This is a question I am often asked when I raise questions concerning some doctrine or practice. The implication of this question is that one must know everything to be certain about anything.

Each time I hear this view expressed I think of the story of the blind man healed by Jesus. The story is recorded in the ninth chapter of the book of John. The Jews were intent upon condemning Jesus and did all they could to discredit the miracle performed by Jesus. Seeing the blind man now able to see they first questioned as to whether he was the same man. After his parents confirmed his identity and the fact that he was born blind they again question the man and tried to pressure him by saying, “Give God the praise: we know that this man is a sinner” (John 9:24). The man replied, “Whether he be a sinner or no, I know not: one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see” (John 9:25).

This man recognized that even though he may not know everything this did not keep him from knowing and being certain about some things. No, I do not know everything, but I can say with the apostle Paul, “I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day” (2 Timothy 1:12).