Faith is not contrary to reason

Faith is not contrary to reason

Sherwood Eddy, a prominent Christian missionary and social activist, once famously said, “Faith is not contrary to reason.” This statement encapsulates the idea that faith and reason are not mutually exclusive, but rather can coexist and complement each other in a person's belief system.

In the context of Sherwood Eddy's words, it is important to understand that faith and reason are two different ways of knowing and understanding the world. Reason is based on logic, evidence, and critical thinking, while faith is based on belief, trust, and spiritual conviction. While some may see these two ways of knowing as incompatible, Eddy believed that they could work together harmoniously.

One way in which faith and reason can complement each other is through the concept of seeking truth. Reason can help us analyze evidence, weigh arguments, and come to logical conclusions about the world around us. However, there are limits to what reason can explain, especially when it comes to matters of the heart, soul, and spirit. This is where faith comes in, providing a deeper sense of meaning, purpose, and connection to something greater than ourselves.

Furthermore, faith can inspire us to take action and make a difference in the world. While reason may help us understand the problems facing society, it is often faith that motivates us to work towards solutions, to fight for justice, and to care for those in need. Sherwood Eddy himself was a shining example of this, dedicating his life to serving others and advocating for social justice.