The Jimmy Akin Podcast #054 “Praying to the Saints,” “Omniscience,” and Jordan Cooper - Jimmy Akin
Oct 6, 2025
A thought-provoking discussion unfolds as a Lutheran pastor challenges the Catholic view on praying to saints, questioning if it grants them 'almost omniscience.' Historical contexts reveal why early Christians sought the intercession of saints, while Jimmy Akin dismantles the notion of omniscience as logically flawed. The conversation dives into how saints could potentially know of our petitions through divine means. Support from scripture and even near-death experiences hints at cognitive enhancements after death, creating a rich tapestry of theology and belief.
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Almost Omniscience Is A Category Error
- Jimmy Akin argues 'almost omniscience' is logically incoherent because omniscience means infinite knowledge.
- Calling saints 'almost omniscient' is a category error and undermines a serious critique.
Distinguish Doctrine From Theological Opinion
- Akin notes the Catholic Church does not teach that saints hear every word of every prayer.
- Critiquing that stronger view attacks a theological opinion, not authoritative Church doctrine.
Parent Example For Saints' Awareness
- Akin uses the example of a parent in heaven wanting to know if their children need prayer.
- He suggests God lets saints know the prayer requests that concern them out of love.
