Standing on the Endless Shore - The December (Oxford~ish) Beagle
How Studying Theology is Affecting My Faith
“I do not know what I may appear to the world, but to myself I seem to have been only like a boy playing on the seashore, and diverting myself in now and then finding a smoother pebble or a prettier shell than ordinary, whilst the great ocean of truth lay all undiscovered before me.”
~ Isaac Newton
December greetings friends.
We are in the season of waiting for the light, spiritually and literally, the UK is slipping into that winter darkness which sees lights go on before 4pm. We had some snow last month, really quite magical and also mind boggling, snow in November.
I’m almost at the end of my first term at Oxford, it’s flown by but not without contractions! I think my little ol’ brain is finally getting into the academic groove though and what a wonderful experience it’s been so far. I’m ready for a holiday though.
I’m looking forward to a more even paced 2025 but that may be naïveté! Thank you for your ongoing support in this stretching season, I’m relieved to have gotten a December Beagle out but do crave a gentler more spacious approach to it from here on, here’s hoping. I also dearly miss my photography, I’m asking for inspiration, dreaming, it’s exciting to see what might evolve.
Some have asked how studying theology has affected my faith, has it shaken me, pushed me into a pit of cynicism and unbelief? I was reminded of something Philip Yancey said in his book Disappointed with God. Yancey reflects on the challenges of analyzing faith through a purely intellectual lens. He compares this process to dissecting a frog, suggesting that such examination can strip away the essence of the subject. Yancey emphasises that while theological study is valuable, it's crucial to balance analysis with personal experience and relationship with God to fully grasp the depth of faith. I admit, his reservations put a pebble of concern in my shoe.
"I felt like a biology student who, in order to study a frog, must kill it and dissect it. The very process of analysis defiles the subject matter."
~ Philip Yancey, on studying God
I feared that studying God might leave me with nothing more than the lifeless fragments of a dissected frog. Thankfully, this has not been the case. Instead, I’ve discovered a humbling and profound realisation: after 27 years as a follower of Christ, what I once thought was vast understanding now feels like a mere grain of sand balanced on my fingertip, while I stand awestruck before an infinite and unending shore of His mystery and truth.
My faith has not weakened under closer scrutiny; instead, it has grown stronger and more robust. Ours is a faith that has endured centuries of critique and exploration, upheld by the wisdom of theologians, the legacy of church fathers, and the perseverance of those who endured persecution.
This journey of studying theology has not diminished my faith but has deepened my awe. It has shown me that the Christian faith is not fragile; it thrives under examination. Far from being disassembled by critique, it stands resilient, supported by centuries of wisdom, sacrifice, and testimony. If anything, this study has reminded me that faith is not a static possession but a dynamic relationship—a call to keep seeking, questioning, and marveling. It is on this foundation, built by those who came before, that I now stand, strengthened and compelled to continue exploring the endless shore of God’s truth.
Did you know I link every book, film, recipe etc in the Beagle? Where you see words in BOLD and UNDERLINED, simply click the link.
"Lord God, whatever I have written which is of Thine, let Thy people recognise. If I have written aught which is of mine, forgive Thou, and let Thy people forgive."
~ St.Augustine
Ruminations
Some of you lovely folk have expressed an interest in my studies and assignments. I’ve attached a recent paper here for anyone wanting a sneaky peak. I haven’t written an essay in 38 years! It’s never too late to start something you love. Enjoy my first baby steps into academia and pull a sleigh full of grace my way 😇
Is God in Control of Everything?
©️ Jacqui Wakelam, 2024
Introduction
For centuries, theologians have engaged with questions of God’s divine providence in relation to man’s existence. If God is in control of everything, how do we make peace with evil whilst balancing the belief that God is a God of love? Suffering and evil have caused mankind to cry out, “Where is God in this, was it His doing?” We might ask, “How much is God in control? Of what is God in control? How does His influence affect man’s free will?”
