Preparing to hear the Gospel : a proposal for natural theology

Preparing to Hear the Gospel proposes a natural theology that prepares the way for Christian faith, so is neither apologetic for Christianity, nor a natural substitution for it. It draws on philosophical insights from Wittgenstein to argue for a practical, non-foundational understanding which is neither theoretical knowledge of God, nor immediate consciousness of God. The author points out that natural form of life impresses a common morality that functions to prepare the way for the gospel, much as the natural law did for Reformation theology, and the moral life did for Kierkegaard. He concludes that natural theology leads us to the reality of an "unknown God" or to the "hidden God." In this way, the book prepares for the good news of God's redemption which frees humanity from the power of death for new life.