god and goodness hud hudson summary

3 min read 22-11-2024

God and Goodness: A Summary of Hud Hudson's Theology

Hud Hudson's theological work, while not always explicitly titled "God and Goodness," consistently centers on the intricate relationship between God and the concept of goodness. Understanding Hudson's perspective requires grasping his nuanced approach to divine attributes, particularly God's omnipotence and goodness, and how these interact within the context of a world experiencing suffering and evil. This summary will explore key themes from his writings.

God's Nature: Omnipotence and Goodness in Tension?

A central question in Hudson's theology revolves around the apparent tension between God's omnipotence (all-powerful) and omnibenevolence (all-good). The existence of suffering and evil in the world seems to challenge the idea of an all-powerful, all-good God. Hudson doesn't shy away from this problem. Instead, he delves into the complexities of divine attributes, arguing that a simplistic understanding of omnipotence might lead to misunderstandings about God's nature.

The Limits of Omnipotence?

Hudson's work suggests that God's power is not absolute in the sense of being unrestricted. While God is undeniably powerful, this power operates within a framework of self-imposed limitations, particularly concerning God's own nature and the free will of created beings. This isn't a weakness, but a reflection of the inherent goodness of God. True omnipotence, for Hudson, isn't the ability to do anything conceivable, but the ability to act in accordance with God's perfect character.

Goodness as the Defining Attribute

Hudson emphasizes that God's goodness is the defining characteristic of the divine nature. God's omnipotence is always exercised in accordance with God's perfect goodness. Therefore, even when confronting suffering, God's actions are always aimed at restoring goodness and ultimately triumphing over evil. This doesn't magically erase suffering, but it provides a framework for understanding God's involvement within it.

The Problem of Evil: A Relational Perspective

Hudson's approach to the problem of evil often moves beyond traditional theodicies (attempts to justify God's existence in the face of evil). Instead of focusing primarily on why evil exists, he emphasizes the how—how God interacts with evil, and how humans respond to it. He often utilizes a relational framework:

Relationality of God: God's nature is fundamentally relational. God is not isolated but exists in relationship with creation and humanity. This relationality is essential to understanding God's actions in the world.
Relationality of Evil: Evil, too, is understood relationally. It's not simply an abstract force but a distortion of relationships, a disruption of the harmony intended by God.

Human Responsibility and the Pursuit of Goodness

Hudson's theology places significant emphasis on human responsibility in the face of evil. He argues that humans are not merely passive recipients of God's grace, but active participants in God's ongoing work of restoring goodness in the world. This involves:

Moral Agency: Humans possess free will and are accountable for their actions. This freedom is not a denial of God's sovereignty but a reflection of God's desire for genuine relationship.
Active Participation: Humans are called to actively participate in combating injustice, promoting compassion, and striving for a more just and loving world. This participation is essential to the realization of God's kingdom on earth.

Conclusion: God's Goodness as a Living Hope

In conclusion, Hud Hudson's theology offers a compelling perspective on the relationship between God and goodness. It challenges simplistic notions of divine omnipotence while emphasizing the centrality of God's goodness. By viewing God's actions and human responsibility within a relational framework, Hudson provides a hopeful perspective for navigating the complexities of suffering and evil, offering a path toward a more just and compassionate world. His work is a call to actively participate in God's ongoing work of restoring goodness. Further exploration of his specific writings would provide a deeper understanding of this nuanced and challenging theological perspective.