God, even the heathen. Rejection of this truth results in devastating consequences! Take the time to do this short but powerful Bible study from the first two chapters of the Book of Romans.
\n\u2022 What does God do in response to the suppression of truth?
\nAnswer:
\n1:18
\n\u2022 How do people suppress the truth?
\nAnswer:
\n1:18
\n\u2022 What truth is plain to people?
\nAnswer:
\n1:19
\n\u2022 Who made the truth plain?
\nAnswer:
\n1:19
\n\u2022 How long has the truth of God been clearly seen?
\nAnswer:
\n1:20
\n\u2022 How has God revealed Himself?
\nAnswer:
\n1:20
\n\u2022 What happens to those who choose to ignore God\u2019s truth?
\nAnswer:
\n1:21
\n\u2022 How do those who deny God see themselves?
\nAnswer:
\n1:22
\n\u2022 In truth, what are they?
\nAnswer:
\n1:22
\n\u2022 What is God\u2019s response to those who reject the truth?
\nAnswer:
\n1:24
\n\u2022 What do they prefer instead of the truth?
\nAnswer:
\n1:25
\n\u2022 How does God respond to those who exchange His truth for a lie?
\nAnswer:
\n1:26, 28
\n\u2022 What are twenty characteristics of the godless?
\nAnswer:
\n1:29\u201331
\n\u2022 What truth do the godless know?
\nAnswer:
\n1:32
\n\u2022 What is God\u2019s judgment based on?
\nAnswer:
\n2:2
\n\u2022 What kind of heart will bring about God\u2019s wrath?
\nAnswer:
\n2:5
\n\u2022 What will those who reject the truth receive?
\nAnswer:
\n2:8
\n\u2022 Although heathen Gentiles don\u2019t have the law, what truth has God given them?
\nAnswer:
\n2:14\u201315<\/p>\n
C. Defending the Faith<\/p>\n
If God is God, why does He need mere mortals to defend Him? The defense is not for God\u2019s benefit, but rather to illumine unenlightened minds. Many atheists and agnostics hold to their unbelieving positions because they cannot comprehend an Intelligent Designer who is God. Yet, can anyone comprehend 27 million degrees Fahrenheit (15 million degrees Centigrade)? Just because you cannot comprehend such heat does not mean you must reject the reality of the sun\u2019s heat.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.\u2026 In the heavens he has pitched a tent for the sun.\u2026 Nothing is hidden from its heat.\u201d
\n(Psalm 19:1, 4, 6)<\/p>\n
Q \u201cIsn\u2019t the universe a product of self-creation?\u201d<\/p>\n
A If something exists, we must draw one of the following three conclusions:<\/p>\n
\u2022 It is eternal.<\/p>\n
\u2022 It is created by something eternal.<\/p>\n
\u2022 It is self-created.<\/p>\n
During the Age of Enlightenment (eighteenth century), skeptics claimed that the \u201cGod hypothesis\u201d was no longer necessary \u2026 that the universe came into being by spontaneous generation. Scientists believed that bacteria appeared on bread because of \u201cspontaneous generation.\u201d However, after microscopes became more powerful, spontaneous generation was rejected because the sources of bacteria were discovered. Today the scientific community recognizes that something cannot come from nothing. Therefore, for something to create itself, it would first have to exist. Yet, for something to be and not be at the same time is an impossibility! Ultimately, the only explanation for the existence of the universe is the eternal God. God is what we call self-existent\u2014He has always been, and He will always be.<\/p>\n
\u201cIn the beginning, O Lord, you laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands.\u201d (Hebrews 1:10)<\/p>\n
Q \u201cHow can a logical person believe in the existence of God?\u201d<\/p>\n
A A logical person would not make such illogical statements.<\/p>\n
\u2022 To state, \u201cI know there is no God\u201d communicates, \u201cI know all there is to know\u2014nothing exists beyond my knowledge.\u201d However, no one knows everything. Therefore, if something is not known, that something might be God.<\/p>\n
\u2022 To state, \u201cGod does not exist\u201d communicates, \u201cI have been everywhere in the universe.\u201d No one has literally been everywhere. Because you haven\u2019t been everywhere, you can\u2019t say God doesn\u2019t exist here.<\/p>\n
\u201c \u2018Can anyone hide in secret places so that I cannot see him?\u2019 declares the LORD. \u2018Do not I fill heaven and earth?\u2019 declares the LORD.\u201d (Jeremiah 23:24)<\/p>\n
Q \u201cHow can I believe something I can\u2019t see and have never seen?\u201d<\/p>\n
A No one has ever seen gravity, yet everyone lives by gravity. The law of gravity pulls all objects toward the center of the earth; therefore, without gravity we would continuously float in the air.<\/p>\n
\u201cNow faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.\u201d (Hebrews 11:1)<\/p>\n
Q Does God really exist, or is God a figment of our imaginations?\u201d<\/p>\n
