An evaluation of Schellenberg’s arguments regarding divine hiddenness and the no-delay condition concerning relationship with God

Abstract

This paper demonstrates that Schellenberg is mistaken about the burden of proof concerning his Divine Hiddenness Argument against the existence of God and that his argument is unsound. In particular, I explain that Schellenberg has failed to refute the possibility that there is no non-resistant nonbeliever who would end up not having a relationship with the perfect God who knows of good reasons for the delay in starting the relationship even if we do not know what those reasons are. I also explain that Schellenberg has failed to refute the possibility that God delays the starting of the relationship for the purpose of achieving a deeper relationship for the good of the creature in a way that respects the creaturely free will. Given that the Divine Hiddenness Argument is unsound, it should not be a hindrance to believing in God and having a relationship with God.