“Faith seeking understanding”
This motto that was first brought forth in the 10th century by Anselm of Canterbury has been used in may descriptions of Faith but it is important to understand that many who use it do not fully comprehend its real meaning. Many have taken it to mean that we should replace faith with understanding.
Let’s first have a rough definition for the two principal components of that statement above
- Faith- ‘belief on the basis of testimony’
- Understanding- belief on the basis of philosophical insight
So it is entirely possible for some to view Faith in a lesser position to understanding
Surely we would all want to want to leave faith behind as quickly as possible. Through the belief in the existence of a God and the bringing fourth of evidence that was only previously believed solely on testimony.
But should we really replace faith with understanding. Faith is more a personal state than just understanding. Faith it is love for God and a drive to act as God wills.
It could be argued that the sort of faith that “merely believes what it ought to believe” leaves the individual as if they were spiritually dead even though they may not be aware of this.
So “faith seeking understanding” means something like “an active love of God seeking a deeper knowledge of God.”
It is possible that you could argue that “faith seeking understanding” begins with “faith,” not with doubt or suspension of belief. Hence, the belief in God and arguments proposed by faith seeking understanding are not really meant to convince unbelievers; they are intended solely for the education of those who already believe.
This however is a misreading of the phrase. For although the proof in the existence of God is derived from an active love of seeking God the proofs themselves are intended to be convincing even to unbelievers.
so it’s then leads to the conclusions that If anyone does not know, either because he or she has not heard or because he or she does not believe, that there is a God and he is our creator and the founder of all that we achieve. We should have faith that anyone of reasonable intelligence who truly opens their heart will come to the plain and undeniable truth that God exists.
[Psalms 14:1]
The fool hath said in his heart, there is no man that hath seen God. Because he showeth himself not unto us, therefore there is no God. Behold, they are corrupt; thy have done abominable works, and none of them doeth good.
Our final act of faith
When we are on our Deathbed perhaps our final moments should be used to say farewell to the world and with our last breath we utter “Lord I commit my spirit unto you”. This final demonstration shows Him we know with Complete surety and faith of his love for us in handing over the baton of stewardship.
Saints of the Restoration 