What is Machen's view on the doctrine of God in light of liberalism

In the book "Christianity and Liberalism" Machen sets forth a basic contrast between Liberal theology and orthodox theology. In chapter 3 he turns his attention to this contrast in the doctrine of God and the doctrine of man - which he says are the "two great presuppositions of the gospel." Machen shows that the liberal approach is diametrically opposed to the Christian. Where the liberal thinks, "we should not seek to know God, but should merely feel His presence" the Christian says, "Certainly it does make the greatest of difference what we think about God; the knowledge of God is the very basis of religion." - This expression "the very basis of religion" or something similar is repeated very frequently to express the character of Machen's objection to the liberal, that is at the very heart of the matter - it is the difference between belief and unbelief - between heaven and hell.

Concerning the liberal idea, the basic thought is that famous phrase, "the universal Fatherhood of God and the Brotherhood of man" a universalism to be sure. To the liberal God is not so much a person but merely a part of the great cosmic scheme, both micro and macro - He is eroded away into the working of nature and nothing more.

Machen in contrast, has a view of God that has content. God is personal. God is a Father in a peculiar sense. God is separate and transcendent from his creation.

Westminster Confession of Faith 7:1

The distance between God and the creature is so great, that although reasonable creatures do owe obediance unto him as their Creator, yet they could never have any fruition of him as their blessedness and reward, but by some voluntary condescension on God's part, which he hath been pleased to express by way of covenant

Purposed for Prep

I probably could find better ways to get my exam work done, but I thought that I should have a place for digests and for preparing for exams both for school and for liscensure and ordination. So this will be the home for all such niceties.

It is quite possible that very very few will ever venture on to this blog - but I can't help but think that it can be useful.

May God bless those that seek him!