WHY DOES GOD ALLOW US TO SUFFER w/ Ryan Bagley | EP33
The Journey of Faith and Understanding
Ryan began by sharing his own journey in exploring the Catholic faith, emphasizing the importance of trusting in Jesus even when our understanding falls short. Ryan quickly realized that true faith involves humility and trust in God’s guidance through moments of uncertainty.
"It's that not understanding that's more humbling than the understanding," Ryan remarked. "At some point, we have to make this leap of faith, believing in that which is supernatural."
The Debate on Free Will
As Catholics, we believe that humans possess a rational soul endowed with intellect and free will, allowing us to know and choose God. This belief is rooted in the understanding that we are made in the image and likeness of God. In contrast, materialistic views reduce human thoughts and actions to mere interactions of atoms and neurons, stripping away any true sense of free will or moral responsibility.
"From a materialistic view, there is no top-down reality. There's only bottom-up. All you are is just atoms that are bouncing into one another," Ryan explained.
The Nature of the Soul
Ryan also delved into the concept of the soul, clarifying common misconceptions and explaining the Catholic doctrine of hylomorphism. According to this doctrine, the soul is the form of the body, and it is integral to our being.
Every living thing, whether a plant, animal, or human, has a soul. However, the nature and capacity of these souls differ. Plants have a nutritive soul that enables growth, animals have a sensitive soul that allows for movement and basic interaction with the environment, and humans possess a rational soul capable of intellect, free will, and a relationship with God.
"The soul isn't this wispy thing in the center of our chest that's pulling the strings behind the scenes. Rather, it's what makes a living thing what it is," Ryan clarified.
Addressing Common Questions
Throughout the discussion, Ryan addressed several common questions and misconceptions. For instance, when asked about animal behavior that appears to mimic human affection or choice, Ryan emphasized the distinction between instinctual behavior and the conscious, moral choices humans can make.
"Animals can feel pain, but suffering takes on a conscious quality that animals simply do not have," Ryan noted. "Humans have this innate capacity to know, to love God, to have morality."
Conclusion
Our conversation with Ryan Bagley was enlightening and thought-provoking, shedding light on the profound truths of our faith. At DM Productions, we are committed to exploring and sharing these truths through our videos and content. We hope this discussion helps deepen your understanding of free will, the soul, and the beauty of the Catholic faith.
Stay tuned for more insightful discussions and videos. Join us in our mission to spread the truth, goodness, and beauty of the Catholic faith.
