What If It Turns Out That There Is No God?

[ReformedDave]

Originally Posted by Carpenter

Well I agree, that is my proof, but what kind of proof are you talking about?

More of the 'apologetic' variety. Real proof. Not just feelings.

[mizpeh]

Originally Posted by ReformedDave

More of the 'apologetic' variety. Real proof. Not just feelings.

For some of us, it (the proof) sometimes starts with feelings...like when being convicted of the Spirit after hearing the gospel and repenting with tears and remorse. Then the experiences of being baptized in the Spirit and speaking in tongues. The feeling of the presence of God upon you and/or in you when you pray or just think about Him. Feelings may be subjective but they are a valid proof, maybe not the surest proof, but valid. And added onto other proofs of God's existence, feelings are not to be discounted though to some they may be down the list of proofs.

In Faith Has Its Reasons, the authors write about Anselm, "He emphasized the side of Augustine's view of faith and reason that viewed faith as prior to reason or understanding. "For I do not seek to understand in order to believe but I believe in order to understand [credi ut intelligam]". page 17

[ReformedDave]

Originally Posted by mizpeh

For some of us, it (the proof) sometimes starts with feelings...like when being convicted of the Spirit after hearing the gospel and repenting with tears and remorse. Then the experiences of being baptized in the Spirit and speaking in tongues. The feeling of the presence of God upon you and/or in you when you pray or just think about Him. Feelings may be subjective but they are a valid proof, maybe not the surest proof, but valid. And added onto other proofs of God's existence, feelings are not to be discounted though to some they may be down the list of proofs.

In Faith Has Its Reasons, the authors write about Anselm, "He emphasized the side of Augustine's view of faith and reason that viewed faith as prior to reason or understanding. "For I do not seek to understand in order to believe but I believe in order to understand [credi ut intelligam]". page 17

While an esoteric experience may be of some personal value almost every religious group lays claim to 'experience'. While I agree with the great Augustine still one cannot base the reality of God on an experience alone. Though sadly most do. Subjective 'truth' is just that....subjective.