Understanding the Nature of God

A vicar reflects on his 20-year journey grappling with the nature of God, especially after the 2004 tsunami. He questions traditional views of God as an almighty controller and explores alternative perspectives, such as a suffering God who shares human pain. The vicar challenges the idea of a God who controls everything and suggests a more intimate, in-dwelling presence. He emphasizes the importance of seeking God within and fostering deep connections with others, ultimately embracing uncertainty in faith.

What traditional view of God does the speaker express discomfort with?

• God as an unknowable force

• God as an almighty celestial controller

• God as a nurturing mother

• God as a compassionate friend

What event prompted the speaker to question the nature of God?

• A church sermon

• A philosophical debate

• The tsunami

• A personal tragedy

According to the speaker, what do some people believe about God's role in human suffering?

• God is unaware of human suffering

• God is indifferent to human suffering

• God shares in human suffering

• God causes human suffering

What question does the speaker raise about God's control over events?

• Does God punish the wicked?

• Does God have a plan for each of us?

• Does God favor certain people?

• Does God ignore human prayers?

What moral issue does the speaker associate with the idea of a God who shows favoritism?

• It implies God is morally inferior

• It suggests God is powerless

• It makes God seem indifferent

• It contradicts the idea of a loving God

What alternative view of God does the speaker explore?

• God as a distant observer

• God as an in-dwelling presence

• God as a strict judge

• God as a historical figure

How does the speaker suggest one might practice faith in an in-dwelling God?

• By attending regular church services

• By memorizing religious texts

• By seeking inwardness and connection

• By following strict religious doctrines

What does the speaker suggest is a deeply religious statement?

• God is always watching

• I know everything about God

• God is in control

• I don't know

What practice does the speaker recommend for deepening faith?

• Engaging in debates

• Seeking inwardness in all things

• Reading religious texts

• Attending religious ceremonies

What greeting does the speaker mention that reflects the idea of God in all people?

• Aloha

• Namaste

• Shalom

• Salaam