Divine Power in Process Theism

David Basinger is Professor of Philosophy at Roberts Wesleyan College.

"Process theology likes to compare itself favorably to what it calls 'classical theism.' This book takes that comparison seriously and examines process theology's claim to do better than classical theism. Basinger never claims process theology is fundamentally incoherent, but only that as a metaphysical system for making sense of theology, it isn't any better, or even as good as, the older classical systems. The argumentation is clear. It would be very important for process theology to be able to answer this position." — Robert Cummings Neville, Boston University"Basinger makes a sincere effort to be fair to the positions he criticizes. As a result, many of his criticisms can be appreciated by those he criticizes. He writes clearly and simply, so there is no difficulty in following his argument." — John B. Cobb, Jr., School of Theology at Claremont"The author has seen that the key issue revolves around the question of whether God has the power to unilaterally bring about any state of affairs. This is the precise sticking point in the debate between process and classical theists, and it is often overlooked. His arguments are fresh, calling for new rejoinders." — Lewis S. Ford, Old Dominion University"No subject is more significant today than the resolution of the questions the author raises. The matter is not of concern to philosophers only, but to laity as well as professional theologians in the wider life of the churches. Process theism represents a radical reinterpretation of the power of God and the world. Basinger addresses the challenge at the high and less emotional level of philosophical consistency, and comes off very well in doing so." — Royce Gordon Gruenler, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary

• PrefaceIntroduction1. Divine Persuasion: Could the God of Process Theism do More?2. Human Coercion: A Fly in the Process Ointment?3. Evil: Does Process Theism Have a Better Explanation?4. Eschatology: Will God Ultimately Triumph in the Process system?5. Petitionary Prayer: Does It Make Any Sense in a Process System?6. God's Will: Can It Be Clearly Discerned in the Process System?EpilogueNotesBibliographyIndex