Apologetics: witnessing to atheists
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Imagine that you have suddenly begun to exist as a mentally competent or normally intelligent human being (like Adam and Eve in Genesis). Certainly, your immediate concern would be meeting your survival needs, but as soon as there was time for reflection, would you not wonder why you were “born”, how you should behave, and what you ought to accomplish with your life?
Since absolute skepticism or agnosticism is unattainable for thinkers or truthseekers, there are only two qualitatively different ways of answering these questions. One way is by assuming that there is no ultimate “whyness” or purpose beyond survival and avoiding pain, so it does not ultimately matter what one believes or does, because humanity merely evolved from eternal energy/matter, into which it “devolves” at death. You may desire for some reason to survive and to save the world, but if life becomes too painful you may wish you were never born and want to destroy the world, because there is no good reason you ought to be like Messiah rather than like Mania or to be loving rather than maniacal. You may believe and act like evil exists or not, because life is a farce or a continual “King of the Hill” (KOTH) struggle against human adversaries and various other types of adversity, having no ultimate or universal moral imperative (UMI).
The second type of answer is that life is NOT a farce—that existence has meaning, and how one believes and behaves does matter for some non-arbitrary reason. This answer seems more appealing to me and almost logically imperative, although some people appear to prefer the paths of nihilism and KOTH (cf. MT 13:14-15).
I call the first type of answer cosmaterialism, because it views reality as consisting only of the material cosmos or universe and as having only four dimensions (space plus time), which are perceived by the five physical senses, implying a perpetual history of KOTH. I call the second way of believing moralism, because—while accepting the reality of the physical/material—it also affirms a fifth dimension perceived by a sixth intuitive or spiritual sense that gives reality a logical basis for meaning and morality (which means for ending KOTH
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The choice between cosmaterialism and moralism logically is the first fundamental choice in life (cf. GN 3:5). It can be thought of as a watershed decision that divides all people into two essentially different philosophical categories or world-views like a continental divide, although the analogy breaks down at the points the various oceans connect. A person who believes cosmaterialism, moral nihilism and that life’s struggles are meaningless frequently tends to seek escape even via suicide, whether by one act or by a downward spiral of self-destructive behavior. Again, until and unless this option were somehow proven beyond doubt, moralism or viewing life as meaningful seems to be the better belief.
Since absolute skepticism or agnosticism is unattainable for thinkers or truthseekers, there are only two qualitatively different ways of answering these questions. One way is by assuming that there is no ultimate “whyness” or purpose beyond survival and avoiding pain, so it does not ultimately matter what one believes or does, because humanity merely evolved from eternal energy/matter, into which it “devolves” at death. You may desire for some reason to survive and to save the world, but if life becomes too painful you may wish you were never born and want to destroy the world, because there is no good reason you ought to be like Messiah rather than like Mania or to be loving rather than maniacal. You may believe and act like evil exists or not, because life is a farce or a continual “King of the Hill” (KOTH) struggle against human adversaries and various other types of adversity, having no ultimate or universal moral imperative (UMI).
The second type of answer is that life is NOT a farce—that existence has meaning, and how one believes and behaves does matter for some non-arbitrary reason. This answer seems more appealing to me and almost logically imperative, although some people appear to prefer the paths of nihilism and KOTH (cf. MT 13:14-15).
I call the first type of answer cosmaterialism, because it views reality as consisting only of the material cosmos or universe and as having only four dimensions (space plus time), which are perceived by the five physical senses, implying a perpetual history of KOTH. I call the second way of believing moralism, because—while accepting the reality of the physical/material—it also affirms a fifth dimension perceived by a sixth intuitive or spiritual sense that gives reality a logical basis for meaning and morality (which means for ending KOTH
.The choice between cosmaterialism and moralism logically is the first fundamental choice in life (cf. GN 3:5). It can be thought of as a watershed decision that divides all people into two essentially different philosophical categories or world-views like a continental divide, although the analogy breaks down at the points the various oceans connect. A person who believes cosmaterialism, moral nihilism and that life’s struggles are meaningless frequently tends to seek escape even via suicide, whether by one act or by a downward spiral of self-destructive behavior. Again, until and unless this option were somehow proven beyond doubt, moralism or viewing life as meaningful seems to be the better belief.
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Thanks, and with that encouragement I will proceed to presenting the second watershed decision, which flows immediately and implicitly from the moralist viewpoint (like major rivers from one side of the Divide)—choosing what (or who) to believe gives existence meaning and under-girds moral conscience.
As one analyzes the variety of moralistic beliefs, there seem to be four main viewpoints extant in the world:
1. the ground of meaning/morality is human power (humanism, cf. GN 11:4),
2. there is a natural moral law or karma in the universe (karmaism, cf. GL 6:7),
3. there is natural “meaning” with an instinct or proclivity toward morality (naturalism, cf. RM 2:14),
4. a supernatural Supreme Being exists, especially biblical and especially NT monotheism (belief in one God, GN 17:1&DT6:4, EPH4:6).
Examining the evidence for the various viewpoints makes it evident that the only viable alternative to atheism in its diverse forms is NT theism, which reformed the OT concept of God by revealing that the one almighty God is also all-loving (per 1TM 2:3-7). It views God as creating and communicating by means of His Word (GN 1 & Logos in JN 1:1), and it affirms that the world is created intentionally rather than accidentally “banged” from a “singularity” (RM 1:20&25).
The atheist opinion indicates that the existence of a supernatural Deity is not proven and it asserts that one cannot prove a negative, so the burden is on theists to prove God exists. However, this assertion assumes God is not the positive “I AM”, the essence of existence (EX 3:14). A neutral statement about ultimate reality is the following: “It is logical to remain open to believing all credible possibilities (those which present sufficient evidence) and to hope the most desirable rational possibility is true.” Alternatively, the Bible indicates that the purpose of this life is rather for humans to prove to God they are worthy of—or qualify for—heaven (cf. DT 6:16 & MT 4:7).
This discussion shows that everyone lives by faith regarding God or ultimate reality (2CR 5:7), and the structure of earthly reality forces souls to choose between various contradictory beliefs and to make (albeit sometimes rather subconsciously) the two watershed choices described: between nihilism and moralism, and between the various atheistic beliefs and the highest type of theism, NT Christianity. (I believe the last is best: Let there be God! :^)
As one analyzes the variety of moralistic beliefs, there seem to be four main viewpoints extant in the world:
1. the ground of meaning/morality is human power (humanism, cf. GN 11:4),
2. there is a natural moral law or karma in the universe (karmaism, cf. GL 6:7),
3. there is natural “meaning” with an instinct or proclivity toward morality (naturalism, cf. RM 2:14),
4. a supernatural Supreme Being exists, especially biblical and especially NT monotheism (belief in one God, GN 17:1&DT6:4, EPH4:6).
