Philosophy of Existence and Pride

Study Notes

Pride in humanity's advancement in science and technology leads to autonomy and independence from God.
Scientific materialism: science is seen as all-powerful, and the scientific method is considered the only way to know truth.
Intellectual peer pressure: many intellectuals are scientists and evolutionists, leading people to assume that if they disagree, they must be stupid or ignorant.
The presence of evil, pain, and suffering: people question God's existence or goodness in the face of tragedy and suffering.
Hypocrisy and misconduct of believers, and unjust acts committed by believers in the name of God.

The Word of God commands us to be ready to give an answer to everyone that asks for the reason of our faith (1 Peter 3:15).
Studying apologetics helps us to know our faith and its basis.
Apologetics is an attempt to keep people out of hell by presenting the truth of salvation in Jesus.
Apologetics helps us to counter the bad image that Christianity has received due to abandonment of clear scriptural teachings.

A preconceived notion against God is called "the prejudice of unbelief."
This bias is seen as a source of disbelief, as revealed in Romans 5:10, Romans 1:21-22, 28, Psalm 14:1, Isaiah 32:5, and 1 Corinthians 2:14.

The influence of parents on a child's beliefs is significant, according to the Bible.
Examples include Deuteronomy 6:4-7, Proverbs 22:6, and Romans 14:7.

The level of education that a person receives plays a crucial role in their belief.
The evolution system of Darwin has had a major influence on students, causing some to turn away from belief in God.

People may avoid believing in God because they do not want to give up their sinful lifestyle.
In a world of relativism, this can be perceived as a huge burden, leading some to embrace disbelief.

Examples of false teachings include Mormonism, Jehovah's Witnesses, Islam, and Atheism.
These teachings deny or distort key Christian beliefs, such as the Trinity, the divinity of Jesus, and the existence of hell.

Be informed about different sources of information, including both secular and religious viewpoints.
Listen attentively to what others are saying, not just to their words, but to their intentions, feelings, and underlying motivations.
Ask questions to challenge others to explain their beliefs and provide evidence.
Don't interrupt, and respect others' time and space by allowing them to finish their thoughts before you respond.

The trustworthiness of the Bible as the final authority is the foundation on which all further arguments will have to rest.
Guidelines for doing apologetics include prayer, citing scripture, being informed about cult material, and not being afraid to make mistakes.

The most important part of defending the faith is prayer.
Cite scripture and use it as an authoritative source for resolving arguments.
Be informed about cult material, secular material, and other sources of information.