For this essay, I will focus only on the question, ‘Is God in control of everything?’ To answer, I will explore the works of Gregory A. Boyd (Open Theism), Paul K. Helseth (Classical Reformed Theology), Ron Highfield (Compatibilism), and William Lane Craig (Molinism), as presented in Four Views of Divine Providence (Zondervan, 2011). Drawing upon these arguments, I aim to present a heterogeneous perspective by outlining four key points: 1) Defining Divine Providence, 2) Divine Sovereignty and Human Freedom, 3) The Problem of Evil and Suffering, and 4) Reconciling Providence with God’s Love.
Defining Divine Providence
On 26 December 2004, a major earthquake triggered a catastrophic tsunami in Southeast Asia, claiming an estimated 227,898 lives. The tragedy raised questions about God’s role in such disasters, with Christian voices like Henry Blackaby fueling the perspective of divine judgment. As one observer noted, “Many survivors of the tsunami regarded this disaster as an act of God... However, the way the tsunami survivors provided religious interpretations of this event was far from homogeneous” (Paul and Nadiruzzaman, pp. 67–78). Similarly, the four views on divine providence examined in this essay offer diverse and conflicting interpretations of God’s control over such events.
Boyd's Open Theism sees God as dynamic and interactive, responding in real time to human actions, as seen in Nineveh’s repentance after Jonah’s warning (Jonah 3:10). While God does not determine disasters, He works providentially through the choices of free agents. In contrast, Helseth, a proponent of Reformed Theology, affirms God’s meticulous Determinism, which he terms “omnicausality.” Even disasters serve His purposes, "Evil must be regarded as something that advances rather than frustrates His good purposes” (pp. 51– 52). This point could be supported by Christ’s crucifixion bringing about salvation (Rom 5:18). Highfield, advocating Classical Theism through Compatibilism, suggests suffering fits into God’s redemptive plan. He affirms a Christocentric view: Christ’s suffering, death, and apparent loss ultimately lead to redemption. Lastly, Craig, who supports Molinism, argues from “Middle Knowledge”: God, knowing all possible outcomes, selects the version of the world that fulfils His will, thus ensuring it cannot fail.
Divine Sovereignty and Human Freedom
The Fall narrative of Genesis 3 portrays a catastrophic act of disobedience, assigning all men to spiritual death. Blame is cast in all directions: Adam accuses Eve, while Eve shifts blame to the serpent. Addressing the serpent first, God proceeds to decree the consequences for each of their actions. This narrative raises a troubling question: If God is in control of everything, why allow His creation to fail? Additionally, the closing verse portrays God as reactive, banishing humans to avert further disaster. This story seems to undermine God's omniscience and omnipotence.
Boyd's Open Theism, with its "warfare worldview" would blame the serpent as it suggests external evil forces oppose God's purposes—a perspective echoed in recent times, such as the Arne Cheyenne Johnson case, 1981, Connecticut, USA, where Arne defended his actions by claiming demonic possession. However, Helseth’s deterministic view, which also affirms human responsibility, states, “God works for the good… according to His purpose” [pp. 51-52], mankind might err, but God foresaw the present and made future provision.
This perspective makes a case for Highfield’s position also, who as a Compatibilist asserts God’s complete control over creation. While it raises difficult questions regarding suffering, it also offers hope: if God permits and redeems evil, suffering may find purpose, “Craig, writing on behalf of Molinism, agrees with Helseth and Highfield that divine omniscience includes knowledge of all facts that will ever exist" (Four Views on Divine Providence, ed. Dennis Jowers, p. 250). According to Craig, Helseth and Highfield then, God’s control of circumstances and human choice must surely be absolute?
The Problem of Evil and Suffering
In 2016, my mother’s 74-year-old neighbour, Margaret, was followed home by masked men who forced their way into her house, robbed her, and left her critically injured. Locals called it an evil act. While defining evil might provide a helpful framework, I will not address that directly. Instead, I turn to Highfield’s provocative question: “If nothing can happen apart from the will of God, and God accomplishes his will in all things, does this not mean that everything that happens is the will of God? And if you think everything that happens is the will of God, are you making God responsible for evil or, even stronger, the doer of evil?” (p.157).
