Philosophical Inquiry

On the "About Us" page we cited Webster's Dictionary definition of epistemology. "The study or theory of the origin, nature, methods and limits of knowledge." We went on to make an important observation: Each method of knowledge has its own origin or source; each source of information has its own nature, quality or characteristics; and each knowledge method has its own set of limitations.

Using Webster's definition, the following evaluation-of-methods grid offers tremendous primary-source insight. In other words, in order to be fair to each method (remember, we're on a journey in search of truth and desire to be all-inclusive so as to fairly consider all available information sources), we must listen to a definition of each method that correctly describes itself as it is essentially defined. This is a fair inquiry, as opposed to distorting or misrepresenting a particular method or rejecting a method simply because it's not within one's own worldview construct. The grid below is not exhaustive, but allows for a good start.

Origin/Source	Nature	METHODS	Limitations
Humanity (H)	? ?	*Science*	Process done in context of humanity. Observation of physical things is primarily emphasized.
Humanity (H)	? ?	*Reason*	Process done in context of humanity. Rational or mental thinking is predominately emphasized.
Humanity (H)	? ?	*Experience*	Process done in context of humanity. A combina- tion of human-based processes are emphasized.
Plural (H & G)	? ?	*Tradition*	Process done in context of humanity. A combination of human- and God-based ingredients are emphasized.
God (G)	? ?	*Bible*	As is (self-defined), the Biblical source is God's spoken Word in context of human participation.

Consider the HUGE limitations of man-based sources of truth in contrast to the source of Truth from the one and only all-knowing God.

In application, a suggested assignment:

The Word of God (as it clearly claims) is a source frequently misrepresented today. Some who genuinely seek truth have been rather taken back when they decide to read the book and let it speak for itself. In light of much anecdotal evidence telling of great blessing as a result of reading this source, we challenge you to take the time (due to the eternal consequences tied to the themes addressed) to fairly consider what the Bible says about itself, as opposed to blindly believing speculative theories in contradiction to its statements and truth claims. Don't worry, it won't bite. Just read it. Start in the New Testament by reading through the Gospel of John. This short book has a lot to say about truth, as do the other books in his name (i.e., the Letters of John). The other book this same author had part in writing is Revelation - a book that (when written almost two thousand years ago) told of future things that are actually unfolding TODAY!

If you start with the Gospel of John, you'll note a fascinating figure of history: Jesus Christ. If you would like more information about Him, write to us at

Truth Foundations
P.O. Box 92098
Portland,Oregon
97292-2098 USA

and ask for the publication, "Ultimate Questions." Thanks, and may spiritual Truths in Jesus Christ bring you eternal blessing as they have countless others.

Visit our Endurance Ministries' site ; Visit our Truth Foundations' site