William Lane Craig - Böcker

Contemporary science presents us with the remarkable theory that the universe began to exist about fifteen billion years ago with a cataclysmic explosion called `the Big Bang'. The question of whether Big Bang cosmology supports theism or atheism has long been a matter of discussion among the general public and in popular science books, but has received scant attention from philosophers. This book sets out to fill this gap by means of a sustained debate between two philosophers, William Lane Craig and Quentin Smith, who defend opposing positions. Craig argues that the Big Bang that began the universe was created by God, while Smith argues that the Big Bang has no cause. The book consists of alternating chapters by Craig and Smith, with each chapter being either a criticism of a preceding chapter or being criticized by a subsequent chapter. Part One consists of Craig's arguments that the past is necessarily finite and that God created the Big Bang, and Smith's criticisms of these arguments. Part Two presents Smith's arguments that Big Bang cosmology is inconsistent with theism and Craig's criticisms of Smith's argument. The authors' arguments are based on Einstein's theory of relativity, and there is also a discussion of Stephen Hawking's new quantum cosmology.

God Over All: Divine Aseity and the Challenge of Platonism is a defense of God's aseity and unique status as the Creator of all things apart from Himself in the face of the challenge posed by mathematical Platonism. After providing the biblical, theological, and philosophical basis for the traditional doctrine of divine aseity, William Lane Craig explains the challenge presented to that doctrine by the Indispensability Argument for Platonism, which postulates the existence of uncreated abstract objects. Craig provides detailed examination of a wide range of responses to that argument, both realist and anti-realist, with a view toward assessing the most promising options for the theist. A synoptic work in analytic philosophy of religion, this groundbreaking volume engages discussions in philosophy of mathematics, philosophy of language, metaphysics, and metaontology.

God Over All: Divine Aseity and the Challenge of Platonism is a defense of God's aseity and unique status as the Creator of all things apart from Himself in the face of the challenge posed by mathematical Platonism. After providing the biblical, theological, and philosophical basis for the traditional doctrine of divine aseity, William Lane Craig explains the challenge presented to that doctrine by the Indispensability Argument for Platonism, which postulates the existence of uncreated abstract objects. Craig provides detailed examination of a wide range of responses to that argument, both realist and anti-realist, with a view toward assessing the most promising options for the theist. A synoptic work in analytic philosophy of religion, this groundbreaking volume engages discussions in philosophy of mathematics, philosophy of language, metaphysics, and metaontology.

Questions about divine providence have preoccupied Christians for generations: to what degree does God concern himself with and intervene in the affairs of everyday life? This book introduces readers to four prevailing views on divine providence, with particular attention to the questions of human free will, the problem of evil, and God's perception of time.Volume contributors and their basic viewpoints are: Paul Helseth - God causes every creaturely event that occurs. William Lane Craig - through his "middle knowledge," God controls the course of worldly affairs without predetermining any creatures' free decisions.Ron Highfield - God controls creatures by liberating their decision-making. Gregory Boyd - human decisions can be free only if God neither determines nor knows what they will be.Introductory and closing essays by Dennis Jowers give relevant background and guide readers toward their own informed beliefs about divine providence.Four Views on Divine Providence helps readers think theologically and biblically about all the issues involved in exploring this doctrine. The point-counterpoint format reveals the assumptions and considerations that drive equally learned and sincere theologians to disagreement with each other. It unearths the genuinely decisive issues beneath a philosophically dense debate. The Counterpoints series presents a comparison and critique of scholarly views on topics important to Christians that are both fair-minded and respectful of the biblical text. Each volume is a one-stop reference that allows readers to evaluate the different positions on a specific issue and form their own, educated opinion.

