So yesterday one of my co-authors raised a number of issues surrounding technology and the future. My intent was to provide my point of view on technology and humanity, but, at the end of the day, I was compelled to comment on the concept of research and discovery.

Recently, I have been reading Strobel’s book “The Case for Christ”, of which a movie has been made. In his book, Strobel, an avowed atheist and legal reporter for a number of Chicago media outlets, details the interviews, research and processes he went through to try and disprove the New Testament, Jesus’ existence and claims about his divinity by examining all of the current research and thought from the atheistic and agnostic communities. It is of particular interest to me because, although my beliefs are what they are, I am always examining them and the evidence supporting them. While I will not attempt to recreate his writings here, I wholeheartedly urge you all to read his writings and examine the claims and evidence for yourselves. Suffice it to say, it has reinvigorated me and has reinforced my beliefs.

The point I wish to make, however, is that, all too often, we settle upon a concept or belief, yet we refuse to entertain or research the contrary positions to it, because we are afraid we may be wrong. I have been guilty of this myself. I found and still find it easier to read materials that support my positions than those that challenge it. However, if you truly want to pursue and find truth, it is not just important, but critical, that you examine the contrary position.

In the end, truth is truth. If you seek to know and live by the truth, then either the foundations underpinning your beliefs will withstand scrutiny or they will not. If not, then it is incumbent upon you to reexamine your beliefs. If they do, then your faith in them becomes rooted even deeper. This is true for any and all opinions and beliefs, not just those rooted in religious contexts.

As I have been accused of being overly verbose in my writings, let me just conclude with this admonition. Don’t just believe. Do the work, put in the effort and examine all sides of the core beliefs you hold, and go where the truth takes you. Do not fear the truth, nor fear those biased against it. Pursue it and don’t let others do the thinking for you. After all, when all is said and done, you, alone, are responsible for your beliefs. Make sure they have an unshakeable foundation…