A Conversaunt Existence - Softcover

Nelson, G. Bradley

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1490875042 ISBN 13: 9781490875040

Publisher: WestBowPress, 2015

Synopsis

Discussions about existence have generally come through the subject of philosophy. The thinking and thoughts about God's existence are well documented. Both sides of the standard arguments for God's existence have been presented. Current thinking has turned to evolutionary concepts that deny God exists or claims that God is a mere impersonal force. However, the time has come for a fresh look into how man can know of God's existence.

A Conversaunt Existence is just such a look. Changes have been made to the standard arguments for God's existence. New avenues of thought have been incorporated to corroborate these changes. There are reasons for directing our thoughts toward God's existing: First, it's foolish to let others steer one's thinking into denying God's existence. Ultimately, God wants everyone to respond to His invitation, accept His lifesaving and life-giving message, and participate in writing His story.

KIRKUS REVIEW

A short treatise on existence with an emphasis on the existence of God.

Nelson harkens back to a premodern era by using the archaic word "conversaunt" in place of "conversant" in his title. In doing so, he honors the fact that humankind has always experienced existence as a common form of knowledge. Nelson's work, though deeply philosophical in content, is meant from the beginning to have a personal impact on the reader and not just be merely theoretical in nature. Moreover, his overarching goal is to demonstrate the existence of a personal and involved God. Such authors as C.S. Lewis and Soren Kierkegaard help lead the way. In order to show that the human race is capable of understanding and even connecting with a God figure, Nelson coins a new term intercomplexicate which describes a self-consciousness that is able to make quick evaluations of complex ideas, leading to moral understanding. The author discusses both the strengths and weaknesses of ontological arguments for God's existence and also attempts to disprove popular scientific arguments against the existence of a deity. The idea of contingency (that existence can only occur due to a prior cause) is of great importance in later chapters, as Nelson argues that existence must be contingent on a "necessary being," such as a primary mover or first cause. In closing, the author provides a case not merely for a creator ("watchmaker") God, but for a personal God who continues to be involved with creation. Nelson has a penchant for mixing theoretical and philosophical verbiage with nonstandard language (such as using "by da vey" instead of "by the way" or comparing God with Jean-Luc Picard of Star Trek: The Next Generation). He seems to be seeking a balance between the often opaque material he presents and the personal effect he hopes to have on readers. This balance, unfortunately, is rarely found. Nevertheless, Nelson provides sound arguments worthy of further reflection. Review questions after each chapter are helpful for guiding and focusing the reader.

A thoughtful, refreshing argument for God's existence.

About this title

About the Author

Attaining the age some call “senior” provides many experiences with this event called life. Contrary to the popular sentiment of this youth-worshiping culture, some things I've learned should be beneficial to you. I embraced Christianity at twenty-six and made up for lost time by attending Oak Hills Bible College. I continued by attending Bemidji State University, receiving a bachelor of arts in philosophy. I reentered the workforce with the knowledge of how to be satisfied with life, whether in lean times or in plenty. I became involved in environmental hazards as an inspector and training provider for all disciplines dealing with residential lead hazards and safe work practices. It is just one way to leave this world a better place than I found it.

I enjoy philosophy but I do not worship the institutionalized God philosophy analyzes. I'm interested in serving the God who is personal and loving.

About this edition

• Publisher: WestBowPress
• Publication date: 2015
• ISBN 10: 1490875042
• ISBN 13: 9781490875040
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 124