What is theistic agnosticism / agnostic theism?

Answer

Theism is a belief in a god or gods, and agnosticism is the belief that the existence of a god cannot be known with certainty. Theistic agnosticism, or more commonly agnostic theism, appears to be a contradiction in terms.

A concise definition of agnostic theism is as follows: “a belief in the existence of a god held simultaneously with an uncertainty of any god’s existence, doubt that such existence could be proved, or mistrust that any god can be fully known.” Agnostic theism includes elements of personal faith, but it remains uncertain about the validity of faith’s claims in the absence of tangible evidence.

A nuanced form of agnostic theism is often observed among theologians who acknowledge the concept that God is so transcendent that He possesses certain characteristics that are impossible to fully know or prove. This form of agnostic theism is not an effort to disprove God; instead, it acknowledges that God is inherently unknowable. In the Garden of Eden, there was one tree that Adam and Eve were forbidden to eat from. The tree of the knowledge of good and evil belonged exclusively to God «but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die. », (Genesis 2:17). In essence, there are certain truths that are exclusive to God. He is not obligated to reveal all knowledge, nor does He need to disclose His reasons for keeping certain things hidden.

We are witnessing a redefinition of agnosticism in contemporary culture. In other words, an agnostic may believe in the existence of God while living as if He does not exist—due to God’s incomprehensibility or perceived limited sovereignty. This is where the subjectivity of agnostic theism becomes relevant in modern society. This theological stance is shaped by individual preferences, opinions, and sensibilities.

One source of personal satisfaction.

Many individuals who participate in religious rituals or become part of a religious community practice their faith for the purpose of self-improvement or personal confirmation. Agnostics also engage in this practice, finding spiritual value in tradition and societal enhancement. By engaging in religious practices, an agnostic can attribute a certain level of understanding (or lack thereof) to the deity of their own creation. If religion fulfills their self-centered needs, is there a necessity to comprehend God?

This practical approach to religion could be viewed as a type of agnostic theism. The well-known “prosperity gospel” attempts to define God or a god based on an individual’s quest for self-realization and advancement. This stands in contrast to the biblical portrayal of God and His supremacy over all of creation. Our knowledge of God is fully revealed in the Scriptures and through the personal manifestation of Jesus Christ.

Although God’s incomprehensibility is acknowledged, He desires to reveal Himself to humanity through divine means, making His nature understandable. The Bible acknowledges that God surpasses our ability to fully comprehend Him (Psalm 145:3;Isaiah 55:8-9;Romans 11:33-34;1 Corinthians 2:10;1 Timothy 6:13-16), yet He is willing to make Himself known through His abundant grace.

The accessibility of God is a divine gift that strengthens faith through the operation of God’s grace in the human soul. God is most fully revealed in Christ Jesus (Jeremiah 9:23-24;1 Corinthians 2:2;Galatians 6:14;John 17:3;Hebrews 8:11-12;1 John 4:7-8). God’s complete revelation of Himself in Christ forms the unshakable foundation for believers. Through faith (not through scientific methods), Christians can confidently navigate the complexities of postmodern perspectives.

Philosophies like agnostic theism arise from society’s efforts to determine what is acceptable and open to discussion. Individuals are perceived as more intelligent, politically correct, and socially aware when they are willing to question their personal belief in Christ. By expressing some “doubt” about God’s existence, they are considered more “enlightened” by society.

Although many self-proclaimed Christians profess faith in God, their actions often suggest otherwise. They eagerly pursue worldly desires and lifestyles similar to those without faith. Lacking knowledge of what the Bible reveals about God, they adopt a form of agnosticism “having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.”, (see 2 Timothy 3:5) while rejecting the certainty of God’s self-revelation.