Everyone seems to be searching for proof of something. When pulled over by a policeman while driving we are asked for proof of identification and driving privilege, proof of ownership and proof of insurance. In court, prosecutors present proof of guilt while defense attorneys provide proof of innocence. When we hear any gossip or accusation our first response should be, “Where is the proof?” I lost my wallet recently and suddenly I had no way to prove my identity. I had no proof of my driving privilege, no card to present to my doctor to prove I have health insurance and no bank card to present for proof of my ability to pay for something. It opened my eyes to just how often we present proof without even realizing it.
Some things are harder to prove than others. It is much more difficult to prove a negative assertion than it is to prove a positive assertion. Next time someone asks you for proof that God exists, ask them for proof that He does not exist. Their response will be more difficult than yours because even if there were an absence of proof of His existence that would still not prove He doesn’t exist; it would only prove evidence could not be found. Of course in that instance there is plenty of proof available for us to present, if they are open to the truth.
When you profess to be a Christian believer have you ever had someone ask you to prove it? Even if you have never actually heard that dare, you can be sure someone is thinking it. So what proof can we present? John the Baptist told the Pharisees and Sadducees, “Prove by the way you live that you have repented of your sins and turned to God.” (Matthew 3:8) Jesus said, “So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” (John 13:34-35) Paul wrote, “We prove ourselves by our purity, our understanding, our patience, our kindness, by the Holy Spirit within us and by our sincere love.” (2 Corinthians 6:6) It has been said many times that the most effective sermons are not preached from a pulpit but lived. Our lives and our love should provide all of the proof that is needed that we are God’s children through Jesus Christ.