In 2018, William Lane Craig and Erik J. Wielenberg participated in a debate at North Carolina State University, addressing the question: "God and Morality: What is the best account of objective moral values and duties?" Craig argued that theism provides a sound foundation for objective morality whereas atheism does not. Wielenberg countered that morality can be objective even if there is no God. This book includes the full debate, as well as endnotes with extended discussions that were not included in the debate. It also includes five chapters by other philosophers who have written substantive responses to the debate - J. P. Moreland, David Baggett, Mark Linville, Wes Morriston, and Michael Huemer. The book provides crucial resources for better understanding moral realism and its dependence on, or independence from, theistic foundations. Key Features A valuable debate about whether or not God is the best explanation for objective morality, bringing together theists and atheists working on the same subject who normally are not in conversation with each other. Includes clear coverage of ontological and epistemological issues in metaethical theories, focusing on Divine Command Theory and Non-natural Robust Moral Realism. Engaging and accessible throughout, making the book well suited for undergraduate and seminary classrooms.

In 2018, William Lane Craig and Erik J. Wielenberg participated in a debate at North Carolina State University, addressing the question: "God and Morality: What is the best account of objective moral values and duties?" Craig argued that theism provides a sound foundation for objective morality whereas atheism does not. Wielenberg countered that morality can be objective even if there is no God. This book includes the full debate, as well as endnotes with extended discussions that were not included in the debate. It also includes five chapters by other philosophers who have written substantive responses to the debate - J. P. Moreland, David Baggett, Mark Linville, Wes Morriston, and Michael Huemer. The book provides crucial resources for better understanding moral realism and its dependence on, or independence from, theistic foundations. Key Features A valuable debate about whether or not God is the best explanation for objective morality, bringing together theists and atheists working on the same subject who normally are not in conversation with each other. Includes clear coverage of ontological and epistemological issues in metaethical theories, focusing on Divine Command Theory and Non-natural Robust Moral Realism. Engaging and accessible throughout, making the book well suited for undergraduate and seminary classrooms.

In Do Numbers Exist? Peter van Inwagen and William Lane Craig take opposite sides on whether there are abstract objects, such as numbers and properties. Craig argues that there are no abstract objects, whereas Van Inwagen argues that there are. Their exchange explores various arguments about the existence and nature of abstract objects. They focus especially on whether our ordinary and scientific thought and talk commit us to abstract objects, surveying the options available to us and the objections each faces. The debate covers central problems and methods in metaphysics, and also delves into theological questions raised by abstract objects.Key Features:Showcases the presentation and defense of two points of view on the existence of abstract objects, from two of the world’s leading philosophersPresents definitions in an easily accessible formProvides frequent summaries of previously covered materialIncludes a glossary of all specialized vocabulary

In Do Numbers Exist? Peter van Inwagen and William Lane Craig take opposite sides on whether there are abstract objects, such as numbers and properties. Craig argues that there are no abstract objects, whereas Van Inwagen argues that there are. Their exchange explores various arguments about the existence and nature of abstract objects. They focus especially on whether our ordinary and scientific thought and talk commit us to abstract objects, surveying the options available to us and the objections each faces. The debate covers central problems and methods in metaphysics, and also delves into theological questions raised by abstract objects.Key Features:Showcases the presentation and defense of two points of view on the existence of abstract objects, from two of the world’s leading philosophersPresents definitions in an easily accessible formProvides frequent summaries of previously covered materialIncludes a glossary of all specialized vocabulary

Naturalism provides a rigorous analysis and critique of the major varieties of contemporary philosophical naturalism. The authors advocate the thesis that contemporary naturalism should be abandoned, in light of the serious objections raised against it. Contributors draw on a wide range of topics including: epistemology, the philosophy of science, the philosophy of mind and agency, and natural theology.

Einstein, Relativity and Absolute Simultaneity is an anthology of original essays by an international team of leading philosophers and physicists who have come together to reassess the contemporary paradigm of the relativistic concept of time. A great deal has changed since 1905 when Einstein proposed his Special Theory of Relativity, and this book offers a fresh reassessment of Special Relativity’s relativistic concept of time in terms of epistemology, metaphysics, and physics.

