On Thinking We Are Right
One of the consequences of postmodern thinking is that we can think whatever we want, but we aren’t allowed to think that we are actually right. In other words, there is no capital T in “truth.” To think we are right is to commit one of the gravest mistakes of our day, and we will be excoriated for it. We will be called arrogant, bigoted, and insensitive — and these are the nice terms. Ironically, those who challenge others for thinking they are right invariably think they are right for doing so. And the vicious circle is engaged.
If someone challenges me, I want him to think he is right. If someone teaches, I want him to think he is right. What good does it do to go around thinking we are wrong or hopelessly mired in an agnostic frame of mind where we cannot know anything and cannot contribute to true knowledge? Paul warned about those who were “always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth” (II Timothy 3:7). Does this mean we cease learning? Not at all. Does it mean we cannot change? Of course not. But it does mean that a wishy-washy, doubting, tossed about by every wind mentality is not what the Lord has in mind for truth-seekers (Ephesians 2:13-14; James 1:6; Romans 14:23). The Christian, of all people, should know better, for when we recognize Jesus as Lord, we are recognizing “the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6).
If you are convinced you are right, then argue for it. If you learn that you were wrong, own up to it and change. It’s called responsibility and maturity. Buy the truth and don’t sell it (Proverbs 23:23).
