Does God exist? If so, how do we know?

Does God exist? If so, how do we know?  

            Often people ask, if God exists and if He does, how do we know? This is a very important question and must not be simply dismissed, or ignored. The short answer is, God not only exists, but He also is a personal God and has a name – Jesus Christ. While some people believe in many other things, but Jesus, the question then becomes one of conviction, yet possibly a fallacious one with enormous implications on life, ethics, morals and, most importantly the eternal destiny of an individual. So, while we may not be able to prove the existence of God – this need not pose a problem – if we understand that God has already proven Himself in and through the Person and identity of Jesus Christ. More specifically, Jesus, who as God in the flesh came to atone for our sins, so that through Him we do not have to suffer eternal punishment (John 14:6; 15:5). So if anyone asks, how we know this, the answer is found in the resurrection (and ascension) of Christ as the Messiah, which not only reveals the existence of God but also provides an invitation to every human being accepting Him as their personal Lord and Saviour (John 3:16-21).

            Therefore, what we need to do is carefully examine the available evidence surrounding Jesus Christ, His life, death and resurrection, and come to a point where we have to make a decision, if we believe the absolute truth He offers, or (hopefully not) refuse to believe (Mark 8:27-29). In order to get a basic grasp on this, the following is a brief investigation into the internal (biblical) evidence, as well as the external (non-biblical) evidence. Hereby, we are considering a three-part line of questions: First, are there arguments for the existence of God? Second, what do we make of the historical facts of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection? Third, what does God’s existence mean for us?

            The purpose of this article is to show that it is not only reasonable to acknowledge the existence of a non-created personal God, but make a decision of faith believing in Jesus Christ, since He has proven the truth about Himself. Thereby, He provides a way for us to know Him (through the Bible) and that way leaving little (if any) doubt about how we do know that God exists, is for us, loving us as individuals in a unique, personal and divine way.

            In this first part, while some may hold to presuppositions against God’s existence, we can ask if there are arguments for the existence of God? To do this, we have to consider presuppositions in a bit more detail, since there are five questions here that are at times mismatched or simply not understood (1). So firstly, since something can exist, regardless if we are aware of it or know it, the question is if a thing (or person) exists or not? Secondly, if we trust that the previous question can be answered having been affirmatively validated, the question is whether or not we know it exists? Thirdly, while a person may know something, he may be unable to guide others to that specific knowledge. The question then is, if we have a basis for our knowledge? Fourthly, since most of our proposed reasons are probabilities, but not facts, the question is if a specific reason (provided it holds) does constitute a proof? Then fifthly, assuming a proof exists, is it established by a scientific method (observation, experiment or measurement), making it a scientific proof?

            Thus, when it comes to God’s existence, it may be well possible to positively affirm the first four, but not the last question. The reason for this is that God cannot be proven scientifically. However, in contrast to scientific proof, philosophical proofs can provide viable proof, while not having to be scientific. From this perspective, without diminishing the value of science or research in any way, deductive arguments (2) use various premises based on different arguments, yet notably, in every such argument it can be concluded that God exists. Note here that Jesus at times also used deduction – among many other approaches – to challenge His critics, e.g. Matthew 22:23-33, as does Paul in Romans 4:1-4.

            As such, philosophical proofs are not only helpful in the aforementioned deductive argument, but can also be used as part of a so-called cumulative case approach. Such a method combines the main arguments for God’s existence into an informal, so-called abductive approach. In other words, what is the best or most plausible explanation to a given problem? Within the realm of philosophy, the goal is to show that the Christian worldview provides the ‘best explanation’ of available evidence, in contrast to all other opposing worldviews (3).

            Taking a cue from the aforementioned approach, we are entering the realm of metaphysics – the philosophical field of study that investigates the existence and nature of things, i.e. God, mankind, objects, etc. Hereby, what is called the ‘Design Argument’ (addressing the cosmos and intelligent design), considers the options of how existence came into being (4). The origin of existence evolves around three possibilities: One, there is no explanation for everything. Two, there is an impersonal explanation (materialism or mysticism). Three, there is a personal explanation.

