| "I Know I Can Know" |
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By Troy Spradlin
A good friend of mine is questioning his faith. He is doubting if one can, in reality, know truth. He reasons that since there is much controversy and confusion in religion, no one can be certain if absolute truth exists. I have concern that my friend may be leaning towards agnosticism. Unfortunately, he is already answering questions regarding God’s existence with, “I don’t know.” How can one indeed know they can know? The logical approach to this question is to first determine if one can know any truth. There are three propositions to consider for this argument. First, “I know there is no truth,” second, “I know there is some truth,” and third, “I know all truth.” Regarding the first proposal, it is a contradiction to say, “I know there is no truth.” By stating “I know” means at least one truth exists and that is knowing no truth exists. Since it is impossible to both know and to not know at the same time, this statement is false. The conclusion arrived at results in a validation of the second proposition of knowing some things. Concerning the third proposition, most anyone would have to rationally agree that no one knows everything. This can be validated by the fact we have an education system in place for the purpose of providing knowledge. Deuteronomy 29:29 teaches that the secret things belong to the Lord which implies we do not know everything. Therefore, we can only conclude we know some things. Knowing some things helps us establish that truth exists. Since we can know truth exists, we can know that an objective standard can also exist. People are often certain in their beliefs regarding most aspects of their lives yet doubtful when it involves their belief in God. Knowing that truth indeed exists should lead us to search the meaning of Jesus’ words in John 8:32, “and ye shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free.” To download a copy click here |