Steven Colborne

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About Steven Colborne

Steven Colborne is the author of many books in the philosophical theology genre. His work offers deep insights into all of the big problems of philosophy and theology, with a focus on the divine sovereignty versus human free will predicament, especially as it relates to the Christian worldview.

Steven is a first-class BA (Hons) graduate of the University of Westminster and holds a PG Cert in Philosophy and Religion from Heythrop College, University of London. He was born in Cambridge, grew up in Abingdon in Oxfordshire, and currently lives in London, England. The son of an English father and a Dutch mother, Steven has had a remarkable spiritual journey which has involved immersive explorations of both Eastern and Western spirituality, as well as several spells in psychiatric hospital following episodes of psychosis.

Among other books, Steven's catalogue of releases includes a spiritual memoir (The Philosophy of a Mad Man), a compilation of academic essays (A Collection of Essays by Steven Colborne), and a systematic presentation of his philosophical perspective (God's Grand Game: Divine Sovereignty and the Cosmic Playground). As well as being a prolific author, Steven also runs the popular philosophy blog Perfect Chaos, where he has written over 500 articles for an audience of over 6000 subscribers from more than 200 different countries.

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Books By Steven Colborne

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Statement of Faith Sep 16, 2020

by Steven Colborne

$1.49

This statement of faith by philosopher-theologian Steven Colborne is the result of decades of spiritual exploration culminating in Colborne's wholehearted embracing of Biblical Christianity.

Colborne is the author of many books expounding philosophical and theological arguments related to Christianity and other religions. After a dramatic and traumatic spiritual journey (documented in his 2012 book The Philosophy of a Mad Man), Colborne became a devoted evangelical Christian and was baptised in water and the Holy Spirit.

After committing to Christianity, Colborne studied Philosophy and Religion at Heythrop College, University of London, and after carefully examining Christian doctrine he wrote God's Grand Game, a book which offers philosophical arguments highlighting what for Colborne were inconsistencies in the mainstream Christian worldview; particularly in relation to the divine sovereignty versus human free will predicament.

Colborne went on to publish An Almighty Predicament: A Discourse on the Arguments For and Against Christianity, a book which brought into focus Colborne's key theological struggles, and ended with a question mark over whether he could ever confidently embrace Christianity, such were the theological problems he was wrestling with at the time.

But even after so much questioning, Colborne felt he couldn't disregard Christianity, as he found the words of Jesus Christ utterly compelling. He continued to explore Biblical theology to see whether there was any way that the divine sovereignty versus human free will problem could be reconciled with the Christian gospel in an honest and logical way.

In his 2020 release, The Only Question You Ever Need Ask, Colborne honed in on a single question which gets right to the heart of the free will predicament, and that book includes an in-depth discussion of double predestination and the associated doctrine of hell. The content of that book, as well as Colborne's further Biblical studies, led the author to arrive at a solution to the theological problems with which he battled for so long.

This concise document, simply entitled Statement of Faith, captures Colborne's mature understanding of Christianity and presents an argument (in five points) reflecting this understanding. Also included are supporting notes to accompany the statement, as well as a piece entitled 'The Statement in Context' which provides an overview of Colborne's faith journey to date.

Please note: This is not a full-length book. It is approximately 25 pages long in the print edition.

Other Formats: Paperback

This title and over 1 million more available with Kindle Unlimited.

God's Grand Game: Divine Sovereignty and the Cosmic Playground Mar 25, 2019

by Steven Colborne

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$6.99

God’s Grand Game is the magnum opus of philosopher Steven Colborne and contains a comprehensive exposition of his worldview.

The new atheism movement has highlighted many of the theological problems related to Christianity and other religions, and as we move into a 'post-truth' age, many people are wondering whether there is still a place for God in society. Has science consigned God to the evolutionary scrapheap?

In this bold and insightful book, British philosopher Steven Colborne strongly argues that God exists, but also criticises many of the key doctrines of Christianity and other world religions that present, in his view, a mistaken understanding of the nature of God.

