Lesson 14.1 (Justifying Historical Descriptions)

Wow!

If you had told me a year ago I would make a statement like "We are trying to understand the historical justification for belief in the resurrection of Jesus through the use of abductive reasoning, Argument to the Best Explanation and probability calculus.", I would have said you were crazy!  And yet, here we are!  And it's fun!  (The link to the handout is included above.)

Last week began to get into the mind of the historian as he looks to justify the validity of historical truth claims.  Obviously, we will look to apply our new-found knowledge and understanding to the overall historical reliability of the gospels; but our main goal is the central event of our faith; namely, the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus.  And yet, as we continue to love God with all our MIND, we must admit to ourselves that this endeavor, just like our study in science, will only carry us so far.  Once we reach the end of our historical research, there will still be a step of faith required to trust in what God has done in time and space through Jesus and the resurrection.  The difference...that step will be much, much smaller; and your ability to tell others why you trust in God can be more engaging.

This Thursday we will continue our study in Argument to the Best Explanation.  We will cover the criteria for the method of thought and argumentation in more detail.  In addition, we will do some in-class exercises giving you the ability to apply your skills.  I believe this will be a great class!  Don't miss it!

Blessings,
Ricky
worldviewstudy@gmail.com