Document Type

Thesis

Degree

Master of Arts

Major

Philosophy

Date of Defense

4-23-2015

Graduate Advisor

Jon McGinnis, Professor

Committee

Eric Wiland

David Griesedieck

Abstract

For much of the history of the philosophy of religion it was generally accepted that God existed outside of time. Recently, however, many theologians have challenged the classical position that God exists outside of time and have instead argued for a temporal God. I argue that the concept of a temporal God is theologically and philosophically problematic, and in opposition to our best science. I first argue that a timeless existence is superior to that of a temporal existence, and that God as the most perfect being must therefore exist timelessly. I then argue a common objection raised against the idea of a timeless God, namely, the argument that a timeless God cannot relate to a temporal creation, is misguided and dependent on a scientifically dubious conception of time. I conclude by arguing that if one is to hold to the idea of a temporal God one must admit that God either had no reason to create when God chose to create or that God and creation have existed together co-eternally, and that this is problematic for the defender of divine temporality. I therefore conclude that a God that exists outside of time is superior both theologically/philosophically and better in line with our best scientific understanding of the world.

OCLC Number

918941716

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