The Common Bond Between the Atheist and the Christian
Written by Rev. Dr. Scott Paczkowski
“To get wisdom is to love oneself; to keep understanding is to prosper.”
Bertrand Russell was one of the great philosophical and mathematical thinkers of the twentieth century. No one would dare accuse Russell of being a Christian, but we can still glean wisdom from his knowledge. Thomas Oppong quotes Russell in his article, “Bertrand Russell’s Rules For a Better Life,” when he states, “Three passions, simple but overwhelmingly strong, have governed my life: the longing for love, the search for knowledge, and the unbearable pity for the suffering of mankind.” I find it intriguing that Jesus Christ could have made Russell’s quote just as quickly. The atheist and the Messiah have much in common.
Our New Testament can be summed up as “love.” Bertrand Russell’s philosophy begins and ends with the word “love,” and love is exemplified in compassion for the “suffering” of humanity. We bridge belief and unbelief through expressions of love, especially love for those suffering. Reconciliation can occur when people without faith and people with deep faith work together on acts of love.
Placed in the middle, bookended by love, is “the search for knowledge.” The ability to love with compassion is itself a form of knowledge. What separates knowledge from trivia is the ability to take learned information and use it to make a positive difference. The entirety of the Christian faith is a knowledge of our Triune God and the wisdom of affirming divine love as our reason for being and acting in this world.
Pray that we can learn from this famous atheist, Bertrand Russell. His philosophy and studies in logic and mathematics can impact our lives. Then, pray people like Bertrand Russell, who dismiss the reality and wisdom of our Triune God, will learn from us. Pray that all lives can feel the presence and blessings of our God.