            The last option, Christianity, is able to explain both the uniqueness of human beings as well as the structure of the universe, because a divine mind is behind both – providing a personal starting point. Other worldviews are not able to provide a solution to the problem of the one and the many (which is the problem of establishing the one thing that lies behind all things in the universe). However, the Christian Trinity (an infinite-personal being as three-in-one) is uniquely adequate as solution. Given God’s particular unity (one God) and diversity (three Persons, a.k.a. the Godhead), this establishes the unity and diversity in creation. Hence, the Christian worldview, not only enables coherent communication between God and human beings, but is also logical in that God communicates with people on a comprehensible verbal level, since that is how we as humans communicate. 

With the Bible as God’s ultimate expression to us, a feasible case can be made for the existence of an infinite-personal God. To put it differently, in and through the Person of Jesus Christ our faith in Him becomes a rational decision based on trusting an absolute reliable authority. So, we may put the initial question – if God exists – back to the critic, and ask, what evidence would you need to believe in God? This can then be followed up, regardless of the answer (if any) by asking ‘what do you mean by that, and how did you come to that conclusion?’ This can help to expose and clarify any invalid presuppositions.

Having considered presuppositional challenges, as well as a philosophical proofing method, we need to consider what we are to make of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. What exactly is it we are dealing with here? Are these historical facts, or merely man-made fiction? In order to address this, we must take a closer look at the historical person – Jesus of Nazareth. 

What is unique about His life? Jesus was born, having been miraculously conceived by the Holy Spirit to a virgin woman, named Mary (Matthew 1:22-23; Luke 1:26). Likewise – in His life, Jesus’ baptism affirms His divine nature (John 1:32) when God, the Father, God, the Son (Jesus) and God, the Holy Spirit, come together as manifestation of the Trinity. Thereafter, Jesus resisted the Devil’s temptations successfully in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11; Luke 4:1-14), divinely guided to defeat the enemy.

In His ministry and teaching, Jesus performed miracles, such as healing the sick (John 4:46-54), healing the blind (John 9:1-7), casting out impure spirits (Mark 5:1-20), and raising the dead (John 11:1-45), among many other works, only God Himself could accomplish. Also, His teaching was unmatched in that He did this with authority, announcing the arrival of the Kingdom of Heaven (Luke 17:20-21), pointing back to Himself as the long awaited Messiah (Luke 4:18-21).

As Jesus was sentenced to death by the Romans, His dying and death are equally exceptional (Mark 15:33; Matthew 27:51-54; Luke 23:34 and John 19:30). Thereby, having fulfilled OT Messianic prophecies (Genesis 3:15; Micah 5:2; Daniel 9:26 and Isaiah 7:14 – to mention just a few of hundreds more), the combination of what makes Jesus unparalleled in all of human history, is His resurrection (John 2:19, 21; Matthew 12:40-42; 17:9; John 20:1-31).

So, having considered the uniqueness of Jesus Christ, the focus here is on the resurrection. The historicity of this event is the key to establishing and understanding its truthfulness (5). The three aspects that have to be taken into account are Jesus’ empty tomb, His resurrection appearances and the source of His disciples’ change of behaviour from unbelief to faith.

As for the first aspect, there is viable reliability of what the Bible says about the empty tomb. By contrast, it is objectively challenging (if not futile) to deny the empty tomb on historical grounds. The second aspect cannot be easily dismissed, since Christ’s resurrection was witnessed by both believers and unbelievers (Luke 24:11; John 20:25). Lastly, the sudden change of heart, attitude and behaviour of the original disciples (eventually even willing to die for their belief) point to a sufficient justification of believing that Jesus did indeed rise from the dead.

On top of this, there is external, non-biblical evidence, confirming both the historical Person of Jesus Christ as well as His crucifixion, along with other factual details. The Roman historian Tacitus reveals these details in his writing Annals of Rome, around A.D.110. A Jewish historian, Josephus, backs up this secular testimony, as well. The combination of both the biblical and extra-biblical testimony provides equally sufficient evidence not only affirming the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, but also leaves room for belief and faith in Christ.

Having explored a rational approach – showing that we cannot prove the existence of God – yet, rule out presuppositions that need not be there, and having established historical evidence for the life, death and resurrection of Christ, this last segment invites us to consider the meaning of God’s existence for us as people (6).

