The Providential Order of the World

A.B. Bruce's first series of Gifford Lectures, delivered in Glasgow (1897), has in view several thoughts: that God cares for humans individually and collectively; that His nature is such, and that He sustains such a relation to man, as makes that care natural and credible; that His care covers all human interests, but especially the higher, ethical interests of righteousness and goodness in the individual and society; that He is a moral Governor and benignant Father, a Power bringing forth righteousness and overcoming evil with good; and that He rules over all things with a view to bringing about a kingdom of the good. For Professor Bruce, the great matter is not 'that' God is, but 'what' God is. The 'Providential Order' lectures explore this question in light of Providence. Bruce's line of proof, in keeping with the Gifford trust, is through man to God.