Philosophical presentation about existence of God and against the existence of God,Problem of Evil,teleological argument,Empirical argument,North South University,God,Monotheist,Islam,Hinduism,Christianity,
Philosophical presentation about existence of God and against the existence of God,Problem of Evil,teleological argument,Empirical argument,North South University,God,Monotheist,Islam,Hinduism,Christianity,
Dr. John Oakes taught a class on Modernism and Scientific Materialism at the 2015 International Christan Evidence Conference at York College in York, Nebraska, June 19-21. He gave a brief overview of the history of modern science and then give a world view critique of the philosophy, comparing it to Christianity. Here are notes and power points from the presentation.
Aphorisms concerning the interpretation of nature zealationZealation Shah
it is all about how to free the mind from superstitions, which are the sources of misunderstanding at the same time hindrances for crystal clear ideas. what we study, we observe and see: it is based on our understanding which not free from any kinds of biases and prejudices, which are also called idols. four kinds of idols Francis Bacon talks about tribe, cave, theatre and marketplace.
Evoation of Homo Eruditus (The paradigm shift of Darwin's theory of evolution...ALIBEATZ
Did God create Adam using the DNA of evolved prehistoric humans, incorporated in clay matter via sound frequency waves?
Yes, we might be on the brink of revolutionising the understanding of how humans came about on Earth and changing the theistic view of Evolution theory.
Introduction
I would like to put forward an opinion/theory concerning human evolution and the creation of Adam (as) by Allah (God) that will radically change the worldview.
As this is one topic that confuses people, be they an atheist or Muslims, or even one who believes in God in other religions.
I am a born Muslim, had tried to comprehend scientists understanding of Human Evolution who have great evidence for this theory. And the fact in the Quran, Hadiths and the understanding of Muslims that Adam (as) was miraculous creation by Allah.
I will also look into the post-Adam (as) era whereby, how different ancient worlds with their creation stories and religions aline with the Quran and sunnah, as well as a modern-day scientific explanation of the Universe which will give some support to my theory.
I will also put forward some solutions to current world/scientific problems from the research conducted. This will include restructuring the global order to better fit the purpose of mankind by the way of science, reason, the Quran and Sunnah. For a miracle to happen you need to prepare the grounds.
If we can solve the mysteries of the past, we can solve the problems of the present and future.
The main argument I want to propose within this article is as follows:
I am arguing that the Ardh (earth) which Allah used to create Adam (as), had the initial ingredients Cells/DNA of the Evolved Humans (homo sapiens) throughout history. Which led to the formation of the Human body.
Without Human Evolution there will be no Adam.
Please go through the presentation and share.
Thank You.
Toward the end of the Renaissance, the modern method ofempir.docxturveycharlyn
Toward the end of the Renaissance, the modern method of
empirical science began to develop. The key players were
Nicholas Copernicus (1473-1543), Johannes Kepler (1571-
1630), and Galileo Galilei (1564-1642). Although it may
seem ironic now, each of these men believed in the Christian
God. They viewed science as studying the handiwork of an
almighty Creator and discerning His natural laws. Galileo
considered God to have written two “books”: the Bible and
nature (Hummel, p. 106).
Contrary to popular belief, the cause for the diversion
between Christianity and science originated not with the
Church but with the university professors who were threat-
ened by Galileo’s revolutionary ideas. These professors were
steeped in the Greek scientific method, which included
observation to a small extent, but mostly explained the
workings of nature through rational deduction from first
principles, or assumptions, an entire view of the universe had
been built up. Consequently, the professors embraced such
misconceptions as the sun having no imperfections, the moon
being a perfectly smooth sphere that shone with its own light,
and the earth alone having a moon since the earth was at the
center of the universe. Galileo’s recently invented telescope
quickly demonstrated the incorrectness of such assumptions
(Hummel, pp. 91-94).
Not willing to be thwarted by Galileo, the professors decided
to make the controversy religious rather than academic
(Hummel, p. 92). They argued that the heliocentric (sun-cen-
tered) view contradicted scripture (e.g., Psalm 104:22 says,
“The sun rises.” Therefore, the sun must revolve around sta-
tionary earth). In the face of what at that time appeared to be
a genuine contradiction between scripture and the heliocen-
tric theory, the theologians of the Roman Catholic Church
had no choice but to condemn Galileo’s views, because the
conflict had challenged the authority of the Church.
