Peter Vardy

• According to one view, God can do things that are contradictory. God can even make a stone that is too heavy for God to lift – and then go on to lift it! God is not limited by the laws of logic, since God created these laws and could abolish them.
• Some examples will show the problems that are involved.  For example, can God swim? A six-year old can swim, so if God cannot do so, this seems a clear limitation to his power. Can God make an object that is completely black all over and at the same time white all over?
• Religious believers claim that God is almighty. Emphasis on God’s power is important so that God’s providential care should not be in any way limited by lack of power. However, once we start to examine the claim that God can do anything, we counter some complications
• 1 view -God can do things that are contradictory .God can even make a stone that is too heavy for God to lift – and then go on to lift it
• 2 view-God is not limited by the laws of logic, since God created these laws and could abolish them.
• what is a second view?

  A second view rules out tasks that contradict logic or the nature of God. Thus God cannot make something simultaneously all-black and all-white, as this is a logical contradiction; nor can he swim, as this contradicts his nature as incorporeal, outside space and time. This definition attempts to maintain God’s omnipotence by claiming that logically contradictory tasks are not really tasks at all, but are just words that look as though they are describing a task, but in fact are not (e.g. creating a square circle). 
• What are the problems associated with the definitions of God's omnipotence?

  Both definitions have clear problems, particularly regarding God's nature and capabilities.
• According to the Bible, what are two things that God cannot do?

  God cannot lie and cannot swear by a being higher than himself.
• What would an omnipotent God be capable of that contradicts his nature?

  An omnipotent God would be capable of performing acts that contradict his nature.
• Why is it problematic to say that God’s omnipotence allows him to change his own nature?

  It undermines the concept of God's unchangeable nature being pure love and goodness.
• What is the implication of God being able to change his nature on his promises?

  It raises doubts about whether God keeps his promises or refrains from evil.
• Why is the second definition of God considered problematic?

  It raises issues about God's ability to make choices if He is timeless and unchanging.
• What is the contradiction presented when considering a timeless and unchanging God making choices?

  Choosing involves change and potential, which contradicts the idea of an unchanging God.
• What is the proposed solution to the problem of God's ability to choose?

  To say that God can timelessly choose.
• What logical issue arises from the concept of 'timeless choice'?

  'Timeless choice' would be a logical contradiction because choice inherently involves a time before and after the decision.
• What are the implications if God cannot choose?

  It means that God could not act other than as He does act, implying a lack of freedom.
• What are the grave consequences of God having no freedom?

  It challenges the understanding of God's nature and His ability to interact with creation.
• What is an alternative way of understanding God's omnipotence?

  Love conquers all, as expressed in the phrase "amor vincit omnia."
• How does the phrase "amor vincit omnia" relate to the concept of omnipotence?

  It suggests that love is a powerful force that can overcome any obstacle.
• In what way does the alternative understanding of omnipotence differ from traditional views?

  It emphasizes love's power found in weakness, humility, and selflessness rather than a controlling God.
• What does the revisionary understanding of omnipotence reveal about the nature of love?

  It shows that love has an invincible power that can manifest in humility and self-giving.
• What insight does the alternative understanding of omnipotence provide?

  It highlights the power of holiness, peace, and self-giving love as valid forms of omnipotence.
• What should those who maintain the traditional view of omnipotence consider?

  They need to ask themselves what is gained by maintaining the idea of an all-powerful, timeless God.