Believe it or not, there is a practical use for this

Date:   9/6/2005 8:05:41 AM ( 19 y ago)

Referring to the chart in lesson one, don't get the idea that these categories are etched in stone and cannot overlap. You can see that some author names appear in two columns. I am mostly in the Evidentialism category but also make use of the Presuppositionalism category at times. In fact, I don't think anyone is exempt from borrowing arguments from other categories than the primary one (s)he uses. Everyone has presuppositions, but some lean more heavily on them than others.

But I want to make sure we understand the difference between deductive and inductive reasoning. Deductive reasoning is a "top down" method, where we start with a theory, develop a hypothesis, make observations, and then either confirm or deny the theory. Inductive reasoning is a "bottom up" method, where we start with observations, look for a pattern, make a tentative hypothesis, and then define a theory. But in actual practice, both theories are combined into a continuously revolving circle.

The two extremes on the chart are too abstract for me, being based not on observation nor scripture but on man's philosophy and wisdom. Yes we use our human reasoning for all four categories, but the point here is that the extremes rely too heavily on it without giving due consideration to either observation or scripture. It all must be kept in balance. I believe it is possible and reasonable to use careful observation in pursuit of facts, but at the same time I give the "deciding vote" to the Bible. We need observation to find out that which God has not explicitly stated, yet we must also never reject the Bible when there is a conflict between what we think and what the Bible clearly says.

The category in which you reside primarily is going to determine your approach to Bible study and evangelism. But you must be familiar with the categories of the people you are either teaching or witnessing to, in order to find the best way to get your message across. For example, if you are witnessing to an atheist you should be aware that they will be in the first two categories, which start with man's wisdom above all, even at the expense of observation (keep in mind that the chart I used is from a Christian perspective, but the four categories apply to all people). Or if you are teaching a Bible class with students who are of the Reformed persuasion, you will want to point out the philosophical basis of that view and why it can lead to erroneous conclusions.

So you can see that knowing these categories can be used to improve your own Bible study approach and to be a more effective witness. Ignorance is NOT bliss! Remember the blog entry "Sword of the Spirit"? This is one way to become more skilled at handling that Sword.

 

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