Evidence: The Foundation of Christian Faith and Truth

Evidence is the confirmation or proof that a thing is real and is what it says. Our Christian faith is based on evidence – definite facts, not just wishful thinking or human ideas. Unlike many belief systems that require blind faith without any basis for belief, Christianity invites investigation, examination, and honest inquiry into its claims. The Bible itself encourages believers to "test everything" and "hold fast to what is good" (1 Thes 5:21).

Why Evidence Matters

Throughout history, countless individuals have approached the claims of Christianity with skepticism, only to find themselves confronted with compelling evidence that demands a response. This evidence comes from multiple sources: historical documentation, archaeological discoveries, fulfilled prophecies, the testimony of transformed lives, and the personal witness of the Holy Spirit in the hearts of believers. Each of these strands, when examined together, weaves a tapestry of proof that points unequivocally to the truth of the Christian message.

The concept of evidence is central to our understanding of truth and reality. In a court of law, evidence is presented to establish facts beyond reasonable doubt. Similarly, in matters of faith, evidence provides the rational foundation upon which our beliefs rest. This does not diminish the role of faith – rather, it strengthens it by showing that what we believe aligns with reality, history, and observable facts.

Understanding the role of evidence in our faith is not merely an intellectual exercise – it has profound practical implications for how we live, share our faith, and stand firm in the truth. When we know why we believe what we believe, we are better equipped to withstand doubt, answer questions from skeptics, and help others discover the life-changing truth of the Gospel. Evidence anchors our faith in reality and gives us confidence that our hope is not misplaced.

Biblical Evidence and Prophecy

Numerous Old Testament Bible prophecies spoke about Christ coming to die for humanity hundreds of years before this happened. When these events took place, Luke the doctor, who it is understood never met Jesus, investigated the facts and wrote concerning the birth, life, death and resurrection of Christ (Lk 1:1-4).

Similarly, while we can't prove the resurrection happened, the various evidences combine to conclusively indicate it did. These include the many people who testified they were witnesses to the resurrected Christ (Mk 15:44, 16:9-11; Jn 19:32-35, 20:26-31; Act 1:3; 1 Cor 15:6). The disciples were so convinced – transformed after the resurrection and empowered by the Holy Spirit – they were prepared to die for His cause, as have countless other martyrs throughout history. Secular historical accounts as well as Christian writings testify to the facts concerning Jesus.

Although we can't prove God exists, there are overwhelming facts and evidence that He does. "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands" (Ps 19:1). Can any sceptic confidently assume this complex world came into being – either through the big bang theory or 'just happened' through evolution without a master designer? Can we see gravity? No, but we know it exists when something falls on our foot!

Evidence points to the truth

"Since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities – His eternal power and divine nature – have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse" (Rom 1:20). Throughout history, in all cultures, people have been convinced there is a God. (Regrettably, many have settled for a god of their imagination, and not the real true God).

Personal Evidence and Spiritual Witness

The truth will stand up under scrutiny or examination of the facts. "I have seen Him and touched Him" – a personal witness (1 Jn 1:1,3). The Holy Spirit witnesses to our hearts – our conscience bears witness (Rom 2:5, 9:1). "The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children" (Rom 8:16; Heb 10:15; 1 Jn 5:6,10). Do I have this confirmation within?

The certainty is God loves me and wants all to be saved (Jn 3:16; 1 Tim 2:4). He died to prove it.

Who can discredit the evidence of a changed life? The basis of a person's testimony is "I once was blind, now I see" (Mk 5:15,19-20; Jn 9:25). 'I may not know all the answers, but I am different now". Although he is often called 'doubting Thomas', this disciple wanted the verification of tangible personal experience rather than just the testimony of others that Jesus had risen (Jn 20:24-29).

As fruit is an evidence of life; is there indication of divine life within me?

Unless we see evidence of the life of Christ in a person who professes salvation, we have a right to question if they are truly born again, for proof of the 'root is seen in the fruit'. There will be a distinction between those "who have been with Jesus" resulting in a transformation from within, compared to those who live by the sinful nature and who may have even by self-effort, turned over a new leaf in a short-lived effort (Mal 3:18; Act 4:13; 2 Cor 5:17; Gal 5:19-24).

Evidence in the End Times

Surprisingly, many people wouldn't believe in Jesus despite the miracles they saw Him do (Jn 12:37). By acknowledging Him, the greater requirement to obey Him is recognised and this dethrones self. Jesus said, when it was requested that someone be sent back from the dead to warn those still alive about the torment of hell, even this evidence would be ignored by unbelievers (Lk 16:27-31).

Conversely, Jesus predicted at the end of the age there would be numerous people claiming to be Christ, as well as earthquakes, wars, famines and other disasters, with an increase of wickedness (Mt 24:4-14). These events are happening with increased frequency and severity, giving further credibility to the authority and reliability of the Bible – evidence that what was recorded almost 20 centuries ago is true.

Before acting on the claims of someone get a 'feel' for their character and gauge their track record; do their words ring true in your spirit, are they exalting themselves or the Lord, are they in right standing with other mature believers? We should not gullibly accept the exaggerated or false statements of those out to deceive by their plausible smooth talking (Col 2:4; 1 Tim 1:7).

Reflection and Application:

Do I have the confirmation of the Holy Spirit within me that I am God's child?
Is there evidence of divine life within me through the fruit I bear?
Am I convinced of the truth of Christianity based on the evidence, or is my faith based on wishful thinking?
How can I better discern truth from deception when evaluating spiritual claims?