Fred R. Anderson

Neither Necessary nor Inevitable

Philosophy

“Neither Necessary nor Inevitable is philosopher and theologian Udo Middleman's latest work challenging modern philosophy, the natural sciences, and even many world religions on their assertions of a closed system of 'necessary destinies, invariable power, or an impersonal unity of Being.' Life and history are not mapped out for us by God; providence is not fatalism. Our decisions and choices matter, for good or for ill. Here is clear, logical, biblically informed thought, laced with dashes of humor, which consistently argues the point that God created humankind to make a difference in this world and that with the choices we make, we do-one way or the other. Christian pastors, counselors, teachers, and other leaders will especially appreciate the way Middelman has dismantled the mantra of misguided and ill-informed people who retreat to the opium of 'God has a plan for my life,' when tragedy or hardship strike one's life. God does clearly have a plan for our lives. It is called faithfulness. Neither Necessary nor Inevitable is about the importance of making such choices, not only for ourselves, but for the world over which God has given us dominion.”