Back of the North Wind

Discussions of theology, philosophy, religion and life inspired by the writings of George MacDonald (and perhaps others such as CS Lewis) posted by "recovering fundamentalists".

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I am a "recovering fundamentalist". The trick is to figure out how not to throw out the Baby with the bathwater. I learn through dialogue, and so invite commentary on my posts to Back of the North Wind.

Monday, November 22, 2004

GMD compared to St. Paul

In his book, Lilith, George MacDonald distinguishes his view of how things work a little from Paul. Recall Romans 8:28

"And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those that love God, to those who are called according to His purpose."
Compare this to George MacDonald in Lilith: the guide, a librarian/raven from the other-world described in Lilith gives his the main character instructions, to which this character responds:

"I will try to remember--but I may forget!"
"Then some evil that is good for you will follow."
"And if I remember?"
"Then some evil that is not good for you will not follow."


So while both George MacDonald and Paul assert that all things will work out for good, MacDonald does not distinguish between "those who love God" and others who do not love God (yet). While MacDonald acknowledges evil, he asserts that evil when it occurs will be used for the good of even those it seems to harm.

posted by donalgrant | permalink