Highfield argues that suffering and evil, while not authored by God, are within His control and serve a role in His ultimate plan for redemption. This raises a challenging question: If God is in control of everything, what role does a violent crime like this play in redemption? All four theological views agree that evil is not outside God’s ultimate plan, though they differ on how and why God permits it. Highfield sees suffering as part of a “divine mystery.” While we cannot fully understand it, he emphasises Christ’s passion as the model for God’s providence. Craig ties evil and suffering to God’s middle knowledge, arguing that of all possible worlds, this one best serves God’s purposes. Boyd frames evil within a cosmic battle, where man’s free will and spiritual forces oppose God’s intentions.
To conclude, is God in control of the minutiae of such events, or does His sovereignty extend only to the broader picture? I align with Boyd's Open Theistic view, which holds that "agents have, within limits, the capacity to choose good or evil" (p. 138). In this understanding, man becomes an instrument of evil by choice, without God orchestrating such acts.
Reconciling Providence with God’s Love
All four theologians agree that God’s love is foundational to His character and central to His relationship with creation. Scripture provides evidence of an attentive God whose love is redemptive and seeks the ultimate good of His creation, as reflected in Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil.” They also agree that God’s love is relational, actively engaging with humanity in a way consistent with His nature. However, they differ significantly in how they understand the interaction between God’s love, divine providence, and human freedom—highlighting the diversity of their theological frameworks. While all affirm that God is in control, they diverge on the scope and mechanism of that control.
Helseth believes that God "actively wills, ordains, and in some mysterious sense, even causes all that comes to pass, including sin and evil" (p. 69). Boyd’s response directly opposes Helseth’s view. Boyd’s Open Theism attributes evil and suffering to the choices of free agents —“Choose this day whom you will serve” (Josh. 24:15)—and spiritual forces opposed to God’s purposes—“God heard your prayer, but spiritual opposition delayed His response” (Dan. 10:12–13). He presents a God who walks responsively with His creation in the trenches of life, suffering alongside them. This principle is upheld in Ps. 23:4: “I will fear no evil, for you are with me.” In Boyd’s framework, God self-limits His power to allow for authentic relationships rather than exerting meticulous control.
While Craig and Highfield advocate for middle knowledge and meticulous determinism respectively, I find Boyd’s portrayal of a relational God—actively engaged in His creation’s lives, suffering with them, and respecting their free will—the most persuasive. It offers a compelling argument for God’s providence and loving character.
Conclusion
By examining these perspectives, we gain a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding the question. All four views affirm God's sovereignty and omnipotence, yet within distinct models. It falls to the reader to examine each position carefully and arrive at a thoughtful conclusion. The opening question, "Is God in control of everything?" will continue to occupy the minds of the curious and studious for centuries to come, as it has for centuries past. Personal opinions may evolve over time, shaped by the rich landscape of thought and theological exploration.
Among the theories explored, Boyd's Open Theism offers a resonant balance of God's providence and love, consistent with His relational character. This perspective attributes evil and suffering to external spiritual forces and the individual choices of man's free will. God is not the causation of these events but responds actively, walking with His creation in an ongoing relationship that shapes hearts and actions. As Michael Lloyd observes, “God enters into the tragic regularities of injustice and hatred and violence and death in order to break them from the inside and in order to break us out of them.” This profound statement serves as a hopeful reminder that God is present even in the most difficult circumstances, ultimately working for a greater good.
Bibliography
Blackaby, Henry. “Blackaby: Natural Disasters Can Point to God’s Judgment.” Baptist Press, January 2005. https://www.baptistpress.com/resource-library/news/blackaby-naturaldisasters-can-point-to-gods-judgment/.
Four Views of Divine Providence. Edited by Dennis Jowers. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2011.
Jowers, Dennis, ed. Four Views of Divine Providence. Contributions by William Lane Craig,
Ron Highfield, Gregory Boyd, and Paul K. Helseth. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2011.
