Evil, Providence and the Love of God with Tom Oord
Nov 27, 2015
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Tom Oord, an author known for his exploration of divine love and providence, dives deep into his latest book, "The Uncontrolling Love of God." He discusses the intricate relationship between divine love and human suffering, challenging traditional views of God's control. The conversation also touches on the problem of evil, miracles, and theological discourse, emphasizing a relational understanding of divinity. Oord's insights encourage listeners to rethink their perceptions of God's engagement and the meaning of love in the face of adversity.
The podcast redefines divine providence through the concept of uncontrolling love, suggesting God invites human participation rather than exercising coercive control.
Historical theological perspectives are examined, demonstrating how traditional views of God's absolute control can lead to harmful interpretations of suffering as preordained.
Human agency is emphasized as crucial, empowering individuals to reflect God's love and actively pursue justice within their communities.
Deep dives
Exploring God's Uncontrolling Love
The concept of God's providence is fundamentally redefined through the idea of uncontrolling love, which proposes that God does not exercise unilateral control over the world. Instead, God's love is presented as transformative and relational, emphasizing that while God is all-loving, divine power is not coercive. In this perspective, God actively engages with the world in a way that invites human participation rather than dictating outcomes. This idea is especially provocative, as it challenges traditional notions that attribute every event to God’s control or divine plan, providing a fresh lens through which to consider suffering and evil.
Engaging with Historical Perspectives on Providence
The podcast delves into historical theological perspectives, particularly highlighting how concepts of providence have evolved over time. Traditional views, particularly in Reformed theology, tend to assert that God is in absolute control of all events, which can lead congregants to find solace in the idea of a divine plan. However, this orthodox view is scrutinized for potentially leading to harmful interpretations of suffering as preordained. By analyzing the shifts in theological discourse, it becomes evident that understanding God's nature as primarily loving and relational can reshape the conversation around divine providence.
The Role of Human Agency
Human agency is a critical aspect discussed, emphasizing that individuals play an active role in shaping their lives and the world around them. The podcast illustrates that God’s loving nature empowers humans to act freely rather than being pawns in a predetermined plan. This engagement fosters a sense of responsibility, encouraging individuals to pursue justice and goodness within their communities. The emphasis on cooperation with God’s love highlights how human actions can reflect divine love, making participants active agents in the realization of God’s kingdom on earth.
The Importance of Language in Theology
The language of theology is explored regarding how specific terms shape perceptions of God and divine action. The implications of words like 'control' versus 'persuasion' carry significant weight in understanding the nature of God’s interaction with humanity. Through careful examination of the language used in theological discussions, the podcast reveals how different interpretations can either constrict or expand one’s understanding of God’s love. This careful consideration offers deeper insights into how one can communicate theology that aligns more closely with the experiences of love and grace found in Scripture.
Rethinking Theodicy and Suffering
The podcast tackles the complex issue of theodicy, which concerns the question of how a loving God can coexist with suffering and evil in the world. By framing God’s love as uncontrolling, the discussion proposes that suffering may not be part of a divine plan but rather a result of human free will and the nature of the world. It highlights that God's commitment to non-coercion allows for the authentic existence of love and relationality, even in the face of pain. This perspective encourages a shift in how individuals interpret their suffering, moving from a place of blame to one of seeking divine companionship through hardships.
Tom Oord is on the podcast to discuss his excellent new book The Uncontrolling Love of God: An Open and Relational Account of Providence. Providence is one of those topics that bring up all sorts of topics like divine action, the problem of evil, the goodness of God, miracles, prayer and essential kenosis. I have to admit that we not only chat up his book, but we start nerding out with our geeks out at a high volume.