Divine Action: Examining God's Role in an Open and Emergent Universe

by Keith Ward

Divine Action , written by philosopher, theologian, and scholar Keith Ward was briefly available in 1990 before a publishing consolidation took it out of circulation. In this edition, the author has added a new preface reflecting the argument in light of the recent resurgence of naturalism in philosophy. In an intellectual counterpoint to antispirituality arguments, Ward explores what is involved in the idea of creation and particular divine actions in a world of scientific law and intelligibility. He presents his argument for the presence of divine action in the natural world and offers a rationale for divine operation as a continuous spiritual-natural conversation. Dr.Ward defends the Christian doctrine of Incarnation but is also more concerned with discussing the “big questions” in science and religion—those concerning existence, purpose, and inner process. His study embraces an analysis of freedom and necessity, the origins of suffering, constraints of creation, prayer as participation in divine action, miracles as epiphanies of the spirit, divine nature and human nature, and redemption. For scholars in philosophy, theology, and fields that engage in the dialogue of science and religion, this book presents rigorous scientific research and scholarship that significantly contribute to the ongoing debates over the divine operation and divine providence.

Genres: Philosophy

288 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2007

About the author

Keith Ward was formerly the Regius Professor of Divinity and Head of the Faculty of Theology at the University of Oxford. A priest of the Church of England and Canon of Christ Church, Oxford, he holds Doctor of Divinity degrees from Cambridge and Oxford Universities. He has lectured at the universities of Glasgow, St. Andrew's and Cambridge.