Creationist: Growth of Scientific Knowledge Triggering 'Apologetics Explosion'
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – Science has become a dreaded seven-letter word that many Christians have avoided, thinking that there is no common ground between science and religion.
Reasons to Believe President Dr. Hugh Ross, whose international ministry was established to communicate the uniquely factual basis for belief in the Bible, urged Christian writers to show the links that exist between science and religion, however. The Christian apologist thinks that, through knowledge, the existence of God is becoming clearer and more visible, even to the secular world.
"There is an apologetics explosion that is quickly increasing with today's discoveries," explained Ross to an audience of religious journalists on Friday at the 2007 Evangelical Press Association (EPA) Convention. "Our increased knowledge is bringing new evidence for truth in the Bible."
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As a main subject, the ministry leader described the problems that Christians have had with science in the past.
One of these includes Christian persecution of evolutionary models while refusing to take a position on the history of life or the universe themselves. A setback also arises when the faith community makes out evolutionist to be only "evil."
He explained that evolutionists will not just give up their model unless they are presented with a better one that is supported by the current evidence.
"We shouldn't just have angry debates [with non-Christians] about science," expressed the Canadian-born Old Earth creationist. "We can make models and peacefully present them."
Other dilemmas that have occurred in past science stories done by religious publications include the tone of voice and the way information is presented. According to Ross, several writers have reported their view arrogantly as if others were silly for not agreeing. They also are sarcastic and make caricatures to describe other theories and prejudiced against opponents.
Another important aspect to scientific articles is to find reliable sources. This means to really doing the homework on scientists. Ross noted that more than 75 percent of religious literature written on science is biased and not well researched or supported by data.
With the growth of scientific knowledge, Ross sees much hope for the future. He believes that God will be revealed more and more.
Ross cited one example of science crossing over into religion, explaining that an overwhelming majority of Japanese astronomers have become Christians, which is unusual in the Christian-scarce country. It was through their studies of the universe that they uncovered a notion of God, one that later led them to a faith centered around Jesus.
Ross was also encouraged by an upcoming date in 2009. Feb. 12 will mark the 200th anniversary of Darwin's birth as well as the 150th anniversary of the release of the Origin of Species, his research that led to the start of evolutionary thought.
The day will be a day where many Darwinists will come out to support the renowned scientist's findings, but Ross expressed how Christians can use the date to reveal God's work in nature.
"The book of Job…Job 38-39 has 50 questions that are asked by God," explained the apologist. "We've answered 10."
He expects to answer many more as time moves forward.
