Christian Advice on Doubt
Dec 4th, 2008 by Mark Lefers
The advice Christians have given me regarding my doubt fall under these four categories.
- told me what Scripture says
- recommend helpful resources
- have drawn from their experiences
- relayed experiences of others
I wouldn’t say there is a best one. Some days I just don’t want to hear the, “Just read your Bible and pray” mantra. But other days it is useful. Some days I need another book to read on a particular subject, and other days I feel like I have just too many books that I haven’t gotten through. Any type of advice is really appreciated though. Straddling the fence in doubt gets tiring and any help is welcomed.
Advice is always interesting, especially from people who aren’t where you are in life. I’m an avid reader, so my advice on general matters often leans toward books. For this one, the best I have is Faith and Doubt by John Ortberg. At least, that’s what I’ve been told by friend who’ve had problems with their own doubts. And by friends, I mean people I know. My own readings on Christianity trend toward stuff from Garry Wills and Bart D. Ehrman. I don’t know that they’re especially relevant at the moment, but I do enjoy them. Oh, and sorry if you addressed this earlier, but what denomination are you (if you don’t mind me asking)?
Kavar,
Thanks for the book suggestion. I recently heard about John Ortberg the other day and listen to some of his sermons too. I’ll have to get this book. Maybe a stocking stuffer this Christmas.
Regarding denominations, I have gone to several different denominations, but they have mostly been in the reformed tradition. Specifically, I grew up in the Christian Reformed Church. I then spent about 4 years in a Presbyterian church. I now go to a non-denominational church that is more on the conservative side of Reformed tradition (i.e. no women in office, anti-evolution, etc.) I would prefer a more liberal church, but after “shopping around” about 20 churches, this was the best one for me and my family. Looking back though, it was probably this church that was one of the catalyst in causing my doubt. However, there are many at this church that are helping me with my doubt. I wonder what my view will be 5 years from now. And you, do you go to church?
I haven’t been to church since my last pastor retired, and the church kind of changed hands. I’ve been kinda looking around, but it’s been about two years now. I’m Lutheran; specifically, ELCA, which is the liberal Lutheran division.