A series of inservices that examine contemporary issues in science and ethics in light of God’s Word.
Lesson 1 - The Quest for Truth
Our first lesson addressed life’s three basic questions of origin (where did we come from?), purpose (why are we here?) and destiny (where are we going?). Some philosophers add three more basic questions to the mix:
1) Why is there evil (and its converse, good) in the universe?
2) Why are we the way we are (in essence, what is the nature of human personality)?
3) Is there a god (and if so, how can we know)?
Use this discussion forum to address how the world answers these questions in comparison to what the Bible tells us (please limit your comments to one of the questions in each thread).
Lesson 2 - The Nature of Science
Is there such a thing as Lutheran science? In April 2003, nearly one hundred educators and students gathered at Martin Luther College for a symposium entitled, “The Christian, Society and Science.” The keynote address by Dr. Ryan MacPherson of Bethany Lutheran College was followed by some interesting debate that led to an article co-authored by Dr. MacPherson and his BLC colleague, Dr. Ron Buelow. A Lutheran View of Science appeared in the January, 2004, edition of Forward in Christ. In that article the authors present what they believe to be the six tenets for a Lutheran view of science. To read the article, follow the link above.
Do you agree with the authors? Does their philosophy of science match what you teach in your classroom? I look forward to our discussion of this article.
Lesson 3 - Science and Values
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the average size of the American family in the year 1900 was 4.60; 100 years later, it was 2.59. Although the steady decline was due to a variety of variables, the predominant factor was a reduction in the number children being born. Coupled with what is going on in society, what do these statistics suggest about American values? What guidance is provided by God’s Word on this topic?
Lesson 4 - Science and Religion
In Science, Evolution, and Creationism, the National Academy of Sciences and Institute of Medicine. makes the following statement:
Science and religion are based on different aspects of human experience. In science, explanations must be based on evidence drawn from examining the natural world. Scientifically based observations or experiments that conflict with an explanation eventually must lead to modification or even abandonment of that explanation. Religious faith, in contrast, does not depend only on empirical evidence, is not necessarily modified in the face of conflicting evidence, and typically involves supernatural forces or entities. Because they are not a part of nature, supernatural entities cannot be investigated by science. In this sense, science and religion are separate and address aspects of human understanding in different ways. Attempts to pit science and religion against each other create controversy where none needs to exist.
What do you think of this statement? How would you describe the relationship between science and religion. How do you react to other statements made on the NAS website dedicated to this topic (see the pull-down menu under “Science and Religion”).
Lesson 5 - Science, Faith and Reason
Lesson 6 - God’s Word: The Ultimate Authority
Additional Course Resources
This document provides a list of related, longer readings that will provide insights to the group leader or the participants during the course of the study.
Rent the movie Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed starring Ben Stein. Recognized as one of the top documentaries of 2008, the film contends that the mainstream science establishment suppresses academics who criticize evidence supporting Darwinian evolution. The impact of the scientific theory of evolution on modern worldview is also examined. The attached leader’s guide provides presentation suggestions.
This YouTube site contains the full length version of the film.
