adopt an »agent-structure« perspective in a completely different way. I only give indications of such an approach. The main point in the whole of my argument is that the interpretation of Christianity can give a partial explanation of his political activity. However, primary emphasis is put on a general understanding.
IV The idea of God The aim of this thesis has been determined in such a way that the idea of God is considered to correspond primarily with the view of man. In other words, the view of man implies a certain idea of God. On this basis, the contents of this section are divided into four parts.
1 God as presence. The existence of a creator is the most self-evident thing possible for LP: how otherwise explain the existence of this world? The argument from design is important for his view. The theme of »presence«, which is obviously related to experiences of nature, is made apparent by presenting some of the experiences that LP mentioned. Additionally, an experience at Betel seminary in 1905 is included. The purpose here is to show how nature-symbols are used to interpret »the encounter with Jesus«. In an analytic summary, a series of similarities with the view of nature in the 1890’s is brought out. Further, it can be noted that there is a number of common features in the ideas of nature, the home, femininity and local and regional patriotism. God can be found both in nature and man.
2 »Power belongs to the Lord« A central question in this work has been that of God’s power and sovereignty. What effects does voluntarism have on the idea of God? Man surrenders his right to determine his own life and as a result God acquires power over man, which also means that man receives the necessary strength to be able to do what the Lord commands. Ideas connected with the concept of power are: authority, Lordship and influence.
Summary in English
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