Van Til's Apologetic Use of God's Incomprehensibility

The concept of the incomprehensibility of God, as emphasized by Cornelius Van Til, is rooted in Scripture, particularly in Romans 11:33-34, where Paul writes, "Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!" This passage highlights the profound mystery of God's nature and ways, which are beyond human comprehension. Van Til's apologetic approach underscores the importance of acknowledging this incomprehensibility, as it underscores the transcendent and sovereign character of God.

This doctrine is theologically significant because it underscores the distinction between God's knowability and comprehensibility. While God has revealed Himself to humanity through Scripture and creation, His essence remains incomprehensible to finite human minds. This truth matters because it guards against anthropomorphic tendencies, where humans attempt to reduce God to their own image or understanding. In Reformed theology, this concept is closely tied to the doctrine of God's sovereignty and the limitations of human knowledge.

A common misconception is that the incomprehensibility of God implies that we cannot know Him at all. However, as Van Til argued, it is precisely because we acknowledge God's incomprehensibility that we can truly know Him, albeit in a limited and analogical way. The gospel connection lies in the fact that God, in His mercy, has chosen to reveal Himself to us in spite of our finite understanding. This truth should evoke humility and reverence in the hearts of believers, as they approach the study of God's nature and character, and it is here that the pastoral importance of this doctrine becomes clear, as it encourages believers to approach God with a sense of awe and reverence, recognizing the profound mystery of His being.