As a result of that controversy, the schism between reason
and faith had begun. There were now two apparently
irreconcilable sources of truth: the church and science.
Secularism
A Religion Profile from International Students, Inc.
1
Secularism: An Overview
Number of Adherents
Demographer Davit Barrett estimates that there are 150 million
atheists and 768 million nonreligious people in the world. The
combined total comes to more than 918 million people (Barrett).
Secularism Among the Nations
In more than 40 countries, atheists or nonreligious make up
more than 10 percent of the population (World Christian
Database). The following are just a few of those countries:
Austrailia, Britain, Canada, China, Cuba, Czech Republic,
France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Japan, North Korea,
Mongolia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Russia, Sweden,
Uruguay and Vietnam.
Defining the Terms
An “atheist” is one who says there is sufficient evidence to
show that God does not exist. An “agnostic” is one who says
there is insufficient evidence to know wheth ...
Major Representatives of the Three ModelsFIRST MODELMaterial.docxsmile790243
Major Representatives of the Three Models
FIRST MODEL
Materialism
MATERIALISM/SCIENTISM/ATHEISM
The first ontological system we will view will be materialism (others may call this system scientism or even atheism). With each system we will first state the claim the system makes, next give the arguments in support of the claim, and last present some challenges to the claim.
Some people unfortunately get upset whenever their beliefs are challenged. Well, every system faces challenges...EVERY system. The question each person has to decide is whether or not the challenges actually defeat the claims. If the challengers are defeaters (something only YOU can determine), then you need to abandon that system and find one whose challengers are not defeaters.
THE MAJOR CLAIM OF MATERIALISM
The Claim
According to Encyclopedia Britannica, materialists/atheists make up between 2.4-3.8% of the world's population. According to materialists, matter and its component parts are all that essentially exist. This does not claim that matter exists (even the third model asserts that); rather it claims that matter including its component parts is the only thing which exists.
Characteristics of MaterialismEthical Systems Produced by MaterialismAccording to Albert Camus and Jean-Paul Sartre, the famous French existentialists of the mid 20th century, there is no absolute standard of right and wrong, therefore, a person cannot speak of right in any true sense of the word. See also Richard Rorty (Philosophy and the Mirror of Nature) who claims that right and wrong don’t exist because our brain is only purely chemical, with the synapses firing off electrical impulses, thereby providing no real basis for absolute morality.
Survival of the fittest: the strong wins, that is, the development of the Uebermensch, that is, Superman (Nietzsche). If you take people out of the equation, you will see that this dominates the rest of the universe (this will be one of Nietzsche’s arguments in Beyond Good and Evil). The fittest may be the fittest intellectually or physically or emotionally/psychologically. But the fittest or the strongest is going to win and should win.
Modern Versions: Although materialists (secular humanists) reject the belief that God exists, many materialists today claim that man is valuable and possesses certain rights, such as right to health, a decent standard of living, and education. As a result, ethics should be based upon what is best for society as a whole. Altruism: showing a disinterested and selfless concern for the well-being of others; unselfishness.
Epistemological Claim by Some Materialists
Some materialists, especially Richard Dawkins, Christopher Hitchens, and Bertrand Russell, assert the supremacy of reason in dealing with knowledge. Coupling reason with an absolute certain belief in the existence of matter, these have claimed that God does not exist. They are following in the train of Bertrand Russell, a prominent British materialist of ...
TILLERY 1Jasonus TilleryAPOL 50024th September 2016 1. Worldview.docxherthalearmont
TILLERY | 1Jasonus TilleryAPOL 50024th September 2016 1. Worldview Selection
Worldview selected: Naturalism.
Naturalism is the philosophical viewpoint that supports that belief that all existence began from natural properties and causes. In it, there is no room for spiritual ideologies of supernatural explanations about the beginning of life or existence. Naturalists basically believe in the laws and forces as the controls of the world and how things run. Naturalism is the main rival to deism. Naturalism is expressed in the belief that there is no “main man in the sky.”2. Summary of Significant Beliefs of the Naturalism Worldview (using several major categories of belief)
· Naturalists believe that the big bang was the source of all life where energy was the main source.
