Is Faith Built On Reason or Is Reason Built On Faith?

Religious faith is widely accepted as contrary to reason.  It is assumed to be built upon mystical and even fantastical thinking.  It is thought that religious faith, when put to a test of reasoned criticism, would fail miserably. This conclusion may be true regarding many different religious systems in our world.  We can’t speak for any faith except Christianity and Judaism as taught in the Bible.  Regarding biblical faith, it is our firm stance that it will not only stand up to a reason test but is entirely dependent upon reason to exist. These conclusions are exactly opposite from what is generally accepted as true.  To support them we will begin a reasoned look at what biblical faith is, how it is meant to work and why it brings value to life. Mark Twain once said, “Faith is believing what you know ain’t so.”  For many, this statement sums up their perception of Christian faith.  It is basically saying, we understand that religion requires belief in what we all, deep down know is simply not real.  While this may be a widespread and popular perspective, it is also very flawed and unfortunate.  What people who are opposed to living a life of faith assume is not at all what the Bible describes as a faith-based life. The problems begin with the definition of faith A common English language definition of "faith" is believing in something without proof.  Contrarily, the Bible defines faith as to believe something because you have sufficient proof.  It is not fanciful, wishful or emotional; rather, it is a sound conclusion based on the weighing out of evidence.  It’s no wonder there is such a gap between the opposing sides of this argument.  We are talking about two completely different things! Enter the concept of reason which includes duly weighing the facts and evidence of a matter. Those who see living by faith as foolishness conclude reason is in direct opposition to that lifestyle.  They see the engagement of logical fact-based analysis as a surefire way to rightfully destroy any perceived credibility of faith.  On the other hand, those who see faith as a basis for their daily life see reason as an integral part of the formula.  They see facts, logic and thoughtful conclusions as necessary ingredients to their faith structure.  Can both sides be true? Check out our August 3, 2020 podcast, “Is Faith Built on Reason or is Reason Built on Faith?” for more.  Let's put faith and reason in perspective from a Christian perspective.  We examine how reason is traced through biblical commentary on things like the order and complexity of the universe.  Next, we look at the intricacy of the planet Earth and that of our physical being, documenting what the Bible reasons on these things.  Faith and reason need each other.  The Bible is specific as to how they work together in a Christian’s life.  Bible truth is built on reason and faith is built on Bible truth!