Einstein, Relativity and Absolute Simultaneity is an anthology of original essays by an international team of leading philosophers and physicists who have come together to reassess the contemporary paradigm of the relativistic concept of time. A great deal has changed since 1905 when Einstein proposed his Special Theory of Relativity, and this book offers a fresh reassessment of Special Relativity’s relativistic concept of time in terms of epistemology, metaphysics, and physics.

Naturalism provides a rigorous analysis and critique of the major varieties of contemporary philosophical naturalism. The authors advocate the thesis that contemporary naturalism should be abandoned, in light of the serious objections raised against it. Contributors draw on a wide range of topics including: epistemology, the philosophy of science, the philosophy of mind and agency, and natural theology.

Philosophy of Religion is a combined anthology and guide intended for use as a textbook in courses on Philosophy of Religion. It aims to bring to the student the very best of cutting-edge work on important topics in the field. The anthology is comprised of six sections, each of which opens with a substantive introductory essay followed by a selection of influential writings by philosophers of religion:I. Religious Epistemology (by Kevin Meeker, Department of Philosophy, University of South Alabama), deals with the rationality and warrant of theistic belief.II. Existence of God (by William Lane Craig, Philosophy Department, Talbot School of Theology), presents the cosmological, teleological, axiological, noölogical, and ontological arguments for the existence of God.III. Coherence of Theism (by William Lane Craig, Philosophy Department, Talbot School of Theology), covers the divine attributes of necessity, eternity, omnipotence, omniscience, and goodness.IV. Problem of Evil (by Timothy O'Connor, Department of Philosophy, Indiana University), treats both the internal and external challenge posed by evil to theistic belief.V. Soul and Immortality (by J. P. Moreland, Department of Philosophy, Biola University), explores the substantiality and immateriality of the soul and the implications for life after death of the body.VI. Christian Theology (by Michael Murray, Department of Philosophy, Franklin and Marshall College), handles problems posed by the Trinity, incarnation, atonement, damnation and prayer.Presenting a sympathetic view of the topics it treats, Philosophy of Religion provides an ideal resource for studying the central questions raised by religious belief.Features* A combined anthology of readings and guide to the subject* Focuses on contemporary issues in the Philosophy of Religion* Emphasis placed on the Christian tradition* High quality introductions to each section provide a survey of each topic* Cutting-

How did Christ's death overcome the estrangement and condemnation of sinners before a holy God, so as to reconcile them to Him? A great variety of theories of the atonement have been offered over the centuries to make sense of the fact that Christ by his death has provided the means of reconciliation with God: ransom theories, satisfaction theories, moral influence theories, penal substitution theories, and so on. Competing theories need to be assessed by (i) their accord with biblical data and (ii) their philosophical coherence.

"[...] the culmination of an impressive career in philosophy and theology. ... Craig's work will be highly valued and a great achievement, meriting significant attention."—Charles Taliaferro, Professor Emeritus of Philosophy, St. Olaf College"William Lane Craig's landmark treatise on systematic philosophical theology is a major contribution to our understanding of the relation of philosophy and Christian doctrine and will be an essential reference point for future discussions."—Alister McGrath, Emeritus Idreos Professor of Science and Religion, Oxford UniversityA transformative journey through Christian doctrine, Volume I: On Scripture, On FaithWilliam Lane Craig's Systematic Philosophical Theology is a multi-volume explication of Christian doctrine in the classic Protestant tradition of the loci communes as seen through the lens of contemporary analytic philosophy. Uniquely blending the disciplines of biblical theology, historical theology, and analytic theology, these volumes aim to provide readers with a biblical and philosophically coherent articulation of a wide range of Christian doctrines.In the first volume of the series, Prolegomena, On Scripture, On Faith, Craig begins by introducing his conception of systematic philosophical theology, describing how it relates to biblical theology, dogmatics, fundamental theology, apologetics, and especially philosophy of religion. The chapters that follow defend the divine authority of Scripture, address the nature of faith, and discuss the rational justification for Christian faith. Throughout the text, Craig tackles cutting edge philosophical questions that arise naturally from Christian doctrine, such as the compatibility of biblical inspiration and human freedom and whether faith implies belief.

