What is the biblical basis for believing that some sense of Deity exists in humans?
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***This view is called *“Sensus Divinitatis”* and is described as the natural capacity for humans to perceive God.***
I understand from this Wikipedia article on ***Sensus divinitatis*** that although the concept is primarily associated with the writings of John Calvin it is also found in the work of other Christians:
>Roman Catholic theologian Karl Rahner proposed an innate sense of God, which has been noted to share elements in common with Calvin's *Sensus Divinitatis*.
>Jonathan Edwards, the 18th-century American Calvinist preacher and theologian, claimed that while every human being has been granted the capacity to know God, successful use of these capacities requires an attitude of "true benevolence".
***Please be aware this question is not about philosophy.*** The Wikipedia article presented what seemed to me to be a secular view but I have no interest in delving into a philosophical discussion. I am interested in finding out what a Christian perspective is, and what Calvin, Rahner and Edwards might have in common with regard to this subject. However, for my benefit, it needs to be kept simple! I only stumbled upon this subject yesterday and what I read in that Wikipedia article made my head spin.
The Apostle Paul seems to suggest that humans have an inherent capacity to perceive God:
>The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness, ***since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities*** – his eternal power and divine nature – ***have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.*** (Romans 1:18-20)
***What other Bible verses expound on this idea?***
Asked by Lesley
(34714 rep)
Jan 24, 2021, 02:48 PM
Last activity: Jan 24, 2021, 06:19 PM
Last activity: Jan 24, 2021, 06:19 PM