Exploring Mormon Thought

Explore the intriguing clash between divine foreknowledge and human free will. The discussion uncovers logical arguments for their incompatibility, revealing the pitfalls of previous theological models. Delve into the philosophical insights from Augustine and Aquinas regarding how past events influence our freedoms. The interplay of semantics and logical reasoning highlights the complexity of human agency. Critiques of determinism further illuminate the unpredictability of human behavior in light of divine insight, making for a captivating exploration.

Dive into the intriguing world of divine knowledge and its impact on free will. Explore Middle Knowledge and how Joseph Smith redefined God's understanding over time. Engage with debates about whether God can foresee all human choices while allowing genuine freedom. Discover the philosophical challenges presented, such as the limits of divine omniscience and the problem of evil. Through captivating examples, the discussion sheds light on how divine insights shape our present while questioning the reliability of foreknowledge in guiding human agency.

Dive into thought-provoking discussions on God's knowledge and its existence in relation to free will. Explore models like simple foreknowledge and timeless perception, and how they challenge traditional views. Examine the A and B theories of time, raising questions about morality and existence. Philosophical tensions between divine knowledge and human autonomy are critiqued, comparing Aquinas’ ideas with Joseph Smith’s perspectives. The complexities of divine timelessness also reveal the intricate dance between foreknowledge and human experiences.

Dive into the fascinating world of divine power as various theories are dissected, prompting a deeper understanding of omnipotence. Logical limitations and human freedom present intriguing challenges to God's power. Explore the interplay between morality, goodness, and divine attributes, and how they influence concepts of free will. The podcast also touches on the dynamic between persuasive and coercive power, alongside discussions on creation and natural laws. Finally, the chaos of quantum reality is examined in relation to divine intervention.

Dive into the intriguing systematic theologies of early Mormon thinkers like Parley P. Pratt and B.H. Roberts. Explore the tensions in their views on God's nature and intelligence, while unraveling the concept of divine progression. Discover how divine council dynamics challenge traditional authority and the joy found in the interdependence between God and humanity. The podcast also highlights B.H. Roberts' controversial debates, illustrating the evolution of thought within modern Mormonism. Get ready for a thought-provoking exploration of belief and understanding!

Dive into the fascinating realms of Joseph Smith's evolving revelations and the nature of God in this thought-provoking exploration. Discover the key elements of Mormon theology and the profound implications of the Lectures on Faith. Delve into the King Follett Discourse and the Sermon in the Grove, uncovering different interpretations and the relational aspects of faith. Examine how divine presence, power, and the uncreated nature of intelligence shape Latter-day Saint thought and challenge traditional Christian beliefs.

Dive into the intriguing contrast between classical theism and process thought, exploring how God evolves and interacts with creation. Discover the fascinating concept of maximal persuasive power and its role in collective prayer. The podcast also delves into God's complexity, including the nuances of divine influence, creativity, and the implications of free will. Unpack the nature of God's knowledge and its impact on the unpredictability of the future. This conversation challenges traditional views and offers fresh insights into the divine attributes in a dynamic universe.

Delve into the fascinating intersection of Greek philosophy and Christian theology. Discover how Plato's ideas shaped early Christian notions of God's attributes. The discussion reveals the complexities of absolutist thought and the rise of figures like Augustine and Aquinas. Explore divine perfection, God's immutability, and the challenges they present to free will. Learn about apostasy's reinterpretation and the cultural barriers separating believers from spiritual experiences. This dialogue uncovers the rich philosophical foundations underpinning modern theological debates.

Blake Ostler, a scholar and theologian known for his insights on Mormon thought, delves into profound topics. He explores the idea of subordinate ‘gods’ and the concept of apotheosis—how humans can achieve divinity. The discussion reveals God as a relational figure, emphasizing a familial connection rather than a distant deity. They also tackle complex issues like God’s perfection, the essence of divine relationships, and the intriguing theory of ‘God and Possible Worlds,’ prompting listeners to reconsider the nature of divinity and human agency.

Well-known Mormon theologian and scholar Blake Ostler is interviewed in this podcast, discussing his background, motivations for writing, and complex issues in his books. The topics range from the attributes of God to personal reflections on faith, navigating knowledge, and the evolution of intellectual pursuits in Mormon circles.