Why Some People Doubt Miracles Yet Esteem Bible's Accuracy

The question arises: How can some people dismiss the evidence of miracles as negligible while still holding the Bible as an accurate and infallible historical record? This intriguing paradox demonstrates a complex interplay of faith, evidence, and personal beliefs.

Lack of Evidence vs. Historical Eyewitness Testimony

It is argued that the very notion of miracles, while lacking direct empirical proof, is itself supported by the historical record and the accounts within the Bible. The Bible, in particular, relies on the testimony of historical eyewitnesses to attest to the miracles of Jesus and his apostles (John 10:37, Acts 2:22).

Christianity as an Evidence-Based Faith

Christian faith is characterized as an evidence-based belief system, with the core evidence being the historic eyewitness testimonies to the miracles performed by Jesus and his disciples. These accounts provide a framework for understanding the divine nature of these events.

Understanding Faith

It is important to recognize that faith in this context is not solely based on personal belief but also on the conformation of divine actions through miracles. Paul's appeal to the people of Athens also highlights this, as he emphasizes that the resurrection of Jesus served as divine proof (Acts 17:31).

Building Trust and Energizing Faith

Faith often begins with trust in the veracity of the stories and accounts told by those who have witnessed these miracles. A strong foundation in these historical testimonies can then energize and deepen one's faith. Conversely, the absence of such trust can result in skepticism, even in the presence of acknowledged miracles.

Miracles and Probability

A common argument against miracles is the contention that they are simply improbable events happening by chance. For example, an improbable event with an 1 in 8 billion chance of occurring is expected to happen many times within a population of 8 billion people. This perspective suggests that such occurrences are natural rather than supernatural.

Importance of Documentation

While faith remains important, the need for documented proof can serve as a ethical obligation to those who seek validation. Refusing to confirm the truth of a miracle due to a lack of proof can be seen as both lazy and dishonest. Documenting these events can help skeptics and non-believers understand the reality of divine actions.

Definition of Miracles

Given the nature of miracles, it is by definition that they stand outside the requirement of proof. If a miracle could be proven, it would cease to be a miracle. This paradoxical nature means that religious people are often more accepting of the idea that miracles cannot be proven, but faith still prevails.

In conclusion, the coexistence of skepticism regarding miracles and reverence for the Bible reflects a multifaceted spiritual and intellectual journey. While faith provides the foundation, the quest for documented evidence can serve as a bridge between belief and understanding.