The Apostle did not leave us a faith which was bare and devoid of reason; for although a bare faith may be most mighty to salvation, nevertheless, unless it is trained by teaching, while it will have indeed a secure retreat to withdraw to in the midst of foes, it will yet be unable to maintain a safe and strong position for resistance. Its position will be like that which a camp affords to a weak force after a flight; not like the undismayed courage of men who have a camp to hold.
Hilary of Poitiers, 300-368 AD, On the Trinity, Book XII, 20, (translated by Rev. E. W. Watson and Rev. L. Pullan, The Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers, Philip Schaff and Henry Wace, T & T Clark and Wm. B. Eerdmans, 1997, Second Series, Vol. IX, p. 223)
Is it important to have a reasoned faith? Why or why not?
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I like the phrase "reasoned faith". Communicates the idea that believing is not simply a leap of faith. Also speaks to the idea that loving God involves all of our heart, mind and strength.
ReplyDeleteI also like the phrase for the same reason. It is easy to neglect part of the aspects required in the command to love God.
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