Believe Quote by Arthur C. Custance
““We do not simply decide to believe, having been convinced by factual evidence. We first grasp the truth, being enabled by the Holy Spirit, and then the external evidence for the truth suddenly takes on new significance. Thus we ‘understand’ by faith. Anselm said, ‘I believe in order that I may understand’ whereas Abelard said, ‘I seek to understand in order that I may believe.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Faith of the Early Church (hypothetical)
Faith and reason are presented as a loop: belief opens the mind to truth, then evidence reinforces belief, echoing Anselm and Abelard’s ideas.
In simple terms: Belief and understanding support each other.
Key Takeaway
Balance faith with evidence.
Themes
faith
reason
understanding
theology
Mood
reflective
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
theological
When to use this quote
- personal belief
- academic study
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
philosophy of religion
epistemology
Questions to Reflect On
- How does your belief shape your perception of evidence?
- Can you understand without first believing?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on faith may ignore empirical scrutiny.
