Norman Geisler Biography
Norman Geisler was an American Christian systematic theologian and philosopher who was born and brought up in Warren, Michigan, U.S. as Norman Leo Geisler. He was the co-founder of two non-denominational evangelical seminaries (Veritas International University and Southern Evangelical Seminary.
Geisler held a Ph.D. in philosophy from Loyola University and made scholarly contributions to the subjects of classical Christian apologetics, systematic theology, the history of philosophy, philosophy of religion, Calvinism, Roman Catholicism, Biblical inerrancy, Bible difficulties, ethics, and more.
10 Quick Facts About Norman Geisler
- Name: Norman Leo Geisler
- Age: 86 years old as of his death in 2019
- Birthday: July 21
- Zodiac Sign: Cancer
- Height: Average
- Nationality: American
- Marital Status: Married to Barbara Jean Cate(Until 2019)
- Occupation: Christian systematic theologian and philosopher
- Salary: Under Review
- Net worth: $9 million dollars as of his death
Norman Geisler Death
Geisler, a prominent Christian apologist, and theologian passed away on July 1, 2019, at the age of 86. Geisler was known for his work in defending the Christian faith through his numerous writings, debates, and lectures.
Throughout his life, Geisler authored or co-authored more than 100 books on topics ranging from apologetics to ethics, including “I Don’t Have Enough Faith to be an Atheist,” “Systematic Theology,” and “Chosen But Free.” He was also a co-founder of both the Evangelical Theological Society and the International Society of Christian Apologetics.
Geisler’s passing was felt deeply by many in the Christian community who had been impacted by his teachings and writings. He was known for his commitment to defending the faith and his willingness to engage in rigorous debate and discussion on theological issues.
Although he has passed away, Geisler’s legacy lives on through his writings, teachings, and the many lives he impacted through his work in Christian apologetics.
Norman Geisler Age
Geisler was 86 years old as of his death in 2019, he was born Norman Leo Geisler on July 21, 1932, in Warren, Michigan, a suburb of Detroit.
Norman Geisler Height
Geisler stood at an average height. He appears to be quite tall in stature if his photos, relative to his surroundings, are anything to go by. However, details regarding his actual height and other body measurements are currently not publicly available. We will update this section when the information is available.
Ealry Life and Education
Norman Geisler was born on July 21, 1932, in Warren, Michigan, USA. He grew up in a non-Christian family and became a Christian during his teenage years after attending a youth rally.
Geisler received his Bachelor of Arts in philosophy from Wheaton College in 1954, his Bachelor of Divinity from William Tyndale College in 1958, and his Master of Arts in theology from Wheaton Graduate School in 1960. He earned his Ph.D. in philosophy from Loyola University in 1970.
Throughout his academic career, Geisler also pursued further studies at several institutions, including the University of Detroit, Westminster Theological Seminary, and Dallas Theological Seminary. He also received numerous honorary doctorates from various universities and seminaries.
Rise To Fame
Geisler is best known as the Christian apologist and philosopher. He was a prolific author, publishing more than 100 books and articles during his lifetime, many of which became bestsellers in the Christian community.
Geisler became notable for his work in Christian apologetics, which is the defense of the Christian faith. He became famous for his arguments for the existence of God, his defense of the reliability of the Bible, and his responses to objections against Christianity.
Furthermore his work in apologetics, he also made significant contributions to the field of philosophy. He was a strong proponent of classical foundationalism, a philosophical view that emphasizes the need for certain foundational beliefs as a basis for knowledge.
His expertise in apologetics and philosophy led to his involvement in many debates and public discussions about Christianity. He was a frequent guest on radio and television programs and was often invited to speak at churches, conferences, and universities.
Geisler’s influence in the Christian community extended beyond his own writings and speaking engagements. He was a founding member of several organizations, such as the Evangelical Theological Society, the International Society of Christian Apologetics, as well as the Southern Evangelical Seminary.
Norman Geisler Family
Geisler was born to his parents Alphonsus and Bertha Geisle and sister Dellah Buckley.
Norman Geisler Wife
Geisler was married to Barbara Jean Cate. The couple was married for 64 years. Together they had six children: Ruth, David, Daniel, Rhoda, Paul, and Rachel.
He died of cerebral thrombosis at a hospital in Charlotte, North Carolina on July 1, 2019, 20 days prior to his 87th birthday. Geisler’s funeral was held at Calvary Church in Charlotte, North Carolina. Ravi Zacharias gave the eulogy.
