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Tactics in Defending the Faith > Elements Of Apologetics > Flashcards

Elements Of Apologetics Flashcards

1
Q

What are some reasons young Christians are leaving the church according to a 2016 Pew Research Center survey?

A
  • Learning about evolution when I went away to college
  • Religion is the opiate of the people
  • Rational thought makes religion go out the window
  • Lack of any sort of scientific or specific evidence of a creator
  • I just realized somewhere along the line that I didn’t really believe it
  • I’m doing a lot more learning, studying and kind of making decisions myself rather than listening to someone else

These reasons highlight a dissatisfaction with the credibility of the Christian message rather than personal grievances with church leadership or politics.

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2
Q

What does Tim Keller emphasize about inherited beliefs?

A

It is no longer sufficient to hold beliefs just because you inherited them.

This perspective encourages individuals to critically examine their beliefs rather than accepting them passively.

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3
Q

What did W. K. Clifford argue about avoiding doubts regarding one’s beliefs?

A

Ducking questions regarding one’s beliefs is not only irresponsible, but also immoral.

Clifford believed that suppressing doubts leads to a failure to engage with the truth.

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4
Q

What is the suggested approach towards doubts according to the text?

A

It is good to impose doubts upon our beliefs and investigate their claims with urgency and passion.

This approach encourages critical thinking and reinforces one’s understanding of their beliefs.

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5
Q

How does apologetics benefit believers according to John Frame?

A

Apologetics becomes useful for believers who sometimes doubt, even apart from its role in dialogue with unbelievers.

This highlights the importance of apologetics in strengthening personal faith.

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6
Q

What did Douglas Groothuis say about the purpose of apologetics?

A

Apologetics fortifies believers in their faith, whether they are wrestling with doubts or seeking a deeper grounding for their biblical beliefs.

This indicates that apologetics serves both as a defense against outside challenges and as a support for internal faith.

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7
Q

What did Edward J. Carnell criticize about how some teachers approach students’ faith?

A

He criticized teachers for withholding evidences that may disturb the student’s faith, calling it ‘robbery.’

Carnell believed that this approach leads to academic conditioning rather than true education.

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8
Q

What is a key message regarding facing attacks on faith?

A

If you want to stand for God’s truth, you will eventually face attack and may need to adopt the resolve to say, ‘Bring it on.’

This encourages a proactive stance in defending one’s beliefs.

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9
Q

Fill in the blank: According to the text, the study of _______ is helpful for both the unbeliever and the believer.

A

[apologetics]

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10
Q

What does the term ‘apologetics’ originate from?

A

The Greek word ‘apologia’, meaning a defense against an accusation

The term is often associated with courtroom defenses.

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11
Q

In what context did Socrates use the term ‘apologia’?

A

To defend himself against the charge of preaching strange gods

This is detailed in Plato’s dialogue, ‘The Apology’.

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12
Q

What is a major challenge faced by Christians today according to the text?

A

Western culture is increasingly less supportive of Christian claims.

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13
Q

What biblical verse illustrates the impact of early Christians?

A

Acts 17:6, where it says, ‘These men who have upset the world have come here also.’

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14
Q

According to 1 Peter 3:15, what must one possess to offer the hope of the gospel?

A

‘The hope that is in you.’

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15
Q

Fill in the blank: The hope in Christ’s redemptive work must eventually become _______.

A

[your own]

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16
Q

What must believers eventually express about their faith according to the text?

A

‘It is no longer because of what you said that I believe, for I have heard for myself.’

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17
Q

What role does apologetics play in a believer’s life?

A

It involves the defense of one’s faith and the offer of faith to a skeptical world.

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18
Q

According to Matthew 5:13, what happens if salt loses its taste?

A

It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out.

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19
Q

What must an unbeliever do to fill their inner explanatory slots?

A

They must have a personal encounter with faith.

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20
Q

What does Psalm 34:8 encourage believers to do?

A

‘Taste and see that the Lord is good.’

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21
Q

What is the intended purpose of studying apologetics according to the text?

A

For personal use in defending one’s faith.

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22
Q

What metaphor is used to illustrate the need for preparation before engaging with skepticism?

A

Putting up an umbrella before going out into the rain.

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23
Q

According to 1 Peter 3:15, how should believers be prepared?

A

Always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks.

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24
Q

What is the second challenge presented in the text?