Kanto Paul, Bimal, and MD Nadiruzzaman. "Religious Interpretations for the Causes of the
2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami." Asian Profile 41, no. 1 (February 2013), 67–78.
Lloyd, Michael. “Wycliffe Hall Christmas Message 2023.” YouTube video, 2:25. Wycliffe
Hall Oxford, December 2023.
NRSV Bible with Apocrypha. Oxford University Press, 1995.
"The Devil on Trial: Netflix Documentary." Global News. Accessed November 2024. https://globalnews.ca/news/10026851/the-devil-on-trial-netflix-documentary-arne-cheyennejohnson-alan-bono/.
Art
"Nativity" by He Qi
He Qi, a distinguished Chinese artist born in 1950, is celebrated for his vibrant and contemporary interpretations of biblical narratives. His unique style harmoniously blends traditional Chinese artistic techniques with modern elements, resulting in captivating and thought-provoking works.
One of his notable pieces, "Nativity," exemplifies this fusion. In this painting, He Qi employs bold colors and dynamic shapes to reimagine the birth of Christ, presenting the scene through a distinctive cultural lens. The composition is reminiscent of stained glass, with fractured segments that create a prismatic effect, symbolizing the multifaceted nature of the Nativity story.
He Qi's artistic journey began during China's Cultural Revolution, a period when he painted political propaganda to avoid forced labor. However, he was deeply inspired by Renaissance masterpieces, particularly Raphael's "Madonna and Child," which influenced his later works. This inspiration is evident in "Nativity," where the central figures of Mary and Jesus are depicted with tenderness and intimacy, surrounded by shepherds, angels, and animals, all rendered in He Qi's signature style.
The painting invites viewers to engage with the Nativity in a fresh and meaningful way, bridging Eastern and Western artistic traditions. He Qi's "Nativity" not only celebrates the birth of Christ but also reflects the universality of this event, transcending cultural boundaries and offering a unique perspective on a timeless story.
Poetry
Joy Comes Back
Donna Ashworth
When you finally realize that joy
is less fireworks
more firefly
less orchestra
more birdsong
she will come back much more often
for joy will not fight
with the fast pace of this life
she is not in the shiny or the new
she breathes in the basic
simmers in the simple
and dances in the daily to-and-fro
joy has been beckoning you
for many a year my friend
you were just too busy doing, to see
the very next time joy wraps
her quiet warmth around you
as the garden embraces your weary body
in its wildness
tip her a nod
you cannot force her to stay
but if you are a gracious host
joy comes back.
"The depths of God are like a shoreless ocean: you may study them forever
and still never find the end."
~ Augustine
Listening
My previously curated Advent/Christmas/Relaxng Holiday playlists.
These aren’t strictly Christmas or Advent songs but a collection and mix of faith themed songs and music. There are also themes of home, family and love, a good mix for a peaceful home this holiday season.
Advent & Quietly Wrapping Presents
A Kindly Advent & Christmas
Falling Asleep in an Armchair
Benedictus - Karl Jenkins, VOCES8.
Soul-stirring, heart-soaring stuff.
Waloyo Yamoi - We Overcome The Wind
There is something deeply moving about this piece. I first saw the video of this beautiful piece on YouTube and think you’ll enjoy its stirring performance also. Soloists Jimmer Bolden and Allie McNay’s joy is tangible as is the conductor’s, Christopher Tin.
Christopher Tin conducts his choral work 'Waloyo Yamoni (We Overcome the Wind)', the climactic finale to his song cycle 'The Drop That Contained the Sea'. From the European premiere of 'The Drop that Contained the Sea' at 'The Music of Christopher Tin' concert, Cadogan Hall, London, July 19, 2016. Performed by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and featuring the Angel City Chorale, Prima Vocal Ensemble, and Lucis choirs. Soloists: Jimmer Bolden, Allie McNay. Commissioned by the Orchestra at St. Matthews, Pacific Palisades, CA. Sung in Lango, lyrics from a rainmaking litany.
This young man and his performance on The Voice USA floored me. Ladies and gents, Jaukeem is 13 years old!! I only just came across his blind audition in posting this, wow, just wow. One to watch.
