Introduction to the Doctrine of God: Intersection between Philosophy and Theology
Philosophy: literally the “love of wisdom”
Theology: the study of God
Philosophical Questions
Metaphysical Question: existence
Why do things exist?
Ontological Question: reality
What is ultimate reality?
Axiological Question: value
What has value?
Epistemological Question: knowledge
How do we know?
Epistemological Categories
Rationalism: mathematics/2+2=4
Empiricism: scientific observation
Dogmatism: I just know
Revelation: God speaks to us
Ultimately, the Bible is a book of theology, not philosophy. God does not explain or defend his existence in the Bible, he announces it.
What is the chief end of man? The chief end of man is to glorify God and enjoy him forever.
Takeaways:
We should not be afraid of the intersection between philosophy and theology. While they ask and answer different questions, they are not in meaningful discord with regard to what we know and how we know it.
To speak in philosophical terms, the God of the Bible is Ultimate Reality.
To speak in theological terms, the God of the Bible is knowable.
Our approach to knowing God by his revelation must include humility, faith, curiosity, and gratitude.
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