A

To defend a weaker Christian against atheistic credibilities.

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25
Q

What metaphor does Job use to describe defending the weak?

A

I broke the jaws of the wicked and snatched the prey from his teeth.

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26
Q

What must believers do if they have the means to help those in the grip of evil?

A

They must step in and help.

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27
Q

What does 1 Peter 3:13-15 emphasize regarding believers and their defense of faith?

A

Believers should be ready to make a defense for their hope with gentleness and reverence.

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28
Q

According to Luke 12:11-12, what should believers not worry about when brought before authorities?

A

They should not worry about how or what to speak in their defense, as the Holy Spirit will teach them.

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29
Q

What is the main contrast between the messages of Peter and Jesus in the context of preparation for defense?

A

Peter emphasizes preparing a defense, while Jesus advises not to prepare, trusting the Holy Spirit.

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30
Q

How does Peter suggest believers should respond when slandered or threatened?

A

Maintain a good conscience and give a reasoned defense of their beliefs.

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31
Q

In which book of the New Testament is the Greek word ‘apologia’ most commonly used?

A

The book of Acts.

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32
Q

Fill in the blank: According to 1 Peter 3:15, believers should always be ready to make a _______.

A

[defense]

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33
Q

What rhetorical strength did Stephen demonstrate in Acts 6:9-10?

A

He spoke with wisdom and the Spirit, which his opponents could not cope with.

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34
Q

True or False: According to 1 John 4:1, believers are encouraged to test the spirits to discern their origin.

A

True.

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35
Q

What does 2 Corinthians 10:5 highlight about capturing thoughts?

A

It emphasizes taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ.

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36
Q

What is the context in which Paul used the word ‘apologia’ in Philippians 1:16?

A

He referred to his appointment for the defense of the gospel.

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37
Q

What should believers do according to Titus 1:9 regarding sound doctrine?

A

Exhort in sound doctrine and refute those who contradict.

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38
Q

In Acts 17:16-17, where was Paul reasoning with Jews and God-fearing Gentiles?

A

In the synagogue and the marketplace.

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39
Q

According to Philippians 1:7, what is significant about Paul’s imprisonment?

A

It relates to the defense and confirmation of the gospel.

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40
Q

Fill in the blank: According to Luke 21:14, believers should make up their minds not to prepare beforehand to _______.

A

[defend themselves]

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41
Q

What does the phrase ‘sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts’ imply in the context of apologetics?

A

It indicates a deep commitment to Christ that underpins the believer’s defense.

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42
Q

What is meant by ‘truth’ in the context of this course?

A

An accurate description of reality

Truth is defined in relation to the correspondence theory, which asserts that a statement is true if it corresponds to reality.

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43
Q

What is the correspondence theory of truth?

A

A theory stating that a statement is true if it corresponds to reality

This perspective emphasizes that truth is non-negotiable and essential for Christian beliefs.

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44
Q

How does the text define ‘reality’?

A

What is there

The term ‘objective reality’ is used to clarify that the identity of an object is inherent to it, not dependent on the observer.

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45
Q

What is the difference between truth and knowledge?

A

Truth is an accurate description of reality; knowledge is a personal claim to such reality.

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46
Q

What does knowledge refer to in this context?

A

How a truth claim is justified

Knowledge is an epistemological concept, contrasting with truth’s metaphysical nature.

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47
Q

What is a proposition?

A

Any statement that provides a claim to truth.

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48
Q

According to Plato, what must knowledge be considered beyond a truthful claim?

A

More than merely a truthful claim; it requires justification.

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49
Q

What is the proposed definition of knowledge by epistemologists?

A

Justified true belief.

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50
Q

What warning does the apostle Paul give regarding knowledge?

A

To avoid worldly and empty chatter and arguments falsely called ‘knowledge’.

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51
Q

Fill in the blank: A judgement is said to be true when it conforms to _______.

A

external reality.

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52
Q

What does the term ‘essentialism’ refer to in the context of truth?

A

The identity of an object depends upon its intrinsic essence.

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53
Q

True or False: Truth and knowledge are the same idea.

A

False.

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54
Q

What does it mean to have a justified truth claim?

A

To have a basis for asserting that the claim is accurate.

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55
Q

In the statement ‘Sally sees the tree,’ what is the object?

A

The tree.