Examining the evidence for the various viewpoints makes it evident that the only viable alternative to atheism in its diverse forms is NT theism, which reformed the OT concept of God by revealing that the one almighty God is also all-loving (per 1TM 2:3-7). It views God as creating and communicating by means of His Word (GN 1 & Logos in JN 1:1), and it affirms that the world is created intentionally rather than accidentally “banged” from a “singularity” (RM 1:20&25).
The atheist opinion indicates that the existence of a supernatural Deity is not proven and it asserts that one cannot prove a negative, so the burden is on theists to prove God exists. However, this assertion assumes God is not the positive “I AM”, the essence of existence (EX 3:14). A neutral statement about ultimate reality is the following: “It is logical to remain open to believing all credible possibilities (those which present sufficient evidence) and to hope the most desirable rational possibility is true.” Alternatively, the Bible indicates that the purpose of this life is rather for humans to prove to God they are worthy of—or qualify for—heaven (cf. DT 6:16 & MT 4:7).
This discussion shows that everyone lives by faith regarding God or ultimate reality (2CR 5:7), and the structure of earthly reality forces souls to choose between various contradictory beliefs and to make (albeit sometimes rather subconsciously) the two watershed choices described: between nihilism and moralism, and between the various atheistic beliefs and the highest type of theism, NT Christianity. (I believe the last is best: Let there be God! :^)
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Atheists claim there is no more evidence for the existence of God, the Creator and Judge of humanity, than for the reality of obviously fictional entities, such as Odin or unicorns. However, four types of evidence or reasoning may be viewed as supporting rational belief in God, although they do not prove He exists: the unique universe, theocentric human history, existential need and moral conscience.
Current scientific theory states that the universe expanded with a “bang” when a singularity of energy exploded, and that it will end with a “whimper” when the stars eventually fade to darkness. This unique universe theory is compatible or consistent with belief in a God who created the universe “ex nihilo”, who sustains it by His power, and who will judge its moral agents at the end of time.
Current knowledge of world history suggests that humanity descended from one genetic source and evolved into various cultures. Throughout history humanity has perceived deity to be the ground of meaning and morality. Theocentric history reached its apex or spiritual climax with the NT teaching that there is one almighty and all-loving God, who desires all humanity to live in harmony on earth and also in heaven, and who allows humanity to experience earthly existence including pain and disappointment for the purpose of teaching them their need for Him (cf. HB 12:10).
Current existential reality indicates that mortals need God in order to obtain immortality, that morality needs God for a universal imperative and ultimate justice, and that the NT offers the best hope that this “duo of desirables” (DOD) or heaven and justice/hell can be attained. Just as physical needs are satisfied by material realities, perhaps our metaphysical needs indicate the reality of supernatural solutions (the God of the DOD).
Moral conscience indicates and logically requires accountability to a moral authority, and the supreme Authority would be God. Paul wrote (in RM 1:32 & 2:15) that people “know God’s decree that those who do evil deserve death” and that their consciences “show that the requirements of the [God’s moral] law are written on their hearts.” Our feeble attempts at earthly justice may reflect or serve as evidence of God’s perfect justice. (This has similarities with Platonic idealism, cf. 1CR 13:12, HB 8:5, 9:23 & 10:1). We may perceive perfect justice partially (1CR 13:9-12) using spiritual eyes/intuition/a sixth sense along with inference, logic, and even imagination. [Slashes indicate equivalent terms.]
Current scientific theory states that the universe expanded with a “bang” when a singularity of energy exploded, and that it will end with a “whimper” when the stars eventually fade to darkness. This unique universe theory is compatible or consistent with belief in a God who created the universe “ex nihilo”, who sustains it by His power, and who will judge its moral agents at the end of time.
Current knowledge of world history suggests that humanity descended from one genetic source and evolved into various cultures. Throughout history humanity has perceived deity to be the ground of meaning and morality. Theocentric history reached its apex or spiritual climax with the NT teaching that there is one almighty and all-loving God, who desires all humanity to live in harmony on earth and also in heaven, and who allows humanity to experience earthly existence including pain and disappointment for the purpose of teaching them their need for Him (cf. HB 12:10).
Current existential reality indicates that mortals need God in order to obtain immortality, that morality needs God for a universal imperative and ultimate justice, and that the NT offers the best hope that this “duo of desirables” (DOD) or heaven and justice/hell can be attained. Just as physical needs are satisfied by material realities, perhaps our metaphysical needs indicate the reality of supernatural solutions (the God of the DOD).
Moral conscience indicates and logically requires accountability to a moral authority, and the supreme Authority would be God. Paul wrote (in RM 1:32 & 2:15) that people “know God’s decree that those who do evil deserve death” and that their consciences “show that the requirements of the [God’s moral] law are written on their hearts.” Our feeble attempts at earthly justice may reflect or serve as evidence of God’s perfect justice. (This has similarities with Platonic idealism, cf. 1CR 13:12, HB 8:5, 9:23 & 10:1). We may perceive perfect justice partially (1CR 13:9-12) using spiritual eyes/intuition/a sixth sense along with inference, logic, and even imagination. [Slashes indicate equivalent terms.]
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This evidence is not proof, but because this hope and belief are based on evidence and logic, it is rational rather than “blind”, and it is made even more intellectually reasonable or defensible by acknowledging ways God would be disproved, which include the following:
1. If atheists or anti-christians created eternal life, because the Bible teaches that eternal life is God’s gift only to believers in Him (JN 3:16).
2. If the body of Jesus of Nazareth were discovered in a tomb, because Paul stated that if Christ is not resurrected, then faith is useless (1CR 15:14).
3. If it were proven that moral free will (MFW) is an illusion, because the premise of biblical morality is that human souls are accountable (DT 30:19-20).
4. If human-like beings on another planet had no salvation history involving God and Christ, because the Bible teaches that God is Lord of all (PHP 2:9-11). (Caveat: If they are included in the Great Commission, their history would be like the OT.)
5. If God could prove His existence to people without abrogating free will (cf. 2CR 5:7), but apparently God performs miracles only as necessary to accomplish His plan of salvation (see Part VI).
6. If it were proved that the universe is not created, because resurrection or re-creation presupposes creation and thus a Creator (ACTS 17:24-31).
1. If atheists or anti-christians created eternal life, because the Bible teaches that eternal life is God’s gift only to believers in Him (JN 3:16).
2. If the body of Jesus of Nazareth were discovered in a tomb, because Paul stated that if Christ is not resurrected, then faith is useless (1CR 15:14).
3. If it were proven that moral free will (MFW) is an illusion, because the premise of biblical morality is that human souls are accountable (DT 30:19-20).
4. If human-like beings on another planet had no salvation history involving God and Christ, because the Bible teaches that God is Lord of all (PHP 2:9-11). (Caveat: If they are included in the Great Commission, their history would be like the OT.)
5. If God could prove His existence to people without abrogating free will (cf. 2CR 5:7), but apparently God performs miracles only as necessary to accomplish His plan of salvation (see Part VI).
6. If it were proved that the universe is not created, because resurrection or re-creation presupposes creation and thus a Creator (ACTS 17:24-31).
