The Sean McDowell Show
50 Years Studying God & Philosophy: William Lane Craig’s Magnum Opus
Mar 28, 2025
William Lane Craig, a leading Christian apologist and philosopher, shares insights from his new multi-volume work, Systematic Philosophical Theology. He discusses the motivations behind this ambitious project and the unique approach it takes in bridging theology and philosophy. Craig reflects on the intricate relationship between divine inspiration and human authorship in scripture, emphasizing its authority. He also dives into the nuances of faith, the impact of the Renaissance on Christian thought, and the importance of community in the academic discussion of philosophy.
56:13
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Quick takeaways
- William Lane Craig's systematic philosophical theology uniquely integrates philosophical inquiry with scriptural foundations, distinguishing it from traditional systematic theology.
- Craig emphasizes that saving faith involves both personal trust in God and acknowledgment of essential doctrinal truths about Him.
Deep dives
Inception of a Philosophical Theology
William Lane Craig's motivation to create a systematic philosophical theology began during his doctoral studies, inspired by a suggestion from Professor John Hick. Although Hick never pursued the project, Craig, encouraged by his colleague Jan, decided to embark on this significant work later in his career. He reflects that the timing of this endeavor feels fortuitous, as his past experiences, including the failure of his oral exams in systematic theology, have enriched his understanding and preparation for such a complex task. This process allowed him to marry his studies in systematic theology with his work in philosophy of religion, resulting in a unique position to explore and write on essential theological topics.
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