Theology is a tricky business… defined as the, “study of the nature of God and religious truth; rational inquiry into religious questions.” Atheists and agnostics understandably question how “rational inquiry” can fit into a framework of “religious truth”, since one is based largely on observation and the other, the supernatural.
I receive from my atheist readers a continuous barrage of links on articles, books, videos and podcasts offering insight into the supernatural (or the lack thereof) from frameworks outside of a Biblical Christian worldview. Their intent is to offer cogent proof that my core theology is incorrect. My response is always the same. I respectfully explain why the resource falls outside of my worldview core beliefs and that exploring those philosophies serves no good purpose when one is under time constraints, as I always am.
Narrow Minded
Of course, my responses are correctly viewed as narrow minded as I am not open to other points of view. Ironically, most Christians I have had contact with are much more resistant to theology outside of their comfort zone, which is why there are so many Christian denominations in the world, each fearful and even antagonistic toward each other. My view is that there is a set of core beliefs than are Biblically clear and non-negotiable (details here). Outside of the core, I believe we all have something wrong with our non-core doctrine that will be straightened out at the feet of Jesus, in Heaven.
Church of Latter-Day Saints – Mormons
The latest request was from one who refers to himself as “areligionist” rather than an atheist, which he defines as someone who “doesn’t believe in [any] religions”. He suggested I listen to two podcasts from the “Biblical Scholar” Dan McClellan that I might find interesting as they tend to support a Biblical Christian Worldview. I certainly support his reasoning for offering the recommendation. And I do, briefly, “test the spirit” (1 John 4:1) in an effort to be open to new, non-core thoughts and perspectives.
That brief testing identified Dan McClellan as a Mormon. As such, his core beliefs include the view that there are four sources of divinely inspired books, including the Bible (as translated falsely by the LDS Church). He believes one earns their place in various levels and locations of heaven based on good deeds performed on Earth. Mormons believe that God was human at some point, and therefore not always the Supreme Being of the universe. Further, they reject Christ as part of the Trinity. All these theological views fall outside my core beliefs (details here).
Narrow Minded vs. Prioritizing the Truth
One can study all types of religious beliefs. There are thousands of them available on social media, books, podcasts, videos, and person-to-person. Is that what God wants us to spend our time doing… trying to ferret out some measure of truth by exploring the false? Or, is this more the domain of Satan and his minions?
2 Corinthians 11:14 – And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light.
Even if we had unlimited time to explore the false which has threads of truth contained within it… is that really the best use of our time on earth? Does that enhance our view of God, or increase our worship of Him? Does it offer a smoother ride in the afterlife? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, pray that God would grant you insight into His Heavenly truths.
Philippians 4:8 – Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
Salvation – Eternal Life in Less Than 150 Words
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