Posted by Yew Weng (202.156.2.42) on February 18, 2003 at 01:50:44:
Dear Elder Yong
Thank you for your replies to my earlier queries. You have brought froth an interesting concept – the application of scientific methods to conclusively and objectively determine the truthfulness of religious claims. Please correct me if I have misstated any portion. =)
Observations:
Most cleverly constructed religious claims cannot be scientifically or even statistically tested as the claims usually have an “escape” clause or are so unique that it is statistically impossible to collate a test set. For example, “the prophecy of certain calamity if the people would not repent and ask for forgiveness”. Number one, time of occurrence of calamity is not stated. When would it happen? In a month or in 10 years time? If it did come true, so it is true. If it didn’t occur, this doesn’t disprove it either as it is still possible for it to happen tomorrow. Assuming we ignore the time factor, if the prophecy did not happen, we can still argue that the people repented and are forgiven.
It is easy to test X’s claims to have superman x-ray vision to see through walls. Just put X in a room and specific objects in the next and statistically test how many times X correctly guesses the content. However, if X claim he/she can prophesy about the future according to what God choose to reveal to him/her (in the way I highlighted above), it is difficult to scientifically ascertain whether their claim is objectively true. Moreover, if X prophesies cleverly using his/her knowledge of current affairs, geology or political matters, that would make it even harder to detect its truthfulness. Usually when someone makes such a claim, we will substantiate its credibility with the person’s repute. Nevertheless, I do believe even people of good standing can be - like what Dr Tong said - sincerely mistaken.
It is good to keep asking hard questions to ensure accountability by people who make such claims. But I suspect most people would choose instead to preserve the harmony and dynamics of the church. (especially when they are pitted against their Elders or Pastors)
Sometimes I wonder whether I have desensitized myself to hearing God’s message by asking for facts and proofs all the time. However, I do delight in the fact that the Lord guides all those who seeks Him to the truth. We have to be humble and continually rely on His Grace to reveal His truths to us. I do hope as Christians, we can give reverence to God and not make claims we are unsure of.
These are just some of my thoughts on the matter. I would be grateful if you can share your thoughts as well.
T.I.A for your insights.