God, Reason and Theistic Proofs

by Stephen T. Davis

Attempting to prove the existence of God is an ancient and venerable tradition within the discipline known as the philosophy of religion. But can we truly prove the existence of God using human reason alone? Just how do we prove the existence of God? Why try? Which, if any, of the various theistic proofs are persuasive? God, Reason, and Theistic Proofs tackles these fundamental questions head-on. / Stephen T. Davis examines a cross-section of theistic proofs that have been offered by theologians and thinkers from Anselm to Paley, explaining in clear terms what theistic proofs are and what they try to accomplish. He then goes on to explore in depth the relationship between theistic proofs and religious realism, the ontological argument for the existence of God, the cosmological and teleological arguments, the position known as foundationalism, and the argument from religious experience. / Wisely structured and clearly written, this volume will make an excellent resource for those looking for a comprehensive introduction to the debate surrounding the existence of God, or for those seeking intellectual validation for their faith.

Genres: Philosophy, Theology

220 pages, Paperback

First published May 13, 2014

Reviews

[Samuel Eastlund · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a pretty good, albeit somewhat introductory, book on the major theistic proofs. Covering the Ontological, Cosmological, and Teleological Arguments in Davis’ chosen formulation, each is presented and defended from objections. Along the way Davis discusses religious realism vs. non-realism, reformed epistemology, and a few other topics related to theistic proofs.

The writing is clear and engaging, and the arguments are well defended. Of course not every single possible objection can be met in a short book such as this, but I felt reasonably happy that any of my own personal objections to the major arguments had been met. I also emailed Davis with a question about the Ontological Argument and he responded, which is always appreciated! As of today this is probably the book I would recommend to someone showing interest in arguments for God’s existence.

[Samuel Rivera · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book, on the major theistic proofs and their value. Well researched and thorough while still being short and easy to read. I definitely will recommend this book to anyone interested in theistic proofs.
The chapter on the ontological argument was the best discussion I have read on this proof.

[Nickolas Wingholt · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pretty good. Davis does a great job of explaining basic philosophy of religion concepts succinctly and his insights into their usefulness were apt. I wasn't riveted by the book, but I've thought about and applied theistic proofs since finishing it - so I guess it did its job. 1st time read. 3/5.

[Luís Branco · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this book, Stephen T. Davis deals with important philosophical questions attempting to provide to the reader good insights to prove the existence of God. Davis asks questions as: Can we truly demonstrate the existence of God using human reason alone? Just how do we demonstrate the existence of God? Why try? Which, if any, of the various theistic proofs are persuasive? Davis examines a cross-section of theistic proofs that have been offered by theologians and thinkers from Anselm to Paley, explaining in clear terms what theistic proofs are and what they seek to accomplish.
The way Davis deals with the ontological argument for the existence of God, as well as the cosmological and teleological arguments, and also with the position known as fundamentalism, and the argument from religious experience fearlessly shows the strength of the book in dealing with such issues. The key question for me is how critical is to proof the existence of God to man in our society today if this proof would not lead him to a personal relationship with God Himself? Just knowing that God exists is not better than knowing that molecules and hyenas exist if man still lives his life as if God wasn’t there at all.
I think that this book helped me to see that apologetic cannot be just a defense of the Christian faith but the clear, logic and prayerfully presentation of the Gospel with a strong intent to lead man to a changing of mind, heart and life, to become a new creation in Christ. I then that I have to devout myself not only a good presentation of the gospel but above all I need to devout myself to know God and to make Him known through my personal experience with Him as well as through logic and reason.

[Naomi · Rating 3 out of 5]

I began reading this book in June 2015 for an Apologetic Bible study. The study never finished the book and I decided to finish it on my own! Very dense yet interesting read.