#BoldBeliefDevotional by Paul Natekin
Key Bible Verse:
“For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.” — Romans 1:20 (NIV)
Ever heard someone say, “God doesn’t exist”? It’s a bold claim, but is it backed by facts? Let’s dive into this and see how our faith stands strong in the face of such assertions.
Apologetic Insight:
(from Greek ἀπολογία, ‘speaking in defense’) Defending and explaining faith with reason and evidence.
The assertion that “God does not exist” requires a level of knowledge that no human possesses. As William Lane Craig points out, “To know that God does not exist, one would have to have exhaustive knowledge of the universe to know that there is no God.” This ties directly into the point made in Romans 1:20, where it’s clear that God’s existence is evident through His creation.
J. Warner Wallace, a former atheist detective, emphasizes that “the absence of evidence is not evidence of absence.” He notes that many things we believe in, like historical events or even the existence of other planets, aren’t based on direct evidence but on reasonable inference. Similarly, the evidence for God’s existence is found in the complexity and design of the universe.
Timothy McGrew highlights the logical flaw in shifting the burden of proof. He explains, “If someone claims to lack belief in God, they are making a positive claim about their worldview and must provide justification for it.” This aligns with the understanding that claiming to “lack belief” is, in itself, a belief that requires substantiation.
Encouragement & Application:
Doubts about God’s existence can be tough, but they’re also an opportunity to deepen your faith. Remember, the universe itself testifies to God’s presence. Spend time in nature, reflecting on the wonders of creation. Engage with apologetics resources to bolster your understanding. And don’t shy away from asking questions—seeking truth is part of your faith journey.
Reflection Questions:
- How does Romans 1:20 challenge the claim that God does not exist?
- What aspects of creation most clearly point to God’s existence for you?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the clear signs of Your presence in the world around us. Help us to see Your handiwork and to trust in Your existence, even when faced with doubts. Strengthen our faith and guide us as we seek to understand You more deeply. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
YouTube
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
