Dakota Beacon

MOSCOW, November 26, 2011 — In the last few weeks this column presented logical argument for the existence of God. This drew a reaction that was remarkable both for its scope and emotional intensity.

Needless to say, logical arguments for God's existence have been used through the centuries by some of the best minds that ever lived. These include Aristotle, Augustine, Thomas Aquinas, Descartes and Leibniz among others.

But compelling though it may be logic has its limitations, since it does not ultimately yield the kind of immediate knowledge the human soul longs for.

In the New Testament book of Hebrews we read: “The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being...”

The word “Son” refers to Jesus Christ. It is through Him – the second person of the Trinity – that God reveals Himself in a direct and immediate way.

In the Gospel of John Jesus tells his disciples: “If you really knew me, you would know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.”

It is by knowing Christ that we learn what God is like.

We can deduce some qualities of God by logical inference. But we can know God personally through the person of Jesus Christ.

The Apostle John tells us that God is love. Jesus took on human nature to show what God's love looks like.

The One who was “before all things” came into our world to die so that you and I can be forgiven for our transgressions. He came down from above so that we can have a chance at life.

Logical syllogisms have their value, but their utility is ultimately limited. They can satisfy the mind, but they do not quench the deepest yearnings of the soul. They bring little hope or consolation, and they certainly cannot save.

God, on the other hand, can save. He offers salvation through His Son, for “the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ.”

If we truly want to know God we only need to turn to Christ. He tries to reach out even now. This is what he says to us: “I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.”

Knock on that door and He will answer. You can take His word for it. His word cannot fail, because it is the word of God.

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Born and raised under communism, Vasko Kohlmayer is a naturalized American citizen. He has lived in several countries under various forms of government, but he still marvels at the goodness of God and the wonder of life.

He has written for a number of newspapers, magazines and internet journals. Vasko currently lives in Europe with his long-suffering wife and two beautiful daughters. He is the founder of The Christian Writers Foundation.

His column "Higher Things" deals with matters pertaining to God. You can read more by clicking on this link.