Lecture on Sin and Analytic Theology

Introduction

• Expression of gratitude to various individuals and faculties.
• The speaker is working on volumes of systematic theology focusing on sin and salvation.
• Today's lecture offers a philosophical and apologetic spin-off from these volumes.
• The speaker is part of the analytic theology movement, integrating philosophy with biblical exegesis and classical Christian thought.

Structure of the Lecture

• Consists of three parts aimed at enriching the understanding of sin in philosophical discourse.
• Focus on the relationship between sin and desire in the biblical narrative.

Part 1: Genesis 3 and the Mystery of Sin

• Examination of Genesis 3's account of sin.
• Challenges the assumption of understanding sin.
• Sin is intertwined with desire and presents philosophical puzzles.
• The story of Genesis 3 is a narrative generator of philosophical problems rather than a simple explanation.

Part 2: Historical Theological Perspectives

• Early rabbinic and Christian interpretations of sin and their philosophical implications.
• Discussion of three Christian strands of interpretation:
  • Gregory of Nyssa: Focuses on embodied freedom and sees the fall as a risk of freedom, envious angel.
  • Theodore of Mopsuestia and East Syrian Tradition: Views the fall as pedagogical, aiding growth in understanding.
  • Augustine of Hippo: Depicts a radical fall into erotic enslavement and original sin.

Part 3: A Possible Philosophical Solution

• Proposal of a solution drawing on Anselm and East Syrian traditions.
• Anselm's account of the fall of the devil offers insights into the education of desire.
• The divine allows moral choices to mimic divine nature, enabling genuine moral agency.
• Compatibilism between divine providence and human freedom is proposed.

Analytic Philosophy and Sin

• Modern analytic philosophy often rushes to address the problem of evil.
• Various philosophers have differing views on sin, from individualistic interpretations to original sin.
• The narrative complexity of Genesis 3 should enrich rather than offend philosophical inquiry.

Conclusion

• The narrative of Genesis 3 holds enduring philosophical and theological significance.
• Encourages further exploration of desire, freedom, and sin in light of modern philosophical trends which are revisiting these themes.