Open AccessThe boundless riches of God
Author(s) -
David D. Scott
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
theology in scotland
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 1465-2862
DOI - 10.15664/tis.v27i2.2138
Subject(s) - infinity , relation (database) , character (mathematics) , incarnation , revelation , scope (computer science) , epistemology , philosophy , mathematics , pure mathematics , theology , computer science , geometry , mathematical analysis , database , programming language
This paper explores the concept of infinity in mathematics and its relation to theological considerations. It begins by seeking to answer the question of whether mathematical enquiry into the character of infinity may cast some light on the infinite character of God. Drawing on the work of Euclid, Cantor, and Gödel in particular, it considers concepts of potential and actual infinity and how mathematical discoveries have implications for (i) the relation of the finite and infinite (which has theological implications for the incarnation); (ii) the relation of theory and reality; (iii) the future scope of discovery and invention; and (iv) further reflection on the givenness of revelation.