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Belief




I Believe.

I believe in an infinite, all powerful, timeless, perfect God. I know that this is sometimes an unpopular thing. It does not, nor will it ever, make “logical” sense. But, if I choose to believe in God, I don't want a god with limitations. I want a BIG God.

First I believe God is infinite. By definition that means He is beyond the ability of a finite mind to comprehend. He is beyond the ability of a finite vocabulary to describe. The whole science vs religion debate is foolish. Science is our understanding of the world around us. If one could write a definitive scientific proof of God, you would have to have a God that is small enough to be defined by our vocabulary and understanding. I don't want that small of a God.

Theology is our feeble effort to describe an infinite God. It is not science. It's a way to put a “handle” on your beliefs. A way to resolve the infinite in a finite mind so you can sleep at night.

I believe that God loves us enough to give us freedom. Love is a choice, not just an emotion. God wants people to choose to love both Him and other people.

I believe in a God with infinite knowledge and wisdom. He knows the end result of my every decision and the web of possible time lines that split with every decision that is made by every person who has ever existed. Can I resolve free will and predestination? No. Somehow God allows everything to unfold, gives everyone complete freedom and at the same time knows the end result.

I believe that God allows bad things to happen. If you live in a world where God allows personal freedom, you live in a world where people will choose to do bad things. Some will even do those bad things in the name of “God”. I do believe that God has perfect justice. We may not see the end result, but justice is always done. That is why His perfect justice demanded a payment for the world's wrongdoings, His Son's death. This is my only salvation. When I make a wrong decision, I believe God is graceful enough to give me the opportunity to try to make it right. I can right the wrong here to the best of my ability and then stand under the payment that God's son made for my wrongdoing.

When I make the right decision, I believe that God is cheering me on. I believe that is what he lives for, to see an imperfect creature choose to do the perfect thing.

I believe God exists outside of our time/space. I believe that time and space are His creation. So He can exist in all places at all times. He can do miracles. He created the laws of physics and can change them as He likes. He never changes, but understands what is needed as each generation unfolds.

This may end up being Part 1. Or I may take one or more of these statements and unpack them in another post.

And last. I don't mind talking about any of these things, but I will not debate them. I've never seen anyone actually change their thinking through debate. Usually both sides have a pretty hardened viewpoint before the debate starts.

If you are a Christian and you disagree, I'm OK with that. This is what's in my head and heart. You go work on your own beliefs.

If you are an Atheist or Agnostic, I'm OK with that too. Any time you want to talk, let's talk. (as long as a good cup of coffee is involved) :)

Peace.

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