· The fingerprint of God, also recognized as the seven days significance in the creation of the world and everything else, is seen in usage within Naturalism, thus the usage of the repeated number sequences that have digit seven (7) in them (Mahner, 2016).
· Naturalism also believe that energy cannot be formed or created; they, therefore, do not believe in creation, but believe in the big bang theory where energy transformation was the rationale behind the existence of the world.
· Naturalism asserts that here are many galaxies, and that the Milky Way is not the only galaxy, and that the cause of the big bang was because of the multiple galaxies and energy transformation (Mahner, 2016).
· Naturalism asserts that the whole idea of Christianity was developed to formulate a system of control that can restrain people so that the rules and laws of supernatural beings can prevent man from causing havoc and chaos.
· Naturalisms also questions the first verse of the bible, which asserts that during the first day of creation, God separated light and dark, and on the fourth day, he separated the heavenly bodies. This contradiction makes it obvious that there is a discrepancy in the theory of creation because there cannot be day and night if there are no heavenly bodies (Putnam, 2016).Preliminary Evaluation Ideas (focus on 8 criteria for evaluating a worldview)
Groothuis provides a list with which apologetic reasoning should be guided. The lists states that
· A worldview must explain what it ought to explain (Groothuis 2011, 52) – Naturalism explores the origin of life and provides a concise and scientific approach that is approachable through natural laws and science, albeit not applicable in experimental testing due to the sheer span of time and global mass when it comes to the simulation of theories such as the big bang.
· A worldview must exhibit internal logical consistency (Groothuis 2011, 53) – Naturalism uses logical comparisons of the Christian worldview and naturalism to show that the theory of creation-fall-redemption and the existence of a supernatural heavenly being are illogical, and that the logical thing is that which can be proven through science as naturalism doe ...
This is a presentation by Dada Robert in a Your Skill Boost masterclass organised by the Excellence Foundation for South Sudan (EFSS) on Saturday, the 25th and Sunday, the 26th of May 2024.
He discussed the concept of quality improvement, emphasizing its applicability to various aspects of life, including personal, project, and program improvements. He defined quality as doing the right thing at the right time in the right way to achieve the best possible results and discussed the concept of the "gap" between what we know and what we do, and how this gap represents the areas we need to improve. He explained the scientific approach to quality improvement, which involves systematic performance analysis, testing and learning, and implementing change ideas. He also highlighted the importance of client focus and a team approach to quality improvement.
The Indian economy is classified into different sectors to simplify the analysis and understanding of economic activities. For Class 10, it's essential to grasp the sectors of the Indian economy, understand their characteristics, and recognize their importance. This guide will provide detailed notes on the Sectors of the Indian Economy Class 10, using specific long-tail keywords to enhance comprehension.
For more information, visit-www.vavaclasses.com
The Art Pastor's Guide to Sabbath | Steve ThomasonSteve Thomason
What is the purpose of the Sabbath Law in the Torah. It is interesting to compare how the context of the law shifts from Exodus to Deuteronomy. Who gets to rest, and why?
The Roman Empire A Historical Colossus.pdfkaushalkr1407
The Roman Empire, a vast and enduring power, stands as one of history's most remarkable civilizations, leaving an indelible imprint on the world. It emerged from the Roman Republic, transitioning into an imperial powerhouse under the leadership of Augustus Caesar in 27 BCE. This transformation marked the beginning of an era defined by unprecedented territorial expansion, architectural marvels, and profound cultural influence.
The empire's roots lie in the city of Rome, founded, according to legend, by Romulus in 753 BCE. Over centuries, Rome evolved from a small settlement to a formidable republic, characterized by a complex political system with elected officials and checks on power. However, internal strife, class conflicts, and military ambitions paved the way for the end of the Republic. Julius Caesar’s dictatorship and subsequent assassination in 44 BCE created a power vacuum, leading to a civil war. Octavian, later Augustus, emerged victorious, heralding the Roman Empire’s birth.