Tackling subjects such as free will, suffering, morality, and the afterlife, Colborne presents a grand vision of reality with God at the centre. The book looks not only backward at the religions that have shaped our world, but also to the future – a future in which Colborne believes science, technology, and a new kind of religion, will all have a meaningful role to play.

Other Formats: Hardcover , Paperback

Thanks Be To God: A Selection of Christian Scriptures for Spiritual Seekers Nov 29, 2020

by Steven Colborne

( 1 )

$3.99

At this time of great global uncertainty, many people are hungry for peace and stability.

Jesus Christ is described in the Bible as the Prince of Peace, and the Christian Gospel has provided hope and meaning to spiritual seekers for two thousand years. The teachings of Jesus are arguably more important today than ever before.

In an age when spiritual practices that are contrary to the teachings of Jesus are on the rise, author Steven Colborne has written a concise book that will enable anyone who is interested in spirituality to get to grips with the core teachings of Christianity, so that they can fully understand whether they should accept or reject the teachings and person of Jesus.

Thanks Be To God contains 20 important passages of Scripture, with each passage accompanied by a short reflection from Colborne to offer context and insight. The book is ideally suited to people who are interested in exploring Christianity but feel daunted by the prospect of reading the whole Bible.

Other Formats: Paperback

The Philosophy of a Mad Man Aug 4, 2019

by Steven Colborne

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Part memoir, part philosophical exposition, The Philosophy of a Man Man describes author Steven Colborne’s journey towards spiritual enlightenment.

The paradoxical title of the book reflects the background of the author, who is both an accomplished academic and a diagnosed schizophrenic.

The book includes a vivid and detailed account of the author’s visit to the home of the spiritual guru Mooji, who entered the media spotlight following his appearance on the Russell Brand ‘Under the Skin’ podcast in August 2020. Among a host of other spiritual adventures, the book describes a spiritual retreat experience with Indian shaking meditation teacher Ratu Bagus, whose retreats in Bali are known for being both gruelling and spiritually transformative.

In the philosophy section of the book, Colborne tackles a range of important philosophical topics related to spirituality, including the nature of God, free will, consciousness, and the meaning of life. The author argues that a God exists who is not merely a deeper a level of consciousness (which is the way some Eastern religions describe God), but is a personal being with whom we can develop a relationship, and who is intimately involved in every detail of our lives.

The first edition of The Philosophy of a Mad Man was published by SilverWood Books in 2012. With newly refreshed cover art, this second edition of the book, published in 2019, includes an updated introduction and afterword, and is essential reading for anyone on a journey to understand spiritual enlightenment and the big questions surrounding our existence.

Other Formats: Paperback

An Almighty Predicament: A Discourse on the Arguments For and Against Christianity Jul 31, 2019

by Steven Colborne

$3.99

An Almighty Predicament is the perfect book for deep thinking people who are trying to decide whether or not they should commit to Christianity.

Christians will tell you that there is only one way to have peace with God — a relationship with Jesus Christ. But for many people, the Christian worldview is not intellectually satisfying, as there are so many aspects of Christian doctrine that don’t seem to make sense.

In this 70 page essay by British philosopher and author Steven Colborne, the arguments for and against Christianity are weighed up and scrutinised, with passages of Scripture cited and personal testimony expounded. At the heart of the essay is the free will problem, which for Colborne is the make-or-break issue when it comes to deciding whether or not one should accept the Christian worldview.

Written from an impartial viewpoint, the essay examines the Christian worldview respectfully and with an open mind. After reading all of Colborne’s arguments on both sides of the debate, readers will feel better equipped to make a decision about Christianity for themselves.

Other Formats: Paperback

The Only Question You Ever Need Ask Jun 8, 2020

by Steven Colborne

$4.99

The Only Question You Ever Need Ask is a theological essay in which philosopher Steven Colborne examines what he believes to be the central question of theology — a question which he invites every spiritually minded person to consider.

