OMNIBENEVOLENCE

What does omnibenevolence mean?

all loving

What does Gods benevolence suggest?

That Gods entire attitude is one of love and compassion

What type of love is associated with God?

Agape

How do Christian’s believe Gods benevolence is shown to the world?

Through:

• Creation

• Interventions

• Miracles

• Incarnation of Jesus

• Guidance given to the world- especially through the commandments and the covenant

What is the idea of a covenant ?

The idea that God will look after his people if they follow him

What does Aquinas argue justice is about?

Justice is about God doing the right thing, even if punishment is involved- eg. Condemning people to hell

What issues arise from Gods omni benevolence?

1. Do evil/suffering contradict a benevolent God?

2. Can our language explain Gods benevolence

3. IS hell the ultimate sign that God does give up on some people

4. What does it mean to call God “good”?

What Is the euthyphro dilemma?

Either God defines goodness (so it becomes arbitrary) or God is subject to an independent standard of goodness (and so isn’t the highest being)

how does Aquinas respond to the euthyphro dilemma?

God can only command out of his goodness and so by definition- no commands could be arbitrary

What does Aristotle say on God being good/just?

A just person could only be truly just if he performed just acts- it is not enough to be good you must do good.

Why is God good according to Brian Davies?

God is perfectly good because he never contradicts his own nature

What must god give to be perfectly just?

Treat everyone the same way- giving everyone what they deserve

What does Aquinas say on Gods justice?

it is not like ours on earth- it lies in doing the right thing and he is not answerable to anyone.

What does William Frankena argue ?

Justice does not mean treating everyone in the same way but making the same relative contribution to the good of peoples lives

Why does Calvins argument argue that God is not just?

Predestination/lack of free will yet many of us still go to hell when it is not our fault.-What happens to those who never got the opportunity to become members of the church.

What does Pope Francis argue?

not everyone is saved but that Gods mercy lies in an offer to everyone.