A Although empirical evidence is not available, scholars and apologists use four lines of argument in the great debate.<\/p>\n
\u2022 The Argument from Being (called the Ontological Argument)<\/p>\n
\u2014 All cultures, primitive and advanced, have an awareness of God that includes a system of worship and even atonement for sin. The fact that every person has thought about a Supreme Being in one way or another presupposes that such a being exists.<\/p>\n
\u2022 The Argument from First Cause (called the Cosmological Argument)<\/p>\n
\u2014 Since, scientifically, something cannot come from nothing, our world has to have been created. Therefore, a Creator must have originally caused its creation.<\/p>\n
\u2022 The Argument from Man (called the Moral Argument)<\/p>\n
\u2014 Because human beings are mentally and morally unique, in contrast to all other life forms, God must have placed within us our mental and moral capabilities.<\/p>\n
\u2022 The Argument from Design (called the Teleological Argument)<\/p>\n
\u2014 Just as an intricate, workable watch is made by a watchmaker, the design of the world is intricate and workable. Therefore, an Intelligent Designer must have planned it.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is what the LORD says\u2014he who created the heavens, he is God; he who fashioned and made the earth, he founded it; he did not create it to be empty, but formed it to be inhabited\u2014he says: \u2018I am the LORD, and there is no other.\u2019 \u201d (Isaiah 45:18)<\/p>\n
One indisputable law of science states: \u201cSomething cannot come from nothing!\u201d Therefore, if God did not make matter out of nothing, then nothing made matter out of nothing\u2014a scientific impossibility!<\/p>\n
Q \u201cWhat kind of God exists?\u201d<\/p>\n
A Based on the four classic lines of argument:<\/p>\n
\u2022 The Argument from Being<\/p>\n
\u2014 Because everyone has the idea of God within, God is essential.<\/p>\n
\u2022 The Argument from First Cause<\/p>\n
\u2014 Because the Creator created something out of nothing, God is all-powerful.<\/p>\n
\u2022 The Argument from Man<\/p>\n
\u2014 Because human beings exhibit moral, self-sacrificial choices for the highest and best of others, God is moral.<\/p>\n
\u2022 The Argument from Design<\/p>\n
\u2014 Because God designed an intricate world (for example, balancing heat and cold, changing gases that alternate between plants and humans), God is vastly intelligent.<\/p>\n
\u201cHe is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he.\u201d (Deuteronomy 32:4)<\/p>\n
Q \u201cDoesn\u2019t the existence of evil presuppose that a loving God does not exist?\u201d<\/p>\n
A Just because knives are used by some people to commit evil such as murder doesn\u2019t mean that knives are inherently evil. God in the Bible reveals His sovereign plan for those who are evil and wicked.<\/p>\n
\u201cFor evil men will be cut off, but those who hope in the LORD will inherit the land. A little while, and the wicked will be no more; though you look for them, they will not be found.\u201d (Psalm 37:9\u201310)<\/p>\n
Q \u201cDoes it even matter whether God exists?\u201d<\/p>\n
A If God didn\u2019t care about your existence or was too weak to do anything about it, then no, it wouldn\u2019t matter. But if God is all-powerful, yet personal, and if He is concerned about you and if He has a personalized plan for your life, then yes, it does matter.<\/p>\n
\u201cIn his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.\u201d (Proverbs 16:9)<\/p>\n
Q \u201cHow can you believe in the Bible\u2014and thus, the God of the Bible\u2014when you cannot prove scientifically that the Scriptures are true?\u201d<\/p>\n
A This line of thinking is a common fallacy. Scientific proof must be based on events that are repeatable. Clearly, historical events are not repeatable, so some other method of determining their reliability must be instituted. Legal, historical proof shows that something is a fact beyond reasonable doubt. In a courtroom, a verdict is determined by the weight of the evidence\u2014exhibits, written testimony and oral testimony. The Bible stands up under the weight of three lines of reasoning.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Exhibits\u2014Archeology:<\/p>\n
Over 25,000 biblical sites have been discovered, all supporting the historical record of the Bible. Jewish archeologist Nelson Glueck said, \u201cNo archeological discovery has ever controverted a Biblical reference.\u201d Jesus said, \u201cIf they [His disciples] keep quiet, the stones will cry out\u201d (Luke 19:40). Although many critics thought numerous biblical sites were fictitious, the archeological stones have indeed cried out supporting the veracity of the Bible.
