What does skeptical theism propose about divine hiddenness?

Definition and Overview

Skeptical theism is a philosophical position that addresses the challenge of divine hiddenness, often formulated within the “problem of evil” or “why God’s presence is not always overt.” It suggests that finite human understanding is too limited to fully grasp the reasons for God’s actions—or seeming inactions—in the world. Proponents of skeptical theism maintain that what appears to be “hiddenness” might be God’s purposeful way of fulfilling a greater plan beyond human comprehension. This view counterbalances claims that divine hiddenness is evidence either against God’s existence or against certain attributes like perfect love or wisdom.

Underlying Assumptions

Skeptical theism rests on two primary assumptions:

1. Transcendence of God: God’s omniscience surpasses human intellect, making any attempt to fully comprehend His reasons inherently limited. As Isaiah 55:8–9 states, “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, declares the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so My ways are higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.”

2. Human Epistemic Limitation: Humanity’s perspective is restricted and situated within a temporal, spatial, and intellectual framework. From this vantage point, suffering or perceived “hiddenness” may seem unjustifiable, but skeptical theism posits that there might be morally sufficient reasons undetectable by human awareness. This correlates with 1 Corinthians 13:12: “For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.”

Key Components of Skeptical Theism

1. The Question of Unexplained Evil

In philosophical debates, skeptics of traditional theism sometimes argue that the presence of evil undermines the belief in an all-good and all-powerful God. Skeptical theism responds that the absence of humanly discernible reasons for certain evils does not mean that God lacks reasons; it might simply be that humans cannot fathom the bigger purpose. Such arguments appear in discussions on moral and natural evils, particularly in philosophical literature and case studies of extreme suffering. In Scripture, Job’s story stands as a prime biblical example: despite Job’s turmoil and suffering, God’s ultimate purposes remain beyond complete human comprehension (Job 42:1–6).

2. Epistemic Humility

Skeptical theism emphasizes humility in claiming knowledge about divine motivations. A central insight is that human judgment is hampered by our limited vantage point compared to God’s infinite wisdom. This theme resonates with Romans 11:33: “Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable His judgments, and untraceable His ways!”

3. Faith and Trust in God’s Character

While acknowledging divine hiddenness, skeptical theism encourages believers to trust in God’s benevolent character and plans, rather than requiring all phenomena to be rationally transparent. This is highlighted in Psalm 25:9: “He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them His way.” The stance presupposes that trust in an all-loving, all-knowing God remains consistent even when specific details are obscured from human view.

Broader Philosophical Context

Outside the biblical tradition, many thinkers have tackled divine hiddenness. Some have suggested that if God exists, His reality should be more manifest. Skeptical theism heavily cites the epistemic gulf between humans and God, noting parallels in other fields (such as quantum physics, where complex truths often elude everyday intuition). Philosophical writings also reference the limitations of observational science—some phenomena remain elusive until deeper methods of analysis become available, hinting that reality may contain truths not accessible via our current scope.

Biblical Insights on ‘Hiddenness’

1. Instances in Scripture

Scripture provides stories and teachings where God’s presence or reasons appear concealed. In Isaiah 45:15 we read, “Truly You are a God who hides Himself, O God of Israel, the Savior.” This paradoxical statement underscores that God sometimes acts in ways that are not immediately obvious even to His people.

2. Purpose Behind Hiddenness

Several passages point to a divine purpose in not unveiling every detail. The progression of revelation might serve to cultivate genuine faith rather than mere intellectual assent. As John 20:29 records, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” While God intermittently provides miraculous signs, the consistent scriptural emphasis remains on trust in His unchanging goodness, even in the absence of overt demonstrations.

3. Human Responsibility

Though the “hiddenness” of God may seem challenging, biblical authors stress the responsibility of individuals to seek Him. Deuteronomy 4:29 promises, “But if from there you will seek the LORD your God, you will find Him if you seek Him with all your heart and with all your soul.” Divine hiddenness does not equate to divine absence; rather, it is a call to earnest pursuit.

Responses and Reconciliations

1. Philosophical Reflection on Free Will

Some Christian philosophers argue that God’s concealed presence preserves human volitional freedom. Should God’s existence be glaringly obvious at all times, the dynamics of genuine choice and love might be compromised. In philosophical literature, this is a frequent argument: the possibility of real, meaningful relationship is best preserved under conditions that allow for choice, curiosity, and response rather than compulsion.

2. The Role of Suffering and Empathy

When confronting widespread suffering, skeptical theists note that divine hiddenness may influence communal empathy: believers and nonbelievers alike are prompted to help one another, revealing and reflecting love even amid hardship. Historical anecdotes from famine relief, wartime solidarity, and natural disaster aid indicate that moral virtue can be refined in uncertain circumstances, potentially coinciding with a divinely hidden, but not indifferent, presence.

3. Eschatological Hope

Skeptical theism finds its resolution in the biblical promise that ultimate comprehension will come in the eschaton (the end of this present age). Revelation 21:4 offers reassurance of God’s final victory over suffering, stating, “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain.” This hope anchors many believers in the conviction that the mysteries of current hiddenness will one day be fully unveiled, vindicating God’s goodness and justice.

Integration of Historical, Philosophical, and Scriptural Evidence

Archaeological discoveries—from the uncovering of ancient biblical cities to the transmission history of Scripture—corroborate many historical claims in the Bible. Though these findings do not “prove” every matter of divine revelation, they add weight to the reliability of biblical narratives, lending credibility to the notion that God’s ways have been consistently testified and recorded. Philosophical arguments throughout centuries have aligned with religious testimonies suggesting that divine wisdom operates beyond immediate human observation—as the biblical text itself acknowledges.

Moreover, recorded testimonies and anecdotal accounts from those who have endured persecution or trials reveal that apparent hiddenness often coexists with unwavering conviction of God’s presence, pointing toward an experiential dimension of faith. These real-life narratives demonstrate how people continue to encounter assurance and meaning in what outwardly seems to be hiding or silence.

Conclusion

Skeptical theism proposes that divine hiddenness can be reconciled with a belief in an all-loving, omnipotent God by underscoring the limitations of human knowledge and the overarching purposes hidden from finite eyes. Although the question “Why does God appear hidden?” remains a profound philosophical and theological inquiry, Scripture provides multiple insights:

• God’s transcendent ways exceed human logic (Isaiah 55:8–9).

• Faith flourishes, even without complete disclosure (John 20:29).

• Divine hiddenness encourages sincere seeking (Deuteronomy 4:29).

• Ultimate resolution is promised in God’s perfect plan (Revelation 21:4).

In these elements, skeptical theism finds an anchor for trust that divine hiddenness, far from undermining belief, can point to the magnitude of God’s wisdom, encourage active pursuit, and deepen the relational aspect of faith.