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56
Q

What is the significance of the correspondence view of truth for Christians?

A

It is essential for maintaining the integrity of Christian beliefs.

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57
Q

According to Thomas Aquinas, when is a judgement considered true?

A

When it conforms to external reality.

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58
Q

What did D. Elton Trueblood summarize regarding minds, propositions, and objects?

A

Minds may be knowing or ignorant; propositions may be true or false; objects may be real or imaginary.

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59
Q

Fill in the blank: Truth deals with what is ‘out there,’ while knowledge deals with what I surmise about truth ‘in _______.

A

here.

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60
Q

What is the Correspondent Method for Knowing?

A

Acquiring knowledge through correspondence between observation and stored awareness

This method asserts that if an observation matches the stored awareness of what it is, it is considered knowledge.

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61
Q

How does the Correspondent Method justify knowledge claims?

A

By matching perception with external reality

An example is claiming ‘the baseball is in the yard’ based on visual confirmation.

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62
Q

What is meant by ‘justified true belief’ in the context of knowledge?

A

A belief that is true and can be justified through evidence or observation

This definition was challenged by Edmund Gettier, who presented scenarios where beliefs were justified but not knowledge.

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63
Q

Who is Edmund Gettier and what is his contribution to epistemology?

A

An American philosopher known for the ‘Gettier Problem,’ challenging the ‘justified true belief’ definition of knowledge

Gettier’s work in 1963 demonstrated that justified true beliefs could be true for reasons unrelated to the justification.

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64
Q

What is the Gettier Problem?

A

Examples of justified true beliefs that do not constitute knowledge due to flawed justification

Illustrations like ‘A Cow in a Field’ show how true beliefs can arise from misleading observations.

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65
Q

What is the empirical approach in the context of knowledge?

A

A reliance on observation and the senses to acquire knowledge

This approach emphasizes the importance of sensory experience in forming truth claims.

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66
Q

What is induction in empirical reasoning?

A

A method of confirming knowledge by compiling multiple observations from different perspectives

Induction helps improve the reliability of correspondent claims by comparing observations.

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67
Q

Why is Farmer Field’s claim about Daisy problematic?

A

His claim was based on a narrow observation that was true by coincidence, not by proper justification

Farmer Field saw a shape that resembled Daisy, but it was actually a piece of paper.

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68
Q

What does it mean for a conclusion to be provisional?

A

It represents the best temporary understanding based on current observations, subject to change with new evidence

Scientific conclusions are often provisional as they rely on accumulated data.

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69
Q

Fill in the blank: The theory of knowledge that relies on observation and senses is known as _______.

A

[empirical approach]

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70
Q

True or False: Inductive reasoning guarantees absolute certainty in knowledge claims.

A

False

Inductive reasoning leads to probabilistic conclusions, not certainties.

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71
Q

What phrase summarizes the empiricist’s view of truth?

A

‘Truth is what endless corroborating observations will yield.’

This definition emphasizes the reliance on continuous observation to establish what is true.

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72
Q

What is the provisional nature of correspondent truth claims?

A

It implies that future observations could potentially invalidate current claims.

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73
Q

How is the network of past correspondent identifications structured?

A

It is cataloged within a vast network in memory that fits with the layout of existence.

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74
Q

What does Groothuis assert about truths?

A

All truths cohere with one another as expressions of God’s harmonious objective reality.

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75
Q

What does the epistemic method of coherence propose?

A

A proposition can be justified if it fits with all other propositions already deemed true.

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76
Q

What is the difference between coherence and correspondence?

A

Coherence seeks what makes sense, while correspondence seeks what matches.

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77
Q

What analogy is used to explain coherence in truth claims?

A

The analogy of a crossword puzzle, where words must fit together.

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78
Q

According to Augustine, how can uncertain propositions gain certainty?

A

When joined by valid inference to propositions that are true and certain.

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79
Q

What is the distinction between coherence and metaphysics?

A

Coherence is a theory of knowledge, not of truth.

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80
Q

What does Groothuis say about the logical consistency of the biblical worldview?

A

It is a necessary condition of its truth but not a sufficient condition.

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81
Q

What is the correspondence theory of truth?

A

It defines truth as correspondence and coherence as a necessary, but not sufficient, test of truth.

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82
Q

What enhances the coherent, or rational, approach?

A

The methodology of deduction.

