In a broad stroke kind of way, epistemology is the search for answers. Philosophers, writers and thinkers in general spend their time in pursuit both for themselves and for others. Theology is the search for answers pertaining to all things God. Pastors, teachers and church leaders devote their lives to know and to deliver the answers to life's difficult questions.
Rob Bell's recent release Love Wins and the controversy surrounding it causes me to question questions. I have not read the book so I have nothing to offer regarding the book itself. Reading some of the critique and viewing the backlash pushes me to think about how I process my faith as I search for answers. I would not call myself a cynic, but I am sure I know very little.
Why is it that when questions or doubts arise, the knee jerk reaction is to ignore or to quickly justify some "answer" that really is meant to distract and push mental distress away. Question askers seem to receive unfair judgement.
Here is mostly all I know. From my own life experiences I am convinced that without sincere questions my life would be too comfortable and lacking significant purpose. Only speaking for myself, in seasons I have encountered great darkness, wrestling with doubts and questions (that mostly go unanswered), these are the times that have produced the most personal growth. Of course, these days were not my happiest but they were significant in that the questions pushed me to think, feel and experience God in a deeply personal way.
Answers are nice but not always necessary.
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