Knowledge 9

Knowledge of the Existence of God

The Natural-Revealed Theology Debate

• Focus: The tension between natural knowledge of God and the necessity of revealed knowledge.

• Key Figure: Emil Brunner.

Natural and Revealed Theology

Definition and Distinction

• Natural Theology: Knowledge of God derived from nature and reason.

• Revealed Theology: Knowledge of God that is divinely revealed through scripture and direct revelation.

• Tension: What are the limits of natural knowledge, and when is revealed knowledge necessary?

Roman Catholicism vs. Protestantism

Roman Catholicism

• High regard for natural theology.

• Belief that humans possess some knowledge of God before receiving revealed knowledge.

Protestantism

• Varied views on natural theology’s role.

• Some acknowledge limited knowledge from nature, while others reject its trustworthiness.

The Barth-Brunner Debate

Key Figures

• Karl Barth (d. 1968)

• Emil Brunner (d. 1966)

Background

• Both were Swiss, Reformed theologians, involved in the neo-orthodox movement.

• Disagreement over the usefulness of natural theology:

  • Brunner: Supports partial knowledge of God through creation.

  • Barth: Rejects natural theology (famous for his opposition).

Emil Brunner's Theological Position

General Revelation

• Aligns with Calvin’s view of general revelation in nature.

• Natural knowledge, while imperative, is insufficient without revealed knowledge.

• Limited purpose: Provides a possibility for revelation.

Concept of Double Revelation

• Brunner describes a double revelation:

  • Revelation in Creation: Recognized by those whose eyes have been opened by Christ.

  • Revelation in Jesus Christ: This surpasses the understanding given by creation alone.

Imago Dei

Exposition of the Imago Dei

• Distinction between the physical and spiritual image of God:

  • Physical Image: Destroyed.

  • Spiritual Image: Left intact.

General Revelation and Human Capability

Human Capacity for Revelation

• Humans can discern God's existence through creation.

• Relation to faith: "Faith presupposes reason" or "Grace presupposes nature."

• Revelation requires a receptive creature.

• Important Note: Knowledge gained from natural theology is incomplete.

The Role of Conscience

Conscience as Evidence

• Conscience (e.g., feelings of guilt) indicates an in-built awareness of God.

• True understanding of conscience comes through revelation, revealing human wrongdoing.

True Knowledge of God

Limitations of Natural Knowledge

• Human knowledge of God, due to the imago Dei, allows awareness of God's existence but lacks full understanding.

• Agreement among Christians, including Brunner and Barth: Only Jesus Christ provides complete knowledge of God.

• True knowledge leads to proper worship of God.