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Logical Thinking and the Christian

Sometimes it seems that people are intimidated by the word logic. Perhaps they have images of professors making diagrams that resemble algebraic equations and discussing the laws of logic, and that us reg'lar folk cannot relate. While the academic image is real and fine for those who want to study the fine points of logic, you and I use logic on a daily basis.


God is the source of logic and knowledge, and he wants us to use them
Credit: Pixabay / PIRO4D
The auto mechanic who discovers why your vehicle stalls out at a certain point, the baker following a recipe, computer programmers, playing chess and similar games, doing a jigsaw puzzle — these all require the use of logic. When attempting to solve problems or learn the truth, we attempt to gain as much information as we need and then use our reasoning skills to reach answers. We usually do this without thinking about thinking.

Logic is actually a part of the mind of God. We are made in his image, and he has given us some knowledge as well as senses and skills to acquire more knowledge so we can reason. In addition, the Christian has the mind of Christ, and all knowledge begins with God. (One reason that biblical creationists emphasize logical thinking and spotting errors in reasoning is so that we can honor God.) Do a Bible search on mind and reason, and see that God not only enables us, but makes it possible because logic is the way God thinks.

Consider the fact that many founders of modern science were not only Christians, but biblical creationists as well.  It may startle you, but we are to love God with our heart, soul, mind, and strength, so it is a moral duty to be as rational as we are able. To think in a worldly way, with it's "wisdom" and materialism, is very limiting and goes contrary to God's will! We can reason from Scripture and see when someone is giving false teaching as well.
Logic is the study of the principles of correct reasoning.  To be logical is to think rightly: to draw reasonable conclusions from the available information.  Correct reasoning helps us to have true beliefs, and acting on true beliefs tends to have a far better outcome than acting on false beliefs.  Clearly, it is to our great advantage to reason correctly.  And while all human beings have some capacity to be logical, we can improve our reasoning by taking a class or reading books or articles on the topic, and by studying the Bible.  A thorough knowledge of logic can be immensely helpful in our own reasoning, or when reasoning with others.  But in addition to any pragmatic advantage, we have a moral obligation to be logical.  Thinking rightly is not optional for the Christian.  It is something God requires of us.
To finish reading, click on "Logic: Our Moral Obligation". Also, I recommend "Is Christianity Irrational?"