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83
Q

How does deduction relate to rational reasoning?

A

It begins with unquestionable premises and uses valid arguments to derive truth.

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84
Q

What does coherence seek in relation to truth claims?

A

It seeks to determine if a claim fits within the broader context of reality.

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85
Q

What is the primary function of the epistemic effort of correspondence?

A

To generate truth claims.

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86
Q

Can coherence generate a predicted correspondence?

A

Yes, as demonstrated by Einstein’s thought experiments.

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87
Q

What are the two epistemic methods discussed?

A

Correspondence and coherence.

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88
Q

Fill in the blank: The method that substantiates the conclusions of correspondence is _______.

A

Induction.

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89
Q

Fill in the blank: The method that substantiates the conclusions of coherence is _______.

A

Deduction.

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90
Q

What does the rational approach emphasize?

A

Uncovering general principles that can accommodate particular truth claims.

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91
Q

What is the relationship between coherence and the Christian worldview?

A

Coherence within its features is necessary for its truthfulness.

92
Q

True or False: Coherence theory of truth is sufficient to prove the truth of a claim.

A

False.

93
Q

What is the primary question Classical Apologetics seeks to address?

A

Is our faith reasonable?

This question is rooted in the belief that the unexamined faith is not worth believing.

94
Q

Which philosophical figures are primarily associated with Classical Apologetics?

A

Aristotle and Thomas Aquinas.

Their thoughts form the foundation of the Classical apologetic approach.

95
Q

What are the two steps in Classical Apologetics reasoning?

A
  1. Use philosophical arguments to indicate the existence of a creator.
  2. Use historical arguments to verify Christian truth claims.
96
Q

What is the first step of Classical Apologetics considered to be?

A

A prelude to other evidences.

This step prepares for the presentation of specific miraculous truths.

97
Q

What does C. S. Lewis state about approaching the God of Christian theology?

A

I am not yet within a hundred miles of the God of Christian theology.

98
Q

According to Francis Schaeffer, what is the first part of the Gospel?

A

God is there.

99
Q

How did the apostle Paul begin his address to the Athenians?

A

He first targeted the creation before mentioning Jesus.

100
Q

What are Theistic proofs in Classical Apologetics?

A

Deductive arguments positing an indubitable feature of existence as a premise to conclude God’s existence.

101
Q

What are the three fundamental laws of logic both Christians and atheists must adhere to?

A
  1. The Law of Identity.
  2. The Law of Non-Contradiction.
  3. The Law of the Excluded Middle.
102
Q

Fill in the blank: The Law of Identity states that _______.

A

A is A.

103
Q

Fill in the blank: The Law of Non-Contradiction states that _______.

A

A is not non-A.

104
Q

Fill in the blank: The Law of the Excluded Middle states that _______.

A

Either A or non-A.

105
Q

What does J. P. Moreland assert about God’s behavior in relation to logic?

A

God never behaves illogically in the proper sense.

106
Q

What is general revelation in the context of Classical Apologetics?

A

God has revealed Himself in nature and conscience.

107
Q

What does natural theology engage in?

A

Logic to derive rational arguments from God’s existence.

108
Q

According to Psalm 19:1-4, what do the heavens declare?

A

The glory of God.

109
Q

What does Romans 1:20 state about God’s attributes?

A

His invisible attributes, eternal power, and divine nature have been clearly seen.

110
Q

What is the Classical apologist’s approach to finding common ground with non-Christians?

A

Emphasizing coherent forms within the cosmos and the laws of logic.

111
Q

True or False: Classical Apologetics begins with addressing specific doctrines of Christianity.

A

False.

112
Q

What does Groothuis suggest about the apostle Paul’s approach to common ground?

A

Paul noted the Athenians were ‘very religious’ to build a bridge.

113
Q

What is the classical apologetic approach associated with?

A

The contribution of Thomas Aquinas and Aristotle

114
Q

What are Aquinas’ Five Ways?

A

Arguments for the existence of God from change, efficient cause, possibility and necessity, gradation, and governance

115
Q

What does the first way of Aquinas argue?

A

The argument from change; everything that is changed is changed by something else, leading to a first cause of change which is God

116
Q

What is the second way based on?

A

The nature of an efficient cause; nothing can be the efficient cause of itself, leading to a first efficient cause, which is God

117
Q

What does the third way discuss?

