In this engaging discussion, Thomas Jay Oord, a prominent advocate for Open and Relational Theology and prolific author, tackles critiques from social media. He introduces 'amipotence,' a refreshing view of divine power rooted in love and engagement, challenging traditional interpretations of God. Oord also shares insights from his upcoming book, emphasizing narrative and community in shaping faith. He explores the intricate relationships between faith, knowledge, and empathy, showcasing how these themes influence both personal experiences and broader theological understanding.
Open and relational theology emphasizes a God whose power is rooted in love and engagement rather than control over creation.
Critics of open relational theology worry about the perceived weakness of a non-controlling God, while advocates highlight its relational richness and involvement.
The theology promotes a communal understanding of faith, stressing the importance of collective experiences and diverse voices in shaping belief.
Deep dives
Open Relational Theology Explained
Open relational theology is presented as a theological framework that emphasizes God's love and involvement in the world, offering an alternative understanding of divine power. This perspective challenges traditional notions of omnipotence, proposing instead the concept of 'amipotence,' which intertwines love and power. The theology posits that God's power is not about control over creation but rather about being present and participatory in every moment. This shift in understanding also opens up discussions on how we define divinity and its attributes, promoting a more dynamic interaction between God and creation.
Addressing Common Criticisms
The discussion highlights prevalent criticisms of open relational theology, including concerns about the perceived weakness of a God that does not control every aspect of the universe. Advocates argue that such a God is actually more involved and powerful, as God engages with creation rather than imposing will. This understanding emphasizes God's relational nature, which allows for genuine freedom and creativity in the world. By focusing on love as the fundamental characteristic of God, proponents suggest that fears about divine impotence can be dispelled, fostering a more hopeful vision of divinity.
The Role of Scripture and Divine Inspiration
The question of biblical inspiration within open relational theology is explored, noting that while the scriptures may not be seen as infallibly dictated by a divine authority, they still hold profound significance. The theology suggests that God's inspiration is present in human experiences and the narratives that we share, promoting a more interactive approach to understanding scripture. This perspective allows for a view of scripture that embraces the complexities and contradictions found within the texts rather than requiring strict uniformity. This open interpretation fosters engagement with the Bible as a living document that speaks to contemporary contexts and issues.
The Importance of Community and Relationship
In contrast to more individualistic theological approaches, open relational theology stresses the importance of community and collective experiences in shaping faith. It posits that a genuine understanding of God's relationship with humanity relies on interpersonal connections and shared narratives. This communal framework encourages inclusivity and diversity within theological discussions, offering a space where different voices and experiences can be heard. Embracing the relational aspect of theology can lead to deeper connections among believers, fostering care and responsibility towards one another and the world.
Implications for Understanding God and Love
The concept of love emerges as central to open relational theology, influencing how adherents view God and their faith practices. Rather than perceiving God as a distant, controlling entity, this theology frames God as intimately connected to human experiences and suffering, promoting a style of love that is compassionate and transformative. The emphasis on love encourages individuals to engage in acts of kindness and justice, positioning these actions as reflections of God's nature. As a result, understanding God through the lens of love helps to cultivate a faith that is deeply engaged with the struggles and hopes of both individuals and communities.
It's time for another edition of live-streamed "Big God" questions with Tom Oord. This time we tackle a number of complaints and critiques of open and relational theology from twitter.
Thomas Jay Oord is a theologian, philosopher, and scholar of multi-disciplinary studies. Oord is an award-winning author, and he has written or edited more than twenty books. A twelve-time Faculty Award-winning professor, Oord teaches at institutions around the globe. A gifted speaker, Oord is known for his contributions to research on love, open and relational theology, science and religion, and the implications of freedom and relationships for transformation.