\nCRITIC
\nCONFIRMATION<\/p>\n
\u2014 Critics claimed that Nabonidus was the last king of Babylon\u2014not Belshazzar as mentioned in Daniel chapter 5.
\n\u2014 In 1853, archeologists discovered a cylinder depicting two Babylonian kings co-ruling as father and son (Nabonidus and Belshazzar).<\/p>\n
\u2014 Critics claimed that the Hittites were a fictitious people although they were mentioned 40 times in the Bible (Joshua 1:4; 2 Kings 7:6).
\n\u2014 In the 1870s, archeologists discovered evidence of the Hittite civilization near the Euphrates River. In 1906, the Hittite capital was discovered in what is today modern Turkey.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Critics claimed that King Sargon of Assyria\u2014mentioned once in the Bible\u2014was a fictitious ruler whose name was inserted to fill a chronological gap.
\n\u2014 In 1842, archeologists discovered King Sargon\u2019s palace.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Critics claimed that Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, Zeboiim, Zoar\u2014the five cities built on the plains as mentioned in Genesis chapter 14\u2014were fictitious principalities, as were their kings.
\n\u2014 In 1975, archaeologists uncovered thousands of tablets at the city of Ebla. Some scholars suggest that names found in these tablets are the same as those mentioned in Genesis chapter 14.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Written testimony:<\/p>\n
In the sacred writings of all the world religions, the Bible alone contains prophecies\u2014specific, detailed prophecies\u2014that are not self-fulfilling. Approximately 2,000 Old Testament prophecies have been fulfilled in secular history, and such prophecies, which can be verified by history, are not found in any other world religion.<\/p>\n
\u201cI will raise up for them a prophet \u2026 I will put My words in his mouth, and he will tell them everything I command him.\u201d (Deuteronomy 18:18)
\nPROPHECY
\nFULFILLED IN HISTORY<\/p>\n
\u2014 Circa 701 BC Babylon would be conquered\u2014Isaiah 13:17, 19; Jeremiah 51:11.
\n\u2014 The Fall of Babylon in 539 BC\u2014Daniel chapter 5.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Circa 571 BC Egypt would lose its superior status and strength\u2014Ezekiel 29:1\u20132, 15.
\n\u2014 True since 332 BC<\/p>\n
\u2014 Circa 650\u2013655 BC The city of Nineveh would be destroyed\u2014see the Book of Nahum.
\n\u2014 612 BC<\/p>\n
\u2014 Circa 571 BC The city of Tyre would be destroyed\u2014Ezekiel 26:3\u20134.
\n\u2014 332 BC<\/p>\n
\u2014 Circa 1405 BC Israel would be scattered to all the nations\u2014Deuteronomy 28:37.
\n\u2014 In AD 70, during the dispersion after the destruction of Jerusalem, Israel was scattered to all the nations.<\/p>\n
\u2014 Circa 1405 BC Israel would return to Palestine in later days\u2014Deuteronomy 30:3\u20135.