A

The nature of possibility and necessity; there must be something necessary in itself to account for the existence of contingent beings, which is God

118
Q

What is the focus of the fourth way?

A

The gradation of things; there is a greatest being that is the source of all that is good, true, and noble, which is God

119
Q

What does the fifth way emphasize?

A

The governance of things; natural bodies work towards an end by design, implying the existence of an intelligent being, which is God

120
Q

What acronym can be used to remember Aquinas’ Five Ways?

A

MEN-GP

121
Q

What does the acronym MEN-GP stand for?

A
  • Move
  • Efficient
  • Necessary
  • Greatest
  • Purpose
122
Q

What is the critique of Aquinas’ Five Ways regarding the nature of God?

A

They do not necessarily identify the God of the Bible, only a generic instigator or deity

123
Q

What is the Rationalist Objection to the existence of God?

A
  1. There is no evidence that God exists.
  2. If there is no evidence, then it is irrational to believe that He does.
  3. Therefore, it is irrational to believe that God exists.
124
Q

What common ground do Classical apologists share with skeptics?

A

Agreement on the need for evidence for God’s existence

125
Q

What is the goal of the Classical apologist in response to the Rationalist Objection?

A

To challenge Premise 1 regarding the evidence for God’s existence

126
Q

What are the five headings under which the theistic proofs are organized?

A
  1. Ontological
  2. Anthropological
  3. Moral
  4. Cosmological
  5. Teleological

These categories help to conclude God’s existence by examining the nature of God, man, and physical existence.

127
Q

What does the ontological argument focus on?

A

God’s uniqueness

This argument questions whether there is something about our conception of God that confirms His existence.

128
Q

What does the anthropological argument examine?

A

Human morality and immateriality

This argument explores whether our realization of human immateriality demonstrates God’s existence.

129
Q

What is the main question of the moral argument?

A

Does our moral awareness demonstrate a moral standard that requires God’s existence?

This argument posits that a viable moral standard can only exist if God exists.

130
Q

What does the cosmological argument investigate?

A

Natural contingencies

This argument questions whether our awareness of natural contingencies indicates the existence of God.

131
Q

What is the focus of the teleological argument?

A

Natural specificities

This argument asks whether awareness of natural specificities indicates the existence of God.

132
Q

How is the ontological argument related to Aquinas’ work?

A

It is related to Aquinas’ 4th way dealing with graduated greatness

This connection helps to ground the ontological argument in classical philosophical thought.

133
Q

How does the anthropological argument challenge naturalism?

A

Naturalism cannot give us the entire picture of humanness

This argument emphasizes the limitations of naturalism in explaining human immateriality.

134
Q

What is the relationship between the cosmological argument and Aquinas’ work?

A

It is related to Aquinas’ 3rd way dealing with necessity and contingency

This connection provides a philosophical basis for the cosmological argument.

135
Q

What does the teleological argument relate to in Aquinas’ work?

A

Aquinas’ 5th way dealing with purpose

This relationship highlights the purpose-driven aspect of the teleological argument.

136
Q

True or False: The moral argument suggests that moral standards exist independently of God.

A

False

The moral argument posits that moral standards require God’s existence to be viable.

137
Q

What is the Ontological Argument?

A

The Ontological Argument claims that proper reasoning about the idea of a Perfect Being generates the conclusion that God exists.

It reasons apart from any phenomenon of existence.

138
Q

Who developed the first form of the Ontological Argument?

A

Anselm of Canterbury

Anselm’s work ‘Proslogion’ was written around 1079.

139
Q

What is Anselm’s famous definition of God?

A

God is ‘that than which no greater thing can be conceived.’

This definition implies that any attributes assigned to entities find their maximum expression in God.

140
Q

What does ontology refer to?

A

The nature of ‘being.’

141
Q

What is the first syllogism of Anselm’s argument?

A
  1. God is ‘that than which nothing greater can be conceived.’
  2. Existence is greater than nonexistence.
  3. Therefore, God exists.
142
Q

What analogy does Anselm use to illustrate his argument?

A

The analogy of a painter conceiving a painting.

The painter has an idea in understanding before creating the actual painting.

143
Q

What is the difference between existence and nonexistence according to Anselm?

A

Existence is an attribute that is greater than nonexistence.

144
Q

What does Anselm’s second version of the argument claim?

A

God cannot be conceived not to exist.

