Revisiting the God/World Difference. (27th October 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Holmes, Christopher R.J.
• Is Part Of: Modern theology. Volume 34:Number 2(2018)
• Page Start: 159
• Page End: 176
• Publication Date: 2017-10-27
• Subjects: Theology -- Periodicals; Philosophical theology -- Periodicals; 230.01
• DOI: 10.1111/moth.12395
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0266-7177

Abstract

Abstract: On what basis do we distinguish God from the world? I argue that the doctrine of creation, more specifically the analogical notion of causa, supplies a salutary foundation. My conversation partners are Karl Barth and Thomas Aquinas. I take up the former's five conditions for a right theological use of causa, demonstrating that despite his basic misreading of Thomas, both theologians share some basic convictions regarding God's independence. I argue, moreover, that Thomas provides a more theologically satisfying anchor for what distinguishes God from what is not God. I conclude by reflecting on the importance of experience in articulating the distinction.