\n\u2014 After five generations of their land\u2019s being occupied by another country, the occupied people lost their national identity. Yet in May 1948, the Jews experienced an unprecedented event in all of history. Israel became a nation \u2026 again\u2014a perfect and precise fulfillment of prophecy!<\/p>\n
\u2022 Oral testimony:<\/p>\n
Many testify to the Bible\u2019s life-transforming power on their personal lives.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.\u201d (Hebrews 4:12)<\/p>\n
\u2014Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States of America<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Bible is the best gift God has given to man \u2026 but for it we could not know right from wrong.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u2014Winston Churchill, World Leader<\/p>\n
\u201cWe rest with assurance upon the impregnable rock of Holy Scripture.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u2014Daniel Webster, Lawyer<\/p>\n
\u201cI believe the Scriptures of the Old and New Testament to be the will and Word of God.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u2014Charles Dickens, Author<\/p>\n
\u201cIt is the best Book that ever was or ever will be in the world.\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n
\u2014Benjamin Franklin, Statesman<\/p>\n
\u201cMy advice to you is that you cultivate an acquaintance with and a firm belief in the Holy Scripture.\u201d<\/p>\n
Q \u201cAren\u2019t all religions basically the same?\u201d<\/p>\n
A No. Religions are not like trails leading up a mountain where, from the bottom, many paths lead to only one final destination. To state that all religions are equally valid requires you to ignore the many contradictions among them or to regard these contradictions as insignificant and unimportant. Buddhists deny the existence of a personal God\u2014Muslims state that Judas, not Jesus, died on the cross\u2014Hindus believe Jesus was no more divine than any other man. However, Jesus taught that there is only one personal God \u2026 and He is triune in nature. And as for coming into a relationship with God, Jesus left no other religious option when He said,<\/p>\n
\u201cI am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.\u201d (John 14:6)<\/p>\n
Q \u201cHow can I intellectually accept God by faith?\u201d<\/p>\n
A You frequently live by faith. When you board a bus, you don\u2019t know the driver personally. You know nothing about his character, but you exercise faith that he will do his job correctly. When you board an elevator, you don\u2019t first inspect the cables and the flooring. You get in and push the button for the correct floor. And how much more will the One who created you be faithful to you. Faith is your choice. You can take a step of faith to trust Him with your life.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe live by faith, not by sight.\u201d (2 Corinthians 5:7)<\/p>\n
D. Answers to the Arguments of Atheists<\/p>\n
Atheists say, \u201cMan created God,\u201d while theists say, \u201cGod created man.\u201d Which is true? When using a radio, a telephone, a camera or a car, you naturally deduce that the item was designed by a person with intelligence. Likewise, things that are much more complex\u2014the sea world, the animal kingdom, the human brain\u2014would logically be the creation of an intelligent Creator.<\/p>\n
\u201cHow many are your works, O LORD! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures.\u201d
\n(Psalm 104:24)<\/p>\n
\u2022 Cause and Effect<\/p>\n
If everything needs a cause, then so does God. If God does not need a cause, then neither does the world, then there is no need of God.\u2014Bertrand Russell<\/p>\n
Answer:<\/p>\n
Only effects need a cause. If you theorize that even God is an effect and needs a cause, then you can never find a \u201cfirst cause\u201d for the creation of the universe.<\/p>\n
\u201cIn the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.\u201d (Genesis 1:1)<\/p>\n
\u2022 Moral Incompatibilities<\/p>\n
If God is all good and all powerful, He could and would defeat evil. Evil is not defeated; therefore, there is no God.\u2014Pierre Bayle<\/p>\n
Answer:<\/p>\n
God did not create a puppet state in which people have no choice over their actions. He allows everyone freedom to choose good and evil now, yet He guarantees the destruction of all evil in the end.<\/p>\n
\u201cHe will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.\u2026 But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars\u2014their place will be in the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.\u201d (Revelation 21:4, 8)<\/p>\n
\u2022 Unjustifiable Suffering<\/p>\n
Unjustifiable suffering is incompatible with a just God.\u2014Albert Camus<\/p>\n
Answer:<\/p>\n
Our perspective of justice is limited in view of God\u2019s redeeming process, which produces a greater good. Example: The mother whose son is killed by a drunk driver becomes active in a program that saves thousands of lives (MADD).<\/p>\n
