Why would God make it so complex to understand Christianity?

[@calebmccoy4572]

The way you don't attack any form of a critic when talking about your faith. But instead welcoming people to think alongside you has been very instrumental in my life, thank you.

[@iannnebbe4789]

Cyrus von Krinkle, I agree with you in some aspects. I think Christians should be firm in what they believe, and clear about what they claim is true. They should do that with each other and also with people who don’t have the same beliefs as them. I also think, and can see instances in my own life, that Christians who approach questions about faith authentically reflect the disposition of their savior far better than someone who is militant against any dissenting opinion. If you truly feel that Christian faith is under attack, that’s fine. I’m not trying to make an argument that it isn’t. I disagree with the response it seems that you are presenting. I understand that response. I’ve been of the same mindset. It’s hard to have faith when the ideas at its basis are being questioned, but instead of approaching those ideas with anger or defensiveness, I think a better response is to approach those questions with candidness and grace. I hope you have a good day and I wish you the best

[@NicholasproclaimerofMessiah]

Thanks for pointing this out Caleb. I'll have to make this my approach; I kinda do but the "welcoming" part of offering them to think alongside is something I can sure express better.

[@debbiesoff4019]

it is the way.

[@nathanharvey8570]

"I am a person of faith, but I'm wired to be a skeptic" I feel the same way. I have always been Christian, but this is really relatable to me. This video was incredibly well-executed.

[@levifig]

That phrase totally resonated with me too. It reflects how I am perfectly…

[@dimesonhiseyes9134]

I have never had the gift of faith. My faith has never come easy or freely. I have always been one to question and wonder why. Never be afraid to ask the hard questions.

[@Rockthedice]

I have struggled with my faith my whole life. Every since I was a kid I have been asking for God to give me faith. Finally at the 18 I gave up and went full atheists. Now that I'm a Christian again I still think it would be so much easier to be an atheist from a mental consistent stand point. I still Pray for faith and think it might be my spiritual Battle.

[@AABlann]

@@dimesonhiseyes9134 Not to be flippant or combative, but I hope as an encouragement. All who have faith, have it as a gift of God (Ephesians 2:8). So we never need to feel like we have to bootstrap some more faith into our lives or risk disappointing God. He is a perfectly loving leader in our walk to complete sanctification. He may give us the gift of conviction to shed light on what He will work on next and what we can be thankful He has already helped us overcome, but if God is not impatient with our progress why should we be? I can definitely feel where you are coming from that it does not always feel easy or free flowing, but continue in trust and faith. That is, use the faith you have to foster the faith you can trust God has in store for you. Read His word and pray for the faith to grow. All to His glory and in the peace of His finished work!

[@dimesonhiseyes9134]

@@Rockthedice for some faith is difficult and in many ways I think your right it is easier. Atheism requires nothing of us so in that respect I think your right. But in other ways it can be quite difficult. It is perfectly understandable, acceptable, and in many ways encouraged for a person to question thier faith. I know the times that I doubted yet sought after truth and knowledge of and in my faith, were the times of ultimately the most growth for me. I came out on the other side a changed man, and one with a deeper understanding and one that had grown. I am glad you have found faith again. Do not be afraid to ask tough questions, do not be afraid to ask for help. And continue to seek the lord in spiritual ways as well as intellectual ones. If you would like I'm sure many people here can supply some great resources on apologetics. My favorite being the "My strange Bible" and "the Bible project" podcast series

[@Broken-Flesh]

Proverbs 25:2 It is the glory of God to conceal a thing: but the honour of kings is to search out a matter.

[@scottward4316]

I thought I was the only one to ever quote that verse.

[@jamestateIII]

I love that. The fact i DON'T remember that verse is WHY I'm currently re reading and listening to the bible again

[@jamestateIII]

Matter fact...I'm posting THAT to Facebook brother THANKS for posting THAT particular verse.

[@colinwrubleski7627]

@@scottward4316 : To give credit where it is due, the fellow Martin Zender, who (somewhat tongue-in-cheek) dubs himself "The World's Most Outspoken Bible Scholar", fairly often invokes that verse.

[@RosannaMiller]

Yes, Amen.

[@chrismonahan4393]

This video is a reminder of why Matt -- and this channel -- is so good. I don't understand all he says and don't agree with all he says, but it's easy to tell he DID think about this and DID wrestle with it, and genuinely wants to offer an answer (or in this case, several). Thank you Matt and TMBH. Cheers and God bless

[@jg2072]

As a believer I appreciate that Matt worked to explain Christian beliefs and recognized that people are at different places in their journeys.

[@AskAScreenwriter]

I'm also reminded of what C.S. Lewis said about unanswerable questions (from 'A Grief Observed' I think): "“Can a mortal ask questions which God finds unanswerable? Quite easily, I should think. All nonsense questions are unanswerable. How many hours are in a mile? Is yellow square or round? Probably half the questions we ask - half our great theological and metaphysical problems - are like that.”

[@jhowe5571]

Yet, the "knowledge" of God is such that, He would have an answer, for He knows everything. How many hours in a mile? maybe 7, or maybe .0000003. We don't know but, He could answer it. I have heard of the old saying, can God create a rock so big that He couldn't lift it? The logic is this, if you say no then, God is not the creator of everything and such. If the answer is yes then, He isn't all powerful. See the dilemma? However, there's a solution... He could create such a rock and then, He would lift it! He can do the impossible. So, just because we don't have an answer to even the most silliest of questions, God would be able to answer any question. Just bear in mind, He is the creator of everything and has all rights, authority and power over all of it...

[@papahajek5383]

@@jhowe5571 Put simply, God makes all things possible. He's God, our God.

[@ASmith-jn7kf]

@@jhowe5571 so what you saying is God can give logic to the illogical??

[@jhowe5571]

@@ASmith-jn7kf The question posed in the vid and as it relates to my reply is simply this: Man can ask God questions silly enough that God, (who is all knowing, all seeing and all powerful, mind you...) Can not find an answer to. So, it contradicts what God says of Himself (in the Bible)and presents God as not all knowing and such. It's a degrading of God to say He doesn't know everything or can find an answer to every question. God doesn't so much as give logic to the illogical but, He can easily make sense of the illogical...

