Evolution

Reflection

Evolution remains one of the more contentious topics where science and faith intersect, and Christians hold a genuine range of views on it, from young earth positions to theistic evolution to various positions in between. What unites orthodox Christian belief across that range is not a specific scientific model but the conviction that God is the ultimate source and sustainer of life, however the process of biological development actually unfolded. Genesis was written to answer questions of who and why rather than precisely how and when, addressed to an ancient audience using the literary conventions of its time. That does not settle every scientific debate, but it does mean Christians need not feel forced to choose between honest science and genuine faith, since the two texts, the book of Scripture and the book of nature, were never meant to compete for the same kind of authority. Disagreement among believers on this topic is long standing and can be held with humility rather than division.

Questions to sit with

• Where do you currently sit on questions about origins and evolution?
• How do you personally read the opening chapters of Genesis?
• Can you hold your view with humility towards those who see it differently?

Topics