This version introduces the concepts of necessity and contingency.

145
Q

What is a necessary being according to Anselm?

A

A being that does not depend upon anything outside of itself for existence.

146
Q

What are great-making properties?

A

Attributes that provide a status for the possessor that transcends the features of a lesser entity.

147
Q

What did Gaunilo of Marmoutiers argue against Anselm’s Ontological Argument?

A

He used a reductio ad absurdum with the example of a perfect island to challenge the argument.

This example posits that the existence of a perfect island could be argued similarly to God’s existence.

148
Q

What is a contingent being?

A

A being whose existence depends upon outside circumstances.

149
Q

What is the main critique of Gaunilo’s rebuttal?

A

Gaunilo inserted a contingent entity, while Anselm’s argument requires a necessary being.

150
Q

What did Anselm claim about the concept of a Perfect Being?

A

The concept of a Perfect Being is not impossible, since it is neither nonsensical nor self-contradictory.

151
Q

True or False: The Ontological Argument relies on external observations to prove God’s existence.

A

False.

152
Q

What is the significance of existence being a greater property than nonexistence?

A

It supports the conclusion that if God is the greatest conceivable being, then He must exist.

153
Q

What are the implications of a personal being being greater than an impersonal being?

A

A personal being is an agent who brings about states of affairs according to his thoughts and designs.

154
Q

Fill in the blank: God is defined as a _______ or Perfect Being.

A

maximally great being.

155
Q

What does it mean for a being to be maximally perfect?

A

It cannot be contingent and must possess all qualities that are better to have.

156
Q

What is the relationship between a triune being and a unitarian being in terms of greatness?

A

A triune being is greater than a unitarian being.

157
Q

Who revived Anselm’s Ontological Argument in the seventeenth century?

A

René Descartes

Descartes is known for reformulating the ontological argument for the existence of God.

158
Q

What is Descartes’ conclusion regarding the existence of God?

A

Existence is a perfection of God

Descartes argues that it is absurd to think of a perfect being lacking existence.

159
Q

List the main points of Descartes’ ontological argument.

A
  • God is a supremely perfect being.
  • A property of perfection is existence.
  • Therefore, God must exist.
160
Q

What analogy does Descartes use to explain God’s existence?

A

Valleys imply ridges

Descartes suggests that just as valleys and ridges are interconnected, so too are existence and the essence of God.

161
Q

What was Immanuel Kant’s main critique of Descartes’ argument?

A

Existence cannot be a predicate

Kant argues that saying something exists does not add any meaningful information about that thing.

162
Q

What is a predicate in grammatical terms?

A

Part of a sentence that gives added information about the subject

For example, in ‘John is tall,’ ‘is tall’ is the predicate.

163
Q

According to Kant, what is the substantive difference between ‘John exists’ and merely mentioning John?

A

There is no substantive difference

Kant believes that existence does not add any new information to the concept of John.

164
Q

What example does Kant use to illustrate his point about existence?

A

Imagining a pile of 100 thalers

Kant questions what is added by specifying that the coins exist.

165
Q

How does Kant differentiate between imagining existing and non-existing items?

A

Existing items are in the actual world, while non-existing items are in a possible world

This distinction shows that existence can be informative depending on the context.

166
Q

Fill in the blank: Kant argues that ‘Being is obviously not a real ______.’

A

predicate

167
Q

What is a ‘possible world’ in the context of Kant’s argument?

A

A world that does not exist but could exist

This concept helps differentiate between actual and hypothetical existence.

168
Q

What are the five expressions or modes of being utilized in the modal ontological argument?

A

Actuality, possibility, impossibility, contingency, necessity

These modes are common predicates in modal logic.

169
Q

Who is best known for adapting the ontological argument along modal lines?

A

Alvin Plantinga

Plantinga is a Christian philosopher recognized for this adaptation.

170
Q

What is a possible world?

A

What could have happened instead of our actual world

It includes entities that could exist in a world like ours.

171
Q

How many possible worlds are there?

A

An infinite number

Possible worlds do not exist; they are imaginative scenarios.

172
Q

What is the distinction between possible worlds and multiverse theory?

A

Possible worlds do not actually exist; multiverse theory posits actual alternate worlds

Possible worlds are imaginative constructs.

173
Q

What does the modal ontological argument suggest about God’s existence?

