Defending Faith: Science, Miracles, and Creation

 

Summary

In today's world, believers face a unique challenge: the simultaneous openness to various spiritualities and an aggressive rejection of Christianity's truth claims. This paradoxical environment demands that Christians be prepared to defend their faith, as Peter urges us to do. The rise of new atheism, championed by figures like Sam Harris and Richard Dawkins, has intensified the scrutiny on Christianity, often portraying religion as the root of societal problems. In this context, Christians are frequently confronted with questions about the compatibility of science and faith, particularly whether science has disproven Christianity or the Bible.

When faced with such questions, it's crucial to understand the specific concerns being raised. Often, these revolve around three main topics: creation and evolution, miracles, and the Bible's truthfulness. For instance, the philosophy of materialism, which underpins much of modern science, is indeed in conflict with Christianity. However, scientific materialism has not disproven Christianity. The conversation shifts significantly depending on whether the questioner is challenging the philosophical underpinnings of science or specific scientific claims.

Regarding creation and evolution, it's important to note that evolution does not address the universe's origins. It describes the mechanism of life's development but offers no explanation for the universe's initial existence. The Christian view, as articulated in Genesis, posits that God created the heavens and the earth, a claim that remains unchallenged by scientific discoveries. Similarly, the Bible's use of phenomenological language, such as describing the sun's movement, should not be misconstrued as scientific error but understood within its literary context.

Miracles, by their nature, are extraordinary and not meant to be everyday occurrences. They underscore the supernatural foundation of Christianity, particularly the resurrection of Jesus Christ, which is central to our faith. Rejecting miracles on the basis of their rarity misses the point of their divine significance.

Ultimately, the assertion that God is our Creator is foundational to the gospel. It establishes our accountability to Him and frames the entire narrative of redemption. As believers, we must be prepared to engage thoughtfully with these challenges, recognizing that science and faith address different kinds of questions and that the evidence for God's existence and the truth of Christianity is both profound and compelling.

Key Takeaways:

1. Understanding the Question: When faced with challenges about science disproving Christianity, it's crucial to discern the specific question being asked. Often, the issue lies in the philosophical underpinnings of science, such as materialism, rather than empirical evidence. Engaging thoughtfully requires understanding these nuances. [03:40]

2. Creation and Evolution: The theory of evolution does not address the universe's origins, which remains a profound mystery. The Christian claim that God created the heavens and the earth stands firm, as science has not provided an alternative explanation for the universe's initial existence. [23:20]

3. Miracles and Faith: Miracles are not everyday occurrences but divine interventions that underscore the supernatural foundation of Christianity. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is central to our faith, and rejecting miracles due to their rarity misses their divine significance. [19:00]

4. The Bible's Language: The Bible often uses phenomenological language, describing events as they appear from a human perspective. Understanding this literary context prevents misinterpretations that pit scientific language against biblical descriptions. [13:14]

5. God as Creator: The assertion that God is our Creator is foundational to the gospel, establishing our accountability to Him. This truth frames the entire narrative of redemption and is essential for understanding our relationship with God. [42:19]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:14] - The Challenge of Defending Faith
- [00:30] - Spiritual Openness vs. Rejection
- [01:13] - New Atheism's Aggressive Stance
- [02:23] - Questions on Science and Faith
- [03:09] - Understanding the Question
- [04:23] - Materialism vs. Christianity
- [05:25] - Creation and Evolution
- [06:17] - Miracles and Scientific Challenges
- [07:50] - Responding to Archaeological Claims
- [10:45] - Vindication of Scripture
- [14:51] - The Nature of Miracles
- [19:00] - The Resurrection's Centrality
- [23:20] - Evolution and Origins
- [42:19] - God as Creator and Gospel Foundation

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
1. Genesis 1:1 - "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth."
2. Acts 17:24-28 - Paul's sermon at the Areopagus, emphasizing God as Creator.
3. John 4:24 - "God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth."

