Divine Hiddenness: Shouldn’t God Be More Obvious?

The blog post explores the concept of divine hiddenness, questioning why an all-powerful and all-loving God isn’t more evident. It acknowledges that while some may dismiss arguments against God’s existence, the issue of divine hiddenness resonates deeply with many. The author reflects on personal and communal experiences of unanswered prayers and the struggle to perceive God’s presence in a world filled with mystery.

The post introduces the hiddenness argument, primarily through the work of philosopher John Schellenberg. Schellenberg suggests that if God exists, he would be an unsurpassably loving being who would not hide from those open to a relationship with him. The argument challenges the compatibility of divine hiddenness with the nature of an all-loving God, especially when individuals seek truth and goodness without finding clear evidence.

The author also notes that the problem of divine hiddenness is not exclusive to nonbelievers. It touches on the experiences of Christians who feel abandoned in darkness, as seen in Psalm 88. This raises deeper questions about the nature of God’s love and presence, especially when it seems elusive.

While the hiddenness argument is emotionally compelling, the post questions its philosophical soundness. It suggests that the argument relies on assumptions about God’s love and expectations that may not align with biblical teachings. The author invites readers to consider how Scripture equips them to navigate the mystery of a hidden God.

Source: Read the original report