Sunday, September 22, 2024

Theoreddism: A Philosophical, Theological, and Historical Synthesis of Divine Sovereignty, Progressive Revelation, and Procedural Actualization

As both a technology strategist and ordained minister with a strong foundation in Reformed theology, I've long been drawn to the challenge of creating a worldview that can seamlessly connect Christian doctrine, philosophical depth, and the rapid growth of modern science and technology. This quest has led to the development of what I call "Theoreddism"—a framework that unites Reformed theology, Christian Platonism, and contemporary science in a cohesive model.



At its heart, Theoreddism proposes that the universe operates like a system under God's direction, where His ultimate outcomes are assured. However, the details of reality unfold dynamically in a process I call "procedural actualization." This idea supports the notion of progressive revelation—God's truth revealed through Scripture, nature, and human advancement, all within the scope of divine sovereignty.


The term "Theoreddism" comes from the Greek word "Theos" (God) and the Latin "reddere" (to render or give back), emphasizing the belief that God is actively engaged in rendering reality in line with His purposes. This concept acts as a bridge between traditional theology and modern ideas from fields like computer science and information theory.


Theological and Philosophical Foundations


Theoreddism is rooted in Reformed theology, especially its emphasis on divine sovereignty and grace. However, it extends these ideas by suggesting that while God's ultimate plans are set, the fine details of reality aren't fixed beforehand but unfold dynamically according to His will. This balance respects both God's omniscience and the way events unfold over time.


The framework also draws heavily from Christian Platonism, affirming that abstract realities—such as numbers, logical principles, and mathematical truths—exist independently of human minds as reflections of God's rational nature. This provides a way to understand the deep mathematical structure of the physical world as a direct expression of God's intellect.


At the same time, Theoreddism holds a high view of Scripture as the ultimate source of truth, but it also recognizes nature and human progress as significant, though secondary, avenues for divine revelation. This fits well with the Reformed principle of Semper Reformanda ("always reforming"), allowing our understanding of theological truths to grow as we discover more about God's creation.


Procedural Actualization and Progressive Revelation


A key concept in Theoreddism is "procedural actualization"—the idea that God dynamically renders reality much like how complex environments are generated in real-time in computer graphics or video games. This draws an analogy to divine providence, where God sets the foundational rules of nature but allows the specific details to unfold within His broader plan.


In my work as a technology strategist, I've seen how procedural generation can create vast digital worlds with endless variety, all while following a consistent set of rules. In the same way, Theoreddism suggests that while God establishes the fundamental laws of nature, specific events and details are rendered dynamically in accordance with His ultimate purpose.


This model preserves God's control over outcomes while explaining human free will and the contingencies of history. It also parallels my strategic planning experience, where overall goals are set, but flexibility is allowed in response to changing circumstances.


Theoreddism also stresses progressive revelation—the idea that God's truth is revealed gradually through Scripture, nature, and historical events. This parallels how technological progress deepens our understanding of the universe, offering fresh insights into God's wisdom. For example, understanding DNA's role in genetics has enhanced our appreciation of the complexity and beauty of God's design in living organisms.


Temporal Asymmetry and Fine-Tuning


Theoreddism also addresses questions about the age of the universe through the concept of "temporal asymmetry," which suggests that time may have moved at different rates during key moments in history—such as the Creation week or the Flood. 


An analogy from cloud computing helps clarify this idea: sometimes, more processing power is allocated to specific tasks, speeding them up relative to others. Similarly, Theoreddism proposes that during Creation, billions of years of cosmic history could have been rendered in a few days from an Earth-centric viewpoint.


This framework also offers a theistic interpretation of the universe's fine-tuning. Rather than relying on the multiverse or chance, Theoreddism sees the precise calibration of physical constants as evidence of God's intentional design, created to support life and allow for the development of beings who could recognize and worship Him.


Scientific Insights and Theological Implications


Theoreddism integrates modern scientific insights into its theological framework. For instance, quantum entanglement—a phenomenon where particles remain connected across vast distances—provides a model for understanding God's omniscience and His intimate knowledge of all events.


Similarly, developments in artificial intelligence offer fresh ways to think about God's foreknowledge and human free will. Just as AI can predict behavior without determining it, we can understand how God's perfect foreknowledge operates without removing genuine human freedom.


Theoreddism also takes cues from information theory and digital physics. The idea that information is fundamental to reality resonates with the biblical concept of God creating through His word. The physical universe, then, can be seen as divine "software" running on the "logic" of God in Christ.


Ethical and Practical Implications


Theoreddism's emphasis on dynamic interaction between God and creation has important ethical implications. It encourages active human participation in unfolding God's purposes, echoing the Reformed idea of vocation as a way to glorify God through work.


In terms of technology ethics, Theoreddism sees human creativity and innovation as participation in God's ongoing creative work. It promotes responsible technological development as a way to better understand and care for God's creation.


For apologetics, Theoreddism provides a robust framework for engaging with science without compromising theological truths. It allows believers to affirm both Scripture and scientific inquiry, recognizing both as ways in which God reveals Himself.


Conclusion


Theoreddism aims to synthesize Reformed theology, Christian philosophy, and modern science into a unified worldview. By incorporating ideas from computer science, information theory, and physics, it provides a vision of divine providence that is faithful to the Bible and intellectually engaged with contemporary thought.


As we continue to explore the frontiers of science and technology, frameworks like Theoreddism can help believers maintain a strong Christian witness while embracing the insights that human discovery offers. It invites us to see theology, philosophy, and science as unified pursuits of understanding the God who has revealed Himself in Scripture, nature, and most fully in Jesus Christ.


In the spirit of Semper Reformanda, Theoreddism is open to refinement as our understanding of both divine revelation and the natural world grows. It offers a path forward for those seeking to integrate faith and reason, affirming the authority of Scripture while being open to the wonders that scientific progress uncovers.

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