Adam and Woman shifted their focus to their survival needs only after the fall. Prior, they saw themselves as spirits clothed in flesh (that is why they did not perceive themselves to be naked) Personally, they were like their Father, God, who had no concern for provision or protection. All resources required for life were provided by their Father. They had no need.
It is only after they elevated the needs of the flesh to prominence, that they began to identify with their container. The first order of business was to hide from their Father, Who now, in their minds, threatened their existence. Why? Because they perceived that life was in the flesh and God could undo flesh as simple as He made it. They lost all understanding that life was in the Spirit that was within them.
Again, the Truth is not moral, or moralism as you put it. Truth is actually a person.
“I am (Jesus) the way and the truth and the life."
Life begins and ends at the connection to God, the I Am. And, because this is spiritual, it's only through revelation that we may find any logic in it: but that is for the renewing of the mind of our souls that have elevated provision and protection of the body to primacy.
The ministry of reconciliation, then, is returning man to the original state before the fall; when his identity was connected to the spirit in him which is from God. In this, man has no need for concern about provision:
Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?
or protection:
So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
Adam and Woman did not begin their existence in a vacuum. They knew themselves as they knew their Father: as spirit. We must begin there to understand why, for what reason and how we are to be reconciled to God our Father.
It is only after they elevated the needs of the flesh to prominence, that they began to identify with their container. The first order of business was to hide from their Father, Who now, in their minds, threatened their existence. Why? Because they perceived that life was in the flesh and God could undo flesh as simple as He made it. They lost all understanding that life was in the Spirit that was within them.
Again, the Truth is not moral, or moralism as you put it. Truth is actually a person.
“I am (Jesus) the way and the truth and the life."
Life begins and ends at the connection to God, the I Am. And, because this is spiritual, it's only through revelation that we may find any logic in it: but that is for the renewing of the mind of our souls that have elevated provision and protection of the body to primacy.
The ministry of reconciliation, then, is returning man to the original state before the fall; when his identity was connected to the spirit in him which is from God. In this, man has no need for concern about provision:
Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?
or protection:
So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
Adam and Woman did not begin their existence in a vacuum. They knew themselves as they knew their Father: as spirit. We must begin there to understand why, for what reason and how we are to be reconciled to God our Father.
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Re my scenario: It envisions existence post Eden.
Re Truth: Yes, Jesus embodies it, and the HS/GW communicates it.
Re "We must begin there to understand why, for what reason and how we are to be reconciled to God our Father.": Yes, and that is what apologetics endeavors to lead atheists to do. Looking forward to more of your input regarding this effort.
Re Truth: Yes, Jesus embodies it, and the HS/GW communicates it.
Re "We must begin there to understand why, for what reason and how we are to be reconciled to God our Father.": Yes, and that is what apologetics endeavors to lead atheists to do. Looking forward to more of your input regarding this effort.
That's literally and scientifically impossible, not sure how many PHDs you have in this subject Major, but i would first read Aaron's words about your comments in regards to Adam and Eve's survival needs.
1. If atheists or anti-Christians created eternal life, because the Bible teaches that eternal life is God’s gift only to believers in Him (JN 3:16).
2. If the body of Jesus of Nazareth were discovered in a tomb, because Paul stated that if Christ is not resurrected, then faith is useless (1CR 15:14).
3. If it were proven that moral free will (MFW) is an illusion, because the premise of biblical morality is that human souls are accountable (DT 30:19-20).
4. If human-like beings on another planet had no salvation history involving God and Christ, because the Bible teaches that God is Lord of all (PHP 2:9-11). (Caveat: If they are included in the Great Commission, their history would be like the OT.)
5. If God could prove His existence to people without abrogating free will (cf. 2CR 5:7), but apparently God performs miracles only as necessary to accomplish His plan of salvation.
6. If it were proved that the universe is not created, because resurrection or re-creation presupposes creation and thus a Creator (ACTS 17:24-31).
So PTL and pass me the atheists! :^)
Sigh.
I think you need a vacation.
Okay let's go through your confusions major.
No one can create eternal life, it's literally impossible scientifically because it requires finite resources which will run out of the universe due to increasing entropy where nothing will exist in the extremely far future. (current understanding)
I asked you a few weeks ago if you wanted to discuss interesting things like gene modification or AI or uploading consciousness in a computer.
But you didn't have any interest for any of that because you want to talk about abortion all day.
So let me know if you want to discuss these things in detail.
This is also impossible because He was seen by 500 people after resurrection, besides His apostles. Have you seen Lee Strobel's analysis on this?
Hahah. Good one. Ask the fish to prove that he's in a fish tank by going outside the tank.
Good one!
LOL
Bro, people might have a hard time understanding your Bible interpretations in Somalia, nevermind an alien species.
I don't quite understand this.
Hahah.
Yeah, ask the fish to go outside of the fish bowl and take a photograph of the bowl.
I think you need a vacation.
Okay let's go through your confusions major.
No one can create eternal life, it's literally impossible scientifically because it requires finite resources which will run out of the universe due to increasing entropy where nothing will exist in the extremely far future. (current understanding)
I asked you a few weeks ago if you wanted to discuss interesting things like gene modification or AI or uploading consciousness in a computer.
But you didn't have any interest for any of that because you want to talk about abortion all day.
So let me know if you want to discuss these things in detail.
This is also impossible because He was seen by 500 people after resurrection, besides His apostles. Have you seen Lee Strobel's analysis on this?
Hahah. Good one. Ask the fish to prove that he's in a fish tank by going outside the tank.
Good one!
LOL
Bro, people might have a hard time understanding your Bible interpretations in Somalia, nevermind an alien species.
I don't quite understand this.
Hahah.
Yeah, ask the fish to go outside of the fish bowl and take a photograph of the bowl.
Sigh.
I think you need a vacation.
Okay let's go through your confusions major.
No one can create eternal life, it's literally impossible scientifically because it requires finite resources which will run out of the universe due to increasing entropy where nothing will exist in the extremely far future. (current understanding)
I asked you a few weeks ago if you wanted to discuss interesting things like gene modification or AI or uploading consciousness in a computer.
But you didn't have any interest for any of that because you want to talk about abortion all day.
So let me know if you want to discuss these things in detail.
This is also impossible because He was seen by 500 people after resurrection, besides His apostles. Have you seen Lee Strobel's analysis on this?
Hahah. Good one. Ask the fish to prove that he's in a fish tank by going outside the tank.
Good one!
LOL
Bro, people might have a hard time understanding your Bible interpretations in Somalia, nevermind an alien species.
I don't quite understand this.
Hahah.
Yeah, ask the fish to go outside of the fish bowl and take a photograph of the bowl.
I think you need a vacation.
Okay let's go through your confusions major.
No one can create eternal life, it's literally impossible scientifically because it requires finite resources which will run out of the universe due to increasing entropy where nothing will exist in the extremely far future. (current understanding)
I asked you a few weeks ago if you wanted to discuss interesting things like gene modification or AI or uploading consciousness in a computer.
