Christians and Philosophy

What is the Christian to do when confronted by someone who has ideas that run contrary to orthodox Christianity? Put together pieces of information and hope for the best? Why not simply tell the person that the Bible says they are wrong and walk away? Perhaps denounce the position with little information, and hope for the best? Perhaps one would call this person a "sinner" too blind to see the real "truth," and offer to pray for them? There are many responses possible. How about someone has just read the works of Zeno and is enthralled by the presentation of facts in support of Monism, vs Plurality. Could you discuss this with the person and perhaps open their eyes to what the bible has to day about the issue? Could you respond to a non - Trinitarian Christian? Could you explain why the Christian believes what s/he does in a systematic logical fashion? After all, the Apostle Paul did.

From a simple perspective, how does one communicate beliefs and values?  To personalize this, “Do you know why you believe what you believe?” Can it be explained in a simple yet effective way? Is it easily understood? Do you really know what you are saying? 

Looking at this differently, the person just encountered has strange belief.  Clearly it is not a biblical idea, but how will you share anything that contradicts this idea with strength, conviction and most importantly organized facts?  Do you know what is being said, and why it is wrong?  How will you find out more?

If unsure, simply listen and let God guide you.  There may be times when silence is the best option.  It is rare indeed when something unusual does not come up again.  What kind of questions will you ask?  Believe it or not, many of these tools and techniques for discovering truth are found in the Bible, and because of God’s sovereignty, He has allowed non-biblically based individuals to “discover” the many of these same tactics.  Truth is very valuable indeed. 

Asking good questions is a tool or tactic used by the ancient Greeks.  We look for students of today to ask good questions as well.  We know this as the “Interrogation Method.” Plato made frequent use of this to find truth.  Do we know enough about Natural Revelation to explain some things of the Bible?  Are some ideas inferred from what we know what is in the Bible?

Some truths need to be explained, because a lie is easy very easy to spread.  What looks “right” and easy to explain may not be truly correct, and in fact pretty bad.  Truth may take longer to explain, but in the end, makes more sense.  Sadly there are those who do not wish to believe anything contrary to their own personal belief, and may need to left to their own choices.  That is the value of freedom of choice, God gives us this right which some abuse.

So, can you explain why you believe what you believe?  Can you use many sources to explain these beliefs?  Does history support some or all of what you believe?  Can you find some value in the opposing position?

These last questions will have answers that vary based on the situation encountered.  Philosophy, especially the tools of argumentation will help in this.