The book is written in the backdrop of two views on creation
that are diametrically opposed to each other: In the broadest reading possible,
says the author, we have on one hand the Genesis creation account which is a
supernatural phenomenon that leaves nothing to chance. However, on the other
hand we have the Darwinian evolution which, in the broadest reading possible,
is a natural phenomenon that leaves most everything to chance, so posits the
author.
It’s therefore hard to imagine two views of creation more at
odds with each other.
Why, then, this irresistible urge to “baptize the devil” by
seeking to harmonize evolution with Genesis? Though we can’t know individual
motives, the overarching answer is tied to the contemporary belief that
evolution must be true because, after all, It’s science!
This, however, raises more questions: “But if science is so
good at finding truth, why does the truth change so often? Why are scientific
certitudes of one generation often mocked as myths by the next one? Why do the
findings of science the results of the ‘scientific method,’ often contradict
each other?”
Moreover, the author ponders, when scientific explanations
about present reality, about what can be handled, heard, seen, tested and
retested, are filled with debate and controversy – why do so many people
unquestionably accept every scientific proclamation about supposed events
millions or billions of years ago?
In the author’s own words, Baptizing the Devil seeks to show that this capitulation is not
only unnecessary but misguided, another unfortunate example of well-meaning
Christians compromising their faith to the prevailing culture. With Baptizing the Devil, Goldstein hopes to free believers from the knee-jerk reaction
that the only logical and rational response to the phrase ‘But it’s science!’
is to surrender one’s beliefs, even religious ones, to it. Goldstein shows that
Christians shouldn’t compromise so crucial a doctrine as origins to the
prevailing culture, even when that culture is wrapped in the authoritative garb
of science.
To learn more about this new book and to read the first
chapter on line, click here
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