LessonsRefuting Anthropomorphism: Divine Attributes, Scriptural Language and LikenessQuiz

Transcendence denies composition, bodily direction and dependence because these belong to contingency and limitation. Attribute-texts may be approached differently, while retaining the exclusion of creaturely corporeality. Linguistic comparison shows that a shared word does not establish complete identity.

Example 1: “Knowledge” is shared language, but acquired human knowledge is not eternal divine knowledge.
Example 2: Physical contact and distance concern things to which spatial relations apply.
Example 3: Two people may be equal in one discipline yet differ in other respects.

Careful separation of language, logical implications and definitive theological principles produces a more rigorous understanding of this discussion.

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Integrating reason, scripture and comparison

Refuting Anthropomorphism: Divine Attributes, Scriptural Language and Likeness

Transcendence denies composition, bodily direction and dependence because these belong to contingency and limitation. Attribute-texts may be approached differently, while retaining the exclusion of creaturely corporeality. Linguistic comparison shows that a shared word does not establish complete identity.

Example 1: “Knowledge” is shared language, but acquired human knowledge is not eternal divine knowledge.
Example 2: Physical contact and distance concern things to which spatial relations apply.
Example 3: Two people may be equal in one discipline yet differ in other respects.

Careful separation of language, logical implications and definitive theological principles produces a more rigorous understanding of this discussion.