Norman Geisler Children
Norman and his wife have six children named: David Geisler, Rhoda Geisler, Paul Geisler, Rachel Nelson, Ruth Kostreva, Daniel Geisler. He is fifteen grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.
Norman Geisler Net Worth
Geisler had an estimated net worth of $9 million dollars as of his death. This includes his assets, money, and income. His primary source of income is his career as a Christian systematic theologian and philosopher. Through his various sources of income, Geisler has been able to accumulate good fortune but prefers to lead a modest lifestyle.
Norman Geisler Measurements and Facts
Here are some interesting facts and body measurements you should know about Norman Geisler.
Norman Geisler Wiki
- Full Names: Norman Leo Geisler
- Popular As: Geisler
- Gender: Male
- Occupation / Profession: Christian systematic theologian and philosopher
- Nationality: American
- Race / Ethnicity: White
- Religion: Christianity
- Sexual Orientation: Straight
Norman Geisler Birthday
- Age / How Old?: 86 years old as of his death in 2019
- Zodiac Sign: Cancer
- Date of Birth: July 21, 1932
- Place of Birth: Warren, Michigan, a suburb of Detroit
- Birthday: July 21
Norman Geisler Body Measurements
- Body Measurements: Not Available
- Height / How Tall?: Average
- Weight: Moderate
- Eye Color: Not Available
- Hair Color: Not Available
- Shoe Size: Not Available
Norman Geisler Family and Relationship
- Father (Dad): Alphonsus
- Mother: Bertha Geisle
- Siblings (Sisters): Dellah Buckley
- Marital Status: Married
- Wife/Spouse: Married to
- Dating / Girlfriend: Not Applicable
- Children: David Geisler, Rhoda Geisler, Paul Geisler, Rachel Nelson, Ruth Kostreva, Daniel Geisler
Norman Geisler Net Worth and Salary
- Net Worth: $9 million dollars as of 2023
- Salary: Under Review
- Source of Income: Christian systematic theologian and philosopher
Career
Geisler (1932-2019) was a prominent Christian apologist, theologian, and philosopher. He held multiple academic degrees, such as a Ph.D. in philosophy from Loyola University and a Th.D. in theology from Westminster Theological Seminary.
He was a prolific author, having written or co-written over 80 books on topics ranging from Christian apologetics and theology to ethics and philosophy. Some of his most well-known works include “Christian Apologetics,” “Baker Encyclopedia of Christian Apologetics,” and “Systematic Theology.”
In addition to his writing, Geisler was a professor of theology and apologetics at several institutions, including Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, Dallas Theological Seminary, and Southern Evangelical Seminary. He was also a co-founder of the Evangelical Theological Society and the International Society of Christian Apologetics.
Throughout his career, he was known for his defense of traditional Christian beliefs and his commitment to the use of reason and logic in defending the faith. He died on July 1, 2019, at the age of 86.
Systematic Theology
Geisler’s Systematic Theology is a comprehensive work on Christian theology that aims to provide a clear and coherent understanding of the core doctrines of the Christian faith. The book is divided into four main parts: Introduction to Theology, The Doctrine of God, The Doctrine of Creation and Humanity, and The Doctrine of Redemption.
Throughout the book, Geisler presents a systematic and detailed exposition of each doctrine, drawing on a wide range of biblical, theological, and philosophical sources. He also engages with various theological traditions and schools of thought, seeking to provide a balanced and nuanced perspective on each topic.
Calvinism
Geisler was a critic of certain aspects of Calvinism, particularly the doctrine of unconditional election, which he believed was inconsistent with the biblical teaching on the universality of God’s love and desire for all to be saved. He was also critical of the Calvinist doctrine of limited atonement, which teaches that Christ’s atonement was intended only for the elect.
In his book, “Chosen But Free: A Balanced View of God’s Sovereignty and Free Will,” Geisler argues for a middle ground between Calvinism and Arminianism. He asserts that while God is sovereign and predestines some to salvation, he also grants humans free will to respond to his grace or reject it. He emphasizes the importance of human responsibility and argues that individuals can resist God’s grace and choose to reject salvation.
