Routledge Swinburne's Hell and Hick's Universalism: Are We Free to Reject God? (Routledge Revivals)

This title was first published in 2003. This book seeks to establish whether a Christian position must entail a belief in hell or whether Christians can hold a coherent theory of universal salvation. Richard Swinburne's defence of hell depends on the argument that hell is necessary if humans are to be genuinely free. It becomes clear that the contemporary discussion of hell and universalism cannot be separated from the issues of human freedom and God's knowledge, and so Hall centres the discussion round the question 'Are we Free to Reject God?' John Hick argues that although we are free to reject God there will eventually be an universalist outcome. Having examined the contrasting arguments of Hick and Swinburne, Hall builds on Hick's position to develop an argument for Christian universal salvation which holds in balance our freedom in relation to God and the assurance that all will finally be saved. Review 'Lindsey Hall's careful examination of Hick and Swinburne is helpful not just for specialists, but for anyone interested in the question of hell, a God of love, and human freedom. Hall is critical of both thinkers and advances and defends a radical alternative. Her prose is always lucid and she writes with a pastoral and intellectual sensibility.' Gavin D'Costa, Reader in Christian Theology, University of Bristol, UK '... this is a significant discussion of crucial issues that moves the discussion in some new directions. It provides an informative and critical review not only of Swinburne and Hick but also an insightful assessment of several other writers who have recently addressed the topics of hell and universalism.' Arsdisputandi