How Modern Metaphysics Killed God with John Cobb #FANiac
Feb 4, 2016
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John Cobb, a leading philosopher and theologian in process theology, challenges the metaphysical assumptions that have shaped our understanding of God. He discusses how these assumptions have permeated both academia and the church. The conversation delves into the significance of the incarnation, prayer, and the evolution of God, urging listeners to rethink divine action. Cobb also emphasizes the interconnectedness of all entities and advocates for a compassionate, active engagement of faith in addressing modern global challenges.
Modern metaphysics has fundamentally shaped contemporary perceptions of God, emphasizing a mechanistic worldview that excludes divine involvement.
The podcast advocates for a relational understanding of God as 'Abba', promoting unconditional love and challenging traditional authoritarian images of the divine.
Process theology frames God as a dynamic participant in reality, encouraging active engagement in the relationship between the divine and humanity.
Deep dives
The Impact of Modern Metaphysics on Faith
Modern metaphysics, particularly stemming from thinkers like Descartes and Darwin, has profoundly influenced contemporary understandings of God. Descartes' emphasis on efficient causes over final causes led to a view of the world that excluded God from natural explanations, thereby diminishing divine involvement in the physical realm. Subsequently, Darwin's assertion that humans are part of nature further removed God's role, suggesting a mechanistic worldview where divine influence seemed unnecessary. This trajectory illustrates how philosophical shifts have contributed to a diminished perception of God within modern theological discourse.
Reclaiming the Biblical Understanding of God
The conversation emphasizes returning to a more biblically rooted understanding of God, moving away from reductionist views introduced through modern metaphysics. The term 'Abba' is used to describe a God of unconditional love that contrasts starkly with the authoritarian images often found in classical theism. This familial depiction of God as a nurturing figure challenges traditional views of divine omnipotence and instead presents a more relational and compassionate deity. By embracing this image of God, one can regain a deeper understanding of divine involvement in everyday life and human experiences.
Subjectivity and Divine Interaction
In the framework of process theology, God is seen as a dynamic participant in the ongoing unfolding of reality rather than a distant omnipotent being. Whitehead's notion of prehension allows for understanding how each event and each entity is interconnected, suggesting that God's influence is embedded within the fabric of existence. This approach asserts that prayer and divine interaction are grounded in a mutual relationship where both God and creation influence each other. Such a perspective redefines how believers can engage with God, emphasizing a call to be part of the divine purpose rather than a passive recipient of divine will.
Rethinking Power Dynamics in Theology
The podcast highlights the necessity of moving away from traditional notions of divine omnipotence and power as coercive forces. Instead, a process theology framework views God’s power as persuasive and relational, promoting the idea that divine influence exists in every moment of becoming without negating human agency. This understanding fosters a theology that encourages believers to actively participate in their relationship with the divine, understanding that God's influence does not override personal choice but rather guides and empowers it. Such insights redefine the traditional power dynamics between humanity and the divine, offering a framework that embraces collaboration over dominance.
Engaging with Contemporary Issues through Theology
The discussion points to the critical role that theology must play in addressing contemporary social, ecological, and economic challenges. By examining the historical context of prophetic traditions, it becomes clear that faith leaders are called to engage actively in societal transformation and not be confined to debates over identity politics. The podcast urges that denominational communities should unite in their efforts to tackle pressing global issues, each taking on specific roles to make meaningful contributions. This call to action emphasizes that faith is not isolated from the struggles of the world but is intricately woven into the fabric of social justice and ecological stewardship.
What if the death of God at the end of Modernity was stitched in the metaphysical assumptions from the outset? What if these assumptions can and should be challenged on scientific and philosophical grounds? What if these assumptions have been internalized, not just in the academy, but in the church?
This are a few of the questions we talk about in the first have of this podcast. Then we end up covering the incarnation, prayer, divine action, the history of Israel, and the evolution of God among other things.
John Cobb is the global leader of process theology and one of the greatest theological minds of the last fifty years. He is professor of theology emeritus at Claremont School of Theology in Claremont, California, and the cofounder of the Center for Process Studies. Tripp is in charge of his fan club - the #FANiacs. Cobb has published over 30 books so check them out.