Wrestling with the Big Questions: Faith, Reason, and the Work

Brothers and sisters, have you ever felt that familiar tug-of-war in your own heart? It’s that pull between what we cherish as sacred tradition, the beautiful, time-tested truths passed down through our leaders, and the relentless tide of new information pouring in from the world around us. It can feel overwhelming, can’t it? Like standing at a crossroads where every path seems to demand a sacrifice of belief.

It’s easy, especially when we’re deep in the hustle of missionary preparation or trying to shepherd a new ward book club, to keep the focus tightly on the fundamentals—the gospel plan, the covenants, the Spirit. And those fundamentals are everything! But sometimes, the Spirit whispers that our discipleship requires us to look at the *edges* of our understanding, to wrestle with the big, messy questions.

Recently, I was listening to a discussion about just that—the intersection of science, history, and scripture. It was a rich, sometimes challenging, conversation that reminded me that being a disciple of Jesus Christ isn't about having all the answers; it’s about having the right *process* for finding the truth.

The conversation highlighted how, throughout Church history, Saints have grappled with everything from Darwinian theory to the implications of modern historical research. It wasn't always neat. There were times when leaders debated—fundamentalist versus modernist approaches, differing views on literalism versus literary interpretation. It’s complex. It’s messy. And honestly, that messiness is where the real discipleship is forged.

What struck me most was the emphasis on intellectual humility. The goal isn't to declare one side the absolute victor, but rather to approach both scripture and science with patience, a willingness to learn, and a deep respect for the process of revelation. We are taught to read scripture literarily, not just literally, and that skill—the ability to discern *how* we are reading—is a powerful tool for every disciple, whether you're in the MTC, serving in a stake center, or just reading in your living room.

This isn't just academic theory, though. This principle—that our faith must be robust enough to handle complexity—is vital for us as rogue disciples and internet missionaries. When we encounter an investigator who asks a difficult question—one that requires us to explain *how* we know what we know—we can’t just recite talking points. We have to model thoughtful, Spirit-filled inquiry.

This is where I keep thinking about using Davee. If you’re preparing for missionary discussions, or even just having a deep Bible Study Group in HolyPlaces, remember that your goal isn't to win a debate; it's to help the investigator feel the Spirit's companionship. If they bring up a scientific or historical sticking point, don't panic. Instead, use the AI Investigator role. Walk them through the *process* of inquiry. Show them how to approach the question with the same intellectual curiosity that Ben Spackman displayed in his work.

If you want to dig deeper into this beautiful, messy process of learning, I highly recommend listening to the full podcast episode. It’s a masterclass in intellectual humility!

✨ Mission Prep Skill: Embracing the 'Messy' Question

Next time you are studying for missionary discussions, or even just having a casual chat with a friend about faith, don't shy away from the hard questions. Instead of trying to give the perfect, polished answer, try to guide the conversation back to the *source* of our confidence: the restored gospel and the power of the Spirit. Model the process of seeking truth together. That is the greatest testimony you can bear.

If you enjoyed this reflection, please consider joining a Book Club or a Bible Study Group in HolyPlaces. Let’s keep learning together!