Honest researchers in every field will gather, examine, weigh, and discuss evidence. Dishonest researchers will ignore, hide, alter or falsify evidence. They are generally not open to a rational discussion of ALL the evidence, and do not readily change their conclusion even when faced with overwhelming evidence that is contradictory to their conclusion.

Dishonest researchers aren’t all terrible evil characters. There may be many reasons for the way they deal with evidence. They may have some preconceived convictions or theories that prevent them from viewing the evidence rationally. Many times there are financial concerns that strongly influence the interpretation of evidence. Sometimes certain life experiences and the interpretation of such experiences can strongly influence a person’s views.

We are all subject to our own bias. We are often deceived. It is hard to see our bias and the nature of deception is that we are not aware that it is happening. I admit my bias falls toward believing the Bible, understanding it and applying it to my life. That may disqualify me from being taken seriously by some people. I challenge anyone to read the Bible for just 30 days with an open mind.

Intuition, hunches and feelings may all be valuable in leading us to uncover further evidence or to interpret the evidence we have, but these are not reliable on their own. All honest evaluations must proceed based on clear evidence. Faith is another factor to consider in evaluating evidence. For me, faith is only as significant as the thing I put my faith in. If I have faith that my government will never fail me or lead me astray, I might be disappointed. If I put faith in my own wisdom, I could be deceived or wrong. If the object of my faith is the eternal God, creator of all things, who alone has power to bring everything under His control, I can be confident in HIM. The object of faith is very important.

I eagerly seek to know and understand truth in every area, but when exploring historic events the evidence may be limited.

In the field of medicine most informed people seek an ‘evidence based’ approach. Their health is too significant to accept popular opinion or hectic marketing. They want to research and discover the true facts regarding all medical or life-style practices. Often they question or research standard medical recommendations. It is wise to seek truth and evidence in the realm of health care treatment.

I propose that the subject of God, what we believe about the existence of God, and the possibility of life beyond death, is probably the most important aspect of our lives. Our physical health concerns will pale in comparison to such an eternal reality. This is the most significant subject that we could possibly research and get to the truth. Eternity is too important to be wrong about.

What evidence is available?

I have spent many years studying the ancient scriptures collected together into what we know as the Bible. Many people have opinions about the Bible but haven’t read it. Some start at the beginning, thinking the Bible should be read from beginning to end as most books. The Bible is not like other books; it’s actually more of a library filled with books. It can be challenging, but a serious exploration is well worth the effort.

What does the Bible say about itself? What does the Bible say about Jesus? What did Jesus say about Himself? What does the Bible say about future events?

I hope to explore some of these questions in future blog posts.

Author: Becky Hastings, wife, mother, grandmother, passionate follower of Jesus Christ and truth seeker, especially in the areas of health and children. Navigating our present day world can be challenging, God’s timeless truths in the Bible are my guide.

• Evidence for the Bible
• Evidence for Jesus