The God of Evolution: A Trinitarian Theology

by Denis G. Edwards

The God of Evolution is an insightful, thought-provoking work that shifts the boundaries of theology by examining the traditional understanding of God and melding it with evolutionary ideas. Edwards begins by looking at the biblical stories of origin and the evolutionary world view. From there he examines the nature of God and God's power, the nature of human persons, including an exploration of original sin and grace, the divine-human relationship, and the impact of an evolutionary world view on the understanding of the Holy Spirit and the person of Jesus. In these discussions Edwards weaves together the insights of contemporary scientific thinkers and the ideas of theologians such as Teilhard de Chardin, Karl Rahner, and Jürgen Moltmann in a careful and nuanced way. Dealing with a topic in theology today that is attracting wide interest, this book is especially valuable in that it is written in accessible, non-technical language. Therefore, it will appeal to general readers with an interest in science and/or theology. It will also be a valuable ancillary text for undergraduates. †

Genres: Theology, Religion, Nonfiction

160 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 1999

Reviews

[Samuel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found Edwards' effort to articulate a Trinitarian theology in light of evolutionary science insightful. Ultimately he veers too close to process theology for my tastes, but I don't think that means the rest of his theology is off limits if one is not as enamored with process theology. It is also helpful if one is attempting to attain a better understanding of Karl Rahner, Teilhard de Chardin, and Jurgen Moltmann. Furthermore, his attention to feminist concerns in theology is to be admired. I have read many theologians who feel the need to just mention feminist theology out of obligation without truly engaging their thought. He does not do this, but rather tries to engage and incorporate feminist concerns in his theological exposition. I think it is worth reading and might provide useful insights to anyone who struggles to reconcile various theological assertions with recent scientific theories.

[Gideon Yutzy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This short book provides a helpful way to think about Christology, as well as the Trinity, given our knowledge of evolution. I feel like Edwards shows great skill in honoring both the biblical texts and the data of evolution. I am coming away with a greater sense of wonder at God's wisdom in using evolution to create, and less unease at the suffering and death inherent in evolution. He provides explanations that felt genuinely satisfying.

Edwards explains how God takes great risks in creating through evolution, as well as the humility and inquisitiveness of God to let things play out by his creatures' participation in the process and even chance. I also like how I was given language to think about God as being primarily communion instead of substance (though of course God is in all substance through the Holy Spirit).

[Blake Paine · Rating 3 out of 5]

I appreciated many parts of it but had a hard time in places. It was a lot to take in and my first read of an author trying to address the consensus of modern science at the crossroads of the Christian faith. I have read a few of Denis's books. This one stretched my farther than I'm ready to go right now.