Oliver Crisp: Analyzing Anthropology & the Systematic Turn #KeepItCrispy
Dec 17, 2019
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Oliver Crisp, a leading expert in Analytic Reformed theology and Professor at the University of St. Andrews, dives into a thought-provoking conversation about the intersection of science and theology. He discusses the significance of theological anthropology and its implications on understanding the divine image. Crisp also explores how systematic theology can creatively engage with contemporary challenges, including the cultural assumptions of American evangelicalism and the intriguing questions of extraterrestrial life. Embrace the dynamic approach to faith he champions!
The podcast explores the significance of theological anthropology, emphasizing humanity's creation in God's image and its implications for salvation and identity.
Oliver Crisp discusses his systematic theology writing process, highlighting the integration of doctrines while fostering meaningful dialogue between tradition and contemporary issues.
Deep dives
The Importance of Theological Anthropology
The discussion emphasizes the significance of theological anthropology, particularly the concept of humans being created in the image of God. This notion raises crucial questions about human uniqueness in the universe and the relationship between humanity and the divine. It highlights how understanding what it means to be made in God's image is fundamentally connected to central theological themes, such as salvation and Christology. Thus, insights from psychological sciences can enrich the theological exploration of these themes, influencing how theologians think about the nature and worth of humanity.
The Role of Christology in Understanding Humanity
The conversation reveals how Christology serves as a backbone for understanding human identity and the image of God. It posits that the Incarnation not only provides the means for human salvation but also affirms the inherent dignity of humanity. This relationship illustrates that human beings are intended for union with God, transcending the mere idea of salvation. The discussion further connects this theological perspective to broader ideas about theosis, emphasizing continuous growth in unity with the divine.
Engaging Science and Religion
A significant point in the dialogue is the interplay between scientific understanding and theological interpretations of religion. It suggests that human beings may possess an innate inclination towards the divine, thus categorizing them as inherently religious. This perspective opens the door for a fruitful conversation between cognitive sciences and theology, allowing for deeper exploration of what forms religious expression may take and how belief in God is an intrinsic human trait. The conversation also stresses that theological discourse should embrace this scientific insight rather than view it as a competitive challenge.
Future Directions in Systematic Theology
Oliver Crisp discusses his transition towards writing a systematic theology, indicating a desire to synthesize doctrines into a cohesive framework. He highlights the complexities of this undertaking, recognizing the need to balance various key theological concepts while maintaining a creative process. The conversation indicates a recognition that systematic theology serves not only as an academic endeavor but also as an act of construction—building a theological world that people can inhabit meaningfully. This approach aims to foster a vibrant dialogue between tradition and contemporary theological issues, expanding the potential for relevant theological engagement.
Oliver Crisp is back on the podcast and bringing more of his Analytic Reformed excitement to you. I know some of you dear listeners love Calvin and analytic theology, so while I may be less interested in general with those theological trajectories I always enjoy getting to talk with Oliver. That is why, after some serious prayer and reflection, I have decided to institute a new HBC rule. IF you are gonna go Calvinist, #KeepItCrispy. That is about as robust an affirmation I can give to Oliver.
We recorded this conversation while we were in SoCal at the TheoPsych seminar put on by my friends in the STAR office at Fuller Seminary. (STAR=Science, Theology and Religion). Over the course of the week we had a bunch of conversations in which we got to know each other more, share stories about our life, faith, family, moving to Scotland and such. I may not have decided to embrace my Calvinist past, but I definitely decided having a friend like Oliver is a treat. Since his return to Scotland you can find him at the University of St. Andrews where he is the Professor of Analytic Theology.