In the previous post we established the first example of how human reason operates, now we move on to the remaining three examples in our story. Another attribute of human reasoning is:
2. Our circumstances. Acts 27:12a
And because the harbor was not suitable to winter in,
These guys were convinced the harbor they were in at the present was not fit to winter in. They are being pressed by their circumstances.
How many times have we launched out in a decision about something simply based on the inconvenience of the moment, the uncomfortable circumstances we find ourselves in, a situation gone bad, or even what may be perceived as everything going right?
Human reasoning wants to consider the angles and then make the decision.
3. Popular Opinion or Numbers. Acts 27:12b
the majority advised to set sail from there also, if by any means they could reach Phoenix, a harbor of Crete opening toward the southwest and northwest, and winter there.
The majority advised. How often have we been at a place where we heard the truth but a majority of dissenters persuaded us not to believe it.
Or, perhaps we were getting it wrong and the majority was in agreement with it?
Either way when it comes to human reasoning these things tend to be the criteria for knowing what is right and acting on it.
4. Immediate circumstances confirming the decision. Acts 27:13
When the south wind blew softly, supposing that they had obtained their desire, putting out to sea, they sailed close by Crete.
When a south wind blew softly! Sometimes after we have reasoned the matter out it appears that all is going well and things are running smoothly. It’s at these times that we begin to brag about the soundness of our decision. We become convinced we did the right thing.
But remember that when we set out on human reasoning although everything looks right at the start, if all starts to go wrong where will our reason takes us then?
Anytime we rely on our own reasoning and do not act in faith we have already began a process that is wrong.
Hebrew 11:6 It’s impossible to please God apart from faith. And why? Because anyone who wants to approach God must believe both that He exists and that He cares enough to respond to those who seek him.
About The Author
- Tim Atchley
- Knoxville, Tennessee, United States
- I currently serve as Senior Pastor of Harvest Church in Knoxville, Tn. I was sent out from Trinity Chapel of Knoxville in 1993 accompanied by my wife Sheila our four children Sarah, Hannah, Josiah & Isaac and a handful of bold, brave and committed believers determined to plant our first church. Pioneering is hard work but well worth the journey. That is why we desire to make disciples of Christ who will, like us, also embrace the call to plant churches.
