Evolution and Theology operates at different levels: The first talks about our chronological origin while the later about our ontological origin. The two talks of different things and cannot be contested. Therefore creation vs. evolution is a non-debate. But yes, Evolution and YEC is the issue in contention.
To take the Bible as a science textbook believing in its inerrancy runs into problems within the text itself, e.g. genealogical precision (Genesis 11:12 cf. Luke 3:35).
Nature of science is such that a theory’s in place until refuted by another which better explains the phenomenon under study. No better theory has come up to refute evolution than the criticism of its loopholes.
The above point doesn’t mean the acceptance of evolution in spite of its weakness just for want of a better theory. The ever growing evidence and the landslide consensus among scientists testify to it being a theory and not a hypothesis.
The proportion of Bible scholars vouching for a literal interpretation of Genesis 1 and 2 is a tiny figure.
Coherence: that Astronomy, Geology, Biology, Archeology, etc all agree to and require an old universe/earth negates the possibility of the earth being 6000-10000 years old.
Credentials of the proponents of evolution and YEC and publishing of materials in reputed journals need to be considered.
Is adopting a stand for a young earth out of scientific proofs or faithfulness to a style of scripture interpretation?
After having done some bit of homework I have arrived at the conclusion that evolution is a scientifically credible theory, and Christians don't have to be scared of it; and it does not in any way negate the beliefs of Christian faith.
ReplyDeleteI would urge my Christian brothers who have considered evolution to be a tool designed by the Devil to undermine Christian belief to examine their stand once again. I think there is a way to see it at least not as a foe.
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