Why Pick up the Bible?
In the initial three posts, we delved into three significant arguments that provide support for the existence of God. We analyzed these arguments by considering modern scientific discoveries, applying logical principles, and employing reason. Through this comprehensive examination, we not only confirmed the validity of these arguments but also found them to be highly compelling. As a result of our collective analysis, we arrived at a resolute conclusion: the existence of God is not just plausible but a necessity. This bold assertion, stating that God undeniably exists, brings about a profound shift in our perception of reality. Recognizing the necessity of God’s existence becomes a foundational aspect that shapes the lens through which we approach and understand the world.
Returning to our concluded arguments, it’s crucial to recognize certain parameters regarding the nature of the necessary God. These parameters, deduced from our earlier arguments, include:
- God is Infinite:
- The necessity of God implies an infinite nature. If God were finite or limited, it would contradict the idea of being the source, foundation, and essence of life. An infinite God stands beyond constraints.
- God is One:
- If God is infinite, the concept of multiple Gods becomes implausible. The infinitude and fullness of being preclude the existence of other Gods. Unity is inherent in the very nature of an infinite God.
- God is Conscious and Intelligent:
- The act of creation requires consciousness and intelligence. God, as the creator of the universe, cannot be a non-sentient substance. The intricate design and order in the universe necessitates a purposeful and intelligent Creator.
- God is Outside Space and Time:
- The creation of the universe from nothing implies that God cannot be material and is not bound by the universe. Being immaterial and existing outside space and time, God is the transcendent force behind the material realm.
- God is Omniscient and Omnipotent:
- God’s role as the creator encompasses omniscience and omnipotence. Having created everything and sustaining its existence, God is the ultimate repository of knowledge and power. Nothing exists beyond God’s awareness and ability
- God is Good:
- God, being the source of morality, encompasses complete goodness within his singular essence. For if morality was considered a standalone quality possessed independently of being sourced by God, it would contradict our comprehension of God based on the parameters above. In simpler terms, God is necessarily the intrinsic embodiment of all things good.
Again, the attention on morality is imperative due to its profound consequences and implications. If objective morality exists—signifying the universal and independent validity of moral values and duties—it demands a transcendent source, identified as God (See Post #3). The innate human intuition regarding moral laws and duties suggests a profound connection between humanity and the divine. This implies that the shared intuition of moral principles is not arbitrary but indicative of God’s deliberate disclosure of His will to humanity. Simply put, the acknowledgment of objective morality serves also as an acknowledgment of a purposeful connection established by God with man, facilitating a deeper understanding of His purpose and fostering a meaningful relationship between the Creator and His creation.
Now a crucial question arises: Why would God restrict His communication exclusively to matters of morality? Does God only intend for humanity to comprehend only moral principles, leaving other aspects of His nature hidden? Such a limitation, although possible, seems improbable. I am inclined to believe that the inherent curiosity and attraction humans possess toward the divine and purpose itself serves a purpose—to guide us to Him. This prompts us to consider the possibility that there is more truth about God available and revealed to us, extending beyond the realms of morality.
Truth may indeed be attainable and waiting for our discovery. Here we jump from theism to religion. It is reasonable (if we conform to moral realism) to do so. As we discussed and as our parameters above suggested, the place where it is to be found, if at all, is within one of the Abrahamic religions—Judaism, Christianity, or Islam (See Post #3). Therefore, the Hebrew Bible stands out as the most compelling starting point. Not only does the Hebrew Bible satisfy our above criteria, but is profoundly grounded in history. Choosing the Hebrew Bible as the initial exploration into divine truth is the rational and logical choice. That is why you should pick up the Bible.
This not only paves the way for the upcoming series but establishes the foundation for all subsequent posts. While I openly approach this exploration from a Christian perspective, the following analyses shall certainly attempt to convey the truth of the Christian Faith by themselves (for, there is a reason I come from this perspective). To accomplish this goal, we will delve into the truths of the Christian Faith, explore the beauty and literary masterpiece of the Scriptures, and unravel the narrative of history through the lens of Christianity—that is, how it is intended to be. This marks the beginning of our journey into the exquisite story of history.