"These volumes are chock full of arguments in a way that stands out in this field. . . . This is a remarkable, generational work that will become the resource in philosophical theology."—J.P. Moreland, Distinguished Professor of Philosophy, Biola University"An enormous undertaking. However, Craig's past record indicates that he can and will carry it through to completion. Furthermore, his established reputation. . . guarantees that the work will attract wide interest and will have a ready readership."—William Hasker, Emeritus Professor of Philosophy, Huntington UniversityA transformative journey through Christian doctrine, Volume IIa. On God: Attributes of GodWilliam Lane Craig’s Systematic Philosophical Theology is a multi-volume explication of Christian doctrine in the classic Protestant tradition of the loci communes as seen through the lens of contemporary analytic philosophy. Uniquely blending the disciplines of biblical theology, historical theology, and analytic theology, these volumes aim to provide readers with a biblical and philosophically coherent articulation of a wide range of Christian doctrines.Volume II treats the locus On God in two parts. The first part, Volume IIa. Attributes of God, explores the coherence of theism. Conceiving of God as an infinite and personal being of maximal greatness, Craig carefully defines and explicates the divine attributes of incorporeality, necessity, aseity, simplicity, eternality, omnipresence, omniscience, omnipotence, and goodness.In the second part, Volume IIb. Excursus on Natural theology, The Trinity, Craig examines six arguments for God&'s existence, including the argument from contingency, the kalâm cosmological argument, the argument from the applicability of mathematics, the argument from cosmic fine-tuning, the moral argument, and the ontological argument, along with the problem of evil. Following the excursus, he transitions to an articulation and defence of Christian theism, formulating a biblical doctrine of the Trinity and offering a model of God as a tripersonal soul.

Presents a transformative journey through Christian doctrine William Lane Craig's Systematic Philosophical Theology is a multi-volume explication of Christian doctrine in the classic Protestant tradition of the loci communes as seen through the lens of contemporary analytic philosophy. Uniquely blending the disciplines of biblical theology, historical theology, and analytic theology, these volumes aim to provide readers with a biblical and philosophically coherent articulation of a wide range of Christian doctrines. Volume II treats the locus On God in two parts. The first part, Volume IIa: Attributes of God, explores the coherence of theism. Conceiving of God as an infinite and personal being of maximal greatness, Craig carefully defines and explicates the divine attributes of incorporeality, necessity, aseity, simplicity, eternality, omnipresence, omniscience, omnipotence, and goodness. In the second part, Volume IIb: Excursus on Natural Theology, On the Trinity, Craig examines six arguments for God's existence, including the argument from contingency, the kalām cosmological argument, the argument from the applicability of mathematics, the argument from cosmic fine-tuning, the moral argument, and the ontological argument, along with the problem of evil. Following the excursus, he transitions to an articulation and defense of Christian theism, formulating a biblical doctrine of the Trinity and offering a model of God as a tripersonal soul. Contributes to a diverse theological landscape with fresh perspectives on traditional conceptsIntegrates insights from authoritative Scriptures and diverse secular disciplinesProvides a synoptic worldview that bridges the gap between religious and scientific knowledgeEngages with deep philosophical questions surrounding Christian doctrinePresents unique formulations of Christian doctrines, such as God's temporality, Molinism, and a social model of the TrinityOffering a clear and structured exposition of complex theological and philosophical topics, Systematic Philosophical Theology, Volume IIb: Excursus on Natural Theology, On the Trinity, is ideal for graduate and advanced undergraduate students studying philosophy of religion, theology, or apologetics. It serves as a core or supplementary text for courses in systematic theology, philosophical theology, and Christian doctrine, and is an invaluable reference for scholars, theologians, and religious philosophers seeking a deeper understanding of the rational foundations of Christian theism.