The knowledge of God helps us in our understanding that human beings not only have a purpose, but also a God-given plan which is revealed to us in and through our personal relationship with Jesus Christ. This is because He speaks into our hearts as we actively engage the Bible and thereby discover God’s revealed Will (Psalm 19:1-6; Romans 1:18-20).

Furthermore, there is a responsibility that comes from the knowledge of God. What this means is, that as we enter a personal relationship with a personal God – who is divine, sovereign and absolutely holy – we are to take a position of humility. Thereby, we surrender to His Will – not our own – and ask Him to reveal His plan and purpose for out lives (Jeremiah 29:11; Matthew 28:18-20).

Lastly, knowing God exists, invites us, strengthens us and encourages us to grow in our personal relationship with Him – that is Jesus (Romans 1:18-23; John 1:9; Acts 17:27-28). This is our responsibility and calling to reverence and obedience. Our lives, worship and testimony should reflect our faith in Jesus Christ, making us effective witnesses for the Gospel.

As seen, in the aforementioned segments, there is little (if any) reason not to believe in Jesus Christ, His identity and mission. In the first part we have seen that there are arguments for the existence of God. While this does not prove God’s existence – as seen in the cumulative approach – it does point to a non-created, pre-existing God with personal attributes. This cannot be simply dismissed or ignored, and it invites us to further investigate. Likewise, when we look at the historicity of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection, we have to (at the very least) reckon them as possible, and (at best) plausible facts. Furthermore, as seen in the last part, acknowledging the insights of the previous two parts in tandem, we can ask, what does God’s existence mean for us as human beings? So, like the thieves crucified with Him, will we wisely turn to Jesus while there is still time (Luke 23:39-43), or perish eternally? Our everlasting heavenly Father desires that nobody perishes, so may we heed and accept Jesus’ open invitation and gift of salvation (Matthew 11:28-30).

Notes

(1) Adapted from Peter Kreeft, “Can You Prove God Exists?,” accessed April 2, 2023,

https://www.peterkreeft.com/topics/gods-existence.htm

(2) See glossary for a definition of all terms.

(3) Adapted from Peter Kreeft, “Twenty Arguments God’s Existence,” accessed April 2, 2023, https://www.peterkreeft.com/topics-more/20_arguments-gods-existence.htm

(4) Adapted from Douglas Groothuis, “He’s Still There and Still Not Silent – Revisiting Francis Schaeffer’s Classic,” accessed April 3, 2023, https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/reviews/he-is-there-not-silent-francis-schaeffer/

(5) Adapted from William Lane Craig, “Does God Exist?,” accessed April 3, 2023, https://www.reasonablefaith.org/writings/popular-writings/existence-nature-of-god/does-god-exist

(6) Adapted from J. Hampton Keathley III, “Evidence For God’s Existence,” accessed April 3, 2023, https://bible.org/seriespage/1-evidence-gods-existence

For further reading and study

Groothuis, Douglas. Christian Apologetics: A Comprehensive Case for Biblical Faith. Downers Grove, IL: IVP Academic, 2022.

Craig, William Lane. “Forum on the Resurrection.” Accessed April 3, 2023. https://www.reasonablefaith.org/writings/scholarly-writings/christianparticularism/forum-on-the-resurrection-with-william-lane-craig

Craig, William Lane. “The Historicity of the Empty Tomb of Jesus.” Accessed April 3, 2023. https://www.reasonablefaith.org/writings/scholarly-writings/historical-jesus/the-historicity-of-the-empty-tomb-of-jesus

Kreeft, Peter and Ronald K, Tacelli. Handbook of Christian Apologetics: Hundreds of Answers to Crucial Questions. Downers Grove, IL: IVP Academic, 1994.

Always remember, the best Bible, is an open Bible!

Amen.

Where to go from here?

Glossary

Abductive argument

An abductive reasoning method is the logical process of making observations and seeking the hypothesis that would best fit or plausibly explain those observations.

Bible (aka. Scripture)

Neither Jews nor Christians originally called their Scriptures “the Bible” (lit., “the Book”). Jews often used words signifying “the Scrolls,” and Christians did call their Scriptures “the Books” (lit., “the codices”). In the early centuries, the Christian Bible appeared almost exclusively in the form of codex fascicles, each containing either one of the larger books (e.g., Isaiah) or a collection of smaller books (Paul’s Letters), so the Scriptures physically corresponded to Lat. bibli., “the books” (cf. Jerome: bibliotheca, lit., “the library”). The term derives from bublos or bublion, loanwords from Egyptian, denoting originally the stalk and, then, the inner pitch of the papyrus plant from which scrolls were commonly made.

