God enables faith by withholding proof

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Christians might also say that God doesn't want to provide unambiguous evidence of his own existence since this would deny faith. This argument also attempts to avoid the burden of proof to demonstrate God's existence.

"It’s true that you cannot prove 100% that God exists, at least in this life, for to do so defeats God’s purposes, if He does exist. [1]"

Atheists ask believers for evidence for their beliefs but stop short of asking for 100% proof, since this is impractical to provide for factual subjects.

Counter arguments

Biblical counter examples

However, this rationalization ignores the myriad times the Bible does just that.

  1. A voice from heaven announces Jesus is God's son. Matthew 3:17 Bible-icon.png
  2. Alleged post-resurrection appearances of Jesus, including to a group of more than 500. 1 Corinthians 15:6 Bible-icon.png
  3. Thomas asks for proof and receives it. John 20:24-29 Bible-icon.png

Satan could destroy faith using proof

If Satan exists, Satan could prove God's existence, which would make faith useless and derail God's "plan".

  1. If God exists and desires faith, he withholds proof of his existence
  2. If Satan exists, Satan would undermine God's plan if he could
  3. If Satan exists, Satan could prove God's existence.
  4. Satan has not done this.
  5. Satan and/or God does not exist.

Nonsensical for God to make is existence ambiguous

Supposing a God that wishes us to know him, up to a specific degree of certainty but no further, is absurd. God has no logical reason for withholding evidence. Faith may be a virtue but wisdom is also a virtue. If God were interested in interacting with humans, he would conduct his dealings with humans openly.

Due to the lack of evidence to demonstrate God's existence, the level of certainty is very low. This is illustrated by the very low level of agreement between different denominations and religions. If God exists, this is a sign that God is a recluse or does not want to be known at all.

Satan could prove his own existence

The evidence for the existence of Satan is weak or non-existent. However, if Satan were real, he would reveal himself because it would be an easier and more effective way to influence people. Satan does not need to worry about people having faith in him. Apologists argue that Satan is more effective when concealed. [2]

Unreasonable for God to also expect belief

"The free will argument is also a rationalization of the lowest, most evil aspects of the character of the Biblical god (and that is saying something). The god of Christianity insists that you believe in him and also affirm that the crucifixion of Jesus was done in your name, or you will spend an eternity in Hell. But he refuses to provide compelling evidence to us for his existence or for the truth and rightness of that crucifixion. He wants people to believe in him without having good reason to believe in him, and, its worse that that, he wants people to believe in him when he has create a universe filled with compelling reasons to not believe in him. A universe which countless thoughtful people have examined and concluded that God doesn't exist. The Christian God rewards blind faith and ignorance, and punishes skepticism and intellectual honesty. He is one of the most contemptible characters we humans have ever dreamed of.[3]"

References

See also