Presents a transformative journey through Christian doctrine William Lane Craig's Systematic Philosophical Theology is a multi-volume explication of Christian doctrine in the classic Protestant tradition of the loci communes as seen through the lens of contemporary analytic philosophy. Uniquely blending the disciplines of biblical theology, historical theology, and analytic theology, these volumes aim to provide readers with a biblical and philosophically coherent articulation of a wide range of Christian doctrines. Volume II treats the locus On God in two parts. The first part, Volume IIa: Attributes of God, explores the coherence of theism. Conceiving of God as an infinite and personal being of maximal greatness, Craig carefully defines and explicates the divine attributes of incorporeality, necessity, aseity, simplicity, eternality, omnipresence, omniscience, omnipotence, and goodness. In the second part, Volume IIb: Excursus on Natural Theology, On the Trinity, Craig examines six arguments for God's existence, including the argument from contingency, the kalām cosmological argument, the argument from the applicability of mathematics, the argument from cosmic fine-tuning, the moral argument, and the ontological argument, along with the problem of evil. Following the excursus, he transitions to an articulation and defense of Christian theism, formulating a biblical doctrine of the Trinity and offering a model of God as a tripersonal soul. Contributes to a diverse theological landscape with fresh perspectives on traditional conceptsIntegrates insights from authoritative Scriptures and diverse secular disciplinesProvides a synoptic worldview that bridges the gap between religious and scientific knowledgeEngages with deep philosophical questions surrounding Christian doctrinePresents unique formulations of Christian doctrines, such as God's temporality, Molinism, and a social model of the TrinityOffering a clear and structured exposition of complex theological and philosophical topics, Systematic Philosophical Theology, Volume IIb: Excursus on Natural Theology, On the Trinity, is ideal for graduate and advanced undergraduate students studying philosophy of religion, theology, or apologetics. It serves as a core or supplementary text for courses in systematic theology, philosophical theology, and Christian doctrine, and is an invaluable reference for scholars, theologians, and religious philosophers seeking a deeper understanding of the rational foundations of Christian theism.

Presents a transformative journey through Christian doctrine William Lane Craig's Systematic Philosophical Theology is a multi-volume explication of Christian doctrine in the classic Protestant tradition of the loci communes as seen through the lens of contemporary analytic philosophy. Uniquely blending the disciplines of biblical theology, historical theology, and analytic theology, these volumes aim to provide readers with a biblical and philosophically coherent articulation of a wide range of Christian doctrines. In Volume III, Craig continues his ambitious project of constructing a comprehensive, interdisciplinary theological system by exploring the doctrines of creation and humanity. Building on the metaphysical groundwork laid in the preceding volume concerning the existence and nature of God, Volume III investigates the implications of divine reality for everything that exists apart from God—particularly creation and human nature. Here, theology is not approached in isolation but in dialogue with contemporary philosophical reflection and cutting-edge scientific research, resulting in a work that speaks both to traditional theological concerns and modern intellectual contexts. Volume III is distinctive in its integration of theological loci—De creation and De homine—with insights from disciplines often underrepresented in systematic theology, including organic chemistry, evolutionary biology, neurology, and paleoanthropology. The treatment of topics such as divine providence, human origins, and the Imago Dei is shaped not only by philosophical rigor and biblical exegesis but also by a robust Molinist framework. Promotes a synoptic Christian worldview that speaks to both faith and reasonBridges the gap between historical theological method and modern empirical inquiryContributes to a diverse theological landscape with fresh perspectives on traditional conceptsProvides a unique resource for theologians, philosophers, and scholars interested in science-faith integrationIncludes excursuses on the origin and evolution of life and the historical AdamOffering a clear and structured exposition of complex theological and philosophical topics, Systematic Philosophical Theology, Volume III, is ideal for graduate and advanced undergraduate students studying philosophy of religion, theology, or apologetics. It serves as a core or supplementary text for courses in systematic theology, philosophical theology, and Christian doctrine, and is an invaluable reference for scholars, theologians, and religious philosophers seeking a deeper understanding of the rational foundations of Christian theism.