Confession of Ignorance

Questions Answered in This Article

What does the Bible say about humility before God?

The Bible emphasizes the importance of humility and acknowledging our limitations before God.

Throughout scripture, humility is seen as a vital aspect of our relationship with God. It involves recognizing our finite understanding and the infinite nature of God. Proverbs 3:5 calls us to trust in the Lord with all our heart and not to lean on our own understanding, illustrating that humility involves surrendering our intellect and perspective to God's wisdom. St. Augustine, reflecting on this, highlights that reaching out to God with our minds is a blessed pursuit, yet true understanding remains beyond our grasp.

Proverbs 3:5

How do we know divine revelation is true?

Divine revelation is confirmed through scripture, the consistent teaching of the church, and the inner witness of the Holy Spirit.

The truth of divine revelation is established through the authority of scripture, which serves as the inspired word of God. 2 Timothy 3:16 affirms that all scripture is God-breathed and provides the basis for our beliefs. Furthermore, the historical teachings of the church, particularly those rooted in the Reformed tradition, provide a framework for understanding and affirming these truths. Finally, the inner witness of the Holy Spirit assures believers of the truth of God's revelation, as described in Romans 8:16, which testifies in our hearts that we are children of God.

2 Timothy 3:16, Romans 8:16

Why is acknowledging ignorance important for Christians?

Acknowledging our ignorance fosters humility, dependence on God, and a deeper pursuit of truth.

For Christians, acknowledging our ignorance is crucial as it opens the door to a deeper relationship with God. St. Augustine emphasizes that while we may seek to understand God and His ways, we ultimately face the reality that complete understanding is beyond us. This admission cultivates humility and encourages us to rely on divine wisdom while pursuing knowledge. It aligns with passages such as James 1:5, which invites us to ask God for wisdom. By humbling ourselves, we are positioned to receive God's instruction and grow in faith.

James 1:5