What is the Bible's teaching on rationalism?
Rationalism is reliance on human reason for the discovery of truth, with its standard of measure being the human intellect. The rationalist believes only if something can be reasoned out with human logic. However, this method of learning is flawed because it cannot extend beyond the limits of human intelligence. While rationalism has a role in education and discovery, it is of no use in man's attempt to find or know God. In contrast, faith relies on the word of someone trustworthy – and in the things of God, on God speaking in His Word. As the Apostle Paul states in 1 Corinthians 1, God planned for man to find Him through faith alone. The Bible warns that living by rationalism instead of faith can lead to a vacuum in the soul, acceptance of lies, and false doctrines. In Hebrews 11:6, it is stated that only faith can please God, and He can be believed because He never lies and always keeps His Word.
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Source: The Basics The Basics — Rationalism (canonical doctrine) · Read this lesson in the book →
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See also
- What is the nature of sin?Same lesson · The Basics
- What does the Bible teach about freedom?Same lesson · The Basics
- What is the spiritual significance of letting God do great things in our lives?Same lesson · The Basics
- What does the Bible teach about death?Same lesson · The Basics
- What is the spiritual life?Same lesson · The Basics
- What is the role of the Holy Spirit in a believer's life?Same lesson · The Basics
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Where this is taught in the book
Lesson 1–5: The Potential—Faith
Lesson 3–2: The Danger—Spiritual Retreat/Reversion
Lesson 2–4: The Equipment—Spiritual Gifts
Lesson 3–1: The Race—The Christian Life
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