Embracing Evolution: How Understanding Science Can Strengthen Your Christian Life
Overview
Christians often have a complicated relationship with science—especially when it comes to evolution. In recent years there has been an explosion in scientific understanding of evolutionary theory and its implications for human nature. Yet many Christians still see evolution as at best irrelevant to their faith and at worst threatening to it. Is it possible that adopting an evolutionary view of human origins can actually help us cultivate a relationship with God and a holy life?
In Embracing Evolution, Matthew Nelson Hill invites readers into a constructive conversation about why contemporary science matters for Christians. Bringing clarity to an often fraught conversation, he provides an accessible overview of evolutionary concepts and takes on common concerns about tensions with Christian theology. He then explores what insights and practical benefits await the Christian who adopts an integrative approach to evolution and Christianity.
The more we are aware of the complex milieu of instincts, acquired traits, and environmental influences humans find themselves in, the better equipped we can be to overcome tempting urges and adopt life-giving habits. From food cravings and addictions to altruistic impulses, understanding our biological heritage gives us power to change for the better. What’s more, as scientific evidence affirms, the transformation process cannot take place in isolation. Drawing on the work of John Wesley, Hill considers the questions, What kind of community will best encourage individuals to live godly lives, and how do we practically form such communities?
At some point, every Christian will have to grapple with scientific evidence related to evolution. Full of stories and real-life examples, this book will help church leaders, small groups, students, and anyone curious about science and faith discover how embracing evolution can assist them toward a fulfilling, virtuous Christian life.
- Invites readers into a constructive conversation about contemporary science
- Provides an accessible overview of evolutionary concepts
- Addresses common concerns about tensions with Christian theology
- Opening a Dialogue
Section 1: Understanding Our Biblical Lens
- Reading Scripture Faithfully
- Adam and Eve, the Fall, Predation, and Death
Section 2: Understanding Our Scientific Lens
- The Nuts and Bolts of Evolution
- Relating to Science
Section 3: An Integrated Approach to Evolution and the Christian Faith
- Understanding Evolutionary Theory Can Be Empowering
- Having Evolutionary Roots Isn't Just Baggage: Pursing a Holistic Understanding of Redemption
- Nurturing Natural Virtues Toward Healthy Community
Top Highlights
“For healthy integration to be compatible, we must understand faith and science as always advancing each original identity while dwelling within mutual submission to one another as areas of expertise are acknowledged. Thus, in the case of faith and science, when we integrate them through sublation, the light becomes stronger because, frankly, it moves closer to the truth, and the truth is greater than any one human paradigm.” (Page 78)
“Some of our confusion likely comes about because we don’t often parse out the differences between a law and a theory. Simply put, a scientific law predicts what happens, and theory tells us why it happens. A theory will never be so proven that it is finally classified a law, just as photosynthesis will never change into an apple. One is the process, the other is the result. In other words, a theory is not a stepping-stone to a law. Their relationship is not ordinal but hierarchical, for they have different functions.” (Page 47)
“If we desire science and faith to experience genuine integration and critical engagement, then we ought not fear the discoveries of scientists that may seem to contradict tenets of our faith. Likewise, we ought not fear the careful descriptions of theologians because they may seem to contradict the world we see before us. We should never fear moving closer to the truth.” (Page 80)
“The key factor is not necessarily how much of the DNA is shared but how that shared DNA is arranged.” (Page 65)