Research reliably indicates that the current generation of Americans is one of the least educated and most ignorant generations of the last two centuries. Ironically, this same generation is convinced that they are one of the most knowledgeable generations of the last two centiuries. (That makes perfect sense: education generally also teaches people what they don't know.)
No place does this ignorance more strongly assert itself than in the confidence that people's belief's are significant. People will boldly shout out, "I don't believe that there is a God!" absolutely convinced that what they think matters. Sadly, (sit down and brace yourself for this one folks!) most people's opinions about most things don't matter!
>Gasp!<
Sadly, people believe that because all people are created equally, that all beliefs are also equal. That simply isn't true. Most areas of knowledge today are subjects of intense research and specialized knowledge that is inaccessible to laymen. Human days simply are not long enough to be deeply conversant in more than a very few subjects. This means that, (although it goes against every fiber of our egalitarian beings,) we really need to rely on those who are more knowledgeable in many areas of our lives.
There is nothing wrong with asking, "Why should does your opinion matter?" or "Why should anyone care what you think?" Conviction is not an indicator of Truth.
The next time someone stands to shout cosmic generalities for the world to absorb, be certain that you've asked the question, "What is your authority to draw that conclusion?"
Better yet, the next time we hold forth we should similarly be prepared to explain the source of authority for our beliefs.
No place does this ignorance more strongly assert itself than in the confidence that people's belief's are significant. People will boldly shout out, "I don't believe that there is a God!" absolutely convinced that what they think matters. Sadly, (sit down and brace yourself for this one folks!) most people's opinions about most things don't matter!
Sadly, people believe that because all people are created equally, that all beliefs are also equal. That simply isn't true. Most areas of knowledge today are subjects of intense research and specialized knowledge that is inaccessible to laymen. Human days simply are not long enough to be deeply conversant in more than a very few subjects. This means that, (although it goes against every fiber of our egalitarian beings,) we really need to rely on those who are more knowledgeable in many areas of our lives.
There is nothing wrong with asking, "Why should does your opinion matter?" or "Why should anyone care what you think?" Conviction is not an indicator of Truth.
The next time someone stands to shout cosmic generalities for the world to absorb, be certain that you've asked the question, "What is your authority to draw that conclusion?"
Better yet, the next time we hold forth we should similarly be prepared to explain the source of authority for our beliefs.
Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.
- 1 Peter 3:15-16 NIV
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