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Book Cover for: The Hypothesis of Undesigned Coincidences: A Critical Review, Michael J. Alter

The Hypothesis of Undesigned Coincidences: A Critical Review

Michael J. Alter

The hypothesis of Undesigned Coincidences was first proposed by William Paley (1743-1805) and later popularized by J. J. Blunt (1794-1855). More recently, Lydia and Timothy McGrew have revived this hypothesis. McGrew defines an undesigned coincidence as "a significant connection between two or more accounts or texts that does not appear to have been planned by the individuals providing the accounts. Despite their apparent independence, the elements fit together like pieces of a puzzle." Advocates use undesigned coincidences to argue that the Gospels are a compilation of independent and reliable sources. However, these advocates do not engage with biblical criticism and overlook relevant research on coincidences and casualness. The feeding of the five thousand is a prominent example discussed by proponents, who point to details such as the green grass, the location of Bethsaida, and the question posed by Jesus to Philip. These episodes are thoroughly reviewed and analyzed in The Hypothesis of Undesigned Coincidences.

Book Details

  • Publisher: Resource Publications (CA)
  • Publish Date: Nov 14th, 2024
  • Pages: 200
  • Language: English
  • Edition: undefined - undefined
  • Dimensions: 9.00in - 6.00in - 0.43in - 0.61lb
  • EAN: 9798385234721
  • Categories: Christian Living - InspirationalBiblical Studies - General

About the Author

Alter, Michael J.: - Michael J. Alter was a teacher for over forty years in Miami, Florida. Alter has published ten books, including The Resurrection: A Critical Inquiry (2015); Why the Torah Begins with the Letter Beit (1998); and What Is The Purpose of Creation: A Jewish Anthology (1991). The former two books were chosen as the main selection of the Jewish Book News. Alter has assisted in editing several books. He has also appeared on Premier Christianity Radio: Unbelievable?