Calvinism and Middle Knowledge: A Conversation

Calvinism and Middle Knowledge is an anthology of essays that moves the discussion of Molinism/middle knowledge out of the philosophical arena where it has almost exclusively remained and into the broader theological community. In particular it sparks a conversation between Calvinists and Molinists regarding the fruitfulness or deficiencies of middle knowledge and the feasibility or infeasibility of Calvinist use of middle knowledge without acceptance of libertarian human freedom. To this end nine distinguished experts address such topics as the history of the doctrine of middle knowledge the potential role of Molinism in discussions of evolution and intelligent design Calvinist concerns with Molinism and Calvinist appropriation of middle knowledge. This book empowers theologians historians biblical scholars and pastors to join the ongoing conversation and to judge for themselves what explanatory role middle knowledge may or may not play in accounts of providence and practical theology. The significance of this book goes beyond what one might infer from its title. Brilliant in content readable in style and gracious in tone this edited volume even-handedly examines the philosophical vitality and the theological possibilities and concerns of middle knowledge when brought into conversation with other important theological issues. Well done. --Bruce A. Little Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary The essays contained in this volume are both creative and thought-provoking.Calvinism and Middle Knowledgeoffers a fresh perspective on the utility of middle knowledge and whether Calvinists can rightfully make use of it.Laing MacGregor and Welty have done a fine job. This is a must have for those interested in the foreknowledge debate. --TylerDaltonMcNabb Houston Baptist University John D. Laing is Professor of Systematic Theology and Philosophy at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary Havard School for Theological Studies Houston Texas. Kirk R. MacGregor is Assistant Professor and Chair of the Department of Philosophy and Religion at McPherson College McPherson Kansas. Greg Welty is Professor of Philosophy at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary Wake Forest North Carolina.