But you didn't have any interest for any of that because you want to talk about abortion all day.
So let me know if you want to discuss these things in detail.
This is also impossible because He was seen by 500 people after resurrection, besides His apostles. Have you seen Lee Strobel's analysis on this?
Hahah. Good one. Ask the fish to prove that he's in a fish tank by going outside the tank.
Good one!
LOL
Bro, people might have a hard time understanding your Bible interpretations in Somalia, nevermind an alien species.
I don't quite understand this.
Hahah.
Yeah, ask the fish to go outside of the fish bowl and take a photograph of the bowl.
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Because everyone walks by faith rather than by sight or proof regarding ultimate or spiritual reality (per 2CR 5:7 & 1CR 13:12), both theism and atheism require faith in their opposing opinions. However, the NT teaches there will come a time/Judgment Day—at the resurrection or eschaton—when the proof atheists demand will be provided, and KOTH will end. At that time theism will be revealed as the right or true ideology as souls reap the opposite destinies of heaven and hell in accordance with their moral choices, beginning with their decision whether to love or to disregard God (cf. MT 7:24-27).
The choices correspond to the following questions: For a humanist, “Is there any reason I should not be selfish?” [No/Yes, depending on how you feel or what the rulers decree or how the majority votes.] For a karmaist, “Does how I live ultimately matter?” [Not unless you can remember previous lives.] For a naturalist, “Does instinct negate volition? [If not, then why is evil/hatred not equally right or existentially lawful?] And for a theist, “What does God desire?” [That depends upon what message or revelation is from God.]
Answering these questions involves understanding how truth is acquired (epistemology). Some knowledge is gleaned directly from personal experiences and is available to all who seek to know the truth with an open mind (like Socrates or Buddha) by means of reflecting or meditating on experiences logically. The apostle Paul indicated the world reveals God’s “invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature” (RM 1:20) and that conscience indicates “the requirements of the law” (RM 2:15). A second possible way of obtaining knowledge is by learning from the insights or inspiration of others, especially Jesus (JN 14:9-11) and Paul (GL 1:11-12 & TIT 1:1-3). One's own insights could be a combination of reflection and inspiration, perhaps taught by God’s indwelling Spirit, who Jesus said would “guide you into all truth” (JN 16:13).
As I evaluate the various answers and teachers or claimants to knowledge, IMO humanism provides no hope for ultimate “oughtness”, because there is no logical way to avoid moral relativism without a superhuman Judge. Karmaism offers a rationale for reincarnation, but I have explained why I view it as incredible. Naturalism does not even provide a rationale for morality/the UMI, but rather it implies that what is, is right. However, I do find reasons to believe NT theism is true. I think any open-minded truthseeker who compares the NT teachings of Jesus and Paul with the founding scriptures of other religions will reach the same conclusion as I have: The NT is the most credible canon or collection of writings purporting to be a communique from God.
The NT hope for heaven is based on evidence in support of Jesus’ claim to be Messiah/Christ, which includes: the prophecy or foreshadowing of His life (in various OT scriptures, including IS 53 and PS 22, and by the sacrificial system), the purpose of His death (as explained in the NT, such as HB 7:18-10:18), and the probability or credibility of His resurrection (in history as recorded by the last chapters of the Gospels and RM 1:3-4).
Christianity qualified, amended and superseded OT theism, which emphasized God’s love for some people (descendants of Abraham), with a UMI to love everyone by reflecting His love, beginning with God and continuing with one-self and one’s neighbors (whether Jew or Gentile) and even including one’s enemies (per MT 22:37-39 & 5:44). The best reason to hope in God is Christ. Paul calls those who have saving faith/cooperate with God’s will the spiritual or righteous children of Abraham (RM 3:28-30 & 4:9-16). (TOP #44: Although many Jews reject the Gospel/Christ, God’s covenant with Abraham did not fail, because the children of Abraham includes (spiritually circumcised) Gentiles. [RM 9:1-33, cf. TOP #26] TOP #26: Abraham is the spiritual father of all who have faith in God and Jesus. [RM 4:1-25]
The choices correspond to the following questions: For a humanist, “Is there any reason I should not be selfish?” [No/Yes, depending on how you feel or what the rulers decree or how the majority votes.] For a karmaist, “Does how I live ultimately matter?” [Not unless you can remember previous lives.] For a naturalist, “Does instinct negate volition? [If not, then why is evil/hatred not equally right or existentially lawful?] And for a theist, “What does God desire?” [That depends upon what message or revelation is from God.]
Answering these questions involves understanding how truth is acquired (epistemology). Some knowledge is gleaned directly from personal experiences and is available to all who seek to know the truth with an open mind (like Socrates or Buddha) by means of reflecting or meditating on experiences logically. The apostle Paul indicated the world reveals God’s “invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature” (RM 1:20) and that conscience indicates “the requirements of the law” (RM 2:15). A second possible way of obtaining knowledge is by learning from the insights or inspiration of others, especially Jesus (JN 14:9-11) and Paul (GL 1:11-12 & TIT 1:1-3). One's own insights could be a combination of reflection and inspiration, perhaps taught by God’s indwelling Spirit, who Jesus said would “guide you into all truth” (JN 16:13).
As I evaluate the various answers and teachers or claimants to knowledge, IMO humanism provides no hope for ultimate “oughtness”, because there is no logical way to avoid moral relativism without a superhuman Judge. Karmaism offers a rationale for reincarnation, but I have explained why I view it as incredible. Naturalism does not even provide a rationale for morality/the UMI, but rather it implies that what is, is right. However, I do find reasons to believe NT theism is true. I think any open-minded truthseeker who compares the NT teachings of Jesus and Paul with the founding scriptures of other religions will reach the same conclusion as I have: The NT is the most credible canon or collection of writings purporting to be a communique from God.
The NT hope for heaven is based on evidence in support of Jesus’ claim to be Messiah/Christ, which includes: the prophecy or foreshadowing of His life (in various OT scriptures, including IS 53 and PS 22, and by the sacrificial system), the purpose of His death (as explained in the NT, such as HB 7:18-10:18), and the probability or credibility of His resurrection (in history as recorded by the last chapters of the Gospels and RM 1:3-4).
Christianity qualified, amended and superseded OT theism, which emphasized God’s love for some people (descendants of Abraham), with a UMI to love everyone by reflecting His love, beginning with God and continuing with one-self and one’s neighbors (whether Jew or Gentile) and even including one’s enemies (per MT 22:37-39 & 5:44). The best reason to hope in God is Christ. Paul calls those who have saving faith/cooperate with God’s will the spiritual or righteous children of Abraham (RM 3:28-30 & 4:9-16). (TOP #44: Although many Jews reject the Gospel/Christ, God’s covenant with Abraham did not fail, because the children of Abraham includes (spiritually circumcised) Gentiles. [RM 9:1-33, cf. TOP #26] TOP #26: Abraham is the spiritual father of all who have faith in God and Jesus. [RM 4:1-25]
I am glad no one disagrees with the teaching in Hebrews 7:18-10:1 that the NT supersedes (amends, updates) the OT, so now I will share a logical train of thought supporting faith in the NT God that I call "The Propensity Principle" (PP), which "for the sake of argument" begins with the atheist claim that the evidence for God’s existence is debatable by pointing out that perhaps proof will occur in the future at the eschaton. (An analogy is modern DNA analysis, which currently is providing evidence that was future at the time the accused were tried, but on the basis of which some are now deemed to have been falsely convicted and are being released.)
