Proposition 16: Scientific Explanations of Origins Can Be Viewed in Light of Purpose, and If So, Are Unobjectionable
“… if the Bible does not offer an account of material origins we are free to consider contemporary explanations of origins on their own merits, as long as God is seen as ultimately responsible.”
Biological evolution is the controversial topic and this chapter concentrates on that issue.
Some objections to evolution "“ask why God would do it that way. This is one of those “if I were God I would do it differently” (read, “better”) kinds of arguments that humans presumptuously engage in.”
We can ask the what and how questions, but the why questions will lie beyond our understanding. God’s response to Job makes that point.
Three major reasons Bible believing folks have trouble with evolution:
- Theology. Some people argue that evolution removes God’s role in creation. But, that doesn’t have to be asserted. If we assume that God works via evolution, this argument goes away. This is not a scientific discussion.
- Genesis 1. If Genesis 1 is really a description of functional creation, these objections go away.
- Genesis 2 and Romans 5. The issues of Adam and Eve and the fall. <Argument weaker here.
Quotes from: John H. Walton. “The Lost World of Genesis One.” Apple Books. https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/the-lost-world-of-genesis-one/id870735215?mt=11