A

If God exists in some possible worlds, then God exists in all possible worlds

This leads to the conclusion that if God exists in all possible worlds, He exists in the actual world.

174
Q

Which premise of the modal ontological argument raises confusion regarding God’s existence in all possible worlds?

A

Premise three

It states that if God exists in some possible worlds, then He exists in all possible worlds.

175
Q

What substitute can be used for ‘God’ to understand the argument better?

A

Maximally Great Being

This substitution helps clarify the necessity involved in the argument.

176
Q

What is required for a necessary being to exist in possible worlds?

A

It must exist in all possible worlds

This is based on the definition of a necessary entity.

177
Q

What question should be asked if an atheist claims that the existence of God is not possible?

A

‘What is the contradiction that makes it not possible?’

This challenges the assertion and seeks clarification.

178
Q

What do many Christian apologists think of the ontological argument?

A

They reject its merit

Some view it as a philosophical trick and argue against defining God into existence.

179
Q

What is a common critique of defining God as a maximally great being?

A

‘Isn’t it your definition of God that makes His nonexistence absurd?’

This question challenges the logic of the definition itself.

180
Q

Fill in the blank: The modal ontological argument utilizes notions of _______ and _______ to discuss God’s nature.

A

actuality, possibility

These concepts are integral to the argument’s reasoning.

181
Q

True or False: Possible worlds exist in reality.

A

False

Possible worlds are theoretical constructs, not actual entities.

182
Q

What is the problem of evil in relation to the concept of God?

A

The problem of evil questions how a maximally great being (God) can be omnipotent and omnibenevolent while evil exists.

This is often framed through the inconsistent triad of God’s omnipotence, omnibenevolence, and the existence of evil.

183
Q

What are the three propositions that represent the problem of evil?

A
  • God is omnipotent (maximally powerful)
  • God is omnibenevolent (maximally good)
  • Evil exists
184
Q

What is an inconsistent triad?

A

An inconsistent triad is a set of three propositions where at most only two can be consistently true at the same time.

185
Q

What is a theodicy?

A

A theodicy is an attempt to vindicate divine goodness and providence in light of the existence of evil.

186
Q

What do skeptics argue regarding the existence of God and evil?

A

Skeptics argue that the existence of evil is incompatible with the notion of an all-powerful and all-loving God.

187
Q

What strategy can believers use when confronted with the problem of evil?

A

Believers can ask for clarification on the meaning of terms like ‘all powerful,’ ‘all loving,’ and ‘evil’ to engage skeptics.

188
Q

What was Jesus’ approach when challenged by the Pharisees about authority?

A

Jesus responded by asking them a question that challenged their reasoning and precommitments.

189
Q

How can the problem of evil be dismissed according to some apologists?

A

Apologists can dismiss the argument by asking for a definition of evil, questioning the basis of the skeptic’s claims.

190
Q

What is the significance of the statement that ‘the problem of evil is only a problem for those who believe in God’s existence’?

A

It indicates that atheists, when consistent with their worldview, do not have a problem with evil as they lack an absolute standard for good and evil.

191
Q

Fill in the blank: An impersonalist philosophy cannot distinguish good and evil sufficiently even to raise the problem against _______.

A

[Christianity]

192
Q

What does Kreeft and Tacelli argue about the unbeliever’s concern over evil?

A

They argue that the outrage at evil suggests awareness of a standard of goodness, implying proof of God’s existence.

193
Q

True or False: The atheist can justify moral outrage against evil within their worldview.

A

False

194
Q

What dual role does apologetics serve in relation to the problem of evil?

A

Apologetics defends the faith from outside attacks and encourages believers in the veracity of their faith.

195
Q

What does the skeptic imply by appealing to God’s omnibenevolence?

A

The skeptic claims that if God is maximally good, there should be no evil and suffering.

196
Q

What is the ‘Best Possible World’ Argument regarding human free agency?

A

It posits that a world with evil and free agency is better than one without evil and free agency.

197
Q

What do Kreeft and Tacelli argue about free will and morality?

A

They argue that without free will, all moral meaning disappears from language and life.

198
Q

How does the free agency argument resolve the inconsistent triad?

A

It claims that evil plus freedom is a greater good than no evil plus no freedom.

199
Q

What types of evil does the free agency argument not address?

A

It does not address natural disasters or suffering from genetic disorders.

