Andrée Seu Peterson is about to give up on the use of reason to persuade people of the validity of the tenants of Christianity. The reason is because she observes how people have a tendency these days to twist reason and language in their attempt to justify the positions they hold. This is not anything new for the human race. As Andrée observes: “. . .unaided reason as the unerring path to truth is an idea that has crashed and burned again and again on the ash heap of history”. [1]
Peterson’s point is valid but God does not expect us to avoid the use of reason. In fact, God commands us to use reason.
“. . .always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you;” (1 Peter 3:15-16 ESV)
“But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.” (James 3:17-18 ESV)
“Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord:” (Isaiah 1:18 ESV)
Proverbs is filled with admonishments to seek knowledge, wisdom, and insight.
This also demonstrates that Christianity is not the opium of the masses; in fact it is a very difficult path to take. Not only must we present our faith, we must also defend the validity of the use of reason and then use reason to defend our faith.
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[1] Andrée Seu Peterson. “Back to the Word”. World, November 6, 2021, p. 70.
