The Dissolving of Doubt – Sunday, February 16, 1941

Much attention is given these days to the subject of doubt. In a generation of skepticism and unbelief, when so much that is false finds itself intermingled with so much that is truth, men are inclined to doubt many things.

One of the great gifts of the Prophet Daniel was his reputation for the “dissolving of doubts.” (Daniel 5:12) There are such voices as his in our day, if we would but hear and believe them, but while many are still proud of their beliefs, there is a class of people who are smugly proud of their doubts and who profess to look upon doubt as a virtue. Indeed, there are many who, for the license that it gives them, profess to doubt even the fundamentals upon which civilization rests.

Lest we have any misunderstanding about the true nature of doubt, may we say that in and of itself it is neither a vice nor a virtue. It may be good or it may be bad. If it exists for its own sake and perpetuates itself, it is a thing of evil, but if it leads to a search for knowledge and removes itself, it may be good. An honest doubter looks for an answer to his question, but an insincere doubter stubbornly harbors his unbelief, shunning the enlightment that would cast it out.

The logical conclusion of honest doubt is understanding. Either a thing is true or false. When we have determined which, we have removed doubt. In short, that doubt which immediately leads to inquiry and thereby removes itself is wholesome, but that which feeds and grows upon itself and with stubborn indolence breeds more doubt, is wrong. And it is of such as cherish doubt that the Lord said to Israel: “—thy life shall hang in doubt before thee, and thou shalt fear day and night.” (Deut. 28:66) To doubt may be a step on the path of knowledge, but must never be the destination of that road. By the open inquiry of an honest mind doubt may be removed even in a day where many have become smug with their doubts.

February 16, 1941
Broadcast Number 0,600