Many Christians are torn between their belief in the Bible and the conclusions of science. This is especially the case concerning the creation narratives of Scripture and the rather different stories that science tells. Physicist Richard Carlson and Old Testament scholar Tremper Longman address the longstanding problem of how to relate scientific description of the beginnings of the universe with the biblical creation passages found in Genesis chapters 1 and 2.
Elite scholars in their respective fields, these two authors provide a way to resolve the seeming conflicting descriptions by demonstrating by way of a thorough exegesis the meaning of the Genesis texts while showing how they should and should not be used when we discuss matters of cosmological origins. This process allows the authors to illuminate where Science and Theology differ, but also identify the unique contribution that each one makes.
In the exegetical process, the authors also examine how the ancient Hebrews understood Genesis 1 & 2, how these passages should be understood to other areas of Scripture, and finally pinpoint just what we can take from Science, and what should be left behind.
Thus, the scope of Science, Creation, and the Bible is comprehensive and integrative, not apologetic and polemical. Such an approach is much welcomed and will undoubtedly help us make great strides in understanding how science and faith elate to one another rather than understanding them as inherent enemies. Properly interpreting the biblical texts and clearly identifying the nature of scientific claims are key. With those in hand we can see how Christian revelation and scientific findings about the origin of the universe are not in opposition but rather work in partnership with each other. If you enjoyed John Walton The Lost World of Genesis One you will no doubt enjoy this complimentary work.
