Creation And Knowledge
Posted by Pastoral Musings on February 20th, 2013
Cornelius Van Til (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
“If the Christian position with respect to creation, that is, with respect to the idea of the origin of both the subject and the object of human knowledge is true, there is and must be objective knowledge. In that case the world of objects was made in order that the subject of knowledge, namely man, should interpret it under God. Without the interpretation of the universe by man to the glory of God the whole world would be meaningless. The subject and object are therefore adapted to one another. On the other hand if the Christian theory of creation by God is not true then we hold that there cannot be objective knowledge of anything. In that case all things in this universe are unrelated and cannot be in fruitful contact with one another. This we believe to be the simple alternative on the question of the objectivity of knowledge as far as the things of this universe are concerned.”
Cornelius Van Til, The Defense Of The Faith, P&R, Philadelphia, PA, pg 43
February 20th, 2013 at 12:31 pm
Jason
Please remember that I’ve never disputed that there is objective knowledge. I’ve argued that finite, fallen and non-objective human beings, as far as I can tell, cannot engage at the objective level. A key word that even Van Til uses in the quote above is ‘interpretation’. The original hearers interpreted it and now we interpret Scripture.
It’s also interesting that he refers to the Christian theory of creation. Are theories objective and absolute? Anyways, there are varying perspectives on how creation unfolded. A particular one doesn’t have the upper hand.
February 20th, 2013 at 12:37 pm
Scott,
We’re still at the point where I recommend that you go and read the definition of objective.
February 20th, 2013 at 12:39 pm
Note,however, your response here: https://twitter.com/prodigalthought/status/304274728976261120
‘I choose 2 embrace literal reading of Gen Creation because I embrace rationality & hope.’
This doesn’t define rationality.
You stated that creation doesn’t define rationality. I simply posted a quote that states that it does.
I didn’t say that you reject objective knowledge.
February 20th, 2013 at 12:41 pm
Here is a definition of theory:
a coherent group of tested general propositions, commonly regarded as correct, that can be used as principles of explanation and prediction for a class of phenomena:
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/theory?s=t
It is exactly what you would expect a theologian/philosopher such as Van Til to use. Sure he held to Genesis as the true Word of God. He also held to a certain precision in the words he utilized.