Knowing God: An Overview of Theology 601

Introduction to the Course

• The lecture is for Theology 601, focusing on the topic "Knowing God" with two reading assignments from Christian Dogmatics and Bobbing Our Reasonable Faith.

• The instructor has prepared PDF files of the readings to assist students in understanding key concepts.

Understanding Knowledge of God

• The first chapter discusses modern contexts for understanding knowledge of God, emphasizing how we perceive and discern truth.

• It traces the influence of the Enlightenment (17th and 18th centuries), highlighting philosophers like Descartes and Kant who shaped modern epistemology.

• Modern epistemology centers around human perspectives, questioning whether this approach is adequate for knowing God.

Epistemology and Theology

• Epistemology examines how we know what we know; it raises questions about the nature and limits of our knowledge regarding God.

• The author argues that contemporary pragmatism fails to provide a proper framework for understanding divine knowledge.

Definition and Nature of Theology

• Theology is defined as the study or examination (logos) of God (theos), indicating that it involves our pursuit to know Him.

• The Bible serves as a primary source through which we come to understand God's nature, emphasizing divine communication.

Distinction Between Divine Knowledge and Human Understanding

• There’s a distinction between God's intrinsic knowledge (archetypal knowledge) and our limited understanding (typical knowledge).

• While humans can study theology, they cannot access God's complete self-awareness; this relationship must be maintained carefully.

Relational Aspect of Knowing God

• Knowledge of God is relational; He shares His truth with us through revelation, particularly via Jesus Christ.

• This relational aspect emphasizes that knowing God involves more than intellectual comprehension; it requires faith.

Mystery in Knowing God

• Acknowledging God's mystery does not imply failure but rather signifies success in recognizing His transcendence.

• Engaging with theology occurs within a context marked by sin, even among redeemed individuals.

Understanding the Nature of God's Knowledge

The Impact of Sin and Revelation

• We are still affected by sin, which necessitates a continual awareness of its influence on our understanding of truth.

• Despite this, God graciously provides us with truth through Christ, emphasizing that revelation is key to knowing Him.

External and Internal Means of Knowing God

• Jesus Christ serves as the external means of revelation; He acts in accordance with God's will, demonstrating His divine connection.

• The Holy Spirit represents the internal principle for knowing God, highlighting the duality in theological understanding: external (Jesus) and internal (Holy Spirit).

Theology's Ethical Responsibility

• Knowledge of God equips us with an ethical stance and responsibility to discern His word and live out salvation effectively.

• Dogmatics should focus on glorifying God through creation and grace while maintaining a prayerful attitude towards studying theology.

The Role of Scripture in Knowing God

• Our understanding of God is shaped by studying scripture, which follows a progressive revelation from creation to consummation. This structured approach aids in grasping God's nature.

• The knowledge gained from scripture has a missional purpose—worship and witness—emphasizing the importance of living out one's faith actively.

Distinction Between Scientific Knowledge and Theological Understanding

• Theology differs from scientific study; it is not merely about acquiring information but involves a deep confession rooted in personal experience with God. This distinction highlights theology's unique character as relational rather than purely academic.

• Eternal life consists fundamentally in knowing one true God through Jesus Christ, underscoring that all benefits derived from Christianity hinge upon this knowledge.

Limitations and Dependability of Human Understanding

• While striving for knowledge about God, we must recognize our limitations; human reason can only reach so far before worship becomes paramount. Our pursuit should be aimed at glorifying Him despite these constraints.

• Trusting in Christ’s testimony allows believers to depend on scripture as infallible, reinforcing its role as a reliable source for knowing God intimately.

Understanding the Nature of Knowledge of God

The Distinction Between Scientific and Religious Knowledge

• The knowledge of God involves personal concern and involvement, contrasting with scientific knowledge, which is purely intellectual.

• Unlike studying science or technology as objects, theological study seeks to understand God through scripture, emphasizing a relational approach rather than an objective analysis.

The Role of Faith in Knowing God

• Knowledge of God is characterized as "knowledge of faith," arising from childlike trust rather than scientific inquiry; it encompasses both understanding and confidence.

• This knowledge requires full human engagement and responsibility, suggesting that knowing God empowers individuals with discernment about truth.

Comprehensive Understanding of God's Creation

• Engaging with the knowledge of God extends beyond personal spirituality to encompass all aspects of creation, redemption, and consummation.

• The author emphasizes that true knowledge comes with power—specifically the ability to live a redeemed life aligned with God's understanding.