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Observation Questions:

1. What are the three main topics often questioned when discussing the compatibility of science and Christianity, as mentioned in the sermon? [05:25]

2. How does the sermon describe the role of miracles in Christianity, particularly in relation to the resurrection of Jesus Christ? [19:00]

3. According to the sermon, what is the significance of the Bible using phenomenological language, and how should it be understood? [13:14]

4. What does the sermon suggest about the relationship between scientific materialism and Christianity? [04:23]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How does the assertion that "God is our Creator" frame the entire narrative of redemption, as discussed in the sermon? [42:19]

2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that science and faith address different kinds of questions, and why is this distinction important for believers? [39:53]

3. How does the sermon address the claim that science has disproven the Bible, particularly in relation to archaeological and astronomical challenges? [12:30]

4. What is the significance of Paul's approach in Acts 17 when he begins his proclamation of the Gospel with the truth that God is our maker? [43:53]

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Application Questions:

1. When faced with questions about the compatibility of science and faith, how can you discern the specific concerns being raised and engage thoughtfully with them? [03:40]

2. Reflect on a time when you encountered skepticism about miracles. How did you respond, and how might you approach such conversations differently after hearing this sermon? [19:00]

3. The sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding the Bible's literary context. How can you apply this understanding to your personal Bible study to prevent misinterpretations? [13:14]

4. Consider the assertion that God is our Creator and its foundational role in the gospel. How does this truth impact your daily life and your accountability to God? [42:19]

5. How can you prepare yourself to engage in conversations about the philosophical underpinnings of science, such as materialism, and their conflict with Christianity? [04:23]

6. Think about a person in your life who is curious about faith but skeptical of Christianity's truth claims. How can you engage them in a meaningful conversation about the evidence for God's existence? [20:17]

7. The sermon suggests that everyone worships something. Reflect on what occupies the throne in your life. How can you ensure that God remains at the center of your worship? [45:59]

Devotional

Day 1: Discernment in Faith and Science
Understanding the questions posed about the relationship between science and Christianity is crucial for believers. Often, these questions are rooted in the philosophical underpinnings of science, such as materialism, rather than empirical evidence. Materialism, which suggests that only physical matter exists, conflicts with the Christian belief in a spiritual reality. Engaging thoughtfully with these questions requires discernment and a willingness to explore the nuances of both scientific and theological perspectives. By doing so, believers can better articulate their faith and address the concerns of those who challenge it. [03:40]

"For the wisdom of this world is folly with God. For it is written, 'He catches the wise in their craftiness,' and again, 'The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are futile.'" (1 Corinthians 3:19-20, ESV)

Reflection: Think of a recent conversation where science and faith were discussed. How can you approach such discussions with both humility and confidence in your faith?


Day 2: Creation's Mystery and Divine Origin
The theory of evolution describes the mechanism of life's development but does not address the universe's origins. This profound mystery remains unanswered by science, leaving room for the Christian claim that God created the heavens and the earth. The Genesis account provides a theological explanation for the universe's existence, asserting that God is the ultimate Creator. This belief stands firm despite scientific advancements, as science has yet to provide an alternative explanation for the universe's initial existence. Understanding this distinction allows believers to appreciate the complementary nature of science and faith. [23:20]

"By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible." (Hebrews 11:3, ESV)

Reflection: Consider the beauty and complexity of the world around you. How does acknowledging God as the Creator influence your appreciation of creation today?


Day 3: The Significance of Miracles
Miracles are extraordinary events that underscore the supernatural foundation of Christianity. They are not meant to be everyday occurrences but serve as divine interventions that reveal God's power and purpose. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the central miracle of the Christian faith, affirming the truth of the gospel and the hope of eternal life. Rejecting miracles due to their rarity misses their divine significance and the message they convey about God's involvement in the world. Embracing the reality of miracles strengthens faith and deepens one's understanding of God's nature. [19:00]

"God also bore witness by signs and wonders and various miracles and by gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to his will." (Hebrews 2:4, ESV)

Reflection: Reflect on a time when you experienced or witnessed something you couldn't explain. How might this experience be a reminder of God's presence and power in your life?