The PP posits that humanity’s existential need and desire for eternal life and ultimate justice make it logical for truthseekers to have a propensity to hope and believe a God who provides the DOD exists, to determine the most credible revelation of God’s requirement for attaining heaven, and to cooperate with His revealed will. Again, it seems more logical (after studying humanity’s variety of beliefs) given the existential facts of death and imperfect justice that an unbiased truthseeker would have a propensity to hope the Christian Gospel is true, because there seems to be no better (credible and desirable) way of attaining the DOD than NT theism.
This PP restates Pascal’s wager in terms of comparison shopping (with all belief systems) instead of gambling, and it employs linear logic (rather than circular reasoning) to propose faith in the NT God as the best belief that solves the maze of reality as follows:
1. Scientific knowledge cannot explain how the universe came to exist by means of natural causes, thus it is possible that the cause of the universe is a supernatural Creator/God.
2. The most creative species is humanity, whose traits also include language, moral conscience and God consciousness (personality), and it is possible that these human traits reflect attributes of a God who created humanity.
3. Existential reality indicates that humans are mortal and life is painful, but when life is happy, one wishes it would continue indefinitely. Thus, it is rational to seek ways to become immortal in a heavenly existence (where there is love and justice for all forever, the DOD).
4. Comparing all possible ways of achieving the DOD, the best or most credible way/hope at this point appears to be the God who resurrected Christ Jesus.
5. When words from God are sought, the NT teachings of Jesus and Paul seem to be the most highly inspired when compared with other scriptures (including the OT), because its concept of one God as the just and all-loving Judge (rationale for morality) is spiritually highest or most advanced, and the evidence for the resurrection of Jesus is most credible.
6. Thus, it is appropriate or wise to believe in the NT God and to accept Jesus as God’s Messiah.
Atheists deny the validity of this argument, but in the absence of disproof, I find the decision to reject the biblical gospel of salvation from selfishness, spiritual death, and a miserable destiny to be illogical or foolish. This is why all truthseekers should agree on NT theism now rather than assume atheism is an unlucky guess.
The PP posits that humanity’s existential need and desire for eternal life and ultimate justice make it logical for truthseekers to have a propensity to hope and believe a God who provides the DOD exists, to determine the most credible revelation of God’s requirement for attaining heaven, and to cooperate with His revealed will. Again, it seems more logical (after studying humanity’s variety of beliefs) given the existential facts of death and imperfect justice that an unbiased truthseeker would have a propensity to hope the Christian Gospel is true, because there seems to be no better (credible and desirable) way of attaining the DOD than NT theism.
This PP restates Pascal’s wager in terms of comparison shopping (with all belief systems) instead of gambling, and it employs linear logic (rather than circular reasoning) to propose faith in the NT God as the best belief that solves the maze of reality as follows:
1. Scientific knowledge cannot explain how the universe came to exist by means of natural causes, thus it is possible that the cause of the universe is a supernatural Creator/God.
2. The most creative species is humanity, whose traits also include language, moral conscience and God consciousness (personality), and it is possible that these human traits reflect attributes of a God who created humanity.
3. Existential reality indicates that humans are mortal and life is painful, but when life is happy, one wishes it would continue indefinitely. Thus, it is rational to seek ways to become immortal in a heavenly existence (where there is love and justice for all forever, the DOD).
4. Comparing all possible ways of achieving the DOD, the best or most credible way/hope at this point appears to be the God who resurrected Christ Jesus.
5. When words from God are sought, the NT teachings of Jesus and Paul seem to be the most highly inspired when compared with other scriptures (including the OT), because its concept of one God as the just and all-loving Judge (rationale for morality) is spiritually highest or most advanced, and the evidence for the resurrection of Jesus is most credible.
6. Thus, it is appropriate or wise to believe in the NT God and to accept Jesus as God’s Messiah.
Atheists deny the validity of this argument, but in the absence of disproof, I find the decision to reject the biblical gospel of salvation from selfishness, spiritual death, and a miserable destiny to be illogical or foolish. This is why all truthseekers should agree on NT theism now rather than assume atheism is an unlucky guess.
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As someone has said, heaven is like a vision of water in the desert: the scoffer will surely die where he/she is, while the believer will live if right. The PP rewords this analogy in terms of comparison shopping and logic rather than of blind faith and fear. True love for God is evoked by His love for humanity and is a reflection of His loving Holy Spirit (1JN 4:7-12); it cannot be coerced, although it can be imitated (2CR 11:14 calls Satan an “angel of light”). Heaven may not be a mirage!
A biblical illustration of the PP is the OT story about Naaman being told to bathe in the dirty Jordan River to cure his leprosy (2KG 5:10-14). The Naaman Example teaches us not to let sinful pride prevent us from being cured of spiritual sickness by methods we think are silly or do not understand. Some people might not understand why God ordained Messiah to atone for humanity’s sins, so they think the Gospel seems foolish or silly (cf. 1CR 1:18-25). However, they accept physical reality without necessarily understanding very well how it works (cf. JN 3:8). God’s way: humility = teachability.
Those who reject the PP (and Naaman Example) apparently employ a logical fallacy I call non praecedere (comparable to non sequitur), making an unwarranted conclusion which precedes unknown facts, namely the cause for the universe “banging bigly”. Atheists assume a natural cause or disproof of God will be discovered, but their assumption is premature and thus inappropriate.
I emphasize logic/reason without intending to demean emotion. Both are important aspects of personality, but their relationship is analogous to that of saving faith and works: faith precedes love (per GL 5:6), and right reasoning should guide one’s emotion. Biblical passages that seem to support the view that human logic is a divine gift include the following:
1. “Come now, let us reason together,” says the Lord. (IS 1:18a)
2. “They hated me without reason.” (JN 15:25)
3. “So [Paul] reasoned in the synagogue with the Jews and the God-fearing Greeks, as well as in the marketplace day by day with those who happened to be there.” (ACTS 17:17)
4. “We do, however, speak a message of wisdom [right reasoning] among the mature…” (1CR 2:6)
5. “When I was a child… I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me.” (1CR 13:11)
6. “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” (1PT 3:15b)
These passages indicate that we should think and attempt to learn the best beliefs/opinions or solutions regarding issues including the arguments or accusations of atheists.
