The concept of divine omnipotence is an important one in many religions, particularly those that believe in the existence of God. It suggests that God is all-powerful and all-knowing, able to be present everywhere at once and to know everything that occurs within creation.
This idea has often been interpreted in ways that can be problematic for human freedom and agency. In this article, I will argue that it is possible to reinterpret divine omnipresence as radical relationality rather than surveillance or control. This would mean that God is present in every moment of life but without trying to exert power or control over individuals. Instead, God could simply witness and participate in their lives through relationship. This interpretation opens up new possibilities for understanding divine presence in the world while also recognizing the autonomy of individual humans.
Let's examine why traditional interpretations of divine omnipresence have been so problematic. One issue is that they suggest that God is constantly watching and judging people, monitoring their actions and thoughts. This can lead to feelings of being controlled or watched, which undermines personal responsibility and autonomy.
These interpretations tend to view God as a distant figure who is uninvolved in daily life, separate from the messiness of human experience. This can result in a sense of alienation from the divine and difficulty connecting with God on a deeper level.
A more relational interpretation of divine omnipresence would emphasize connection and participation rather than judgment and surveillance. Rather than seeing God as an observer, we might think of God as actively involved in our lives, accompanying us in every moment and seeking to nurture our relationships with others. This approach does not necessarily deny the reality of sin or evil, but it acknowledges that these things are part of the human condition rather than something imposed by an external authority figure.
A relational understanding of divine omnipresence also allows for greater flexibility when it comes to questions of free will and destiny. While some may believe that God has already determined everything that happens in the world, this perspective leaves little room for genuine choice or agency. A relational approach suggests that God seeks to create opportunities for individuals to choose freely and to grow through their experiences, even if those choices sometimes involve pain or suffering. By emphasizing relationship over control, this model opens up new possibilities for understanding divine providence and guidance in one's life.
Reinterpreting divine omnipresence as radical relationality can have practical implications for how humans live out their faith. Rather than fearing judgment or trying to hide from God, they could seek to cultivate deep relationships with the divine. They could also engage in acts of compassion, service, and justice, recognizing that all people are created in God's image and worthy of love and respect. In short, a relational view of divine presence offers a way to reconcile faith and freedom, providing hope and meaning while still acknowledging the complex realities of the human experience.
I have argued that divine omnipotence need not be seen as surveillance or control, but rather as radical relationality. This interpretation emphasizes connection, participation, and autonomy, offering a fresh perspective on divine presence in the world. It provides a way forward for believers who want to embrace both faith and freedom, seeking to build deeper connections with God and others while also navigating the challenges of everyday life.