Friday, March 13, 2015

A Voice from the Past - Hilary

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?

2 comments:

  1. 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.

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    Replies
    1. I 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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