[@davidfulks1651]

Lewis has it right. But you have to realize that questions that are contradictory (i.e. nonsensical) don’t have an answer. And, these types of questions don’t compromise God’s omnipotence or omniscience...because these properties of God mean being able to do or know all ‘things.’ And, any answer to a contradictory question is not a ‘thing’ it’s a ‘nothing’. God’s knowing all things is not disproved with a ‘nothing’ question or a ‘nothing’ challenge.

[@photehepson]

Christianity is not just an invitation to be saved, but an invitation to spend a lifetime getting to know God better with the help of your friends. The “complexity” is not a barrier to entry, but rather an invitation for those trusting God to go deeper and partner with Him announcing His kingdom more effectively. The deep complexity of Christianity is similar to the complexity of a great work of art. A great work of art can change you even if you don’t understand the complexities of it, but it offers more and more to you the more you study it. In that respect, complexity is a great gift. The thief on the cross, and king David’s comment about his infant son who died (that they are both going to the same place) demonstrate that salvation is very simple. So when we talk about the complexity in the Bible, we shouldn’t feel threatened by it or fear that God is deliberately screening people out of His kingdom.

[@georgeins.c.494]

That's what I lack friends and fellowship when I live among many nonbelievers pagans . I love them , can't leave them. Great commentary.

[@photehepson]

George In S.C. 4 If you’re ever in the Raleigh area in North Carolina I can hook you up with a local body of believers :) I don’t know how KZbin handles this sort of thing but maybe we can private message and I can invite you to an online study group.

[@bsnider0787]

Well said sir. Excellent point of view.

[@crowstakingoff]

George In S.C. 4 They're "pagans" because they don't want to compress their scope of the world into a narrow, vindictive slice

[@jacktrades3747]

Crows TakingOff or they're pagans because they have a narrow view of the world and prefer the simplicity of being deceived by the god of this world (Satan). It is easier to fit in with the world and it's pleasures after all than to be the outcast who believes in Jesus and has morals.

[@nseven1117]

i like how he took a disrespectful question and answered it with utmost respect.

[@sudokuboy400]

How is it disrespectful?

[@nseven1117]

@@sudokuboy400 did you watch the video? he said that whoever the person is had apparently left an f-bomb

[@sudokuboy400]

Oh right, okay that makes sense

[@scottonanski4173]

he didn't leave an F-bomb. He used the F-Bomb as a username.

[@nseven1117]

@@scottonanski4173 ohhhh. okay got it

[@kylereitsma7101]

What I am going to take away from this video is the "leave some things in the questions boxes" comment... Though I think that this is a great bit of advice for this question in particular, I think that it is useful in many other questions in life. I tend to like to know the answer right now so that I can move on but letting things sit in the question stage so that I can think and chew on it is something I think would be beneficial to many things in life. Great video Matt!!

[@abielcotto2392]

I like your technique! You take the negative force and turn it into something positive. Blessings brother...

[@jamestateIII]

I love the question. I love how you respectfully called the person out. That is so JESUS! Right on man. DON'T stop! Let HIM use you

[@trevhib]

Access to and understanding of the core message is very simple and can be consumed by anyone with a sentient mind. It's only when you choose to poke beneath the surface that you discover the endless, beautiful complexity. Blessed are those who accept the core message and respond to it without question, and blessed are those who accept the message & then set off on a journey of seeking God's truths.

[@georgeins.c.494]

Really well stated

[@AindreasMcHale21]

I just can’t understand the trinity, I don’t get why Jesus didn’t explain it thoroughly whilst he was on earth, he only eluded to it

[@kaneinkansas]

trevhib - I like your point. It seems like you can come from an inductive mind, a deductive mind, a math mind, a communication kind of mind, and so on and all can find their way to Christ. This makes me think Christ/God is the ultimate truth. It’s like all meridians lead to the North Pole, all of us can follow our path and find Christ which means he is the ultimate truth. And even simple minds can find their way to God. It’s the greatest thing the way that all souls can find their way to Jesus and Jesus loves each and every one. It’s fantastic.

[@burkholdst.rudderberg3574]

@@AindreasMcHale21 The Trinity is a complex issue; I see it this way: steam is a hot gas ( steam is H2O ) Ice is a cold solid ( ice is H2O ) water is a liquid ( water is H2O ). Although H2O has three distinct forms and properties ( personalities if you will ) all three forms are equally H2O! Perhaps someone could explain it better, but this does help me understand it.

[@andreafrikases4668]

@@AindreasMcHale21 Same here!

[@spawnage170]

Hi Matt, a few things: 1) your beard is on point 2) I love your perspective on this issue, thanks for sharing 3) I love how even your “talking head” unedited videos are engaging and interesting

[@smartereveryday]

His beard isn't THAT great...

[@spawnage170]

SmarterEveryDay a wild Destin appears! Cool stuff about the reversible laminar flow, also I love NDQ!! Big fan of both of you. Thanks for doing what you do!

[@aprilstark8887]

I want to thank you for your response this person's question. It is a good question, most of us ask it at some time or other, and you have a very good response.

[@betoinbeta]

That was a masterclass in honesty, transparency, civility and thoughtfulness. Proud to be a patreon supporter.

[@MattWhitmanTMBH]

And I'm honored and grateful you are.

[@jamesgossweiler1349]

Christianity isn't complex to understand, it's the "hows" and "whys" that take some study. I liken Christianity to a Swiss watch. Telling time is easy, but to understand how the watch works and how it presents the accurate time requires that you dig deeper. I also liken Christianity to the beauty of a Mozart operatic piece...we hear and experience the beauty, awe, and wonder, but in order to understand the "hows" and "whys" of Mozart's piece requires that we study musical composition, orchestral instruments, and related subjects.

[@leesanderson6885]

Thankyou for covering this. Been struggling for a lifetime.

[@wjckc79]

It's like I tell people. If you are studying the bible properly, you will encounter the most complex concepts of anything you could ever study. Yet, as a manual designed by God for all people it is approachable to even the most chronically simple minded. "In the beginning" It does not get much simpler than that. Then you have stuff like Romans 9. People who can understand the more complicated matters are to teach others. Also, the bible makes no sense without revelation from the Holy Spirit.

