Brothers,
We will again gather this [day]date] from [start time to end time] in the [location]. This week we’re discussing St. Thomas Aquinas’s Five Ways — five logical arguments for the existence of God based on things we observe in everyday life (motion, cause and effect, design, and more). Aquinas believed faith and reason work together, and we know it’ll lead to a strong conversation for us as men.
[Leader name] will lead, and together we’ll read three short passages, including:
Readings
- Romans 1: 19-20 – Even though we can’t see God, He is plain to us through His creation…
- Psalm 19: 1-4 – Creation speaks of God with images more powerful than words…
- St. Thomas Aquinas (First & Second Ways)
- “It is certain, and evident to our senses, that in the world some things are in motion. Now whatever is in motion is put in motion by another… Therefore it is necessary to arrive at a first mover, put in motion by no other; and this everyone understands to be God.
- In the world of sense we find there is an order of efficient causes… Therefore it is necessary to admit a first efficient cause, to which everyone gives the name of God.”
Reflection
A few questions to consider:
- Which of these arguments resonates most with you, and why?
- How does seeing God through reason and the created world strengthen (or challenge) your faith?
- As men leading families and making decisions, how can these ideas help us talk about God with others who are skeptical?
See you this [day/date] – Men’s Fellowship Lead Team