It cannot be denied that most people in society now do not think critically. They are swayed by the propaganda that is spread throughout the media, by politicians and even by what is taught in schools. However, when it comes to Christianity, critical thinking is thrown out the window. People prefer to believe those who are opposed to the faith and the bible, rather than believe what the bible teaches.
The bible teaches that we must not think and behave like everyone else. We must continuously renew our minds and by so doing we will know what the will of God is.
“Don’t copy the behaviour and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will know what God wants you to do, and you will know how good and pleasing and perfect his will really is.” Romans 12:2
What is an Argument
When we hear the word argument we generally think about two or more people in a heated confrontation, calling each other names etc. But this is really an altercation. An argument, in a logical context, is conclusions drawn from reason or premises.
Let us now determine what are reasons and conclusions. Words used to indicate reasons are:
Because; for; for this reason; as; if; based on the fact that.
Words used to indicate conclusions are:
Therefore; thus; consequently; hence; it follows that.
These words indicate when an argument is being made.
Now it is important that we distinguish an argument from an assertion. Assertions are expressions of opinion without valid or supporting reasons, and they are very common. The best way to dispel assertions is by asking questions.
The Law of Non-Contradiction
The law of non-contradiction is the foundation for all logical thinking. It is also known as the law of contradiction. The law can be defined as “a statement that cannot be true and not true at the same time and in the same respect”. Without the law of non-contradiction, then there is no right and wrong, truth and false-hood.
Right thinking is God’s thinking and since God does not contradict himself, neither should Christians. If there were no law of non-contradiction, then it would not be possible to detect a lie. The doctrine of the Trinity is one that non-Christians say is contradictory. Yes there is one God, not three Gods. Three entities make up the God-head – the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. It is not contradictory.
Asking Questions
It is said that the best defense is a good offense. Sometimes in defending our faith, we must make the opponent stand up for what they believe. The best way to do this is by asking strategic questions. By asking questions, we are able to get below the surface of someone’s ideas to reveal and engage their worldview. This strategy is good because:
- It is low risk. If your opponent gets angry or defensive, you can simply stop asking or change the subject.
- You get to understand your opponent’s thinking. Once you understand them, you are better able to persuade them of the truth.
- It shows you are educated. Asking good questions helps to develop your intelligence and keep you informed.
The types of questions to be asked are those that strike the heart of your opponent’s worldview. This will force him to defend his assumptions. Some of the questions to ask are:
a) What do you mean by ___________? Let them define their terms depending on the argument.
b) How do you come to that conclusion? This lets you understand how their thinking began and progressed thereby bringing them to their conclusion.
c) Why do you believe that you are right? This shows that they may be assuming their beliefs and no valid evidence is available for them.
d) What happens if you are wrong?
e) What is the significance?
We must keep in mind that if we ask questions of others, they will also ask questions of us. We need to know why we believe what we do so that our answers will be convincing