Cumulative case approach

Also known as “best explanation” apologetics, cumulative case apologetics involves a fairly informal, abductive reasoning approach. The goal is to establish Christianity makes better sense of the evidence, in contrast to all other competing worldviews.

Deductive argument

Deduction is a process in logic where a conclusion is based on an examination of facts. Its conclusion logically follows the premises. As an example, “All men are mortal. Caesar was a man. Therefore, Caesar was mortal.”

Design Argument

This argument, also known as teleological argument (comes from the Greek word telos, meaning “purpose, end, or goal”), makes a case for God’s existence. Everything in the universe has a purpose, and everything in it emerges as having been specifically designed to fit that purpose. God is the intelligent cause. Medieval Christian thinkers, among them Thomas Aquinas, proposed this line of reasoning.

Inductive argument

While deduction is coming to a conclusion based on facts (arguing from the general to the specific), induction is the method of deriving general principles from specific facts (arguing from the specific to the general). An inductive argument aims to remove the probability of God, not the possibility of God.

Jesus Christ

Jesus Christ (ca. 5/4 BC – AD 30/33). According to the New Testament, Jesus Christ is the incarnate Word of God, the Creator and Savior of the world, the founder of Christianity, and the sinless exemplar of its principles and practices. In Matthew 1:21 the name was divinely appointed, “for He will save His people from their sins.” Since the name was common in His lifetime, He was usually referred to in a more specific way, such as “Jesus of Nazareth” (John 1:26). “Christ,” the anointed one, is a title that acknowledged that He was the expected Messiah of Israel. In the Gospels, Jesus is usually identified as “the Christ.” After Peter’s sermon at Pentecost in Acts 2:38, He was usually referred to as “Jesus Christ.” This composite name joins the historic figure with the messianic role that prophetic expectation and early Christianity knew that He possessed.

Josephus

Josephus was a military officer and historian in Israel, fighting against the Romans. During a battle he was captured, and eventually made a Roman citizen after his Roman captors took a liking to him. In Rome, Josephus wrote books and volumes, many of which were on Jewish history.

Materialism

Materialism is a metaphysical worldview, claiming that only material things exist. It denies that anything immaterial – such as the mind – exists, and everything can be explained by means of matter, and its physical properties. As such, materialism maintains that matter is the only reality in the world.

Mysticism

In mysticism a person attempts to establish union with God apart from the Bible, as well as (ab)using Scripture, or any other nonbiblical text, in a non-Bible-based, Christ-centred way, to accomplish some form of ‘special revelation.’ Such practices are forms of divination, deny Jesus Christ as God in the flesh, reject the sufficiency of Scripture and are forms of evil (1 Samuel 15:23; Acts 19:19; Galatians 5:20). Such practices must be avoided, since they are explicitly prohibited in the Bible (Deuteronomy 18:10-11).

Tacitus

A Roman historian and rhetorician (ca. 56–118 AD) who wrote several important works related to the history of the Roman Empire.

Trinity (Godhead)

The doctrine of the Trinity, while not specifically used as term in the Bible, it originates with the church father Tertullian (155–220 AD). The word “trinity” is a term used to designate the Christian doctrine, indicating God existing as a unity of three distinct, simultaneous persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Each of the persons is distinct from the other in relation, but each is identical in essence. The threefold unity forms the ‘Godhead,’ with each member of the Godhead being simultaneously equal and divine.

Worldview

A worldview a set of presuppositions, assumptions and beliefs a person utilizes in order to interpret the world around him. People have different worldviews, along with opinions about God, man, purpose, life, what is right and what is wrong. Among the common philosophical worldview questions, people ask – Where did we come from? Why are we here? Is there a God? Did we evolve or were we created? Worldviews influence what people do – and not do – as a result of their opinions. Guided by the absolute truth found only in the Bible, a Christian lives by the morals, ethics and principles found in Scripture, primarily as manifested in the life, teaching and ministry of Jesus Christ

AMEN.