Under Augustus, the empire experienced the Pax Romana, a 200-year period of relative peace and stability. Augustus reformed the military, established efficient administrative systems, and initiated grand construction projects. The empire's borders expanded, encompassing territories from Britain to Egypt and from Spain to the Euphrates. Roman legions, renowned for their discipline and engineering prowess, secured and maintained these vast territories, building roads, fortifications, and cities that facilitated control and integration.
The Roman Empire’s society was hierarchical, with a rigid class system. At the top were the patricians, wealthy elites who held significant political power. Below them were the plebeians, free citizens with limited political influence, and the vast numbers of slaves who formed the backbone of the economy. The family unit was central, governed by the paterfamilias, the male head who held absolute authority.
Culturally, the Romans were eclectic, absorbing and adapting elements from the civilizations they encountered, particularly the Greeks. Roman art, literature, and philosophy reflected this synthesis, creating a rich cultural tapestry. Latin, the Roman language, became the lingua franca of the Western world, influencing numerous modern languages.
Roman architecture and engineering achievements were monumental. They perfected the arch, vault, and dome, constructing enduring structures like the Colosseum, Pantheon, and aqueducts. These engineering marvels not only showcased Roman ingenuity but also served practical purposes, from public entertainment to water supply.
2024.06.01 Introducing a competency framework for languag learning materials ...Sandy Millin
http://sandymillin.wordpress.com/iateflwebinar2024
Published classroom materials form the basis of syllabuses, drive teacher professional development, and have a potentially huge influence on learners, teachers and education systems. All teachers also create their own materials, whether a few sentences on a blackboard, a highly-structured fully-realised online course, or anything in between. Despite this, the knowledge and skills needed to create effective language learning materials are rarely part of teacher training, and are mostly learnt by trial and error.
Knowledge and skills frameworks, generally called competency frameworks, for ELT teachers, trainers and managers have existed for a few years now. However, until I created one for my MA dissertation, there wasn’t one drawing together what we need to know and do to be able to effectively produce language learning materials.
This webinar will introduce you to my framework, highlighting the key competencies I identified from my research. It will also show how anybody involved in language teaching (any language, not just English!), teacher training, managing schools or developing language learning materials can benefit from using the framework.
Synthetic Fiber Construction in lab .pptxPavel ( NSTU)
Synthetic fiber production is a fascinating and complex field that blends chemistry, engineering, and environmental science. By understanding these aspects, students can gain a comprehensive view of synthetic fiber production, its impact on society and the environment, and the potential for future innovations. Synthetic fibers play a crucial role in modern society, impacting various aspects of daily life, industry, and the environment. ynthetic fibers are integral to modern life, offering a range of benefits from cost-effectiveness and versatility to innovative applications and performance characteristics. While they pose environmental challenges, ongoing research and development aim to create more sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives. Understanding the importance of synthetic fibers helps in appreciating their role in the economy, industry, and daily life, while also emphasizing the need for sustainable practices and innovation.
Instructions for Submissions thorugh G- Classroom.pptxJheel Barad
This presentation provides a briefing on how to upload submissions and documents in Google Classroom. It was prepared as part of an orientation for new Sainik School in-service teacher trainees. As a training officer, my goal is to ensure that you are comfortable and proficient with this essential tool for managing assignments and fostering student engagement.
Palestine last event orientationfvgnh .pptxRaedMohamed3
An EFL lesson about the current events in Palestine. It is intended to be for intermediate students who wish to increase their listening skills through a short lesson in power point.
1. Chapter TwelveChapter Twelve
““The Methodological Precondition”The Methodological Precondition”
PowerPoint Prepared by Mark E. Hardgrove, DMin, PhD.PowerPoint Prepared by Mark E. Hardgrove, DMin, PhD.
2. MethodMethod
The method of doing theology is widely debated.The method of doing theology is widely debated.
Methodology is of vital importance, because in a veryMethodology is of vital importance, because in a very
real sense methodology determines theology.real sense methodology determines theology.
HowHow theology is done will determinetheology is done will determine whatwhat thethe
theological conclusion will be.theological conclusion will be.
If theology is done with a naturalistic method,If theology is done with a naturalistic method,
inevitably the conclusions will be naturalistic.inevitably the conclusions will be naturalistic.
