Natural Theology (Second Edition)

Christians affirm that Scripture alone reveals truths about God which cannot be known by mere reason, such as the Trinity or the Gospel itself. But how do we account for Scripture’s apparent talk of a knowledge of God possible solely from creation? Or for our own sense of the divine in nature? Or for the startling insights of ancient philosophers about the nature of God? The answer: natural theology.

Often misrepresented as a fruitless human attempt to comprehend God, natural theology has in fact been a significant part of Christian theology throughout history. It has shaped the Christian doctrine of God and provided a starting point for evangelizing non-Christians. In an age when theologians and missionaries alike are in need of stronger doctrinal foundations, it is a doctrine as vital as ever.

In this guide, David Haines first outlines the biblical basis for natural theology, suggesting that, if Scripture is correct, certain truths about God should be well attested by non-Christians. A thorough historical survey demonstrates that this is indeed the case, and that the Church has long made use of that which is revealed to reason in order to serve Christ, who is revealed to faith. This second edition includes an additional 120 pages, incorporating a new preface, a new chapter on Thomas Aquinas, and a thorough index

Description

Table of Contents

Preface to the Second Edition

Preface to the First Edition

Introduction: What is Natural Theology?

PART I: THE BIBLICAL FOUNDATIONS OF NATURAL THEOLOGY

I The Biblical Foundations of Natural Theology

PART II: A HISTORY OF NATURAL THEOLOGY FROM THE PRE-SOCRATICS TO THE REFORMERS

II Pre-Socratics to the Early Church Fathers

III Augustine on Natural Theology

IV Thomas Aquinas on Natural Theology

V Protestant Theologians from the 1500s to 1700s

VI Responding to Some Objections

VII Conclusion

 

Additional information

Dimensions 6 × 1 × 9 cm