That complex whole: Science and divine action in Arthur Peacocke

The relation between divine and human agency in contemporary discussions of divine action is a significant point of contention in theology today. This study endeavors to sketch the contours of the current discourse on divine action by analyzing the scientific, metaphysical, and theological assumptions that shape current paradigms of the God-world relation. The challenges to theological interpretations of divine action that are presented by naturalistic interpretations of science are serious. In response to the metaphysical issues being raised within the science-and-theology discourse, the goal of the present study is to critically engage Arthur Peacocke's model of panentheistic divine action and its implications for the current discourse on the nature of the God-world relation.;In Chapter 1, I offer a historical overview of recent developments in science, current attempts to integrate science and theology, and their implications for the way we conceive God's action in the world. The conversation between science and theology uniquely informs the contemporary discourse on divine action. Chapter 2 offers a brief historical synopsis of Arthur Peacocke's life and work, as well as the salient scientific presuppositions that occupy the current discussion on contemporary divine action.;Chapters 3 and 4 provide a representative survey of the issues raised by current discussions of divine action. Particular attention is devoted to exploring how scientific assumptions shape the way Peacocke formulates his evolutionary view of Christology, namely his views of the incarnation and the resurrection of Jesus, which are informed by the concepts of emergence and hierarchies.;Chapter 5 revisits the fundamental issue of divine agency that affirms the proper Creator/creature distinction and at the same time respects the genuine action of both. In contrast to kenotic-relational theology, I conclude by suggesting a foundational paradigm for divine action after Peacocke. A retrieval of Thomas Aquinas's metaphysics of primary-secondary causality can properly affirm God's causal influence in the world, which is seen not as negating creaturely responsibility but rather empowering it to action. I conclude by briefly discussing this study's major implications for evangelical systematic theology proper and Christology.