Faith by Trial and Error

Why trial and error is more important than certainty? Today I watched: Tim Harford: Trial, Error, and the God Complex? His talk created clarity for some of the gut-feelings I have toward others opinions on faith and theology?

Someone with a god complex: In the face of an incredibly complicated world he nevertheless is absolutely convinced they know how the world works.  When approached by someone with absolute certainty it is important to ask: What does he leave out?

In an world where the complexity is unbelievably staggering the god-complex is tempting. So how do we abandon the god-complex and approach matters with humility and a willingness to learn from the results. Not beginning with an answer and seeking proof to make a point, but learning to let the proof speak for itself.

How do we get there? Curiosity. Trial and Error. Willingness to be wrong. Willingness to fail during the search for truth. Willingness to accept the truth for what it is.

In the end we will have a result that works. A faith that is real. We will not necessarily be able to identify why it works, but we will know that it does. And that is very scary for those of us who rely on reason and logic.

It is easier not to have my opinions challenged. Not to have my conclusions tested. It is more comfortable to be certain than uncertain.

But, I think Jesus/God intended for us to not defend our faith but to explore a relationship with him.  I'm on that journey.