A biblical illustration of the PP is the OT story about Naaman being told to bathe in the dirty Jordan River to cure his leprosy (2KG 5:10-14). The Naaman Example teaches us not to let sinful pride prevent us from being cured of spiritual sickness by methods we think are silly or do not understand. Some people might not understand why God ordained Messiah to atone for humanity’s sins, so they think the Gospel seems foolish or silly (cf. 1CR 1:18-25). However, they accept physical reality without necessarily understanding very well how it works (cf. JN 3:8). God’s way: humility = teachability.
Those who reject the PP (and Naaman Example) apparently employ a logical fallacy I call non praecedere (comparable to non sequitur), making an unwarranted conclusion which precedes unknown facts, namely the cause for the universe “banging bigly”. Atheists assume a natural cause or disproof of God will be discovered, but their assumption is premature and thus inappropriate.
I emphasize logic/reason without intending to demean emotion. Both are important aspects of personality, but their relationship is analogous to that of saving faith and works: faith precedes love (per GL 5:6), and right reasoning should guide one’s emotion. Biblical passages that seem to support the view that human logic is a divine gift include the following:
1. “Come now, let us reason together,” says the Lord. (IS 1:18a)
2. “They hated me without reason.” (JN 15:25)
3. “So [Paul] reasoned in the synagogue with the Jews and the God-fearing Greeks, as well as in the marketplace day by day with those who happened to be there.” (ACTS 17:17)
4. “We do, however, speak a message of wisdom [right reasoning] among the mature…” (1CR 2:6)
5. “When I was a child… I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me.” (1CR 13:11)
6. “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” (1PT 3:15b)
These passages indicate that we should think and attempt to learn the best beliefs/opinions or solutions regarding issues including the arguments or accusations of atheists.
As truthseekers, whenever we encounter someone who has a contradictory understanding, we want to learn which is the better belief, to admit when we are wrong, and to change our opinion. As people-lovers we want to share our knowledge with other truthseekers, so that we may fellowship (2TM 4:3-4, 1JN 1:3).
According to the Bible, God created everything else that exists (GN 1:1, JR 10:16, JN 1:1-3), including the ability by volitional beings (souls) to choose to rebel against His Lordship (GN 2:16, DT 30:19). Our finite minds cannot comprehend how God does this (IS 40:28). However, neither are we able to understand why the universe exists without God (JN 3:8). Theistic and atheistic cosmologies are both mind-boggling! Just as atheists believe that somehow the world always existed and somewhat intelligent beings evolved, so theists believe that for some reason the eternal Intelligence or Spirit of God created and pervades the physical universe, including the brains of those who freely will to spit in His face (RM 5:6-8, MT 27:30)! (What God was doing before the creation of time/space is as inconceivable as nothing/atheism.) As Immanuel Kant indicated: humans do not have the mental categories or ability to imagine alternative or supernatural reality, which may be why the NT does not describe immortality and hell in detail (cf. 1CR 15:35-44 and MT 24:51, 25:30, 41&46.) However, I will share my understanding of the NT concept of God, “the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God” (1TM 1:17), in terms of seven words.
Four terms are used to describe (but not explain and certainly not “box in”) the supernatural power of God: omnipotent (almighty), omniscient (all-knowing/ intelligent), omnipresent (everywhere), and omnitemporal (eternal). “Natural laws” actually are God’s ongoing first miracle (RM1:20), and supernatural resurrection to judgment will be the final miracle (HB 9:27-28, 1CR 15:12-26). If the NT is not too good to be true, then the Lord of the universe is neither dictatorial nor distant, but rather He relates to humanity. Although we cannot comprehend the infinite God completely, we can do so sufficiently in order to achieve the type of relationship God desires to have with humanity (JN 14:9-25). God desires communion.
1. God’s omnipotence means that He can do everything except “disown Himself” or not be God (2TM 2:13). It does NOT mean that God can perform logical absurdities, such as creating a rock too large for Him to move. Omnipotence or sovereignty also means that human MFW has limits with regard to how it can contradict God’s will. God provides morally competent humans the ability to resist His intentional will and plan of salvation (POS) within limits, such as the time limit that will end with death, resurrection (the last miracle) and judgment (per HB 9:27)–called His permissive will.
According to the Bible, God created everything else that exists (GN 1:1, JR 10:16, JN 1:1-3), including the ability by volitional beings (souls) to choose to rebel against His Lordship (GN 2:16, DT 30:19). Our finite minds cannot comprehend how God does this (IS 40:28). However, neither are we able to understand why the universe exists without God (JN 3:8). Theistic and atheistic cosmologies are both mind-boggling! Just as atheists believe that somehow the world always existed and somewhat intelligent beings evolved, so theists believe that for some reason the eternal Intelligence or Spirit of God created and pervades the physical universe, including the brains of those who freely will to spit in His face (RM 5:6-8, MT 27:30)! (What God was doing before the creation of time/space is as inconceivable as nothing/atheism.) As Immanuel Kant indicated: humans do not have the mental categories or ability to imagine alternative or supernatural reality, which may be why the NT does not describe immortality and hell in detail (cf. 1CR 15:35-44 and MT 24:51, 25:30, 41&46.) However, I will share my understanding of the NT concept of God, “the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God” (1TM 1:17), in terms of seven words.
Four terms are used to describe (but not explain and certainly not “box in”) the supernatural power of God: omnipotent (almighty), omniscient (all-knowing/ intelligent), omnipresent (everywhere), and omnitemporal (eternal). “Natural laws” actually are God’s ongoing first miracle (RM1:20), and supernatural resurrection to judgment will be the final miracle (HB 9:27-28, 1CR 15:12-26). If the NT is not too good to be true, then the Lord of the universe is neither dictatorial nor distant, but rather He relates to humanity. Although we cannot comprehend the infinite God completely, we can do so sufficiently in order to achieve the type of relationship God desires to have with humanity (JN 14:9-25). God desires communion.
1. God’s omnipotence means that He can do everything except “disown Himself” or not be God (2TM 2:13). It does NOT mean that God can perform logical absurdities, such as creating a rock too large for Him to move. Omnipotence or sovereignty also means that human MFW has limits with regard to how it can contradict God’s will. God provides morally competent humans the ability to resist His intentional will and plan of salvation (POS) within limits, such as the time limit that will end with death, resurrection (the last miracle) and judgment (per HB 9:27)–called His permissive will.
2. God’s omnipower is equivalent to His omniscience. Jeremiah wrote that “God made the earth by his power; he founded the world by his wisdom.” (JR 10:12) Many NT passages refer to God as the source of true wisdom (e.g., ACTS 6:3, 1CR 1:25, CL 2:2-3, JM 1:5). God’s infinitely superior knowledge is extolled in Romans 11:33-34 (echoing IS 40:13-14) and Daniel 2:20-23.
Omniscience includes knowledge of people’s thoughts (PS 94:11, MT 12:25) and the foreknowledge of events (ACTS 2:23, RM 8:29, 11:2, 1PT 1:2). Some people think that God even knows what a person will be/do before that person exists (JR 1:5). If this view is correct (which I find incomprehensible), it must be maintained that God’s foreknowledge does not predetermine a person’s spiritual choice regarding the satisfaction of God’s requirement for salvation or else moral responsibility would be abrogated. I find it simpler to think that God merely tweaks the river of history occasionally to keep if flowing in the direction He intends but allows the fish to swim as they wish. God allows eddies in the river of salvation.
