Boethius makes it clear that he believes that God has foreknowledge and is in control because "He alone can see all things" and "with one glance of His intelligence He sees all" (62). Philosophy says it well when she argues that, "the working of human reason cannot approach the directness of divine foreknowledge." Humans cannot fully understand or grasp the capabilities of God. While I find this frustrating and utterly complicated, much alike to Boethius, it also draws me in to a deeper respect for God. It is reassuring, however, that "human spirits must be more free" when contemplating on the matter of God and His character (62). So it is not hopeless when we try and understand God but cannot fully.
I commented on Daniel and Wendy's!
Seeking to understand God but knowing He cannot fully be understood is the Christian walk. It is a growing relationship. This idea of God being eternal/transcendent of our knowledge is essential to the Christian life. Thanks for the post.
ReplyDeleteYeah I was completely by the second page but barreled through it anyway. The foreknowledge of God is something that I have always struggled with and always will. I have asked the same questions Boethius has asked. Yes we have free will but how is it possible to simultaneously have that and have a God who knows what choice we will make?! It's mind numbing!
ReplyDeleteSomeone wrote in the early 20th century that there cannot be two completely free beings, the two will meet and one must overcome the other.
ReplyDeleteSomeone wrote in the early 20th century that there cannot be two completely free beings, the two will meet and one must overcome the other.
ReplyDeleteI agree especially with what you said at the end! When I explore through these topics and come up empty and confused, it doesn't upset me or make me feel hopeless, rather is makes grows my hope even more in the God I know to be so beyond my understanding and yet so loving to me personally.
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