[@micah_lee]

“The Bible makes no sense without revelation from the Holy Spirit” thats a very big point

[@wjckc79]

@@micah_lee I spent a good solid 25 years as a know-it-all, fire-breathing, argue anyone at anytime and "win" militant atheist. Knowing most people who call themselves Christians don't actually read the bible, I spent a couple of decades studying it to build up ammo. That's two decades of studying the bible only to find it full of foolishness. Now that I am a saved Christian with the Holy Spirit, it is like a whole new book that I am understanding in all new ways. EDIT: I was blind but now I see.

[@m_spade]

@@wjckc79 interesting, I have a few friends that are atheist, I believe that is there issue with the book. I personally believe if people both Christian and atheist study the Bible rather than just reading it, God will reveal himself to you.

[@Darrel_Owen]

@@wjckc79 - And now you're equipped to deal with the very type of person you once were. It's almost like God knows what He's doing. LOL!

[@wjckc79]

@@m_spade Advise them to read Proverbs. It is a book of wisdom anyone can appreciate.

[@tjc9514]

Matt, I really appreciate your honesty with this question. As someone from the other side of the island, I think that this may have been the best explanation from the Christian perspective I've heard.

[@veronicaturner5050]

Your venn diagram explanation was extremely helpful. These difficult question cause me to struggle so much. Thank you for this video!

[@James-oj6ck]

Great video and think-through of the issue. You made me do some pondering of the question.

[@Alantommat]

The visual style of this video fits the topic really well. Straight props on that.

[@mizuza12]

Awesome video! As a believer and an over thinker I think one of the most important words is 'explore'. As much as I would like to know everything , I accept that I am not God. As I journey through life with my faith the times I've struggled have been when I neglect exploring. As someone who is disabled I recently hit a wall in my faith.Then a book about theology came to my attention called 'The disabled God' by Nancy Eiesland. I started it last night so can't comment on it yet. I also started Job in my daily bible reading and found him wrestling with similar questions and attitudes. Mainly I am just glad to be exploring my faith again after a tough season May we always be willing to explore our Faith and not afraid to ask difficult questions.

[@kaneinkansas]

marvelousmillie I actually think what you are talking about is what it is all about. There’s a central tenant that love (good love) is empowering - not controlling. This is a difference between Islam and Christianity. Islam doesn’t care what you think, just follow it or it will chop your head off. Jesus doesn’t do anything like that. He doesn’t put a gun to our head. He empowers us to find out for our self. Much of the gospel is Jesus teaching us how to search, know the truth and it will set you free, this is how you look for truth, beware of falsehood dressed as truth. Matthew chapter 8 is all about how to seek truth. The separation of church and state, Jesus idea, is to give you more freedom to seek truth. On this channel he interviewed an Eastern Orthodox priest, and he said: basically God created us with enough freedom (free will) to reject him - and think about that - he doesn’t give you free will in regards to things like sexual orientation - you don’t choose that - so we know that free will is not universal, but he gave us free will to the extent that we can reject him and the first thing we did was reject him. And so that creates two possible EASY answers - God could take away our free will and thus we are saved OR he could leave us as we are and we head into damnation - that’s the 2 obvious choices, but instead God thru Jesus does something far more inventive and so, far more complex - he provides us a way back to him BUT without us having to give up our free will. God’s complex because his answer to our condition is complex. People looking for one simple answer to complex things, even in religion are actually doing the wrong thing. Uncertainty is the nature of creation. God wants us to ask questions and seek answers. That is why I don’t have problems with atheism - if that’s where your honest good will pursuit of the truth has lead you to at this moment, then fine, that’s where you are on your journey. I find the parable of the Prodigal Son then extremely important because that is God telling all of us our biographies from his perspective. It is so important to wonder, to seek the truth and hopefully it will lead all of use back to God - some of the best Christians are former or were formerly atheist. I love the song by the Moody Blues called “Out and In” - it says “you have to make the journey out and in” just like the Prodigal Son did - and when he returned, the Father threw a big party. So keep seeking the truth with humbleness and honesty as much as you can and prepare to be rejoicing some time soon when you make the journey in. There’s one school of thought that says the universe was created by God for the purpose of eradicating evil. That is he created time and space to eradicate evil, and out journey out and in is part of the cleansing process , the eradication process - we are each a molecule in that process and so as molecules we make the Prodigal son’s journey out and in to scrub us and eradicate evil from us, and the Father keeps a steady look out for us in hopeful anticipation that we will return that me make the journey in, and when we do he’s going to throw each of us Big party once we return. Great stuff. I think that also answers the question that Job asks: why does bad things happen to good people - it is part of the eradication process, cowering us clean so to speak, but man, oh man, it can be very very painful and take a very long time. Anyway, that’s kind of where i see things these days. I find it very wonderful overall but the scouring that’s the tough part.

[@ASmith-jn7kf]

@@kaneinkansas you are quite off.

[@ASmith-jn7kf]

@@kaneinkansas what scriptures let you know this?? And in that case the children of Israel did not have free will??

[@kaneinkansas]

A. Smith the Gospels. Luke is where you go to get the prodigal son. The Gospels are filled with lesson on how to seek truth. The Prodigal Son is all of ours biography told from God’s perspective. I should think this is obvious. All of Matthew ch 8 is advice on how to seek the truth. Our Free will is central to Gods plan-it’s part of how we are made in his image.

