I have been listening to Dr. John Gerstner's lectures on systematic theology (called "Handout Theology") on Ligonier's website. Dr. Gerstner is one of my favorite people to listen to. Yesterday, I listened to his lecture on creation. It was one of the most bizarre things I've ever heard on the topic. I would like an evaluation of his thoughts.
He recognized that his position is in the extreme minority. However, he said he was convinced by Jonathan Edwards (which makes sense for Gerstner, an Edwards scholar). By way of summary, his position is in the following points:
He recognized that his position is in the extreme minority. However, he said he was convinced by Jonathan Edwards (which makes sense for Gerstner, an Edwards scholar). By way of summary, his position is in the following points:
- Creatio ex nihilo is absurd and nonsensical. Only nothing can come from nothing; ex nihilo nihil fit.
- At the same time, nothing except God has the power of being in itself.
- Therefore, both creatio ex nihilo and the eternality of matter are impossible and unscriptural.
- Therefore, we ought to affirm creatio ex Deo. Creation is "some kind of modification of the divine nature." Although we do not know what this means, and we cannot even really find out what it means or how it happens, it is a fact.