Peter Kreeft
Full Name and Common Aliases
Peter John Kreeft, often referred to simply as Peter Kreeft, is a prominent figure in the realm of philosophy and theology. Known for his engaging writing and speaking style, Kreeft has become a respected voice in Christian apologetics and philosophy.
Birth and Death Dates
Peter Kreeft was born on March 16, 1937. As of the latest available information, he is still actively contributing to his fields of expertise.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Peter Kreeft is an American philosopher and theologian. He is also a prolific author and a professor, having taught at institutions such as Boston College and The King's College in New York City. His work primarily focuses on Christian philosophy, apologetics, and the intersection of faith and reason.
Early Life and Background
Peter Kreeft was born in Paterson, New Jersey, and raised in a Dutch Reformed family. His early education was marked by a strong emphasis on religious and philosophical studies, which laid the groundwork for his future pursuits. Kreeft's intellectual journey took a significant turn during his college years at Calvin College, where he began to explore Catholicism. This exploration led to his conversion to Catholicism, a decision that would profoundly influence his career and writings.
Kreeft continued his education at Fordham University, where he earned his Ph.D. in philosophy. His academic background provided him with a robust foundation in both classical and contemporary philosophical thought, which he would later draw upon in his teaching and writing.
Major Accomplishments
Peter Kreeft's career is marked by numerous accomplishments, particularly in the fields of philosophy and theology. He has authored over 80 books, many of which have become staples in Christian apologetics and philosophy courses. His ability to distill complex philosophical ideas into accessible language has made his works popular among both academic and lay audiences.
In addition to his writing, Kreeft has been a dedicated educator. His tenure at Boston College and The King's College has allowed him to influence countless students, many of whom have gone on to make significant contributions in their own right. Kreeft's engaging teaching style and deep knowledge of his subject matter have earned him a reputation as a beloved and respected professor.
Notable Works or Actions
Among Peter Kreeft's most notable works are "The Handbook of Christian Apologetics," co-authored with Ronald K. Tacelli, and "Christianity for Modern Pagans," which offers a commentary on the works of Blaise Pascal. These books, along with others like "The Philosophy of Tolkien" and "Socrates Meets Jesus," showcase Kreeft's ability to bridge the gap between ancient philosophical thought and contemporary issues.
Kreeft's writings often explore the compatibility of faith and reason, a theme that resonates throughout his body of work. His dialogues, modeled after the Socratic method, invite readers to engage with philosophical questions in a manner that is both thought-provoking and accessible.
Impact and Legacy
Peter Kreeft's impact on the fields of philosophy and theology is significant. His writings have been translated into multiple languages, extending his influence beyond the English-speaking world. Kreeft's ability to communicate complex ideas in a clear and engaging manner has made him a sought-after speaker at conferences and events around the globe.
His legacy is also evident in the many students he has mentored over the years. Kreeft's passion for teaching and his commitment to exploring the big questions of life have inspired a new generation of thinkers who continue to grapple with the intersection of faith and reason.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Peter Kreeft is widely quoted and remembered for his ability to articulate profound philosophical and theological insights in a way that is both accessible and engaging. His works often serve as a bridge between academic philosophy and practical spirituality, making them valuable resources for anyone seeking to understand the Christian faith more deeply.
Kreeft's use of humor, wit, and clarity in his writing and speaking has endeared him to audiences worldwide. His dialogues and essays challenge readers to think critically about their beliefs and the world around them, fostering a deeper understanding of the human condition and the divine.
In summary, Peter Kreeft's contributions to philosophy and theology have left an indelible mark on both fields. His writings continue to inspire and challenge readers, ensuring that his legacy will endure for generations to come.
Quotes by Peter Kreeft
Peter Kreeft's insights on:
If sexuality is part of our inner essence, then it follows that there is sexuality in Heaven, whether or not we 'have sex' and whether or not we have sexually distinct social roles in Heaven.
On my door there's a cartoon of two turtles. One says, 'Sometimes I'd like to ask why he allows poverty, famine and injustice when he could do something about it. 'The other turtle says, 'I'm afraid God might ask me the same question.
Trying to fill the God-sized hole in our hearts with things other than God is ike trying to fill the Grand Canyon with marbles.
Anyone, without exception, can know God if they really want to simply by praying, by honestly telling Him that they want to know Him. He always responds to honest seekers. Jesus promised, 'All who seek, find.'
We must pray in order to grow, and we must grow because Infinite Love will not, cannot, settle for less than the greatest joy of which his beloved creature is capable.
A fundamental principle of Catholic theology is that grace perfects nature rather than setting it aside; and that means that the Christian life is not a two-layer cake, the supernatural simply added on to the natural. It transforms the natural but by perfecting it, not by demeaning it.
But we will probably never see this, never move from original selfishness to universal charity and unselfishness, without the intermediate step of the family.
We are all insane. That is what original sin means. Sin is insanity. It is preferring finite joy to infinite joy, creatures to the Creator, an unhappy, Godless self to a happy, God-filled self Only God can save us from this disease. That is what the name “Jesus” means: ‘God saves’.
We want to complexify our lives. We don’t have to, we want to. We want to be harried and hassled and busy. Unconsciously, we want the very thing we complain about. For if we had leisure, we would look at ourselves and listen to our hearts and see the great gaping hole in our hearts and be terrified, because that hole is so big that nothing but God can fill it.
What distinguishes the saved from the damned is their relation to Christ. This is not St. Thomas’ opinion, this is Christ’s own clear teaching. What.