[@trentrossdale638]

I would also say that to expect a being that is eternal who not only is outside time and space but who created both time and space and everything else in reality just by speaking it into existence. To expect to understand a being like that is hubris. God is a being with unimaginable power, intelligence and depth. A being that is in essence being itself. To think God who encompasses all of that and an eternity within himself would be easy to understand is kind of comical to me. As for the gospel message that is pretty straight forward which is God's most important message to us. But if we want to have a relationship with him then like anything worth while it will take work and dedication which I think is the point. God wants us to ask questions and to seek him. Being in a relationship with him and learning more and more each day is so unbelievably rewarding but makes you fall more and more in love with him which is awesome!!! ✝️💗🙏

[@RyanGrandon]

I like your perspective on these deeper questions that are hard to wrap our heads around. love the video

[@FanofAslan]

I am a strong believer, but your comment that you are wired like a sceptic rang a bell at my own front door. I am known by close associates in my church as "The Yes but... Man." I think it is good to question things. I think the riddle of unanswered questions inspires us to go on the quest to find the truth. I think the winds and gales of doubt that buffet our tree encourage us to grow strong roots of faith. Do not be discouraged. Quite the reverse: be encouraged! You are a truth seeker, and God will, in His own time, reveal various-sized portions of His truth to you as you make your quest. The important thing, never forget, is to be on that quest. God bless you! FoA.

[@russbuckner7151]

Matt, as someone who has never been able to reconcile the inherent conflict in following a particular "brand" of faith, I really value and enjoy the way you tackle theology without the bounds of a dogmatic lens, and your ability to introspectively reason out your personal conflicts with the subject matter on a public stage. The discourse here and on your podcast is if the highest Calibre and I thank you for inviting me to the table

[@AaronLebahn]

As I was reading the Bible this morning, this passage reminded me of this video. What do you think about it? Matthew 11:25-27 (NIV) 25 At that time Jesus said, “I praise you, Father,Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. 26 Yes, Father, for this is what you were pleased to do. 27 “All things have been committed to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him

[@ASmith-jn7kf]

What does it matter what he thinks?? You see what is written plainly and so much has been said in other places.

[@johnalexis8284]

Christianity is actually quite simple but man is very good at dragging it through the mud.

[@Lu_chew]

Much love brother, thank you!

[@megangray7769]

Well said brother 👍 I definitely see things the same way. Our brains must operate the same way. The complexity is beautiful!

[@jonopriestley9461]

You know, I reckon you’d be one of the coolest people to see do evangelism live. Hard topic to distill and I like how you’ve done it, particularly the way you allowed the truth of what’s really tough and how you’ve been impacted by these kinds of things personally and it made it real. So good job!

[@myjourneyinforex6486]

Brother, you had me at "I am a person of faith, but I'm wired to be a skeptic". I question every passage I read, not to argue but to undersand better, why certain things are said in a certain way and to certain people. and the certain time. Keep posting such videos..

[@logosjohn1]

Complexity requires humility but arrogance stands in the way.

[@jimm.1013]

Why does complexity require humility? And why does arrogance stand in the way?

[@eliahdayton3448]

I think that his point is that when we have the humility to recognize that we have to work hard to understand something complex and also that it may be beyond us, we come closer to understanding it fuller. Arrogance tells us that we know best and that doesn't let us consider things that are beyond us and our own ego. Does that clarify?

[@logosjohn1]

Job, of the Bible, had a problem with pride until God confronted him with the complexity of creation. See Job 38...Listen to what Job said afterward: Job 42:2-6 CSB [2] I know that you can do anything and no plan of yours can be thwarted. [3] You asked, "Who is this who conceals my counsel with ignorance?" Surely I spoke about things I did not understand, things too wondrous for me to know. [4] You said, "Listen now, and I will speak. When I question you, you will inform me." [5] I had heard reports about you, but now my eyes have seen you. [6] Therefore, I reject my words and am sorry for them; I am dust and ashes.

[@jimm.1013]

@Eliah Dayton Humility has to do with thinking of oneself as not being overly important. I don't see where it has anything to do with an ability to acquire knowledge, complex knowledge or otherwise. If you want to stretch the meaning of "arrogance", it might have to do with being overly confident in one's knowledge. So to say that "arrogance stand in the way", might be a statement with some merit. Much of the time such things are stated because they sound profound, not because they are necessarily true.

[@philipcobb]

This is such a helpful way to think through a big question. Thanks Matt!

[@kathleenwharton2139]

I was born and indoctrinated into a church. It was very complex. But after some years Jesus became my Teacher. He Led me Out. It was very hard. Then God Led me out of ALL churches. Then He brought the bible He wanted me to Read and as I read He Showed me which verses to mark and those were the only ones I Read. We did that for awhile and then He narrowed me to Matthew 5 6 7. We stayed there for awhile as I Learned what He gave me Foundation. He Tested me through all of this too. NOW..we are Down to me and Jesus..I Seek Him EveryDay and He personally Guides me EveryDay..Day by Day. It is the BEST! And it is Not complicated or complex Anymore!

[@theshakter]

Even the disciples didnt understand it all in the scripture/beliefs until they got it. It's all about Christ or nothing.

[@Evan-rx6cj]

Obviously they didn't understand it until they got it. That's what "understand" means. I don't see your point.

[@theshakter]

@@Evan-rx6cj It means were all born spiritly blind. And it only takes the Gospel to wake up someone to understand it.

[@JohnBender1313]

Honesty is first. And it starts with yourself. Then forgiveness. And that starts with yourself too. Being honest and forgiving of yourself is a great first step to always being honest and truly forgiving in life.

[@kevinwynn6582]

I am a sceptic who found the church that isn't afraid of the questions and has the answers. Keep searching and praying brother... You are so close!

[@grizmyster]

God gives man free will. If everything God created was forced to love God that would only be compliance, not true love. God decided He would not cheapen man's relationship with Him by forcing everyone to love Him. He created the world we know and has had His hand on history to prove and show evidence He exists --- my wording not verbatim, but (Romans 1:20). Our relationship with God comes when we give up the things of the world and choose to actively seek Him. Moses is an example of this in Exodus 33 and the bible points man toward seeking God in multiple scriptures.(Deuteronomy 4:29, Proverbs 8:17, Matthew 6:33) Our relationship with God is like any other relationship with man in the sense that the more we pour into the relationship more value there is in the relationship. Thanks for the video! Keep up the good work.

[@Bc232klm]

How would that cheapen anything? We don't need raped children to love God.

[@adamcrawford1390]

I've always thought of it this way: would you rather have a loving, caring spouse who stays in your life because she wants to or do you want a subservient robot who is programed to say "I love you" every 5 minutes? Some people would claim they want the robot but doesn't that feel so... empty?

