Most “core beliefs” are based on what is NOT in the bible. Therefore, how we fill in the blanks determines some of our basic doctrines. Belief in a rapture, for example, is based upon very limited, non specific text. It is a relatively new belief that was not part of Christian theology before the 1800's.  It gained popularity in Christianity in the 1950's, and more recently with the popular "Left Behind" series.

How do "new" beliefs get started?  Through our reason and judgment we develop theories and doctrines. Then we find supporting texts that will “prove” our doctrines, and continue to build more theories based upon the ones that we have “proven”.

The more that we build on our original premise, the more of an investment we have. Yet, all of our development is based on how we filled in the blanks to begin with. Or to put it another way, we base a lot of our beliefs on what we make up.

Seeing is Believing

A few years ago on Hoshanna Raba in Jerusalem, we attended a lecture given by Rabbi Gold on this subject.  He talked about the phrase, "If I hadn't have seen it I wouldn't have believed it". And said the opposite is even more true, "If I hadn't have believed it, I wouldn't have seen it".  Our view of reality is based on our beliefs we have BEFORE discovering the facts.  Regardless of how clear the facts are, we often refuse to see reality in any other way.

The condition then that we find ourselves in is known as “cognitive dissonance.” Regardless of what may be true, we believe those things that are comfortable for us to accept, and do not believe those things that are uncomfortable.

 

The condition then that we find ourselves in is known as “cognitive dissonance.” Regardless of what may be true, we believe those things that are comfortable for us to accept, and do not believe those things that are uncomfortable.

 

 

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