William Lane Craig, a systematic theologian and author of a multi-volume systematic philosophical theology, delves into his significant work's inspiration and development. He reflects on how past failures shaped his academic journey and the importance of a systematic approach to theology. Craig also discusses the complex dynamics between faith and belief, the relationship between divine inspiration and human authorship in scripture, and the distinctions between generic and saving faith. His insights encourage deeper engagement with philosophy and the value of community through collaborative reading.
Dr. William Lane Craig's multi-volume systematic philosophy integrates systematic theology with philosophical inquiry, offering a coherent framework for contemporary theological discussions.
He distinguishes between personal trust and propositional faith in saving faith, emphasizing that both belief in truths and personal commitment are essential for salvation.
Deep dives
Inspiration and Development of Systematic Philosophical Theology
The foundation of Dr. William Lane Craig's systematic philosophical theology traces back to his doctoral studies under John Hick, who inspired him with the notion of developing a comprehensive work on the subject. After facing initial setbacks, including failing oral exams in systematic theology, Craig's perseverance led to significant preparation that ultimately fueled his writing journey. He emphasizes how his combination of systematic theology with the philosophy of religion has enabled him to address philosophical issues related to key theological concepts, such as the doctrine of God and creation. The project represents a culmination of Craig's academic life, offering a systematic yet philosophically integrated approach to theology that he considers a crowning achievement of his career.
Uniqueness of Systematic Philosophical Theology
Craig’s work distinguishes itself by merging elements of systematic theology with robust philosophical inquiry, unlike existing systematic theologies which often lack this philosophical component. This integration facilitates a deeper examination of crucial subjects, such as the nature of God, faith, and salvation, while honoring the insights provided by historical theologians. He anticipates that this work serves not just as a reference but as a gift to the church, underlining its relevance in contemporary theological discussions. By positioning scripture as the authoritative starting point, Craig aims to establish a theologically coherent and philosophically sound framework for understanding Christianity.
Philosophy and Theology: The Relationship Between Faith and Knowledge
In exploring the nature of saving faith, Craig highlights the duality of faith as both a personal trust in God and a belief in essential propositional truths. He argues that saving faith cannot be solely defined as blind trust; rather, it requires acknowledgment of key truths, evidenced by passages such as Romans that affirm belief in Jesus’ resurrection as vital for salvation. The distinction between personal trust and propositional faith clarifies common misconceptions about faith, particularly the notion that faith can exist devoid of belief. This nuanced approach emphasizes that while trust is crucial, it must also encompass foundational truths about God and salvation.
Epistemic and Pragmatic Justifications for Belief
Craig delves into the differences between epistemic justification, grounded in rational evidence, and pragmatic justification, which is based on the practical benefits of belief. Using Pascal's Wager as a framework, he explains that pragmatic arguments can provide valuable support for belief in Christianity, particularly in enhancing a person's well-being and life outlook. The concept of truth-independent pragmatic arguments shows how some individuals might find intrinsic value in belief itself, regardless of its truth status. This discussion invites a broader reflection on how persuasive truth may be, suggesting that even if one does not subscribe to Christian tenets, recognizing their societal and personal benefits can be a compelling reason for belief.