\u201cWhenever you face trials of many kinds \u2026 you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.\u201d (James 1:2\u20134)<\/p>\n
\u2022 Incompatible Attributes<\/p>\n
How can God possess attributes such as love and wrath, which are incompatible?<\/p>\n
Answer:<\/p>\n
Love and wrath are not incompatible. Love is an attribute of God that never changes. God is never without agape love for you\u2014He always seeks your highest good. Wrath is God\u2019s response to sin. God\u2019s wrath, like a refiner\u2019s fire, is born out of His pure love.<\/p>\n
\u201cHe will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver; he will purify the Levites and refine them like gold and silver.\u201d (Malachi 3:3)<\/p>\n
\u2022 The Big Bang Theory<\/p>\n
The universe is a result of a chance combination of particles in motion. The chance theory is also the explanation of human life.\u2014David Hume<\/p>\n
Answer:<\/p>\n
A completely random universe that runs by chance defies intricate design, reliability and intelligence, which is clearly visible. Example: If all the parts of your watch were put in a box and shaken for a million years, an intricate watch would not be created.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhere were you when I laid the earth\u2019s foundation? Tell me, if you understand. Who marked off its dimensions? Surely you know! Who stretched a measuring line across it? On what were its footings set, or who laid its cornerstone\u2014while the morning stars sang together and all the angels shouted for joy?\u201d (Job 38:4\u20137)<\/p>\n
\u2022 Wishful Thinking<\/p>\n
Belief in God is based on a wish fulfillment, a childhood neurosis that seeks a protector.\u2014Freud and Sartre<\/p>\n
Answer:<\/p>\n
The fact that people in all cultures, whether primitive or advanced, feel a great need for God and worship God is universal proof for the existence of a God.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness, since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God\u2019s invisible qualities\u2014his eternal power and divine nature\u2014have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.\u201d (Romans 1:18\u201320)<\/p>\n
\u2022 Physical Liabilities<\/p>\n
God cannot be seen, heard or touched.<\/p>\n
Answer:<\/p>\n
God is not limited to making Himself known through physical attributes. He increasingly reveals Himself through the conscience as a person increasingly grows in faith.<\/p>\n
\u201cFaith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for. By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God\u2019s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible.\u201d (Hebrews 11:1\u20133)<\/p>\n
Deaf, mute and blind\u2014she lived like a wild animal in a dark jungle. Because they had not disciplined the child and she lacked a way to communicate, the parents didn\u2019t know what to do. A young woman, Annie Sullivan, responded to their plea. Over and over she spelled into Helen Keller\u2019s opened hand W-A-T-E-R and then put her hand under the flowing outdoor water pump. Finally the miracle occurred\u2014the light came on in Helen\u2019s mind! She understood the correlation between the word water and liquid water. A whole new world of communication opened up for her. The day came when Annie began to tell her about God. Once Helen comprehended G-O-D, she spelled back that she already knew God. How could that be? It was impossible \u2026 where did she get any knowledge of God? The Bible says that God placed this knowledge within her. The Bible says about everyone, everywhere \u2026<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God\u2019s invisible qualities\u2014his eternal power and divine nature\u2014have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.\u201d
\n(Romans 1:19\u201320)<\/p>\n
THE CIRCULAR APPEAL TO AN ATHEIST<\/p>\n
Once when Colonel Robert Ingersoll, known as \u201cthe great agnostic,\u201d visited author and Christian writer Henry Ward Beecher, he gazed with fascination at a beautiful globe portraying the stars and constellations. \u201cThis is just what I\u2019ve been looking for,\u201d Ingersoll stated. \u201cWho made it?\u201d Beecher repeated, \u201cWho made it? Why, Colonel, nobody made it. It just happened!\u201d<\/p>\n
Carefully chosen words\u2014logical words\u2014can cause atheists to rethink their position. This simple acrostic on the word circles gives a logical approach to help you present the good news to those who do not know their Creator.<\/p>\n
\u201cBe wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.\u201d
\n(Colossians 4:5\u20136)<\/p>\n
Convey an atmosphere of acceptance and respect.<\/p>\n
\u2022 \u201cAm I correct in hearing that you don\u2019t believe in an intelligent, personal God who created the universe?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u2022 \u201cI understand that, in reality, there are actually very few true atheists.\u201d<\/p>\n
