Ian McFarland, a theology professor at Emory University, dives into his thought-provoking book, 'From Nothing: A Theology of Creation.' He unpacks the nuances of divine creation and the concept of 'nothingness,' critiquing traditional interpretations. The conversation navigates complexities surrounding evil, divine action, and Trinitarian perspectives on justice. McFarland also brings in insights from Maximus the Confessor, urging listeners to engage with richer theological understandings. Plus, there's an invitation to join Maximus' fan club!
Ian McFarland shares his transformative journey from aspiring parish pastor to influential theologian, shaped by key academic experiences and mentors.
The podcast explores creation theology by emphasizing that all beings derive their existence from God, promoting an eco-theological perspective that values every creature's worth.
McFarland addresses the problem of evil by asserting that it contradicts God's intentions and highlights the eschatological hope for creation's renewal.
Deep dives
The Journey to Theological Exploration
Ian McFarland discusses his path to becoming a theologian, which began with an initial intention to be a parish pastor. His experiences at Union Seminary and a formative internship led him to a deeper engagement with theological academia. Influenced by figures such as Christopher Morse and James Cone, his journey reflects a significant shift from pastoral work to scholarly pursuits, ultimately guiding him toward writing on creation theology. This evolution showcases the intertwining of personal experiences and academic influences in shaping one's theological commitment.
Creation Out of Nothing: A Theological Framework
McFarland’s exploration of the doctrine of creation focuses on the significance of creation from nothing, emphasizing God's intimate relationship with all non-divine realities. He argues that this perspective avoids anthropocentrism and the imposition of hierarchies among creatures, enabling an eco-theological approach that values the integrity of each creature. This theological framework asserts that every created being holds intrinsic worth, as all derive existence solely from God's creative will. By extending this analysis from anthropology to creation, McFarland highlights the importance of recognizing God's ongoing relationality with the entire creation.
Addressing Critiques of Creation Doctrine
In defending the traditional doctrine of creation out of nothing, McFarland engages with contemporary criticisms that question divine omnipotence and the nature of God’s relationship with creation. He rejects views that portray a tyrannical God, emphasizing instead a non-competitive relationship where God's creativeness is foundational and relational. Through the lens of Trinitarian theology, he elucidates that God's act of creation inherently involves giving being and existence, which contradicts the notion of an arbitrary or distant deity. This approach positions creation itself as a divine act that channels God's love and commitment to all that exists.
The Interplay of Freedom and Divine Authority
McFarland navigates the relationship between divine authority and human freedom, arguing that true freedom is a gift from God rooted in creative grace. He describes a framework where God's sustained activity is paramount to the existence of all creatures, establishing a dynamic wherein humans are empowered to act freely. This theological understanding challenges Enlightenment notions of autonomy, steering the conversation toward recognizing freedom as relational rather than independent. Ultimately, he posits that divine providence does not negate human freedom but rather empowers it, as God continuously prompts creation toward flourishing.
Creation, Evil, and Eschatological Hope
The discussion highlights the problem of evil and its complex relationship with the doctrine of creation, where McFarland asserts that evil is not willed by God but stands in opposition to God's intentions for creation. He emphasizes that evil ought not to be explained or given a foundational place in theological frameworks, as it undermines God's will for flourishing. The eschatological promise of renewal, where all creation is called back into harmony with God's intentions, points to a future hope that transcends natural evil. His theological reflections urge Christians to actively participate in resisting evil and fostering a vision of creation that aligns with divine love and ultimate redemption.
Ian McFarland is on the podcast for the first time and he's talking about his new book From Nothing: A Theology of Creation. Dr. McFarland is a professor of theology at Emory University's Candler School of Theology in the ATL . During the interview I found out he earned his PhD at Yale with former guest Kathryn Tanner. It was an amazing conversation in which we discuss the nature of God, Creation, evil, divine action, providence and eschatology. Not only that but at the end of the podcast you get a personal invitation to join the fan club for Maximus the Confessor.
