"Knowledge has a unique and irreplaceable function in human life. Unlike other human capacity, it authorizes individuals to act, to direct, and to teach, and the lack thereof disqualifies one in those same respects." Dallas Willard."
It is true whether you're acting, directing, teaching, training, advising, offering counsel, writing, using the media, or seeking any truth. We all give a certain amount of weight to things we've experienced, which feeds our knowledge base and forms our belief. At issue is whether or not our knowledge base lines up with reality and warrants our belief. All people, religious or non-religious can be emotionally attached and closed minded toward new information that could strengthen or weaken their case. And none of us can know everything. So, what do we do? We seek after authorities on the subject matter. We want the best surgeon, the best lawyer, the best mechanic, the best engineer, or best, most long-lasting product. We do our homework the best we can. We don't care if the surgeon is a jerk, if he is the best one we can get. He may need a counselor, but he's a great surgeon. The analogy applies across the board with our feelings. I'm not say feelings don't matter. They do, and could quite well be your subconscious experiences informing you or God speaking to your conscience.
For example, if you weren't familiar with refraction, you might think that a a pencil dipped halfway into a glass of water was broken. It looks crooked to the eye, but it's not, because our knowledge and experience of refraction taught us otherwise. So, if you said it was crooked, like a child might, then you would be forming a belief from a lack of knowledge. The lack of knowledge disqualifies you from having authority on a subject. Christians are to stay open-minded and keep learning.
"Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you. Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding." Proverbs 4:6-7
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