What are some examples of circular reasoning in issues that Christians debate?

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Question: "What are some examples of circular reasoning in issues that Christians debate?"

Answer: Simply put, circular reasoning can be defined as an attempt to support a statement or claim by repeating it in different or stronger terms. A classic example is to state, “I believe the Bible is God’s Word because the Bible says it is God’s Word.” This claim uses its claim to prove its claim. As such, it is by definition circular reasoning. Skeptics and critics of Christianity often allege that Christians use circular reasoning when defending their biblical beliefs. While this is not always the case, in some situations Christians resort to debate tactics that would not withstand serious logical or philosophical evaluation.

Another common example relates to belief in God. Many Christians have argued God exists because the Bible says God exists. But this is problematic from a purely logical standpoint since it bases belief in God’s existence on a document Christians assume comes from God. In other words, this results in a person saying God exists because God says He exists.

A third common example is seen when Christians use Scripture to prove the resurrection of Jesus from the dead. If the person arguing for the resurrection only uses Bible verses to prove this point, this is again circular reasoning. Why? Because the claim is made based on a book written by people who already believe in the resurrection. Extra-biblical evidence from history, archaeology, and other fields would be required in addition to the biblical evidence to make a solid, logical defense.

Finally, Christians who argue that Christ will return in the future based on the Bible’s prophecies also often use circular reasoning. Yes, Christians do believe Jesus will return; however, this is a faith claim based on biblical beliefs rather than outside, physical evidence. As a result, the best approach with Bible prophecy is showing how Old Testament prophecies have been fulfilled in Jesus as the predicted Messiah. This is the example Paul and other early Christians often used as a form of evangelism. As Acts 17:2-3 notes, “As his custom was, Paul went into the synagogue, and on three Sabbath days he reasoned with them from the Scriptures, explaining and proving that the Christ had to suffer and rise from the dead. ‘This Jesus I am proclaiming to you is the Christ,’ he said.”

There are many solid logical arguments that build a plausible case for Christian beliefs. Circular reasoning is an unnecessary form of communication to share the evidence for Christianity. Rather, a combination of biblical data, logical reasoning, historical and scientific evidence can be utilized to present the best possible case regarding essential Christian teachings. Ultimately, the Bible challenges Christians to be prepared to give a reason for the hope within us. “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander” (1 Peter 3:15-16).