If one begins with a theistic God and a method openIf one begins with a theistic God and a method open
to the supernatural, the conclusions will not beto the supernatural, the conclusions will not be
unfavorable to the supernatural.unfavorable to the supernatural.
3.
4. TheThe Reductio Absurdum MethodReductio Absurdum Method
Chief proponent, Zeno (c. 495- c. 430 b.c.)
Argued that nothing existed except one solitary
being.
In this view, if time, space, or motion is composed of
real parts, we end up in hopeless contradictions—
cannot get from point A to point B.
This worldview is rejected by theists, however, the
application does not necessitate any view contrary to
Christian belief.
It is simply an application of valid disjunctive
syllogism later developed by Aristotle.
5. The Socratic MethodThe Socratic Method
Chief proponent, Socrates (c. 470-399 b.c.)
Better called the dialogical method, or method of
interrogation, for it is based on a simple technique of
discovering truth by asking the right questions.
In its original form it is based on belief in
reincarnation and the answers are the fruit of a
previous life.
Others have extracted the reincarnation element and
view it as a way to lead a mind down the path of truth
by asking the right questions.
6. The Deductive MethodThe Deductive Method
Chief proponent, Aristotle (384-322 b.c.)
Also known as prior analysis, whereby a person can
validly infer one truth from other truths.
Deductions come in one of three forms:
Categorical (unconditional) deduction (syllogism)
Hypothetical (conditional) deduction (syllogism)
Disjunctive syllogism (either/or)
7. The Inductive MethodThe Inductive Method
Chief proponent, Francis Bacon (1561-1626)
Popularly known as “scientific method”
Two broad categories: imperfect and perfect
Imperfect deduction based on the examination of a
random sample. The larger the sample, the higher
the degree of probability.
Perfect deduction comes from examining every one of
the particulars in that class that can be examined.
8. The Cartesian MethodThe Cartesian Method
Chief proponent, Rene’ Descartes (1596-1650)
A method for discovering truth that begins with doubt
The method continues with a method of statements based
on successive truths.
Example: 1) I doubt, therefore, I think1) I doubt, therefore, I think
2) I think, therefore, I am2) I think, therefore, I am
3) I am, therefore, God is (because I am an imperfect being3) I am, therefore, God is (because I am an imperfect being
—a doubter), the imperfect implies Perfect (God), by—a doubter), the imperfect implies Perfect (God), by
which I know thatwhich I know that
4) God is, and therefore the world is (for a perfect God4) God is, and therefore the world is (for a perfect God
would not deceive me about the strong, steady impressionwould not deceive me about the strong, steady impression
I am getting of an external world outside myself).I am getting of an external world outside myself).
5) Consequently, I exist, God exists, and the world exists.5) Consequently, I exist, God exists, and the world exists.
9. The Euclidian MethodThe Euclidian Method
Chief proponent, Euclid (fl. 300 b.c.)/Spinoza (1632-1677)
A system of geometry that began with certain basic
definitions and axioms held to be self-evident (e.g.,
parallel lines never meet).
Used in modern times by great rationalist and
philosopher Benedict Spinoza who developed a
philosophic system, including proofs for God, as well
as descriptions of the creation and nature of human
beings, free will, and ethics.
He also deduced the impossibility of miracles and
incipient negative higher criticism of Scripture.
10. The Transcendental MethodThe Transcendental Method
Chief proponent, Immanuel Kant (1724-1804)
It is more of a reductive approach arguing back to the
necessary preconditions of something being the case.
Seeks for necessary conditions of a given state of affairs,
not an actual cause of them.
Evangelical thinkers have used this methodology in both
the minimal and maximal ways:
Maximal category: In order to make sense of the world, it
is necessary to postulate the existence of the triune God as
revealed in the Bible.
Minimal argument: Defends the law of noncontradiction,
insisting that one had to posit it as an absolute condition
for all thought, otherwise, no thought would be possible.
11. The Abductive MethodThe Abductive Method
Chief proponent, Charles Sanders Pierce (1839-1914)
An abduction is like an insight or intuitive flash that
provides one with a model for doing science or
theology.
It is neither deduced from prior premises nor induced
from previous data; it is simply intelligent insight into
the situation.