On Colborne’s philosophy blog, Perfect Chaos, a community of deep thinkers have been exploring life’s big questions together for nearly a decade. During that time, Colborne has written over 400 articles on theology related questions and has published several critically acclaimed books which present a philosophical perspective that is both unusual and insightful.

Throughout his career, Colborne has continually challenged Christian believers to provide a logical solution to the free will predicament — a predicament which draws into question whether the absolute sovereignty of God can be reconciled with the cherished Christian doctrine of human free will.

In The Only Question You Ever Need Ask, Colborne explores a single question which gets to the very heart of the free will predicament. With reference to the doctrines and Scriptures of Christianity, Colborne presents, explores, and finally answers that question, and the conclusion that the author comes to in the final part of the essay is both provocative and enlightening.

For genuine seekers after Truth, this is a book which should not be ignored.

Other Formats: Paperback

The God Articles Jun 22, 2020

by Steven Colborne

$6.49

The God Articles are a carefully curated selection of insightful articles written by philosopher Steven Colborne between 2012 and 2020.

This 430 page book comprises dialogues, discourses, prayers and poems, each of which was written by Colborne as a unique reflection or exposition related to his spiritual journey and/or philosophical perspective. Readers will find deeply personal articles portraying times of spiritual crisis and mental breakdown, as well as vivid descriptions of pivotal moments in Colborne's faith life such as water baptism, Holy Spirit baptism, and miraculous healing.

The book can be seen as a follow-up to Colborne's 2012 book The Philosophy of a Mad Man in that it encapsulates developments in Colborne's spiritual journey which follow on from that book. Those who haven't read The Philosophy of a Mad Man needn't worry, however, because The God Articles is a standalone work and is entirely unique among Colborne's body of book releases.

None of the articles in the book have been published in any of Colborne's other books, although some of the contents has appeared on his blog, Perfect Chaos.

Other Formats: Paperback

Big Ideas from Ancient Greece Oct 7, 2019

by Steven Colborne

( 4 )

$3.49

Big Ideas from Ancient Greece offers a short introduction to the world of ancient Greek philosophy from the perspective of a contemporary theologian.

Ancient Greece is widely regarded as the birthplace of Western philosophy. Many of the ideas expounded by the philosophers of that day went on to shape modern scientific and philosophical thought — everything from atomic theory to speculations about the afterlife.

In this insightful look at twelve of the most important figures from antiquity, British philosopher-theologian Steven Colborne sizes up Socrates and analyses Aristotle, offering a contemporary perspective on some of the most amazing philosophical ideas of all time.

The book explores fascinating questions such as:

Is everything made of water?
Do ideas exist in reality?
What are God’s attributes?
Can we really know anything?

Whether you’re a seasoned philosopher or just a curious amateur, you’ll be gripped by Colborne’s profound yet accessible reflections. Big Ideas from Ancient Greece is destined to become a textbook introduction to the enduringly fascinating world of ancient Greek thought.

Other Formats: Paperback

This title and over 1 million more available with Kindle Unlimited.

Ultimate Truth: God Beyond Religion Dec 6, 2020

by Steven Colborne

( 1 )

$5.29

Ultimate Truth: God Beyond Religion was philosopher Steven Colborne's second book, the follow-up to his 2012 debut The Philosophy of a Mad Man.

Colborne has had a fascinating spiritual journey, which began with atheism and then took him on an immersive exploration of both Eastern and Western philosophy. This short book, originally released in 2013, but now released in a revised and updated second edition, serves as an excellent introduction to Colborne’s life and thought.

In the opening chapters, Colborne explains some of the reasons why for a long time he was unable to embrace the Christian worldview. He proceeds to present his vision of the nature of the God/world relationship, discussing subjects such as God's attributes, suffering, morality, the human mind, and more. The author also shares some insights into his mental health journey, which impacted his philosophical perspective significantly.

