An Educated Mind

I’d originally heard this quote as being attributed to Aristotle, but apparently it’s more a simplified summary from a passage in one of his writings.  Regardless of whether it’s a direct quote or not, the sentiment it embodies is what is important. I believe that if we have any intellect or intelligence, we ought to be able to exercise it to consider an idea or viewpoint without necessarily accepting it. That means not being afraid to consider an idea, but not automatically rejecting it either.

In his first letter to the Thessalonians, Paul urged believers to test all things and hold fast to what is good (1Thes 5:21). That sentiment is echoed in the apostle John’s first letter (1John 4:1). We should never be afraid to consider an idea, including the idea that perhaps we are in error.

Our gauge, or the standard of measure against which we test what we hear or see or read should be primarily the Word of God, and through that our understanding of the nature and character of God.  It should not be what our denomination or church has determined to the exclusion of all else, nor should it be because someone else we might think is important has said it. As Paul urged, we need to test and weigh everything for ourselves. We each need to decide for ourselves what it is we believe, and have a firm understanding of why we believe it. How else can we build an unshakeable faith?