Picturing Theology

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P i c t u r i n g T h e o l o g y

God’s Sovereignty and Universal Revelation (continued)

C. Problems with Natural Theology 1. The proofs may work against us : they have leaks and cracks (Erickson, p. 37). 2. The assumptions they contain may be unprovable (Erickson, p. 37). 3. Some contain logical flaws : can you argue effectively from the observable to that which cannot be (or has not been) experienced? (Erickson, p. 37) 4. Other alternative explanations deal with the same evidence in a different way: teleology versus mutation (Erickson, p. 38). 5. Do the proofs demonstrate what kind of God that God is? (What about the existence of evil, “theodicy”?) (Erickson, p. 38) D. John Calvin: General Revelation without Natural Theology (Erickson, p. 39) 1. The revelation of God in nature is objective and valid . 2. Due to human sin and limitations due to that sin, humankind cannot adequately perceive God in that general revelation (Erickson, p. 39). 3. Human fallibility , therefore, restricts the efficacy (i.e., adequateness, effectiveness) of general revelation for unregenerated humanity (Erickson, p. 40). 4. We require the “ spectacles of faith ” (Erickson, p. 40). E. Can general revelation provide enough content for someone to be saved? 1. The case against a. What of personal faith in Jesus Christ? b. What of the Romans 10 necessity? c. What of the impulse to “go into all the world?” (Cf. Matt 28.18-20)

Basically, this is the view that God has given us an objective, valid, rational revelation of himself in nature, history, and human personality. It is there for anyone who wants to observe it. General revelation is not something read into nature by those who know God on other grounds; it is already present by the creation and continuing providence of God. ~ Erickson, p. 39.