Ebook
As a Christian who has functioned at the interface of biomedical science and faith for the whole of his professional life, Gareth Jones is aware of the tensions and misunderstandings that frequently arise both inside and outside the church. In this book he argues that Christians should not underestimate the importance of scientific contributions to an understanding of God's world. He works this out by reference to his own experiences in approaching a number of contentious topics. These include the use of embryos in reproductive technology research; the place of vaccines in combatting viral pandemics like COVID-19; and understanding the gender debate. Other examples he uses are the treatment of a genetic condition like cystic fibrosis and the importance of using only donated bodies for teaching and research in anatomy. In working at these borderlands, he recognizes that the best of biomedical science brings glory to God and enhances human existence. All these areas are transformed by applying Christian values, such as the dignity and equality of human beings. Over the years he has learned how to be comfortable working in these borderlands, even as they raise questions that trouble many within both society and the churches.
“Gareth Jones has long inspired me to walk the difficult path
balancing true science with a sincere and thoughtful Christian
faith. He is my go-to bioethicist, because he is real, open,
humble, and biblically committed. At the Margins shows that
such a commitment is costly and requires great courage, patience,
and honesty. It is an honor to highly commend his costly personal
story.”
—Alan Gijsbers, chair of the Governance Committee, International
Christian Medical and Dental Association
“Gareth’s life and work are characterized by a faithful creativity
that wrestles with the tensions and mysteries of the faith-science
dialogue. His incisive approach delivers clarity paired with a
compassionate attention to the lives of those caught up in these
intersections. He exemplifies what it means to outwork Christian
faith in one’s vocation with authority and humility.”
—Maja Whitaker, Laidlaw College
“For many challenges in applied bioethics, Gareth Jones has brought
into dialogue a thoughtful reading of both the involved science and
his active Christian faith. His analysis and practical proposals
have sometimes been more nuanced than many have wanted to hear
since the discussion is often polarized in professional circles,
churches, and the general public, yet he has continued to bring
informed and needed insight to these real decisions.”
—James C. Peterson, Roanoke College