3. Omnipotence is connected with omnitemporality (in RV 1:18): “I am the Apha and the Omega, says the Lord God, who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.” Romans 1:20 refers to God’s “eternal power”, and Jeremiah 10:10&16 names God “the Lord Almighty”, who is true, living and eternal.
4. God’s infinite power implies omnipresence (per PS 139:7-8). God transcends spatial existence while being immanent in all points of space. (Other scriptural support for this view includes 1KG 8:27, IS 66:1, JR 23:33, ACTS 17:27-28 and EPH 4:6.)
God’s superiority over His creation must be viewed as a matter of degree or quantitatively in order to preserve the continuity between God and humanity that would be requisite for communication. However, the Bible teaches that God also differs from creatures in kind or qualitatively, so that attaining equality with Deity is impossible (IS 55:9, EPH 3:19). We can be like God (GN 3:3), and we can become one with the Son of God (JN 17:21-23), but we cannot become God (cf. Humanism).
Omniscience includes knowledge of people’s thoughts (PS 94:11, MT 12:25) and the foreknowledge of events (ACTS 2:23, RM 8:29, 11:2, 1PT 1:2). Some people think that God even knows what a person will be/do before that person exists (JR 1:5). If this view is correct (which I find incomprehensible), it must be maintained that God’s foreknowledge does not predetermine a person’s spiritual choice regarding the satisfaction of God’s requirement for salvation or else moral responsibility would be abrogated. I find it simpler to think that God merely tweaks the river of history occasionally to keep if flowing in the direction He intends but allows the fish to swim as they wish. God allows eddies in the river of salvation.
3. Omnipotence is connected with omnitemporality (in RV 1:18): “I am the Apha and the Omega, says the Lord God, who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.” Romans 1:20 refers to God’s “eternal power”, and Jeremiah 10:10&16 names God “the Lord Almighty”, who is true, living and eternal.
4. God’s infinite power implies omnipresence (per PS 139:7-8). God transcends spatial existence while being immanent in all points of space. (Other scriptural support for this view includes 1KG 8:27, IS 66:1, JR 23:33, ACTS 17:27-28 and EPH 4:6.)
God’s superiority over His creation must be viewed as a matter of degree or quantitatively in order to preserve the continuity between God and humanity that would be requisite for communication. However, the Bible teaches that God also differs from creatures in kind or qualitatively, so that attaining equality with Deity is impossible (IS 55:9, EPH 3:19). We can be like God (GN 3:3), and we can become one with the Son of God (JN 17:21-23), but we cannot become God (cf. Humanism).
Roughsoul gave permission for the following to be reposted from the To the Unbelievers thread, which I wanted to do because it is so relevant for the topic of this thread. (I condensed it a little :^)
[[1 Corinthians 15:17 (English Standard Version), "And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile and you are still in your sins."
Alright, those of the unbelieving world. The easiest way to disprove Christianity is by disproving the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. For the Christian everything hinges off of the resurrection because not only did Jesus foretell that it would occur but it ultimately proved beyond a doubt that He was God.
John 10:29-31 (ESV), "My Father, who has given them to me,[a] is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand. 30 I and the Father are one.” 31 The Jews picked up stones again to stone him.
The authenticity of the Old Testament was confirmed by Jesus who taught from it and due to the abundance of manuscripts we know we have the same Greek/Hebrew/Aramaic translation despite a few misspelled words or scribal additions.
Jesus confirmed in His own words the legitimacy of creation, Adam and Eve, Cain and Abel, Job, Noah and the flood, The Jewish exodus, Moses and the Torah, Jonah and the giant sea creature, Daniel, King David, etc. All were confirmed and spoken of as being real people and true events.
For Christianity, it wouldn't matter if the Old Testament was 100% true and then the resurrection be false. Then our faith is futile and our only hope would be within the Jewish religion that is still looking for their Messiah to come.
I'll list these key points that must be addressed when examining the resurrection.
1. Miracles
2. Prophecy
3. Historical events
4. The historicity of a man named Jesus Christ who was associated with the Biblical accounts
5. The theories that surround an empty tomb (
6. Why was the tomb guarded and sealed by 30+ Roman soldiers?
7. Eyewitness accounts
8. Could all of the Apostles and disciples been hallucinating?
9. Why would almost all of the original followers die horrible deaths for no money, no fame, and no power?
10. Secular accounts
11. The monumental shift designated by BC to AD that created such an impact, Rome would be converted.
12. Under the pressure of being killed, all they had to do was deny Jesus and pay tribute to the Roman gods and the Christians would live. Why not deny Jesus?
13. Archaeologists and historians (many being secular as well) use the Bible in the Middle East to help identify places, objects, names, etc. Why, if the book is merely filled with fables?
14. The empty tomb was first recorded to have been discovered by women (in a male-centric culture why would the disciples make that up)?
15. Why preach in the same town where Jesus was crucified that He had been risen? It would have been very easy to fact-check.
16. According to early Jewish sources like the Toledoth Jesu, they could not find the body.
17. The radical transformation of Paul.
18. The radical courage of the disciples who recorded themselves fleeing in fear as Jesus was crucified. (typically something false would not include embarrassing unmasculine topics for that culture)
19. The tomb wasn't just any tomb or mass grave of bodies. The tomb was owned by a named
Arimathea, named Joseph, a rich Jewish man part of the Sanhedrin. So the tomb could have easily been located.
20. Early creeds testify that indeed the first Christians believed what they saw or heard.
More points could be addressed and many scholarly sources have written on the topic. But to discredit the resurrection, you are then challenged to find naturalistic explanations for this historical event. As one who has already been down this road, I was left with the only plausible outcome. Jesus Christ the foundation of Christianity truly did rise from the dead and secured His place as the Messiah to the Jews and Savior to the Gentiles. Jesus boldly claimed to be the only way to salvation (John 16:6, Acts 4:12) making all other belief systems or worldviews false.
The resurrection proves all other religions and beliefs to be false. It provides only a black or white image, there is no grey. He didn't give us that option. So if Heaven and Hell exist, then the only logical response is to truly wrestle with this topic because not only is your soul impacted but so are those around you.]]
The only comment I would make is that I would not say we walk by proof, but rather by confident (rather than blind) faith per 2CR 5:7.
[[1 Corinthians 15:17 (English Standard Version), "And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile and you are still in your sins."
Alright, those of the unbelieving world. The easiest way to disprove Christianity is by disproving the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. For the Christian everything hinges off of the resurrection because not only did Jesus foretell that it would occur but it ultimately proved beyond a doubt that He was God.
John 10:29-31 (ESV), "My Father, who has given them to me,[a] is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand. 30 I and the Father are one.” 31 The Jews picked up stones again to stone him.
