Can God be an agent of God?

Why God cannot be an agent of God

The idea that God cannot be an agent of God stems from the classical monotheistic conception of God as an omnipotent, omniscient, and wholly unified being:

Unity and Indivisibility: In monotheistic traditions, God is often described as a singular, indivisible being. This unity means that God cannot be divided into separate entities that act on behalf of one another. An agent typically acts on behalf of another entity, implying a distinction between the principal and the agent. In the case of God, such a distinction does not exist.

God is a single unified divine essence

God is a singular, indivisible being, embodying perfect unity and oneness. This unity signifies that within the Godhead, there is no division into separate entities that can act independently or on behalf of one another in a manner that implies distinction. In Trinitarian theology, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit share the same will and mind, making them one in essence and purpose.

In traditional theological terms, an agent acts on behalf of another, suggesting a principal-agent relationship where the agent's actions are representative but distinct from the principal. However, in the context of the Trinity, this concept does not apply. The Son cannot be considered an agent of the Father because both the Father and the Son, along with the Holy Spirit, are essentially and fundamentally one. Their actions are not carried out on behalf of one another but are the actions of a single, unified divine essence.

This intrinsic unity means that any action of the Son is simultaneously the action of the Father and the Holy Spirit. There is no separate volition or intention among the persons of the Trinity. Thus, speaking of the Son as an agent of the Father would misrepresent the nature of the Triune God, as it would imply a separation and hierarchy that contradicts their essential unity. The divine actions are expressions of the one will and one nature of God. Although manifesting through the distinct persons, Jesus cannot be truly an agent of the Father if there is no division or distinction in their essence.

These arguments collectively illustrate why agency inherently involves a subservient relationship, with the agent acting under the authority, control, and interests of the principal.

Agency only applies to someone who is subservient to the principle

Here are several arguments that support the notion that agency typically applies to someone who is subservient to the principal:

1. Definition of Agency: Agency is fundamentally defined as a relationship in which one party, the agent, acts on behalf of another party, the principal. This inherently establishes a hierarchy where the agent is subservient to the principal, carrying out the principal’s instructions or will.

2. Delegated Authority: An agent operates under the authority granted by the principal. This delegated authority implies that the agent's power and actions are derivative, not inherent. The principal possesses the original authority and delegates it to the agent, establishing the agent’s subservient role.

3. Responsibility and Accountability: In an agency relationship, the agent is accountable to the principal for their actions. The agent must act in the best interests of the principal and is typically required to report back to the principal. This accountability reinforces the subservient position of the agent.

4. Fiduciary Duty: Agents have a fiduciary duty to act loyally and in the best interests of the principal. This duty includes obligations such as avoiding conflicts of interest and acting with care and diligence. The presence of fiduciary duties underscores the agent's subservience, as these duties prioritize the principal’s interests over the agent’s own.

5. Subordination in Legal and Business Contexts: In legal and business contexts, the concept of agency is consistently characterized by the subordination of the agent to the principal. Agents are employed to execute tasks, represent the principal, and make decisions within the scope of authority given by the principal, further cementing the hierarchical nature of the relationship.

6. Control and Oversight: The principal has the right to control and direct the actions of the agent. This control can range from giving specific instructions to setting general guidelines. The ability of the principal to oversee and direct the agent’s actions is a clear indicator of the agent’s subservient status.

7. Dependency on Principal’s Authority: An agent's authority is entirely dependent on the principal's grant of power. Without the principal's authorization, the agent has no inherent authority to act. This dependency signifies the agent's subordinate role, as the principal can revoke or alter the agent’s authority at any time.

8. Purpose of Agency: The purpose of establishing an agency relationship is for the principal to achieve certain goals through the agent’s actions. The agent’s role is to serve these goals, functioning as an extension of the principal’s will. This service-oriented function naturally positions the agent as subordinate to the principal.