Ep. #65 – Simplicity & the Trinity w/ Paul Chutikorn
Summary
How does absolute divine simplicity cohere with the trinity? What is meant by trinitarian monotheism? Doesn’t Aquinas’ exposition lead us to inevitable contradictions in the Godhead? Paul Chutikorn joins us to unpack the concepts and vocabulary needed to understand the trinity. He argues that Trinitarian monotheism is compatible with the absolutely simple God.
Guest Bio
Paul Chutikorn holds a Bachelor’s degree in both Theology and Philosophy and is pursuing his Master’s degree in Thomistic Studies out of Holy Apostles College & Seminary. He has written on various theological and philosophical topics with an emphasis on the thought of St. Thomas Aquinas, some of which have been published on Ignatius Press’ Homiletic and Pastoral Review, and the popular blog Thomistica. Paul also serves as Director of Faith Formation at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Southern Oregon.
Show Outline
In the first segment, Paul defines what we mean by divine simplicity and trinitarian monotheism. He distinguishes trinitarianism from other forms of theism.
In the next segment, Paul distinguishes the ontological and economic trinity. Also, he provides a rundown of the following terminology: substance, person, logical distinction, real distinction, and virtual distinction. Then, he presents a reconciliation of the trinity with absolute divine simplicity.
In the final segment, he responds to a critique from Craig and Moreland in their Philosophical Foundations for a Christian Worldview. Additionally, he responds to an argument made by Ben Bavar, a host of the Real Atheology podcast. At the end, I ask Paul about other non-Thomistic discussions of the Trinity and what resources we should consider for learning more.
Resources Mentioned
De Potentia by St. Thomas Aquinas (Question IX in particular)
Summa Theologiae by St. Thomas Aquinas (Questions 27 – 43 in particular)
Trinitarian Theology of St. Thomas Aquinas by Fr. Gilles Emery OP
Trinitarian Christology of St. Thomas Aquinas by Fr. Dominic Legge OP
The Trinity by Karl Rahner
Paul Chutikorn’s Academia Page
Dr. Robert Koons’ Paper on the Trinity
Related Episodes
Ep. #64 – Absolute Divine Simplicity w/ Dr. Dolezal
Ep. #39 – Multiple Attributes & Divine Simplicity with Dr. Carl
Ep. #25 – Divine Simplicity with Paul Chutikorn [Interview]
It might also help you if you look at Barrett’s “Divine Simplicity: A Biblical and Trinitarian Account”
Yes, TJ, that is a great idea. Thank you!