The authenticity of the Old Testament was confirmed by Jesus who taught from it and due to the abundance of manuscripts we know we have the same Greek/Hebrew/Aramaic translation despite a few misspelled words or scribal additions.
Jesus confirmed in His own words the legitimacy of creation, Adam and Eve, Cain and Abel, Job, Noah and the flood, The Jewish exodus, Moses and the Torah, Jonah and the giant sea creature, Daniel, King David, etc. All were confirmed and spoken of as being real people and true events.
For Christianity, it wouldn't matter if the Old Testament was 100% true and then the resurrection be false. Then our faith is futile and our only hope would be within the Jewish religion that is still looking for their Messiah to come.
I'll list these key points that must be addressed when examining the resurrection.
1. Miracles
2. Prophecy
3. Historical events
4. The historicity of a man named Jesus Christ who was associated with the Biblical accounts
5. The theories that surround an empty tomb (
6. Why was the tomb guarded and sealed by 30+ Roman soldiers?
7. Eyewitness accounts
8. Could all of the Apostles and disciples been hallucinating?
9. Why would almost all of the original followers die horrible deaths for no money, no fame, and no power?
10. Secular accounts
11. The monumental shift designated by BC to AD that created such an impact, Rome would be converted.
12. Under the pressure of being killed, all they had to do was deny Jesus and pay tribute to the Roman gods and the Christians would live. Why not deny Jesus?
13. Archaeologists and historians (many being secular as well) use the Bible in the Middle East to help identify places, objects, names, etc. Why, if the book is merely filled with fables?
14. The empty tomb was first recorded to have been discovered by women (in a male-centric culture why would the disciples make that up)?
15. Why preach in the same town where Jesus was crucified that He had been risen? It would have been very easy to fact-check.
16. According to early Jewish sources like the Toledoth Jesu, they could not find the body.
17. The radical transformation of Paul.
18. The radical courage of the disciples who recorded themselves fleeing in fear as Jesus was crucified. (typically something false would not include embarrassing unmasculine topics for that culture)
19. The tomb wasn't just any tomb or mass grave of bodies. The tomb was owned by a named
Arimathea, named Joseph, a rich Jewish man part of the Sanhedrin. So the tomb could have easily been located.
20. Early creeds testify that indeed the first Christians believed what they saw or heard.
More points could be addressed and many scholarly sources have written on the topic. But to discredit the resurrection, you are then challenged to find naturalistic explanations for this historical event. As one who has already been down this road, I was left with the only plausible outcome. Jesus Christ the foundation of Christianity truly did rise from the dead and secured His place as the Messiah to the Jews and Savior to the Gentiles. Jesus boldly claimed to be the only way to salvation (John 16:6, Acts 4:12) making all other belief systems or worldviews false.
The resurrection proves all other religions and beliefs to be false. It provides only a black or white image, there is no grey. He didn't give us that option. So if Heaven and Hell exist, then the only logical response is to truly wrestle with this topic because not only is your soul impacted but so are those around you.]]
The only comment I would make is that I would not say we walk by proof, but rather by confident (rather than blind) faith per 2CR 5:7.
Given the evidence in support of faith in Christ, why do some people choose unbelief? Perhaps some atheists have a negative or evil conception of God, which may be caused or reinforced by the words and deeds of those who claim to be theists (RM 2:24, 2PT 2:2). Who would want to believe in such a God? Rather than reject a caricature of God, an atheist should imagine the most perfect, loving and just God that he/she can, and choose to disbelieve in that benevolent Being, if good reason to do so can be found. God is NOT demonic but rather He is the Spirit of love, truth and righteousness, which are called moral attributes.
5. The Bible says that God is love and true love comes from God (1JN 4:7-21, RM 5:5), so volitional creatures or souls can love only by reflecting, imitating or cooperating with the Creator’s love. Although the Bible speaks of God hating Esau (ML 1:3) and other evil people (HS 9:15), Jesus’ teaching of love for enemies (MT 5:44) reveals that God loves all creatures including Satan but hates their sinful choices.
It seems logical to assume that the all-loving God would create the best possible world or one in which the greatest percentage of persons may attain ultimate joy (1TM 2:3-4, 2PT 3:9). God may have created all possible kinds of worlds simultaneously: the world of dead matter, the world of living plants, the world of intelligent animals, and the world of morally accountable souls/humans. God’s world/way is best.
6. The Bible teaches that God is truth (JN 1:17, 8:40, 15:26, 17:17), so all truth is from God and manifests God’s Spirit. If any atheists are truthseekers, then they are not far from the kingdom of God (MK 12:34, 2THS 2:10, JN 18:37), because Jesus promised that those who seek will find (LK 11:9&13). Of course, if the truth is that there is no God or heaven, then what we believe is no more significant than the ideology of a rock or some other evolved collection of atoms (ECC 3:20)! Truth or God’s Word is represented in the Bible as light (JN 1:1-9), which also signifies God’s glory (LK 2:9).
7. The Bible also teaches that God is justness or righteousness (RM 3:25-26, 9:14, 2THS 1:6). This doctrine is called theodicy. It means that we should be careful lest our explanations of God’s will seem unloving or unfair. If a person cannot explain how a loving God could order the execution of babies (JSH 6:17, 8:2), then possibly He did not do so. Another synonym for justness is goodness (IS 5:16).
5. The Bible says that God is love and true love comes from God (1JN 4:7-21, RM 5:5), so volitional creatures or souls can love only by reflecting, imitating or cooperating with the Creator’s love. Although the Bible speaks of God hating Esau (ML 1:3) and other evil people (HS 9:15), Jesus’ teaching of love for enemies (MT 5:44) reveals that God loves all creatures including Satan but hates their sinful choices.
It seems logical to assume that the all-loving God would create the best possible world or one in which the greatest percentage of persons may attain ultimate joy (1TM 2:3-4, 2PT 3:9). God may have created all possible kinds of worlds simultaneously: the world of dead matter, the world of living plants, the world of intelligent animals, and the world of morally accountable souls/humans. God’s world/way is best.
6. The Bible teaches that God is truth (JN 1:17, 8:40, 15:26, 17:17), so all truth is from God and manifests God’s Spirit. If any atheists are truthseekers, then they are not far from the kingdom of God (MK 12:34, 2THS 2:10, JN 18:37), because Jesus promised that those who seek will find (LK 11:9&13). Of course, if the truth is that there is no God or heaven, then what we believe is no more significant than the ideology of a rock or some other evolved collection of atoms (ECC 3:20)! Truth or God’s Word is represented in the Bible as light (JN 1:1-9), which also signifies God’s glory (LK 2:9).
7. The Bible also teaches that God is justness or righteousness (RM 3:25-26, 9:14, 2THS 1:6). This doctrine is called theodicy. It means that we should be careful lest our explanations of God’s will seem unloving or unfair. If a person cannot explain how a loving God could order the execution of babies (JSH 6:17, 8:2), then possibly He did not do so. Another synonym for justness is goodness (IS 5:16).