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The End Times: a bottom- up approach

THE PRESENTATIONS at the Colloquium largely concerned specific illustrations of the theme of end times, but in the discussions we frequently reminded ourselves that behind all this lies mystery. We are trying to apply our theology onto a background of not knowing. It is important that we keep this in mind as we assess different perspectives.

THE PRESENTATIONS at the Colloquium largely concerned specific illustrations of the theme of end times, but in the discussions we frequently reminded ourselves that behind all this lies mystery. We are trying to apply our theology onto a background of not knowing. It is important that we keep this in mind as we assess different perspectives.

One distinct group of theologians is particularly aware of the consequences of the intrinsic uncertainty. They can be called ‘scientist-theologians’, writers who bring a rigorous professional scientific critique to their theology. Leading examples in recent decades would include John Polkinghorne, Arthur Peacocke, Alister McGrath and David Wilkinson. Polkinghorne describes their approach as ‘critical realist’ and calls himself a ‘bottom-up’ thinker. Whilst taking contemporary scientific insights into account, the approach always takes scripture seriously.

* Full article available in printed copies.

Keith Suckling

a former Warden of the Society of Ordained Scientists, has retired from senior posts in academia and industry in the UK, and is hon. assistant priest at St George’s, Belfast.