Theology, like other disciples, fruitfully uses
abductions to derive models by which Scripture can
be correctly interpreted.
12. The Retroductive MethodThe Retroductive Method
No chief proponent listed by Geisler
This is a method of enrichment.
As snowball gathers more snow on each turn
downhill, so the reduction in theology is where
additional insight is gained from futher knowledge.
Sometimes movement is described as a circle, but it is
a benign circle, not a vicious circle.
Sometimes called the hermeneutical circle in which
one understands the whole in light of the parts and
the parts in light of the whole.
13. The Analogical MethodThe Analogical Method
Chief proponent, Joseph Butler (1692-1752)
Used by Butler to defend Christianity against deism
Use of probability: Butler believed probability
supports belief in a supernatural revelation from God
in the Bible and in the miracles of Christ.
Objection to Deism: Nature bespeaks God’s existence
Religion judged as a whole, not simply from attacks
leveled against specific parts, as deist are prone to do.
The relation of natural and supernatural revelation
are not mutually exclusive but deal with specific
realms, i.e., natural with God Almighty, and
supernatural with Son and Holy Spirit.
14. The Analogical Method (cont.)The Analogical Method (cont.)
Chief proponent, Joseph Butler (1692-1752)
The defense of miracles: Argues that “no presumption
lies against the general Christians scheme, whether
we call it miraculous or not.”
Evaluation of Butler’s view of miracles
Positively, he made a significant defense of
Christianity against deism.
Negatively, he unnecessarily weakened the stronger
cosmological argument in favor a weaker probability
argument from analogy.
15. The Dialectical MethodThe Dialectical Method
Chief proponent, Karl Marx (1818-1883)
Consists in opposing a thesis with an antithesis and
making a synthesis of them.
F.C. Bauer (1792-1860) attempted to use this approach
to interpret Scripture.
Claimed the tension between Peter’s Judaistic form of
Christianity (thesis) and Paul’s anti-Judaistic form of
Christianity (antithesis) found its reconciliation
(synthesis) in the Gospel of John.
16. The Pragmatic MethodThe Pragmatic Method
Chief proponent, Willaim James (1842-1910)
In brief, according to pragmatism, we know what is
true by whether or not it works.
On a popular level this method is widely used.
17. The Experimental MethodThe Experimental Method
Chief proponent, John Dewey (1859-1952)
Is an American contribution to the discipline of
methodology.
One discovers the truth by doing, and the final vote is
cast by whether or not our experimentation produces
progress.
In popular language “try before you buy”
Can have devastating results as evidenced in the
sexual revolution and chemical experimentation.
18.
19. Methodological Category MistakesMethodological Category Mistakes
Etienne Gilson (1884-1978) demonstrates the problem
of taking a methodology appropriate to one discipline
and applying it to another.
For example, taking insights from microevolution
(small incremental changes within a species) and
applying on a macro level, as well as applying the
theory to sociology, ethics, and religion.
20. Antisupernaturalistic MethodsAntisupernaturalistic Methods
Any method that necessitates a naturalistic
conclusion should not be used in evangelical
theology.
Historical uniformitarianism, for example, assumes
that we should disbelieve in miracles even if they
occur.
Its clearly absurd to lay down a method that refuses
to believe in an event even if it occurs.
Such methods must be soundly rejected by a
biblically based theology.
21. Incompatible MethodsIncompatible Methods
While some methodologies are not antisupernatural,
they are still incompatible with evangelical beliefs.
For example, pragmatism and experimentalism are
incompatible with the belief in absolute truth;
according to pragmatism and experimentalism, one
and the same thing can work for one person but not
for another.
This does not mean that theological truth is not
practical or does not apply to one’s life; it simply isn’t
a legitimate way to obtain truth.
22. Inappropriate MethodsInappropriate Methods
Other methods must be rejected because they are
inappropriate to the subject at hand, even if they are
not antisupernatural or incompatible with evangelical
belief.
For example math is perfectly capable of dealing with
abstract entities (negative numbers for example), but
not necessarily concrete ones (can you hold a negative
apple?).
Likewise, modern symbolic logic is not designed to
handle what questions but only how questions.
23.
