Metaphors and God

The metaphors we use sometimes significantly shape how we think about theological topics. If think of God as a smelter or potter we understand God to be an artisan in total control of the metal or clay. We don’t tend to think of metal or clay “responding” to the artisan or having responsibilities so if we use these metaphors to understand, say, divine providence, then we are likely to conclude that God gets exactly what God wants. However, if we think of God as a father or mother then parents do not fully control their children and more complex interactions are required to nurture and develop children. If we use metaphors drawn from interpersonal relations the divine providence will entail risk. These are just some of the examples used in the book to show that the metaphors we use can shape the way we understand God’s relationship with us.