God and Genesis.

The universe testifies to the existence of its Creator. The Bible in the book of Genesis gives a brief account of God’s creative work. Unfortunately, some scientists and theologians have not been able to come together on the facts.

One reason — the age of the universe, another — evolution.

            In 1650 AD, Archbishop James Usher used the genealogies provided in Genesis to calculate the age of the earth. He arrived at a date of 4004 BC. Usher had little scientific data available to determine whether he was using sound exegesis. It is natural to assume that the Archbishop would not reach the same conclusion if he were to study the evidence available now. However, the young-earth creationists are still perpetuating this view today by insisting that the earth is about 6,000 year old. The young-earth creationists have made this issue a battleground by coercing well-meaning clergy into believing godless science is purposely attempting to discredit the Bible. But the young-earth arguments are flawed, even though they sound like they are glorifying God.

            Naturalistic science, on the other hand, claims that everything developed naturally and that there is nothing for a Creator to do. All things can be explained without invoking a God. The sad thing is that this is not true, but it is feared that admitting otherwise would give credence to the young-earth beliefs.

            In their pure form, Christianity and science are interested in the same thing — the truth. Many Christian scientists struggle daily between the facts of the universe and the tradition they are told they must accept because of their faith. Some unbelievers cannot come to the saving faith in Jesus Christ because they cannot settle the differences between science and religion.

            The fossil records indicate that life began as simple bacteria type cells and became more and more complex as creation progressed. This does not mean naturalistic evolution can explain everything. It is a theory. Microevolution does explain much of the variations within a species — different types of finches for instance. Macroevolution's ability to produce through natural selection or mutations novel organs or a change in body plan is not proven fact. On the contrary, the fossil records show that species generally appear suddenly and remain basically stable throughout their existence. On the other hand, in principle it is very logical to admit that God used the laws of nature, that He designed, to achieve His goal.

            Two extreme opinions are fighting with each other on this matter, not realizing that it is actually not difficult to harmonize modern science with the Bible.