The Westminster Podcast Epistemology and Apologetics w/ Vern Poythress
May 19, 2025
Vern Poythress, a theologian and professor at Westminster Theological Seminary, dives into the intriguing relationship between epistemology and apologetics. He unpacks Romans 1, discussing how humans, despite suppressing truth, retain an innate understanding of God. Poythress critiques the concept of 'innocent ignorance' in various cultures, advocating for the acknowledgment of a shared awareness of the divine. He also explores the complexity of biological design and the intersection of divine providence with scientific discovery, presenting a compelling case for faith in a modern context.
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Universal Suppression of God's Truth
- Paul teaches that knowledge of God is universal and suppressed, not discovered by reason alone.
- Idolatry globally evidences rejection of a known true God, not ignorance of God’s existence.
General Revelation Is Pre-Reason
- General revelation is not just rational inference but includes consciousness and culture revealing God.
- Christians should recognize all people carry innate knowledge of God, not starting from innocent ignorance.
Apologetics and Human Guilt
- Apologetics must confront the sinner's guilt, not treat non-believers as innocent or merely uninformed.
- Using evidence properly requires awareness that rebellion suppresses truth deep down in everyone.
