For one to acknowledge “microevolution” — the observable fact that any species demonstrates subtle changes from one generation to the next — but not be willing to recognize the possibility of “macroevolution” — the idea that many of these small changes over eons of time can eventually result in a species no longer being classified with its distant ancestors — makes about as much sense as one acknowledging “micro-aging” — the undeniable truth that a child is always older today than he was yesterday — without also admitting that one day this little one will become an adult. Since it is physically impossible for any person to make the leap from the child stage to the adult stage without the cumulative effect of each passing day, the concept “macro-aging” is rightfully considered nonsense.
Here’s the one Gordon himself thought might be a good ‘quote of the day’:
Some Christians will vehemently reject good-faith attempts to integrate modern scientific theories like Common Descent with historic Christian orthodoxy. To those believers who have little interest in understanding Earth’s long and fascinating natural history, or whose calling does not require a faithful interpretation of nature’s data, I say ‘believe whatever your conscience permits.’ For I would no sooner heap uncensored science upon a weak-minded brother than I would insist one convinced in his heart of temperance join me at the local pub. But to those who posses the spiritual maturity to confront the strangeness of God’s creation, and are prepared to enjoy the fullness of nature’s gifts without fear of losing their faith or drowning in excess, I would gladly discuss Evolution and the Gospel over a pint… or two!
Which would you have chosen?
Elsewhere in the blogosphere, Progression of Faith shared the image from The Onion on the right. Henry Neufeld has a helpful post on unentangling the terminology of “creationists” and “evolutionists”. Or you may prefer to just go and play Expelled Bingo. S. F. Matheson also has a post on scientific matters relevant to Intelligent Design. And if you haven’t yet visited Chrisendom to see what Chris Tilling has to say about his own journey from Ken Ham-ism to a Christian faith that doesn’t need to deal dishonestly with the scientific evidence, it isn’t too late – the conversation is continuing in the comments!
Also, I discovered blogs by Romanians, some maintained by old friends of mine, addressing theological and ecclesiastical issues. There’s Nelu (in English), Danut Manastireanu, Daniel Bulzan, and Adi Vidu, just to name a few.
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