[@ASmith-jn7kf]

@@adamcrawford1390 hmm, let's see. It would more equivalent to say would you want a spouse you could absolutely control and I think most people would say yes. We naturally try to control people our children or others, we want control over many things. God just has this control. If you are a sin you are already a robot, a slave to sin, you are not only a robot when God gives you the power to see your true condition and the holy spirit makes you a slave to righteousness. You are a slave either way, you choose either a terrible or good master.

[@andycocking10]

Wow, from 17:40- feeling lonely at the top because you know everything... that's what I'm scared by. I find I'm most comfortable when I'm lost in wonder, grappling with complexities that I know I will never understand but still contemplating the meaning behind it. It gives me a sense of the sheer scale between myself and the Infinite God. One of my biggest conundrums is watching this Infinite, or as you say Matt, in-finite, God be all-encompassing, complete, omni-everything yet still intimately involved in the seemingly puny life of myself and everyone around me. I can't help but just sit in quite wonder at this every time I stop and think about it.

[@Webhead123]

I think this is a particularly fascinating and important thought-experiment and I love the format in which to approach it here. To add what I reason to be the most probable explanation for the question: The primary medium/method for "bridging the gap" as you might say between Humanity and the Christian God at present is "The Bible". A collection of writings that span incredible spaces of time, which are recorded by many distinct Human authors and which, in their current form, have not perfectly weathered their journey through history (writings have been lost, copied, translated, mistranslated, altered or had their "canonical" validity questioned/rejected). Whether the individual reader takes up the position that the ideas behind the biblical texts are "inspired" by God or not, (to borrow a line from Dr. Ehrman) it is difficult to know God's word if we don't *have* the original word. Because the form of the word that survives to reach us today is saddled with such complex Human artifice, a complex and incomplete understanding is going to be very challenging to reconcile with our still complex and incomplete minds.

[@garymaple3387]

What an wonderful answer and acknowledgement of a simple question. 👏

[@thegreenmamba100]

Matt, I just came across your video two days ago about non-biblical sources describing Jesus and the Church, and I've been taking in your videos since. You do well at laying stuff on the table and allowing people space to think for themselves, by presenting multiple positions. If all of your videos are this engaging, then I'm going to have a hard time not sharing EVERY video of yours that I come across. Thanks for working hard at what you're passionate about :)

[@MattWhitmanTMBH]

Thanks Logan. I enormously appreciate that.

[@DWNY358]

I really enjoyed this. However, perhaps, in a part 2, you might focus more on the complexity of Christian rubrics and doctrine and why it’s challenging for an outsider to figure out what God meant it terms of how to worship and follow Him within a Christian context. For example ‘This is My Body, which is given up for you’ means the Real Presence of Christ at Mass for faithful Catholics, but means something more symbolic for most Protestants (and many individual Catholics, too). Similarly, there is complexity on the meaning of Baptism, the role of church and it’s ministers, the relative roles of Scripture, the Cross, Faith, Works, Saints, Prayer, and loving your neighbor. All of this can be considered confusing and complex to an outsider.

[@mimi_j]

I find the complexity of our faith and diving deeper in it is a way to seek God’s heart and learn more 💕I find it a way of bonding also. I agree with possibility number 3 and 4.

[@StokesFamilyCO]

Very cool. Indeed a good question and I believe a good response. Thank you sir!

[@springray2323]

Thank you so much for this video. I also wrestle with this and I have found this video to be extremely helpful.

[@DillonLoomis]

Excellent video Matt

[@Moonpupils]

Thank you for making this video

[@homer3ja425]

Great job meshing that out. I agree with you on the beauty of complexity! 🙌🏼🤙🏼

[@russbuckner7151]

Matt, as someone who has never been able to reconcile the inherent conflict in following a particular "brand" of faith, I really value and enjoy the way you tackle theology without the bounds of a dogmatic lens, and your ability to introspectively reason out your personal conflicts on a public stage. The discourse here and on your podcast is if the highest Calibre and I thank you for inviting me to the table

[@evanbayer3683]

Well done, you are a well spoken communicator ,thanks for your thoughts

[@jamespurcer3730]

You closed with the perfect response to the question that was preceded by the thoughts that this provocative question engendered in your mind. Well done. My thoughts are below.

[@ghallora]

I am a Catholic and respect your position. Obviously we differ in theology and this video was not really biased in anyway. You explained things really well. I enjoyed it. Reasoning part reminded me of St. Thomas Aquinas.

[@richardmcgarvey6919]

.... I really appreciate this video! 🙏

[@UN1FIEDSOUNDS]

from 15:00 to 16:00...you said some of the most influential words I have heard yet...i mean, that was almost prophetic! Im going to write it down, and use some of that to help disciple my friends who are on the fence about christianity. God Bless!

[@BigIdeaSeeker]

Interesting. I’m a former Christian and left the face largely because of questions like these. I still enjoy theology, but see it so differently since I don’t have to believe it. The minute you cite is interesting, but it’s really just the ol’ “God’s ways are beyond us and we can’t understand it,” trope that never satisfied me in Sunday school or Bible college. Just curious, did your “on the fence about Christianity” friends find it helpful? Cheers.

[@jeophilip4353]

awesome matt, really enjoyed it.

[@dimesonhiseyes9134]

Bravo, Bravo very well done. I loved how you broke this very complex question into very digestible small bites. Mom approves.

[@saludanite]

In my early twenties, I was confronted by a simple question from another kid, who wasn't doing so hot either. He asked me to tell him what I thought was the most outstanding feature of my life, up to that point. I told him that I was a vegetarian, on principle. ...well, he had asked me and I told him! So he quoted first Timothy four. Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons... commanding to abstain from foods which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth. For every creature of God is good, and nothing is to be refused if it is received with thanksgiving; for it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer. You cannot comprehend the amount of utter guilt and shame that suddenly washed over me in that moment. I was guilty, and God was HOLY, and I KNEW IT! It is the Spirit that convicts the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment. We need to ask God to put people in front of us, and to have His Spirit to speak to their lives. Without Him, we can do nothing.

