Doubt

Focus: Lesley Hazelton describes herself as an agnostic Jew who studies the prophet Muhammad. In this short talk, she describes a deep and powerful lesson she has learned by studying the accounts of God’s revelation to Muhammad. This lesson is applicable to all who claim a faith. Watch and make a note of the stories and quotes that jump out to you. What questions do you have?

Gathering Prayer: Holy One who is known to us by many names and in many ways, we give thanks for the blessings that we have in our lives. You know the thoughts of our hearts; hear our prayers. Be present now as we enter a time of thought and discussion.

Watch the video clip Doubt & Faith

Sentences on the Subject: Doubt as sin. — Christianity has done its utmost to close the circle and declared even doubt to be sin. One is supposed to be cast into belief without reason, by a miracle, and from then on to swim in it as in the brightest and least ambiguous of elements: even a glance towards land, —is sin!― Friedrich Nietzsche

Take faith, for example. For many people in our world, the opposite of faith is doubt. The goal, then, within this understanding, is to eliminate doubt. But faith and doubt aren’t opposites. Doubt is often a sign that your faith has a pulse, that it’s alive and well and exploring and searching. Faith and doubt aren’t opposites, they are, it turns out, excellent dance partners.– Rob Bell

Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. – St Paul

Below is some “food for thought”, a few probes that might kick start a conversation. Read over them and pick one (or more, or none) to discuss. Remember to hold space for others to share and share only what you feel comfortable sharing.

Probe 1. Consider some of your religion’s beliefs or statements of faith.Are there articles of faith on which you stand convicted? Are there article of faith in which which you doubt?

Probe 2. The segment ends with Hazelton’s declaration that the opposite of faith is certainty, faithless conviction. Without doubt, we are certain that we hold “The Truth”, which devolves into Fundamentalism. What do you think about her claim?

Probe 3 .Faith exists in the absence of evidence; science exists in the relative certainty of the evidence. Can the two co-exist?

Probe 4. Did the Sentences on the Subject raise any thoughts or questions?

Commission: Hold on to what is good. Love deeply. Honor others. Stay excited about life and your faith. Be joyful. Be patient. If you pray, have faith. Share with people who are in need. Welcome others into your homes. Be loving to those who hurt you. Be present; be in the moment. Be gentle, even with those with whom you disagree. Be humble. Be a friend of people who aren’t considered important. Do the right thing. If possible, live in peace with everyone. And remember, no matter who you are, or where you are on life’s journey- you are welcome here.

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See the entire talk by clicking here

Listen to a meditation on Doubt & Faith