What are some examples of circular reasoning in issues that Christians debate?
Circular Reasoning in Debates Among Christians: A Critical Analysis
Circular reasoning, also known as begging the question, occurs when an argument assumes the truth of what it is trying to prove. In logical terms, the conclusion is smuggled into the premises, rendering the argument invalid. This fallacy arises in many debates, including those surrounding Christianity, theology, and apologetics. While circular reasoning is often employed inadvertently, it undermines sound reasoning and opens Christians to legitimate criticism from skeptics. This lesson aims to identify examples of circular reasoning in Christian debates, explain why such reasoning is problematic, and provide biblically and theologically sound alternatives.
Defining Circular Reasoning
Circular reasoning occurs when an argument's premise and conclusion are essentially the same. For example:
Example: “The Bible is true because it is the Word of God, and we know it is the Word of God because the Bible says so.”
At first glance, this statement may appear valid to those with faith in the Bible. However, from a logical perspective, the argument is flawed because it presupposes the conclusion—"the Bible is true"—in the premise itself.
Examples of Circular Reasoning in Christian Debates
The Bible’s Authority
Circular Argument: “I believe the Bible is true because the Bible says it is true.”
Problem: This claim appeals to the Bible’s self-attestation without providing external validation or evidence for its truth. While faith in Scripture’s authority is essential to Christian belief, using this reasoning alone is insufficient for apologetics or evangelism.
Alternative Approach:
Point to historical and archaeological evidence supporting the Bible’s reliability (e.g., the Dead Sea Scrolls, which affirm the textual integrity of the Old Testament).
Highlight fulfilled prophecy, such as Isaiah 53:3–7 describing the suffering Messiah, fulfilled in Jesus Christ (Luke 24:44).
Emphasize Jesus’ affirmation of Scripture: “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth” (John 17:17, NKJV).
The Existence of God
Circular Argument: “God exists because the Bible says so, and the Bible is true because it is God’s Word.”
Problem: This argument assumes the existence of God to validate the authority of the Bible, which is then used to prove God’s existence—a logical loop.
Alternative Approach:
Employ the cosmological argument: everything that begins to exist has a cause, and the universe’s existence points to a Creator (Genesis 1:1).
Use the teleological argument: the complexity and order of the universe indicate intelligent design (Psalm 19:1).
Appeal to human morality, as Paul does: “For when Gentiles, who do not have the law, by nature do the things in the law, these, although not having the law, are a law to themselves” (Romans 2:14–15, NKJV).
Creation vs. Evolution
Circular Argument: “Evolution cannot be true because the Bible says God created the world in six days.”
Problem: This statement assumes the Bible’s interpretation of creation is correct without addressing or engaging with scientific evidence or alternate interpretations of the text.
Alternative Approach:
Emphasize the compatibility of faith and reason, showing how science and theology answer different questions about origins (e.g., “how” vs. “why”).
Highlight the limits of naturalistic explanations for life’s origins and the universe’s fine-tuning.
Discuss the anthropic principle: the universe’s physical constants appear designed to support life.
Moral Absolutes
Circular Argument: “Moral absolutes exist because the Bible says so, and the Bible is true because it teaches moral absolutes.”
Problem: This reasoning assumes that the Bible’s moral claims are valid without providing an independent foundation for objective morality.
Alternative Approach:
Argue that objective moral values require a transcendent moral lawgiver, as implied in “You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy” (Leviticus 19:2, NKJV).
Demonstrate the inadequacy of secular morality, which struggles to ground universal moral obligations apart from God.
Why Circular Reasoning Fails in Apologetics
Fails to Persuade Skeptics Circular reasoning does not offer compelling evidence to those who do not already share the underlying assumptions of Christianity. Skeptics or seekers are unlikely to accept arguments that appear to simply assert what they aim to prove.
Misrepresents Biblical Faith Faith in Christianity is not blind or devoid of evidence. Scripture commands believers to engage in reasoned defense: “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear” (1 Peter 3:15, NKJV).
Undermines Intellectual Credibility By relying on circular reasoning, Christians risk appearing intellectually inconsistent or dismissive of reason. This weakens the witness of the gospel and undermines meaningful dialogue.
Biblical Foundations for Sound Reasoning
The Bible itself models and affirms the use of logical and evidential arguments. For instance:
Paul at Mars Hill: Paul used reason and observation to engage Greek philosophers: “For as I was passing through and considering the objects of your worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Therefore, the One whom you worship without knowing, Him I proclaim to you” (Acts 17:23, NKJV).
Jesus and Evidence: Jesus validated His identity with evidence, such as miracles and fulfilled prophecy: “If I do not do the works of My Father, do not believe Me; but if I do, though you do not believe Me, believe the works” (John 10:37–38, NKJV).
Conclusion
Circular reasoning is a logical fallacy that Christians must avoid, particularly in apologetics and evangelism. While faith in God and Scripture is foundational to Christianity, faith is not opposed to reason or evidence. By engaging skeptics with sound arguments rooted in Scripture, logic, and evidence, Christians can present a robust and compelling case for the truth of the gospel.
Ultimately, faith itself is a gift from God (Ephesians 2:8–9), and the Holy Spirit must work in the hearts of those who hear the message. However, as believers, we are called to present the gospel in a way that reflects God’s truth, love, and intellectual integrity: “Come now, and let us reason together,” says the Lord (Isaiah 1:18, NKJV).