[@melodyannevans8320]

I think God is simple, Knowing God is simple, the teachings of Jesus are very clear and simple. Religion is what confuses mankind. All religion takes people further away from God, whereas Jesus takes us towards God. People mistakenly look at religion as God.

[@swagraptor5477]

Wow, fantastic video. You really have a mind and great thinking/reasoning skills. Excited to get into more of your videos.

[@lsborland]

I'm pretty sure that most of the time we project our finite limitations onto an infinite God and then we dismiss God (and blame him for it) when he doesn't match up with our misunderstanding. It's tough (and probably impossible) as created beings to visualize a non-created being, infinite or otherwise. Great video. I love that you're interested and willing to tackle difficult topics. :)

[@nicholas1460]

That was good. I started out by thinking I would just watch to see a dumbed down version of faith for the masses but it went in a surprising and approachable direction.

[@lisaroster5855]

amazing analogy, well explained! that brings alot of clarity.

[@michaelnapper4565]

Another great video. I love to hear and take part in thinking about God, and what He has done for us. This is one of the ways we glorify His great name. He told us to love Him with all of our hearts... And our MINDS!! He has command us to THINK!! YAY

[@rollercoastertrain5794]

I enjoy how you're channel is of understanding and education rather than speaking of ignorance and hate towards others and denominations. Keep up the work :)

[@aviktopchyan6465]

Your heart (and mind, of course) are in the right place. Thanks for digesting eternal truths in such a consumable way. Lots of goodies in what you suggest. God bless!

[@lukethek2551]

The bible is self-admittedly difficult to understand sometimes: 2 Peter 3:15-16, "and count the patience of our Lord as salvation, just as our beloved brother Paul also wrote to you according to the wisdom given him, as he does in all his letters when he speaks in them of these matters. There are some things in them that are hard to understand, which the ignorant and the unstable twist to their own destruction, as they do other Scriptures."

[@m.a.bushling]

9:16 Me: *Looks around quickly like a kid who just got busted with a mouthful of candy* Where is the camera with which you are watching us, sir? And, you make us (collectively as commentors, not the voices inside my head) think. And I am grateful for that.

[@robertr.beauchamp453]

I’m going to make a comment that I hope isn’t taken wrong. You seem so full of Grace. I’ve grown up feeling that the Reformed people, especially those in Churches with the word “Grace” in their names, are the Christians most lacking in grace. They run around labeling as “heretics” those with whom they disagree, especially Catholics those believing in signs, wonders & miracles. But you seem to be able to deal with those of other traditions with grace, kindness & understanding. I’m grateful for you and your channel. If all Christian accepted other Christians with differing traditions, as you do, the world would be so much more wonderful.

[@bryanfields]

I really enjoy listening to you!!!

[@wilts43]

"Why would God make it so complex to understand Christianity?" *He didn't* Jesus didn't write a book, nor leave us a "Library of Books" (Bible) to figure out. (This is a reverse-engineering of History for Christians born into the Protestant Tradition of Sola Scriptura, which is only 500 years old.) He left us His Kingdom, which He calls "My Church" in Matt 16:18-19. He left us Teachers (Apostles) and they appointed others (soon called Bishops). See 2 Tim2:2. He left us Shepherds ....."He who hears you hears me....." _Some_ of these _will_ be Teachers, Scholars etc. But the Shepherds were the first visitors to Jesus _before_ "the wise men". Scholars inform: but the Shepherds, especially Peter, decide. But Pride is the first sin. It is the sin of Lucifer ( "I will not serve") and of Adam ( "I want to be like God") , and it is the sin of Luther, Calvin, Zwingli, Bucer, Melancthon.....who, although sincere, would not be corrected by their Shepherds......and left The Catholic Church. (A Church that always has Tares among the wheat, & bad fish in the net, as Jesus told us) But, as Messiah, Jesus had to re-establish the eternal Davidic Kingdom. It is not a democracy. This is always a "hard saying" for the proud. But the fruit of Sola Scripture & personal interpretation is inevitably a Babel of opinions, and many openly search for "The Church that agrees with me"......."All is vanity" If we are willing to be humble "sheep", guided by our Shepherds (those with Apostlc Succession) we can be totally illiterate, or fantastically learned,......it matters not. Salvation (and sanctification through the sacraments & a life of love) is equally available to the simple, the unlearned & even the mentally-impaired as it is to the scholars.

[@JonineBlackshear]

wilts43 Exactly. My husband and I were talking about this last night. How the Protestant movement created an elaborate maze of confusion around the gospel and it takes so long to “come home.”

[@NCSiebertdesign]

And yet there are too many false dogmas and doctrines in the catholic churches too. Papal infallible, mariology, Salvation through 'works' etc etc I consider the true church of Christ according to scripture is not of a man (traditions) but of Christ whom He called us to be together as one body of His regardless type of church/denomination you are member of. Because if you fall away from faith in Christ, you're no longer part of His vine. John 15:4 Remain in Me and I will remain in you..

[@maxd.1730]

Thank you for this video 🙏🏼

[@alanweber6805]

Keep up the good work god bless you

[@AndrewKendall71]

My favorite thing about your work ... you're a real actual person. I appreciate your thinking and approach and humility and graciousness and thoughtfulness and intellect.

[@robinhenken6834]

I am praying for you Big Time!

[@MWL3]

As a believer. Have been in church all my life. As a child Pentecostal Holiness and then Baptist. I went to both Baptist and Church of Christ schools in middle school. In my adult life I have been actively involved in Baptist, Pentecostal and Christian Missionary and Alliance churches. I have also studied how other protestant faiths believes. There are so many believes within Protestantism in terms of how an individual comes to receives salvation. I thank you for your videos and what you do.