200
Q

What was Gottfried Wilhelm von Leibniz’s proposal regarding the inclusion of evil?

A

He proposed that the inclusion of evil is necessary for God’s wisdom to bring about His good plan.

201
Q

According to Leibniz, why must the actual world be the most perfect possible?

A

Because all possibilities in God’s understanding claim existence in proportion to their perfections.

202
Q

What do Keller and Lewis suggest about suffering and glory?

A

Keller suggests that the world is greater for having been broken, and Lewis states heaven will turn agony into glory.

203
Q

What does James 1:13-14 say about God and temptation?

A

It states that God cannot be tempted with evil and does not tempt anyone.

204
Q

What distinction did the Reformers make regarding God’s actions?

A

They distinguished between what God decrees (wills) and what He ordains (allows).

205
Q

What is the difference between suffering and evil?

A

Suffering comprises the reception of bad things, while evil comprises the doer of bad things.

206
Q

What does Malcolm Muggeridge argue about the elimination of suffering?

A

He argues that eliminating suffering would make the world intolerable.

207
Q

How does suffering contribute to a person’s perspective on life, according to Tim Keller?

A

For those who believe in an afterlife, suffering can become a vital experience for good.

208
Q

Fill in the blank: God causes all things to work together for good to those who _______.

A

[love God]

209
Q

What does Romans 15:1 suggest about community relations in times of suffering?

A

It suggests that the strong should bear the weaknesses of the weak.

210
Q

What is the ‘Morally Sufficient Reason’ Argument?

A

It questions how the observed evil could be the best pathway for good purposes.

211
Q

What analogy does C.S. Lewis use to describe the sinner’s perspective on God?

A

He uses the analogy of ‘God in the dock,’ implying that sinners place God on trial.

212
Q

What does the existence of suffering prompt in community relations?

A

It can prompt the activity of helping one another.

213
Q

According to Romans 12:26, what happens when one member of the community suffers?

A

If one member suffers, all the members suffer with it.

214
Q

What does the concept of ‘soul building’ refer to in the context of suffering?

A

It refers to how suffering can lead to personal growth and humility.

215
Q

What does Psalm 119:71 indicate about affliction?

A

It states that affliction can help one learn God’s statutes.

216
Q

Why did Job struggle to understand God’s actions?

A

Job tried to place God in the dock and demanded an explanation for His dealings

Job expressed a desire to present his case and fill his mouth with arguments against God.

217
Q

What does God ask Job regarding the creation of the earth?

A

Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth?

This highlights Job’s ignorance of God’s omnipotent actions.

218
Q

How does God respond to Moses about mercy?

A

I will have mercy on whom I have mercy

This indicates God’s sovereignty in dispensing mercy.

219
Q

What realization does Job come to about his demands of God?

A

Job acknowledges his insignificance and refrains from further argument

Job lays his hand on his mouth and admits he has spoken too much.

220
Q

What analogy is used to describe God’s relationship with humanity?

A

God is like a potter and humanity is like clay

This emphasizes God’s authority over creation.

221
Q

What does Romans 9:20-21 state about the created and the Creator?

A

The thing molded will not say to the molder, ‘Why did you make me like this?’

This illustrates the relationship and authority of God over humanity.

222
Q

What is the inconsistent triad that can be resolved with a fourth proposition?

A

1) God is omnipotent and omniscient.
2) God is omnibenevolent.
3) There is objective evil.
4) For any evil that God allows, God has a morally sufficient reason for allowing this evil.

This fourth proposition reconciles God’s nature with the existence of evil.

223
Q

What does John Frame state about God’s wisdom?

A

Everything God does reflects his wisdom, but he is under no obligation to give us his reasons

This implies that God’s actions may remain a mystery.

224
Q

What does Isaiah 29:16 suggest about our perception of God?

A

You turn things around! Shall the potter be considered as equal with the clay?

This indicates that humanity should not question God’s authority.

225
Q

What is the stance of Scripture regarding God’s obligation to explain His actions?

A

Scripture never assumes that God owes us an explanation for what he does

This emphasizes God’s sovereignty and the mystery of His intentions.

226
Q

What does Psalm 145:3 say about God’s greatness?

A

His greatness is unsearchable

This reinforces the idea that God’s reasons may be beyond human comprehension.

Tactics in Defending the Faith (4 decks)

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