24. Three Apparent ThingsThree Apparent Things
1.1. The method should fit its objectThe method should fit its object
2.2. The method should not be contrary to theThe method should not be contrary to the
results it is supposed to produceresults it is supposed to produce
3.3. No one method can suffice for the manyNo one method can suffice for the many
steps involved in developing ansteps involved in developing an
evangelical theology.evangelical theology.
25. Step 1: An Inductive Basis in ScriptureStep 1: An Inductive Basis in Scripture
Any adequate methodology must be based on a
sound exposition of Scripture.
An inductive approach must be taken; that is, all the
particular parts of the text must be examined carefully
in context before one can safely assume he has the
proper interpretation.
Likewise, the whole must be viewed as what makes
sense of each part.
The socratic method of interrogation can be used:
1) Who wrote it? 2) When did he write it? 3) Where
were they located? 4) To whom was it written? Etc.
26. Step 2: A Deduction of Truths From ScriptureStep 2: A Deduction of Truths From Scripture
Logical conclusions (deduction) can be drawn from
Scripture.
For example:
1) God is one
2)There are three Persons who are God—the Father,
Son, and the Holy Spirit
From this it follows by logical deduction that:
3)There are three persons in the one God (God is a Tri-
unity)
27. Step 3: The Use of AnalogiesStep 3: The Use of Analogies
The method of analogy can be used to derive and
refine an understanding of God’s revealed truth.
Since God has revealed Himself in both special and
general revelation, systematic theology can make use
of analogies from either to help explain and expound
truth.
28. Step 4: The Use of General RevelationStep 4: The Use of General Revelation
Another important step in theological methodology is
the use of general revelation.
God has revealed Himself in nature, including human
nature.
Every perfection in creation, wherever it is found, is
similar (analogous) to God.
Sometimes general revelation helps clarify special
revelation, for example the idea of the four corners of
the earth(Rev. 7:1)
Sometimes special revelation helps clarify general
revelation, for example microevolution vs. macro.
29. Step 5: The Retroductive MethodStep 5: The Retroductive Method
By using the information gained in steps 1 through 4
we then refine, nuance, and fill out our
understanding.
The adding on and layering of truths and insights
deepens and expands one’s theological perspectives.
30. Step 6: Systematic CorrelationStep 6: Systematic Correlation
The Bible must be understood in terms of the literary
forms in which it is expressed, its own phenomena
(data), and in accord with other revelation from God
in nature.
The doctrine of Scripture must be understood in the
view of the data of Scripture.
31. Step 7: Each Doctrine is Correlated with AllStep 7: Each Doctrine is Correlated with All
Other DoctrinesOther Doctrines
The word systematic in systematic theology implies
that all teachings of both general and special
revelation are comprehensive and consistent.
Consistency must be both internal and external.
Internally, each biblical teaching must be logically
consistent with every other teaching.
Externally, no teaching of Scripture can be
inconsistent with any truth from general revelation.
32. Step 8: Each Doctrine is Expressed in View of theStep 8: Each Doctrine is Expressed in View of the
Orthodox Teachings of the Church FathersOrthodox Teachings of the Church Fathers
Tests for Orthodoxy:
1. What is contrary to ecumenical creeds, councils, and
confessions is certainly unorthodox
2.What is not addressed in the ecumenical creeds,
councils, and confessions but is contrary to the
universal consent of the Fathers is almost certainly
unorthodox, and
3. What is contrary to the general consent of the Fathers
is highly suspect.
33. Step 9: Livability is the Final TestStep 9: Livability is the Final Test
True Christianity is not merely metaphysics; it is also
ethics.
It is not simply theoretical; it is practical.
Its goal is not only to satisfy the mind, but also to
shape life.
Therefore, it must be livable; its truths must be
effective in a pragmatic way.
Of course not all that works is true, but what is true
will work.
Systematic theology should lead to practical theology.
Editor's Notes
Categorical deduction-if the first two premises are true, then the conclusion must be true.
Hypothetical deduction—If the condition is correct, then the conclusion must be true.
Hypothetical syllogism—A conclusion logically follow from a disjunctive syllogism only if one of the two disjuncts (statements on either side of the “or”) is negated.