Theologian Thomas Oord joins us again to explore a vision of God as radically loving but not omnipotent. We look at the implications of challenging this traditional notion of divine control and how it has reshaped Tom’s understanding of creation, evolution, suffering, liberation, the nature of God’s power and the potential for hope without guarantees.
Throughout the conversation Tom reflects on how these ideas have shaped his life, including his recent experience of a heresy trial for his LGBTQI+ affirming stance. It’s a fascinating conversation about faith, suffering, and the enduring nature of love.
Following the interview Nomad hosts Joy Brooks and Tim Nash reflect on the conversation and ponder how Tom’s understanding of a loving who can’t control might shape their evolving faith.
Interview starts at 12m 16s
WEBSITE
BOOKS
The Death of Omnipotence and Birth of Amipotence
The Uncontrolling Love of God: An Open and Relational Account of Providence
God Can’t: How to Believe in God and Love after Tragedy, Abuse, and Other Evils
Open and Relational Theology: An Introduction to Life-Changing Ideas
My Defense: Responding to Charges that I Fully Affirm LGBTQ+ People
BOOKS MENTIONED
The Edge of Words – Rowan Williams
QUOTES
“If you think of God as the one who nourishes and sustains and is somehow the source of creativity and life, that’s far more positive – in my way of thinking – than a God who’s controlling.”
“God squeezes something good out of the bad God didn’t want in the first place.”
“Because I think God never gives up on anybody, we have the genuine hope that all creation will eventually cooperate with that love.”
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