[@ryanclayton845]

Hey Matt, Thanks for this video. Something that has been bothering me lately (and in peristently in the past) has been the divide that I feel in my interaction with God. Genesis has God walking in the garden with us. What a powerful image. I have a hard time when I compare that to now - where I have to do so much to hear even the faintest, inaudible, wispser from God. We’re told that reading our Bible and praying are ways that God reveals himself to us, but those things have such a high difficulty level compared to the ways we naturally communicate. It also seems to be contradictory to how God originally designed it... he was in the garden with us. I have no issue understanding the separation at face value. I also don’t struggle with the exclusivity. However, It’s hard to reconcile that God would become flesh to reconcile the broken relationship, but then leave the means of communication just as broken as when he came. Why leave me here, separated from Him if I’ve been redeemed? Why this dreadul in-between where I am redeemed, but not restored. Now, I know that the Holy Spirit is suppose to fill this gap, but the gap is painful and the Holy Spirit isn’t tangible, loud, or easily discerned. Now I realize that this question isn’t phrased briefly enough for a video and responding in these comments is not a doable task given the amount of comments you get and the limitation of your time. I also realize that this is part of that center Ven Diagram chunk. I suppose, like in Destin’s latest video, the colors seem irreversibly mixed and overwhelming. I just long for the crank to reverse direction and things to become clear. I understand that I likely won’t hear from you, but that’s where I am at. I really appreciate you and Destin. When I noticed the verse references at the end of his videos, it was comforting. And I discovered your channel when you guys launched the podcast. I save the NDQ podcast for when I’m doing my longer runs (training for my first Marathon is October). I’m picking up what you guys are laying down - God, faith, and reason are intentionally woven together in a way that is unassuming, unaggressive, and approachable. I see that you’re both aiming to meet people where they are and to shine a bit of light in places where they may not know there is darkness. Anyway. Thanks for shining a bit of light. I hope our paths cross some day.

[@carlafoss9248]

I appreciate your openness about the in-between feeling. I suspect that many people feel this way in the church, but don’t express it because maybe it shows vulnerability or lack of faith. I think it’s honest, though and reveals how we have an infinite spirit in a finite body that longs for the fullness we were created for. We have hope! Rom. 5

[@elizabethgrosvenor153]

I don't know if it helps, but the best answer I have to this question (that is far easier to speak into someone else's life, of course, than into my own), is that it's because the harder stuff creates the intimacy with God? Which is what he's really after. That He's saying, "can't hear Me? come closer. catch what I'm whispering... now come on again, we're not staying here, come to the next thing, follow Me, lean in closer to hear My next thing..." etc

[@samchoate1719]

I really enjoyed this video as someone who is also wired as a skeptic, but wants a good and full life. I’ve lived a life of sex drugs and rock n roll before, and I see friends still in that life and how empty it is. So it’s not of my nature to immediately jump to the conclusion that Jesus Christ is Lord, but the more I search out the complexity, the more plausible, and even valid I see the existence of God to be. I have a very compelling story that I’d like to share with you, but it is a bit long for a KZbin comment. Also, I’d really like to discuss this topic further, because I could use some guidance and you seem like an authentic person.

[@MGustave]

I do love this channel. Its so nice to hear from a branch of Christianity I dont associate with, and most people in my country I suppose associate with ignorance. Thank you Sir!

[@davidaauk3]

Great video. Thank you.

[@mandycole21]

I think that you should do another fallow up video for this Also I think that maybe one of those reasons that its so complicated to understand is bc it's called faith so you have to have some faith in that God is all knowing and we are not and those people who take that leap of faith towards God are those who end up being truly blessed in the end and then with that it would kinda be able to weed out those who don't truly believe in God but that's kinda the way i always looked at it ......but to be completely honest with y'all I was brought up in the church and then when I was old enough to make my own decision I choose to stop going and really haven't been back since so I'm kinda one of those limbo people who don't know what to believe at this point in time in my life So Thank you for another great video please keep them coming

[@wjckc79]

If Christianity was super simple to understand, we would spend far less time with God on our minds and thereby not so much in our hearts.

[@KingKhama777]

BINGO

[@Darrel_Owen]

That's an excellent point.

[@AttRandyReynolds]

@William Cornelius If Christianity were simple to understand then fewer people would be baffled by Christianity. Fewer people would be wasting time trying to analyze it and therefore have more time with God on our minds and in our hearts.

[@retiredatlast1976]

"Why would God make it so complex to understand Christianity?" Did God do that? No, the humans have done the complexity, the theology sliced and diced and trying to grab power for themselves over the rest of the humans.

[@andiroo42]

“Jesus + my effort” always makes things more difficult and that’s how it is often presented.

[@benjammin6228]

Yes.

[@partialartsblackbelt8384]

The complexity definitely makes us engage more, dig deeper, and continue to study.

[@michiganron]

Excellent video, Matt. Thank you for making me think more deeply about things. Living in a house with a routine and three little kids, thinking deeply about something is a breath of fresh air.

[@Shawn-nq7du]

I simply loved listening to this video as it resonates so much with my experience. I left the Episcopal faith 5 years ago and became a member of the Catholic Church and one thing I know for sure -- one could not understand all the complexities contained in scripture and tradition if they lived to be 500 years old. I think of Father Mitch Pacwa, a Jesuit Priest, who speaks 12 languages fluently to include Arabic, Hebrew, Greek, Aramaic and Latin and has a PhD in Old Testament studies. I know there is so much more that he can learn. The more I know, the more I know of how little I know. It's okay because I know I love God and want to worship him forever and I am comforted that he loves me regardless of my intellectual abilities. All the great scholars and saints over the past 2,000 years help us to understand the riches of God and his plan -- St Augustine, Thomas Aquinas, G.K. Chesterton, St. Ambrose, St. Teresa of Avila and so many more. It is the Holy Spirit that guides the Church to understand his word and we believe he works through his Apostles to discern truth as Christ said I will be with you until the end of the days and the gates of hell will not prevail over the Church. The Church speaks with one voice because of the authority given from Christ to the Apostles, starting with St. Peter of whom he said upon this rock I will build my Church and I trust that God will not let his Church go astray. The Apostolic succession of Papas (Popes) can be traced to Peter. God protects the truths of the Church even if a Pope is morally bad. Thus doctrine and dogmas have not changed over the past 2000 years because of his protection. I love the authority of the Church and I am grateful that my pea brain does not have to learn all the ancient languages, the culture milieu of the periods in the bible for understanding, and scriptural interpretation. I trust in the authority of the Church and I love that it speaks with one voice on authoritative matters. As John 17: 21-23 states: "I pray not only for them, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, so that they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I in you, that they also may be in us that the world may believe that you sent me. And I have given them the glory you gave me, so that they may be one as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may be brought to perfection as one, that the world may know that you sent me, and that you loved them even as you loved me." With a billion members we have relatively a few bad apples but God can work even through them to keep his Church in tact. This is faith; this is trust in God that even the simple minded can come and know and love him with their whole heart, body, and soul.