Introduce an alternate way of thinking about knowledge.<\/p>\n
\u2022 \u201cDo you consider yourself closed-minded or open-minded?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u2022 \u201cOf all the knowledge in the world, what percent do you think you possess?\u201d<\/p>\n
Represent all knowledge in the world with a large circle.<\/p>\n
Create doubts about their conclusions.<\/p>\n
\u2022 \u201cSince you said that you are open-minded, is it possible that God could exist outside the circle of your knowledge?\u201d<\/p>\n
Look at the alternative conclusion.<\/p>\n
\u2022 \u201cSince you agree that God could exist outside your circle of knowledge, you really aren\u2019t an atheist, you\u2019re an agnostic \u2026 you just don\u2019t know whether God exists.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u2022 \u201cIf God is knowable, would you be open to consider how to know Him?\u201d<\/p>\n
Explain your own experience \u2026 personal testimony.<\/p>\n
\u2022 \u201cGod became real in my life when.\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n
\u2022 \u201cI never knew God personally until.\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n
Share the steps to a knowledge of God.<\/p>\n
\u2022 \u201cIf there is a God, why do you think He has created you?\u201d God created you to give meaning and purpose to your life. (Read Jeremiah 29:11.)<\/p>\n
\u2022 \u201cWhy do you think you have not experienced a personal knowledge of God or of His purpose for your life?\u201d God has said that you must first acknowledge an intellectual power greater than your own power before you can know Him. (Read Proverbs 9:10.)<\/p>\n
\u2022 \u201cWhat do you think keeps you from acknowledging your need to know God and to experience His love?\u201d The sin of pride hardens your heart and keeps your spiritual eyes blind to the reality of God and His love for you. (Read Hebrews 3:12\u201313.)<\/p>\n
\u2022 \u201cDo you know God\u2019s solution for opening your spiritual eyes to recognize and understand who He is?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u2014 Admit that you have willfully sinned. Romans 3:23<\/p>\n
\u2014 Realize that your sin separates you from God. That is why you don\u2019t know Him. Isaiah 59:2<\/p>\n
\u2014 Accept the death of Jesus as your personal payment. Romans 5:8<\/p>\n
\u2014 Acknowledge that Jesus is the only way to receive knowledge of God. John 14:6<\/p>\n
\u2014 Receive Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior. John 1:12<\/p>\n
To the skeptic who says, \u201cI\u2019ve never seen or heard God,\u201d I offer these thoughts: Just because the blind never see a star or the deaf never hear a harp doesn\u2019t mean that stars and harps do not exist. With faith you can see His footprints. With an open heart you will hear His voice.\u2014June Hunt<\/p>\n
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION\u00ae. NIV\u00ae.
\nCopyright \u00a9 1973, 1978, 1984 International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved.<\/p>\n
We acknowledge that mistakes could occur in the writing of any of our resources or an omission may be found in the many Scripture references and citations contained herein. Although the editors have sought to avoid all errors, some may have crept in or been overlooked, for which we take full responsibility. The considerate reader would render us a great service by calling our attention to any such error.<\/p>\n
The Biblical Counseling Keys should not be construed as a substitute for one-on-one, Christ-centered counseling when needed.<\/p>\n
To order CDs, tapes, resource books and additional Biblical Counseling Keys on Child Evangelism, Evil & Suffering \u2026 Why? God: Who Is He? Jewish Fulfillment. Purpose in Life, Salvation, Unbelieving Mate and Other related topics, contact HOPE FOR THE HEART P.O. Box 7 Dallas, TX 75221 or call toll-free 1-800-488-HOPE (4673).
\nPlease visit our website for License Agreement and Terms and Conditions.
\nwww.hopefortheheart.org<\/p>\n
All rights reserved worldwide. No part of this material may be reproduced in any form without written permission from HOPE FOR THE HEART.
\n\u00a9 1992\u20132008 Hope For The Heart<\/p>\n
@book{Hunt_2008,
\nplace={Dallas, TX},
\ntitle={Biblical Counseling Keys on Atheism & Agnosticism: The Great Debate},
\npublisher={Hope For The Heart},
\nauthor={Hunt, June},
\nyear={2008}}<\/p>\n
Exportiert aus Verbum, 00:43 16. Februar 2019.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
I. DEFINITIONS At the end of the eighteenth century, an intelligentsia movement in Germany called the \u201chigher critical school\u201d began a siege on Scripture. In the nineteenth century, \u201chigher criticism\u201d attacked the validity of the Bible with a vengeance. From this era came some of the world\u2019s most influential minds: Karl Marx, Charles Darwin, Sigmund … <\/p>\n