The Scriptures make it very clear that those who never exercise a particular kind of faith will suffer permanent, everlasting consequences (John 3:18; 5:24; Rev. 20:10, 15). Therefore, if what the Scriptures say is true, only the biblical faith is of lasting value.

Is it reasonable to be certain of the biblical faith? I would submit that it is not only reasonable to be certain of it, but that it has no serious competition among the various alternatives and is therefore worthy of every consideration. This is not to say, of course, that being certain automatically validates one's faith. Simply having certainty has nothing to do with it; neither does sincerity, for that matter. The reasons why one is certain, however, have everything to do with it. Consider the following four reasons for being certain of the biblical faith.

First, the existence of a divine Creator is the only rational explanation of which I am aware for the existence of the universe. If anyone thinks they have another rational explanation, I would be interested in knowing what it is. (For more on this subject, see my article, "What is Your Commitment about God?")

Second, the resurrection account as given in the Scriptures is the only rational explanation of which I am aware for the existence of the early church. Again, if anyone thinks they have another rational explanation that is supported by the facts of history, I would be interested in knowing what it is. (For more on this subject, click here.)

Third, although the object of the biblical faith is not directly verifiable (or falsifiable), the credibility of the source documents has withstood the test of time. For example, many statements in Scripture have been confirmed by scientific discoveries. If anyone thinks the original text of the Bible contained any errors I would like to know of any such examples. Granted, we don't have the original documents which are the basis for the text of Scripture, but so much of the text is beyond dispute that this should not be an issue. (For more on this subject, see my article, "What is Your Ultimate Authority?")

Fourth, biblical faith can be verified through one's experience. This is not to say that one's subjective feelings are a test of truth (that is, a valid proof), or that anything which may appear to be miraculous is sufficient to validate a truth claim. What I mean is that one can experience a supernatural power which enables one to live in a way which is pleasing to the Creator, with all of one's heart, mind, soul, and strength, and to believe the words of Scripture for what they say, without being restricted in what one believes by an ecclesiastical institution of some kind or another (which claims to have authority apart from what Scripture says). As for me, when I relied upon my own abilities I was not successful in these things, yet I have found I am able to make progress through trusting in the God who is revealed in Scripture.

In short, while one cannot have what can be called a "mathematical certainty" of the biblical faith, one can nevertheless have sufficient certainty of it. This is not to say that all things are equally clear or without mystery, nor is it necessary that this be the case. The important thing is that one can be certain of the essentials based on the facts.

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