Abstract This paper proposes a mathematical framework for analyzing the structure of human self-worth judgment, drawing on the Hebrew exegesis of Isaiah 43:4. We formalize three distinct stances—self-denial, complacency, and gospel reception—as states in a value-judgment system, demonstrating that self-denial and complacency are structurally isomorphic despite their opposite valences, while the gospel represents a fundamentally non-isomorphic alternative. Using Markov transition models, we estimate the probability of gospel reception across different initial states, offering a quantitative approach to homiletic design and evangelistic strategy. Key Contributions Proof of structural isomorphism between self-denial and self-affirmation Formal definition of gospel as non-isomorphic transformation (relocation of judge from self to God) Markov model for gospel reception probability Framework for "Homiletic Engineering" Status This is a preprint manuscript under submission to Zygon: Journal of Religion and Science. Keywords formal theology, structural isomorphism, self-worth, gospel, Markov model, homiletics, cognitive science of religion, perspective-taking
Takayuki Takagi (Fri,) studied this question.