On John Polkinghorne: Creation, Prayer, Miracles, and Time
Mar 13, 2021
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John Polkinghorne, a distinguished physicist-priest, was a pioneer in bridging science and theology. In a captivating discussion, he addresses the harmony between scientific inquiry and faith. He offers insights into open theology and its implications for understanding divine action and miracles. The conversation explores complex ideas about creation, prayer, and the nature of time, emphasizing a collaborative relationship between humanity and God. Polkinghorne's work challenges simplistic views, encouraging a deeper engagement with the intricacies of faith and the universe.
John Polkinghorne showcased the potential harmony between science and theology, arguing they can coexist and enrich one another's understanding of reality.
His advocacy for an open and relational theology emphasized God's continuous involvement in creation, advocating for a dynamic interaction with the unfolding universe.
Polkinghorne's insights into divine action and prayer highlight a cooperative relationship with humanity, where faith actively shapes the possibilities available to God.
Deep dives
Celebrating John Polkinghorne's Legacy
John Polkinghorne, a respected physicist and theologian, greatly influenced the dialogue between science and religion. His work advocated for the harmony of scientific exploration and theological inquiry, challenging the perception that the two fields are incompatible. He famously described his dual role as both a scientist and a clergyman, likening it to being a vegetarian butcher, to emphasize how one can simultaneously engage deeply with both realms. His passing on March 9, 2021, marks a significant loss for many who appreciated his dedication to integrating faith with scientific understanding.
Polkinghorne's Distinction in Science and Theology
Polkinghorne’s uniqueness lies in his commitment to an open and relational theology. He critiqued both rigid determinism and the overly simplistic views of God's interaction with the world, advocating instead for a model that respects the genuine otherness of creation. His notion of two lenses of binoculars illustrates that both science and theology provide a richer understanding of reality when used together. Polkinghorne argued that divine action must be perceived not as supernatural intervention but as an integral aspect of the evolving universe.
God and Creation: A Continuous Relationship
Polkinghorne emphasized a view of God as continuously involved in the act of creation rather than a one-time event. He argued for creatio continua, which positions God as actively creating rather than passively overseeing a static universe. This perspective highlights God's sovereign freedom in initiating the creative process while also engaging in the unfolding of time. By integrating scientific accounts of the universe's origin, such as the Big Bang theory, with theological insights, he underscored a God who is deeply connected to creation and its ongoing development.
The Nature of Divine Action and Providence
In discussing divine action, Polkinghorne insisted that God's interaction with the world does not violate its inherent order. He proposed that divine influence operates within the established laws of nature without disrupting them, thus preserving the integrity of creation. This leads to his view of providence as a cooperative relationship, where human actions, influenced by prayer and faith, can shape the possibilities available to God. Hence, he viewed prayer not merely as a means of requesting intervention but as a dynamic interaction that fosters a deeper connection with the divine.
Temporal Experience and the Nature of Time
Polkinghorne’s exploration of time reveals his commitment to a temporal and dynamic understanding of reality. He recognized the philosophical implications of time, critiquing the block universe theory that posits a static view of existence. By emphasizing a sequential understanding of time, he argued that human experiences and temporal unfolding are fundamentally meaningful in understanding God’s relationship to creation. This ongoing relationship reflects the God of scripture, whose presence is intimately tied to the unfolding events of history.
The Ongoing Dialogue Between Science and Faith
Polkinghorne’s work invites ongoing dialogue between science and faith, revealing a landscape where both can coexist and enrich each other. He championed a worldview where scientific discoveries foster theological reflection and vice versa, providing individuals with a holistic understanding of existence. His advocacy for an open theology encourages believers to embrace questions rather than seek definitive answers. This approach not only enhances personal belief but also promotes a broader acceptance of differing perspectives in the quest for truth.
"John Polkinghorne said his being a physicist-priest might strike some like being a vegetarian-butcher. But in his writings, speaking, teaching, and ministry, he showed one could affirm the best of both science and theology. John died on March 9, 2021. I was privileged to work with him on several projects, including a book we called The Polkinghorne Reader. It included what he thought was the best excerpts from his various books. Tripp and I talked about his influential work as an open theist in the science-and-religion dialogue. Enjoy as we explore his ground-breaking ideas!" - Thomas Jay Oord