Day 4: Interpreting the Bible's Language
The Bible often uses phenomenological language, describing events as they appear from a human perspective. This literary style should not be misconstrued as scientific error but understood within its context. Recognizing this helps prevent misinterpretations that pit scientific language against biblical descriptions. By appreciating the Bible's literary forms, believers can engage more deeply with its message and avoid unnecessary conflicts between faith and science. This understanding fosters a more nuanced approach to Scripture, allowing for a richer exploration of its truths. [13:14]

"The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things that are revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may do all the words of this law." (Deuteronomy 29:29, ESV)

Reflection: Think about a Bible passage that has puzzled you. How can you seek a deeper understanding of its context and meaning today?


Day 5: God as Creator and Redeemer
The assertion that God is our Creator is foundational to the gospel, establishing our accountability to Him and framing the entire narrative of redemption. This truth is essential for understanding our relationship with God and the purpose of our existence. As believers, recognizing God as Creator reinforces the call to live in accordance with His will and to participate in His redemptive work in the world. This perspective shapes one's identity and mission, providing a profound sense of purpose and direction in life. [42:19]

"Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth, before the evil days come and the years draw near of which you will say, 'I have no pleasure in them.'" (Ecclesiastes 12:1, ESV)

Reflection: How does acknowledging God as your Creator influence your daily decisions and actions? What steps can you take to align your life more closely with His purposes today?

Quotes


As Believers, we want to be able to give a good answer for the faith which we hold. Peter calls us to be ready to give an account and a defense of the faith that we hold, and we live in a world of aggressive challenges to the Christian faith. [00:00:04]

When someone says, "Christian, don't you think that Christianity has been disproven by science?" or "Don't you think that the truthfulness of Christian revelation of the Bible has been undermined by science?" it's important for you to understand specifically what the question is. [00:03:19]

Materialism is in conflict with Christianity, and we think we have the better part of that argument. So your discussion with them would go a very different direction if that's what's being asked. Scientists have their own ideologies and their own presuppositions. [00:04:05]

Miracles are not meant to be easy to believe, and miracles are never intended in the Bible to be something that we expect to happen every day. Many of you know the story of C.S. Lewis during the semester. [00:15:17]

Christianity is built at its very foundations on a miracle and on a miraculous hope. It's built on the resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ, and you can't sort of extrapolate that out of Christianity and leave anything else. [00:19:09]

The assertion that God is our Creator is foundational to the gospel, establishing our accountability to Him. This truth frames the entire narrative of redemption and is essential for understanding our relationship with God. [00:42:19]

The theory of evolution does not address the universe's origins, which remains a profound mystery. The Christian claim that God created the heavens and the earth stands firm, as science has not provided an alternative explanation for the universe's initial existence. [00:23:20]

The Bible often uses phenomenological language, describing events as they appear from a human perspective. Understanding this literary context prevents misinterpretations that pit scientific language against biblical descriptions. [00:13:14]

The nature of the object that you are studying determines the way that you can know that object. So the way that I know that R.C. Sproul is a friend of mine is very different from the way that I know that, say, I have Cheerios or Special K in my cupboard at home. [00:38:28]

The world is not divided between people who worship God and people who don't worship. The world is not divided between Believers and those who aren't worshippers. In the end, very frankly, even theoretical atheists are a minute portion of the population. [00:45:01]

The Bible says that God is a spirit. Turn back to John chapter 4 as Jesus meets with a woman at the well and talks with her about the most important issues in her life and in all of the world. He says to her this, John 4:24, "God is spirit." [00:46:48]

The Christian doctrine on the other hand seems to have no peculiar difficulty of its own, is supported by a great body of argument philosophical and scientific, and is confirmed by the whole process of special Revelation in which God both asserts and describes himself. [00:30:58]

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Transcript
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