Existence of God and revelation essay plans

Question 1

Design/Teleological argument proves the existence of God:

Answer 1

Existence through nature - William Paley
Perfect conditions for human existence - Tennant
‘The thumb alone is enough to prove the existence of God’ - Isaac Newton
‘The heavens proclaim the glory of God and the skies proclaim the work of his hands’ (pslams 18)
Empirical observations - the human eye

Question 2

Criticisms of the teleological argument:

Answer 2

Dawkins - Blind watchmaker (natural selection)
David Hume - the universe is a vegetable
John Stuart Mill - nature kills (omnipotent God)

Question 3

First Cause argument proves the existence of God:

Answer 3

Infinite regression is impossible - Thomas Aquinas
Consistent with scripture that God is omnipotent and eternal ‘the lord is everlasting’ (Isaiah)
Everything has a cause

Question 4

Criticisms of the first cause argument:

Answer 4

Could always have been there - Bertrand Russell ‘The universe is just there and that’s all’
What caused God? - the argument defeats itself
‘Fallacy of composition’ John Stuart mill truth in parts

Question 5

Revelation for:

Answer 5

St Bernadette revelation at Lourdes.
Shows God’s characteristics
Strengthens faith
Transforms faith (Paul)

Question 6

Revelation criticisms :

Answer 6

Not scientifically verified
Personal testimony - Richard Swinburne
Phycological drugs, etc. (Paul Epilepsy)

Question 7

Miracles for:

Answer 7

Confirms God’s characteristics
Explains what science cannot
Central religious beliefs - resurrection

Question 8

Miracles criticisms:

Answer 8

medical explanation
misinterpretation
God showing favouritism - undermines omnibenevolence
Relies on the Gospels

Question 9

Evil and suffering responses:

Answer 9

Praying
Trusting God’s plan
Working to alleviate suffering (charity)
Ask for forgiveness and forgive others

Question 10

Reasons for sufferings

Answer 10

Inconsistent triad
Moral evil - Free will
May be a test of faith
Helps to develop our souls
John Hick - way to practise goodness

Question 11

Liberal views on science

Answer 11

Pope Francis - ‘Evolution presupposes the existence of beings that evolve’, ‘The big bang requires the intervention of a divine creator’
Pioneer of the Big Band was a catholic priest