[@BigIdeaSeeker]

Four years ago, but the almighty algorithm just now sent it to me. Seems to me the answer you finally go with is a variation of all the “God’s ways are just beyond our understanding,” answers I’d always get in Bible college and (adult) Sunday school. None of the Christians I was always surrounded by were ever bothered by deeper questions, while I was rather constantly. If God is so great, why can he not communicate clearly with we who are so lowly? Christians are always ready to bash themselves and all of humanity in order to preserve God’s sacred standing (“If he wants to smite and we don’t understand it, he’s just greater than us.”) can’t say I’m happy for you that you are content with such reasoning. I’m very happy as an atheist (toward revealed gods such as the Yahweh-Jesus construct), agnostic to a possible unknown entity “out there.” Cheers.

[@PlampinUK]

Thank you for this.

[@wataboutya9310]

Thank you. That helped me a lot.

[@QueenTiye54]

Hi, I am a Baha'i, and I really enjoy your videos. I have a different opinion on why Christianity (specifically) is hard. But here's another thought applicable to all religions, namely that God created us with reasoning and questioning power, that the process of investigation into truth is inherently human. Searching the things of God is good for us. The challenge is good for our brains and for our sense of being.

[@bloodyfingers8633]

Maybe God didn't make it complex because God didn't create the religions of the world, man did. The problem with religious beleifs today is it requires a beleiver to argue against their own logic and reason. They don't teach how the bible came to be or how the Christian faith came about for that matter according to history, in Sunday school. Religion has adopted and adapted to secular world views more and more as science has progressed. For example: beleivers no longer beleive disease comes from Satan or that mental illness is demon possesion. The original scriptures were interpreted and translated much different than they are today and so held different meaning than what mainstream Christianity has over time changed them into, many times in order to fit certain politcal narratives. If the Bible is the 'infaulable word of God' then why are there so many versions of it? With every new translation there's a new interpretation of the scriptures. This is also what has created different denominations within Christianity, who have different theological views on scriptures than their neighbors. So how can anyone branch or denomination of the Christian faith, be so convinced they are in the right about what they beleive? This is how religion has a psychological effect on the mind in the way that inhibits a person's logical thought processes by giving them faith in something they cant see or understand. Which the religious beleivers 'faith' isnt based on a pure faith, that there sinply is a God. Its faith in whatever theyve been taught and told God is by the authority figures of whatever religion or denomination within they've submitted their mind to.

[@cornerstonemusic8014]

This was excellent. Thank you.

[@noahjstein]

Thank you for this! Eased my conscience.

[@billmulvihill1680]

Hey Matt, just found your videos recently and I find them interesting, educational and entertaining. I really like your approach to the different topics as well as stepping outside your comfort zone to inquire about different ideologies and such. A quick comment about this video on why does God make Christianity so complex (or something along those lines. Lol). This might be taking an overly simplistic look at the subject, but I don’t think God is the one making this so complex. God spelled it out for us in the simplest of terms. Salvation is by faith alone in God alone. Nothing else added, nothing else needed. He gave us the commandments in a manner so easy a child can do it: Love the LORD your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength; and love your neighbor as yourself. There is nothing at all complex about any of this. The real complexity comes from us. Humans. We can’t do anything simple. We have to add our own touch to it. Our own thoughts and ideas. Look at the Jews. God gave them a simple commandment, remember the Sabbath to keep it holy. What did the Jews do? Added a whole bunch of other rules to determine how to keep the Sabbath. They completely missed the point of the original commandment. We as Christians are a part of one body in Christ, yet we have divided ourselves into different theologies and denominations, each one thinking they are the most correct and anything else is heresy. No, God didn’t make Christianity complex. We did. And I think it’s time to get back to the basics. Keep doing what you are doing, Matt. It’s a wonderful thing.

[@cosmicslop1272]

Great video. Interesting topic that has been a question I have asked myself.

[@TheWarriorLP16]

I realky like this video. Keep it up!

[@JustAnotherAccount8]

What if God created all these denominations to cater for our uniqueness. Like a puzzle piece, you might not fit in well with Anglicans, but its a perfect fit in Catholicism. Not sure if I'm making any sense here, but it would make sense for God to make sure all his followers feel like they belong.

[@thecolourtone]

As a 32 year veteran of the belief system that now identifies as more "christ leaning," than christian, I'd love to see more videos like this. Specifically, how do you separate mythology/oral history from concrete fact within the bible (i.e., the creation story, jonah, jesus' subversive teachings, etc.)? To answer this, you have to assume the bible to not be inerrant, which I do. But Matt is smarter/better spoken and I'd love to see him give it a shot. I, like Matt, am wired for skepticism.

[@MattWhitmanTMBH]

Glad to have you here, and thanks for the very thoughtful comment my fellow skeptic.

[@benjammin6228]

What does that mean to not believe scripture is not inerrant? I'm still trying to understand that position.

[@thecolourtone]

@@benjammin6228 A lot of people in this tradition believe the bible to be factually accurate/literal in its entirety. It is my opinion, and that of countless smarter people than me, that stories like the 6 day creation are Semitic poetry and meant to transfer an oral history into a transcribed one - a story used to explain god's power, but not explicitly to explain the mechanics behind it. The point of stories like these is that we (people) talk about them - not that we debate their factual accuracy. The underlying point being that, if you believe God raised a man from the dead, it serves to reason that the same god could create the universe in 6 days. BUT just because he COULD doesn't mean he DID. Modern science has thrown a legitimate kink in young-earth theory, and theories like it. That said, even apart from Genesis, there are many other stories within the bible that are factually/historically inaccurate. This is why I like this channel so much, and why I hope to see more content like this.