Stop Placing Science and Religion at Odds
written by Rev. Dr. Scott Paczkowski
“An intelligent mind acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.”
Few things irritate me more than ignorant people, in the name of Christ, denying science, modern medicine, and the value of education. When political leaders diminish resources for education to dumb down society, they become anathema to the Christian faith they claim to revere. Similarly, those who attempt to use science as a “proof” to denounce the existence of God remain lost in their inadequate mental constructs. The foundational idea that if a limited human mind cannot fathom anything that cannot be “proved” through narrow scientific inquiry, will leave their intellectual import wanting. Both religious faith and scientific inquiry must recognize their limitations and remain in their lane.
Thomas Ward, author of After Stoicism, points out, “Where science reigns, we risk reducing the human animal to something merely animal, or merely chemical, or merely physical-as longevity entrepreneur Bryan Johnson puts it, “I’m a collection of 35 Trillion cells.” The science is correct. We humans are each made up of 35 trillion cells. Yet, we are so much more than merely a collection of cells and chemical descriptions. The chemical descriptions of our human identity do not include our personality, values, and beliefs. The defining characteristics of what makes each of us unique and valued.
Rather than diminishing science or religion by having to choose between them, we need to recognize the role both play in a meaningful and holistic existence. The Bible isn’t meant to be a science textbook. Dinosaurs did not play with Adam and Eve, as claimed by many ignorant conservative Christians and celebrated at the Creation Museum. Likewise, science doesn’t offer life’s meaning and provide all existential answers.
We experience meaning, wisdom, and truth when we harmonize the distinct but necessary truths of science and religion. One without the other leaves us ignorant, warping both, and limiting our human potential. As people of faith, we are to see divine handiwork in all of God’s creation. Education, including scientific inquiry, illuminates divine existence and wisdom. Rather than fear science &/or religion, have the courage and discipline to question, learn, and grow by embracing all facets of academic study. When you invite the Holy Spirit into the work of learning, you have nothing to fear and so many intellectual adventures to experience that can bring you even closer to God.