Geisler’s views on Calvinism were shaped by his broader theological and philosophical commitments, including his belief in the compatibility of human freedom and divine sovereignty. Furthermore, he believed in the importance of the Bible as the ultimate authority in theological matters and sought to develop a biblically-based approach to theology that avoided the extremes of both Calvinism and Arminianism.
Arminian
Geisler was not a strict Arminian, but he did share some similarities with the Arminian theological tradition. For example, Geisler emphasized the importance of human free will and the possibility of resisting God’s grace, which are key tenets of Arminianism.
However, he also critiqued certain aspects of Arminianism, particularly its rejection of the doctrine of unconditional election. He believed that the biblical evidence supports the idea that God chooses some individuals for salvation apart from their own merits or works, which is a key tenet of Calvinism. Geisler argued for a middle-ground position that affirmed both God’s sovereignty and human responsibility while rejecting the extremes of both Calvinism and Arminianism.
Geisler’s views on Arminianism were shaped by his broader theological and philosophical commitments, including his belief in the compatibility of human freedom and divine sovereignty. Further, he emphasized the importance of the Bible as the ultimate authority in theological matters and sought to develop a biblically-based approach to theology that avoided the pitfalls of both Calvinism and Arminianism.
Catholicism
Geisler was a Protestant theologian as well as an apologist who held to a broadly evangelical and conservative perspective. As such, he was generally critical of Catholicism and its teachings, particularly its understanding of salvation, sacraments, and authority.
He argued that Catholicism’s emphasis on works and sacraments as necessary for salvation undermined the biblical doctrine of justification by faith alone. Furthermore, he disagreed with the Catholic teaching on the role of Mary and the saints in salvation and Catholic belief in the infallibility of the pope.
Despite these differences, he recognized the common ground between Protestants and Catholics on a number of issues, such as the Trinity, the deity of Christ, as well as the authority of the Bible. He also emphasized the importance of engaging in respectful and constructive dialogue with Catholics, while maintaining his own theological convictions.
Geisler participated in a public dialogue with Catholic philosopher Peter Kreeft, in which the two discussed a range of theological and philosophical topics, such as the nature of God, the problem of evil, as well as the differences between Catholicism and Protestantism. While the dialogue did not result in a resolution of their theological differences, it did provide an example of how respectful and constructive dialogue between Catholics and Protestants can be pursued.
Notable Travel, Events, and Experiences
- Geisler traveled extensively throughout the United States and around the world to speak at conferences, seminars, and other events. He was known for his engaging and dynamic speaking style, and his ability to communicate complex ideas in a clear and accessible way.
- In 1995, Geisler was one of several evangelical leaders who signed the “Evangelicals and Catholics Together” document, which sought to promote greater cooperation and understanding between Protestants and Catholics. The document generated significant controversy within evangelical circles, with some critics accusing Geisler and others of compromising key aspects of the Protestant faith.
- Geisler was also involved in a number of debates and public discussions with atheists, skeptics, and members of other faiths. He was known for his skillful use of logic and reason in defending the Christian faith, and his willingness to engage in respectful and constructive dialogue with those who held different views.
- Geisler was a strong supporter of the pro-life movement, and he frequently spoke out against abortion and euthanasia. He also served as an advisor to various political leaders and organizations on matters of ethics and public policy.
Social Impact
Dr. Norman Geisler was a Christian apologist, theologian, philosopher, and author who made significant contributions to the field of Christian thought. His impact was felt not only within Christian circles but also in wider society.
One of the ways in which Geisler had a social impact was through his emphasis on the importance of reason and evidence in defending the Christian faith. He argued that Christianity is not merely a matter of blind faith, but rather it is supported by rational arguments and historical evidence. This emphasis on reason helped to counter the prevalent notion that Christianity is anti-intellectual and outdated.
He also had a significant impact on the discipline of apologetics, which is the defense of the Christian faith. He authored numerous books on the subject, including “Christian Apologetics,” which has become a standard textbook in many seminaries and Christian colleges. His work has helped to equip many Christians with the tools they need to defend their faith in a rational and persuasive way.
Furthermore to his impact on Christian thought, he was also involved in a number of social and political issues. He was an advocate for the pro-life movement, and he spoke out against euthanasia and assisted suicide. He also wrote about the importance of moral absolutes, as well as the dangers of relativism.
Awards, Accomplishments and Achievements
Here are some of his notable awards, accomplishments, and achievements:
- Geisler received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Wheaton College in 1952, a Master of Arts degree from Wheaton Graduate School in 1954, and a Ph.D. in philosophy from Loyola University in 1970.