Simplicity and clarity are hard to find in philosophy, but Colborne has a gift for expressing his perspective in a straightforward way that will surely be thought-provoking for each and every reader. Ultimate Truth: God Beyond Religion represents a significant contribution both to Colborne’s body of work and to the broader field of philosophical theology.

Other Formats: Paperback

Puppets: The Major Works of Philosopher Steven Colborne Jul 10, 2020

by Steven Colborne

$18.99

Puppets is a compilation of four major book releases by philosopher and author Steven Colborne.

This 800+ page collection offers a feast of philosophical and theological insight and includes all of Colborne's full-length book releases to date. Readers will finish this collection understanding the full depth and beauty of Colborne's philosophy, which depicts God as in sovereign control of all events in existence, including all human activity — hence the title, 'Puppets'.

The following books are included in the compilation:

GOD'S GRAND GAME
This is Colborne's magnum opus and is a systematic presentation of his philosophical worldview. The book is the result of more than 10 years of research and reflection in relation to the divine sovereignty versus human free will predicament.

THE PHILOSOPHY OF A MAD MAN
Part spiritual memoir, part philosophical exposition, this was Colborne's debut book release, and offers a compelling insight into the man behind the philosophy.

THE GOD ARTICLES
A diverse selection of Colborne's dialogues, discourses, prayers, poems, and reflections on matters of spirituality and religion. Includes fascinating accounts of major events in Colborne's spiritual life such as his Holy Spirit baptism and miraculous street healing.

A COLLECTION OF ESSAYS
Includes twelve essays spanning Colborne's career, from his first class undergraduate thesis on musical meaning, to his Heythrop essays discussing leading figures from the history of philosophy, and several of his later essays, including An Almighty Predicament: A Discourse on the Arguments For and Against Christianity and The Only Question You Ever Need Ask.

Presented with striking artwork, Puppets offers a chance to fully understand the life story and philosophy of an original thinker whose ideas represent a vital and timely contribution to the history of thought.

Other Formats: Paperback

A Collection of Essays by Steven Colborne Jun 15, 2020

by Steven Colborne

$9.99

A Collection of Essays by Steven Colborne features 12 essays which tackle many of the major problems of philosophy and theology.

The following essays are included in this volume:

A Listener-Centred, Dialectical Model for Popular Music Analysis
Heraclitus and the Nature of Change
The Schopenhauerian Concept of Will
The Soul in Christianity and Platonism
George Eliot and Feuerbach on God and the Good
Karl Rahner’s Anthropology
Karl Barth’s Doctrine of Election
The Trinity and Suffering
A Letter to George Eliot about God and the Good
God and Suffering: Approaches and Issues
An Almighty Predicament: A Discourse on the Arguments For and Against Christianity
The Only Question You Ever Need Ask

The first essay in this volume is Colborne's first-class undergraduate dissertation, written during his final year of study at the University of Westminster. The essay presents a radical approach to music analysis.

The majority of the included essays were written during Colborne's postgraduate studies at Heythrop College, University of London. While Steven enrolled to study an MA in Philosophy and Religion, he was admitted to psychiatric hospital prior to completing his studies, but was still able to graduate with a Postgraduate Certificate.

The Heythrop essays include a discussion of the nature of the human soul, as well as various discourses related to the subject of suffering. Colborne also examines the ideas of several important figures in Western philosophy, including Heraclitus, Schopenhauer, and others. The ideas of various contemporary writers and theologians are also explored, including Karl Rahner, Karl Barth, and George Eliot.

The final two essays in the book are what might be referred to as Colborne's 'mature' essays. These essays offer profound insights into the divine sovereignty versus human free will predicament, with specific reference to Christian theology. As with so much of Colborne's work, the problem of suffering is a key focus.

This book presents some of Colborne's finest work, and readers will finish the book having gained a thorough understanding of Colborne's philosophical worldview and most important academic contributions.

Other Formats: Paperback

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