“A true disciple is consumed with holy curiosity that doesn’t take yes for an answer. The disciple keeps asking and seeking and knocking. And the quest is never over because the questions never end.”- Mark Batterson
Mark Batterson concludes Chapter 6 of Primal as he talks about a concept in the philosophy of science called critical realism. Pastor Batterson defines the term as “the humble acknowledgment that we don’t know everything there is to know.”
Most noteworthy, Mark adds, we need a degree of critical realism when it comes to faith. As a result, the author asks, why:
- do we have such a tough time admitting our non-omniscience?
- is it so difficult to admit our deep-seated doubts?
- don’t we profess what we don’t know as readily as we explain what we do know?
Consequently, admitting these things frees you up to ask questions and admit doubts. In other words, you keep learning. Also, Mark believes, we need the intellectual courage to humbly admit our ignorance. Humility, he posits, wins more converts than dogmatism. Yet, it’s important we defend the Christian faith with intellectual integrity and confidence. But humility must come first.
In conclusion, Pastor Batterson states that his favorite description of Leonardo da Vinci wouldn’t take yes for an answer. Hence, as you approach every person, challenge, and situation with humble curiosity, each transforms into a learning opportunity. In addition, God redeems and uses your experiences to shape you into the person He wants you to become. And there’s no end to learning. Mark closes with these words:
“I believe that learning glorifies God when it’s done for the right reasons. And that reason is to know Him more so you can love Him more. So go ahead and live as if you’ll die tomorrow. But keep learning as if you’ll live forever. After all, you will.”
Today’s question: What do you think it means to not take yes for an answer? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “A failure of imagination”