- He taught at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, Dallas Theological Seminary, and Southern Evangelical Seminary, among other institutions, over the course of his career.
- Geisler authored or co-authored more than 90 books, including “Christian Apologetics,” “Systematic Theology,” “Philosophy of Religion,” and “When Skeptics Ask.”
- He was the co-founder of the Evangelical Philosophical Society and served as its president from 1991 to 1992.
- In 2006, Geisler was awarded the “Paideia Prize for Lifetime Achievement” by the evangelical journal Philosophia Christi.
- Geisler was a prolific debater, engaging in public debates on topics such as the existence of God, the resurrection of Jesus, and the reliability of the Bible.
- He was known for his defense of classical Christian theism, his critique of postmodernism and relativism, and his commitment to the inerrancy of Scripture.
- Geisler passed away on July 1, 2019, at the age of 86, leaving behind a legacy of rigorous scholarship and passionate advocacy for the Christian faith.
Legacy
Defending the Christian faith: Geisler was a tireless defender of the Christian faith, seeking to provide rational and persuasive arguments for the existence of God, the reliability of the Bible, and the truth of Christianity. His writings and debates have influenced countless believers and skeptics alike.
Promoting Christian unity: Geisler was known for his efforts to promote Christian unity and cooperation across denominational lines. He worked to build bridges between evangelical Protestants, Catholics, and Orthodox Christians and advocated for a shared commitment to the essentials of the Christian faith.
Fostering intellectual rigor: Geisler emphasized the importance of intellectual rigor and careful argumentation in Christian scholarship. He trained many students and scholars in the methods of philosophy and apologetics and encouraged them to pursue excellence in their work.
Contributing to key theological debates: Geisler’s writings and arguments have contributed significantly to key debates in theology and apologetics, including the debates over the inerrancy of Scripture, the nature of God, and the problem of evil.
Anecdote
Geisler was a prolific writer who published over 100 books during his career. He was known for his fastidiousness when it came to writing and editing, and he was famous for producing manuscripts that were nearly perfect before they went to his editors. He would often spend long hours in his office, writing and revising his work until he was satisfied with it.
Hobbies and Interests
- Photography: Geisler was an avid photographer and enjoyed capturing nature and landscapes on film.
- Chess: Geisler was a skilled chess player and enjoyed playing the game with friends and colleagues.
- Sports: Geisler was a fan of several sports, including baseball, basketball, and football.
- Music: Norman Geisler was a music lover and enjoyed listening to classical music and opera.
- Travel: Norman Geisler enjoyed traveling and exploring new places.
Quotes
Final Thoughts
Geisler was a prominent Christian philosopher and apologist who dedicated his life to defending the truth of the Christian faith. He authored over 100 books and articles, and was widely recognized for his contributions to Christian apologetics, theology, and ethics.
Throughout his career, Geisler emphasized the importance of using reason and evidence to support the truth claims of Christianity. He believed that faith and reason were not opposed to each other, but rather that faith was based on rational evidence and that reason could lead one to faith in God.
Geisler’s final thought could be summarized in his own words: “The greatest thing anyone can do is to love God with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love their neighbor as themselves.” For Geisler, this was not only a moral imperative, but the very purpose of human existence. He believed that the love of God as well as the love of others were inseparable, and that they formed the foundation for a meaningful and fulfilling life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Norman Geisler
Norman Geisler was an American Christian systematic theologian and philosopher who was born and brought up in Warren, Michigan, U.S. as Norman Leo Geisler
Geisler was 86 years old as of his death in 2019, he was born Norman Leo Geisler on July 21, 1932, in Warren, Michigan, a suburb of Detroit.
Geisler stood at an average height, he has not shared her height with the public. Her height will be listed once we have it from a credible source.
Geisler was married to Barbara Jean Cate. The couple was married for for 64 years. Together they had six children: Ruth, David, Daniel, Rhoda, Paul, and Rachel.
Geisler has an estimated net worth of $9 million dollars. This includes his assets, money, and income.
Details about Geisler’s salary are not yet disclosed. However, information about how much he makes will be updated as soon as it is available.
Geisler, a prominent Christian apologist, and theologian passed away on July 1, 2019, at the age of 86. Geisler was known for his work in defending the Christian faith through his numerous writings, debates, and lectures.
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