Reasonable Faith Podcast

Dive into the fascinating discussion on the role of ecclesiastical tradition in theology. Discover how tradition distinguishes between its significance and authoritative power. Hear insights on the early church's stance on baptismal regeneration, and why some traditions may go astray. Explore the value of creeds as guidance rather than absolute rules. Uncover arguments for scriptural inspiration through natural theology and historical evidence, along with insights on apostolic authority in determining the biblical canon.

William Lane Craig, a renowned Christian philosopher and apologist, dives into the heated debate surrounding divine simplicity and the controversial claim that he's an atheist. He critiques the reductionist Lego analogy as an oversimplification of complex theological views. Craig emphasizes that denying divine simplicity doesn't equate to atheism, arguing instead for the necessity of a metaphysical being as a more coherent explanation for existence than a brute composite universe. His insights illuminate the nuances of faith and philosophy.

A mother shares her heart-wrenching struggle as her son's atheism grows amidst personal suffering. The discussion explores the intricate argument surrounding gratuitous evil and its implications on faith. William Lane Craig tackles the burden of proof, emphasizing our limitations in assessing what constitutes gratuitous evil. The conversation turns to how belief in God can counter these claims, with references to philosophical perspectives on necessary evils. The emotional and intellectual dimensions of suffering are examined, promoting love and prayer as a response.

Joe Schmidt, a philosophy doctoral student from Princeton, dives into a groundbreaking reverse modal ontological argument for atheism. He discusses how traditional ontological arguments aim to prove God's existence through concepts. William Lane Craig, initially skeptical, shares his shift to defending these arguments. The duo explores modal logic's dynamics, debating the feasibility of a reverse argument that claims the nonexistence of God leads to impossibility. Their engaging dialogue challenges listeners to consider the implications of possibility in the debate between theism and atheism.

This week’s discussion dives into the role of prayer in academic pursuits. Is God steering scholars towards specific conclusions amid their disagreements? Instead of asking for direct insights, the emphasis is on praying for virtues like diligence and discipline. The conversation touches on the idea that divine intervention in math isn’t common, focusing instead on character development. Finally, the distinction between knowledge and wisdom is clarified, highlighting the importance of applying knowledge wisely.

Delve into the intriguing interplay of God, time, and knowledge. Discover the concept that a temporal God can learn new truths as they unfold. Explore the distinction between propositional and experiential knowledge. The conversation tackles the implications of God's awareness post-creation and debates criticisms surrounding these ideas. As perspectives shift, find out how the reality of time is defended against traditional views. A thought-provoking discussion that challenges conventional beliefs and unpacks complex theological concepts.

Dr. Craig dives into the intriguing debate on God's nature and time. He confronts objections regarding the contradiction in God's timelessness and temporality. The discussion includes relativity's compatibility with a tensed theory of time and highlights support for Neo-Lorentzian views. Craig also challenges the multiverse theory, arguing it lacks evidence and faces significant criticisms. The conversation wraps up with light-hearted exchanges and prospects for future dialogue.

Dr. Emily Qureshi-Hurst, a teaching associate at Cambridge and author of the upcoming "Decoding the Cosmos," critiques Dr. Craig's view on God and time. She shares her journey from atheism to studying religion, explores different interpretations of Genesis, and debates whether physics can answer metaphysical questions about God's nature. Emily articulates the shifts in understanding God as temporal or atemporal and discusses how each perspective affects God's knowledge of time, offering insightful takes on fundamental theological concepts.

Exploring the Resurrection, the discussion dives into using legal cross-examination tools and their limitations in historical contexts. Witness bias is challenged, with independent confirmations from figures like James and Paul highlighted. The idea that disciples had nothing to gain from fabricating the resurrection strengthens the argument, especially in light of their persecution. The reliability of the Gospels is defended against perceived contradictions, and the historical assessment is recommended over legal analogies for understanding the event.

In this thought-provoking discussion, the nature of Molinism is explored, particularly how it relates to God's omnipotence and maximal greatness. The conversation delves into whether God's knowledge of counterfactuals limits His freedom. There's a fascinating distinction made between what God cannot do due to logical impossibility and true limitations. The panel also debates the importance of free will in determining salvation rates and whether God must choose the absolute best possible world. They even touch on interpretive nuances in biblical texts regarding salvation.