Jaukeem Forston, God Only Knows.
Watching
These are heart warming, uplifting and good for those cosy winter evenings.
The Noel Diary
The Nativity Story
The Muppet Christmas Carol
Last Christmas
The Holiday
Elf
The Man Who Invented Christmas
It’s A Wonderful Life
The Bishop’s Wife
My favourite Little Women (the best imho, Ep1) and close runner up Little Women
Spirited
The Snowman
The Boy The Mole The Fox and The Horse
The Grinch
Peanuts Holiday Classics
Christmas With The Kranks
The Lion The Witch And The Wardrobe
Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
The Shop Around The Corner (1940)
You’ve Got Mail
Klaus
The Christmas Chronicles
While You Were Sleeping
White Christmas (1954)
Christmas in Connecticut (1945)
The Polar Express
Meet Me In St Louis (1944)
The Santa Clause
Hannah Waddingham - Home For Christmas
[Occasionally my recommendations may not be for everyone. My choice of films, books etc are based on my particular tastes and tolerances. Just a note for my G-rated friends]
“Theology is not a private subject for theologians only. Nor is it a private subject for professors. It is a matter of understanding the divine reality.”
~ Karl Barth
Reading
Surprised by Oxford, Carolyn Weber.
A friend gifted me this as a going to Uni present, I Haven’t gotten to read as much as I’d like due to my studies but what I have read so far is delightful.
Jesus, Humanity, and the Trinity: a Broef Systematic Theology, Kathryn Tanner
This title is my next read as part of my Introduction to Christian Doctrine reading.
I also posted a video of my top 28 book recommendations for Advent and Christmas last week which I’ve now made available from behind the paywall ⬇️
The Ashmolean Advent calendar is back. Showcasing a festive object every day with artistic observations, you’ll enjoy this for something a littel different. You can sign up and have this sent straight to your inbox.
Recipe
This is 100% going on my Christams table. I love Stanley Tucci as an actor and have really enjoyed his recipes and humour on Instagram.
Fig, Goat Cheese & Pistachio Wreath
Ingredients:
For the Wreath Base:
- 8 ounces goat cheese, softened
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
For the Toppings:
- 5–6 fresh figs, quartered
- ⅓ cup pistachios, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
For Serving:
- Crackers, baguette slices, or fresh vegetables
Directions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, cream cheese, honey, and fresh thyme. Mix until smooth and well combined.
2. Shape the cheese mixture into a wreath on a serving plate, leaving a hole in the center to form the wreath shape. Chill for 15–20 minutes to allow it to firm up.
3. Once the wreath has chilled, arrange the fig quarters evenly over the goat cheese base. Sprinkle with chopped pistachios for added texture and crunch.
4. Drizzle honey and balsamic glaze over the wreath for a sweet and tangy finish. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for an elegant touch.
5. Serve with crackers, baguette slices, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Chill Time: 15 minutes | Servings: 8–10 | Kcal: 190 per serving
For fun
Signing off
“A weary world rejoices.” These words resonate deeply with me, especially in this season of life. Balancing the demands of my studies, work, and the day-to-day responsibilities can feel overwhelming, and yet this phrase reminds me of a profound truth: joy is a choice. It’s not something that happens to us but something we must actively pursue. I’m reminded daily to seek beauty in the mundane, to search for the fingerprints of God’s goodness even amidst the gloom and weariness that so often surrounds us.
This isn’t just my experience; it’s a shared part of our humanity. Everyone is tired in their own way—carrying burdens, facing challenges, or simply trying to keep going. And yet, in the midst of it all, there is the potential for joy, hope, and light. It’s my prayer that in some small way, I’ve been an encouragement to you today. May you be reminded of the beauty that still exists, the hope that is always near, and the goodness of our Father who meets us even in the hardest moments. And I truly hope this brings a little light into your day.
Merry Christmas dear ones,
Jacqui
Your words always bring more than a little joy into my day, friend. This December Beagle was a joy to read 💕