Verbum
Article Title
Document Type
Research Paper
Abstract
In lieu of an abstract, below is the essay's first paragraph.
"John Polkinghorne’s description of God offers an insight into what supports his belief in God. Each religion has a specific description of who God is understood to be. Polkinghorne believes that God must have a purpose, and a mind with which to ponder this purpose and make decisions. While we may not be clear on what this purpose is and to what extent this mind reaches, Polkinghorne believes that the universe would not otherwise exist without the presence of God. He does not explain why God’s presence is veiled, but there has never been a case of anyone claiming to be the almighty creator and proving it. Many religions teach that God is always with us, (in our hearts, in our minds, in the flowers, etcetera,) and that we must have faith even though we cannot see or hear him. Because of this “veiled presence,” he is worthy of worship. The idea of God fosters hope among believers. Those who believe are comforted in knowing that this hidden being has a plan for everyone, and while we might not know what that plan is, we have faith that God will us pull through somehow."
First Page
44
Last Page
50
Recommended Citation
Gifford, Jessica M.
(2008)
"Social Psychology of Religion,"
Verbum: Vol. 6:
Iss.
1, Article 11.
Available at:
https://fisherpub.sjf.edu/verbum/vol6/iss1/11