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July 06, 2005
Ch. I. Q.4. Natural Law
NATURAL LAW may be defined either as the observed conjunction and sequence of natural phenomena, or as the underlying system of forces by which the natural order is governed and developed.
2. In its former sense natural law may not be taken to mean what must happen forever, but what does happen now, so far as our experience extends. The "uniformity of nature" is a hypothesis which assumes that events will continue to happen as they have happened. There can be no demonstration of this.1
3. Historical evidence shows that the present order of phenomena has been subject to miraculous exceptions; and we learn from the revelations which these miracles attest that this order will, in due time, give place to a new one.2
4. We learn from revelation and natural experience alike that the works of God are usually regular both in nature and in the supernatural. But the uniformity and unity of the supernatural was appreciated long before that of nature. Theological science is more ancient than physical science—in fact, the mother of it.3
5. But theological science dwells upon its uniformities — e.g., the sacramental laws of grace — chiefly with reference to their moral purpose. Physical science is concerned more with the uniformities themselves, and their utility for man. Theology takes note of the data and conclusions of physical science, but with reference to their theistic and spiritual interpretation. It recognizes that natural laws reveal methods of Divine operation, and therefore teach somewhat of the Divine nature and character. It also assumes that ascertained uniformities, so long as they continue, represent the conditions under which human character is formed and men are to serve their probation in this life. This is true of the laws both of nature and of supernatural grace.4
6. So long as natural science confines itself to the investigation of nature as such, and theological science to the theistic and spiritual interpretation of facts undeniably established, there can be no conflict. But when natural scientists undertake to advance theological interpretations of their results, a collision is apt to occur between their crude speculations and more mature Theology. And when theologians continue to rely upon exploded views of nature, basing theological speculations upon them, a conflict occurs between out-of-date and up-to-date natural science. As Dr. Pusey says, unscience, not science, is adverse to Faith.5
Posted by Debra Bullock at July 6, 2005 02:38 PM
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