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Eric C. Barrett

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These works are representative of a much larger number of selections found at Allbookstores
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Thoughts on Reading

A good novel tells us the truth about it's hero; but a bad novel tells us the truth about its author.
--G. K. Chesterton

A library is a hospital for the mind.
~ Anonymous ~

Beware of the man of one book.
~ Thomas Aquinas ~

Some books are to be tasted, others to be swallowed, and some few to be
chewed and digested: that is, some books are to be read only in parts,
others to be read, but not curiously, and some few to be read wholly,
and with diligence and attention.
~ Francis Bacon ~

When I get a little money, I buy books;
and if any is left, I buy food and clothes.
~Desiderius Erasmus~

Reading furnishes the mind only with materials for knowledge;
it is thinking that makes what we read ours.
~ John Locke ~

The real risks for any artist are taken in pushing the work
to the limits of what is possible, in the attempt to increase the sum
of what it is possible to think. Books become good when they
go to this edge and risk falling over it --when they endanger
the artist by reason of what he has, or has not, artistically dared.
~ Salman Rushdie

A book is the only place in which you can examine a fragile thought without breaking it, or explore an explosive idea without fear it will go off in your face.  It is one of the few havens remaining where a man's mind can get both provocation and privacy. 
~Edward P. Morgan

Always read something that will make you look good if you die in the middle of it.  ~P.J. O'Rourke_

For friends... do but look upon good Books:  they are true friends, that will neither flatter nor dissemble. 
 ~Francis Bacon

The multitude of books is making us ignorant. ~Voltaire

Some books are to be tasted, others to be swallowed, and some few to be chewed and digested.
~Francis Bacon

Darwin's theory of the struggle for existence and the selectivity connected with it has by many people been cited as authorization of the encouragement of the spirit of competition. Some people also in such a way have tried to prove pseudoscientifically the necessity of the destructive economic struggle of competition between individuals. But this is wrong, because man owes his strength in the struggle for existence to the fact that he is a socially living animal. As little as a battle between ants of an ant hill is essential for survival, just so little is this the case with the individual members of a human community.
~ Albert Einstein

---------------------------im Morris & Don Petcher, Science and Grace: God's Reign in the Natural Sciences,

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The ASA Recommend Book List...a service to our readers

Many Books may be ordered from Christian Book Distributors (CBD) by clicking the book title. A portion of the price will benefit the American Scientific Affiliation. Some of the cost of non-science books or other products purchased using the ASA/CBD portal will also be directed to the ASA. A selection of older but still useful works is also available

Some titles are only available from non-CBD sources

General

G. R. Davidson,  When Faith and Science Collide: A Biblical Approach to Evaluating Evolution, Creationism, Intelligent Design, and the Age of the Earth, (2009) Malius Press, 292 pp. (Paperback) (Amazon: $12.50)  "Dr. Davidson's book "When Faith & Science Collide" is a refreshing addition to the spectrum of work that has been recently published on the subject Science and Creation. Davidson has focused his book on a Christian audience caught up in the warfare dichotomy stemming primarily from the interpretation of Genesis 1-11. The issues encompass the history, science and concordism of scripture written about God's act of creation in the first book of the Bible. The book sets the stage with a young scientist torn between accepting the academic training he received in college vs. a literal interpretation of scripture offered by a friend. As with most individuals schooled in various fields of science, the young former Christian made what he thought was the only logical choice and went with reason rather than a "fundamental" Christian worldview. Here lies the purpose of the book. Davidson developed the following simple model to evaluate the conflict, "There are three questions that should be asked any time a scientific theory appears to conflict with scripture.
1) Does the infallibility of scripture rest on a literal interpretation of the verses in question?
2) Does the science conflict with the intended message of the scripture?
3) Is the science credible?
Read this wonderful book on Christian Scientific Apologetics."--R. Buckman Amazon

Dr. Davidson earned a B.S. in Geology from Wheaton College in Illinois, and M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Hydrology from the University of Arizona before joining the faculty in the Department of Geology and Geological Engineering at the University of Mississippi in 1996. Professor Davidson teaches, consults, and conducts original research in geochemistry and hydrogeology, often employing radiometric dating methods to determine the age of groundwater and sediment.

Harold W. Attridge (Editor), Dr. Keith Stewart Thomson (Introduction), Ronald L. Numbers (Contributor), Kenneth R. Miller (Contributor), Lawrence M. Krauss (Contributor), Robert Wuthnow (Contributor), Alvin Plantinga (Contributor), The Religion and Science Debate: Why Does It Continue? (The Terry Lectures Series) 2009 (Paperback)  (List $16.00, Amazon $10.88)

Why does the tension between science and religion continue? How have those tensions changed during the past one hundred years? How have those tensions impacted the public debate about so-called ìintelligent design as a scientific alternative to evolution? With wit and wisdom the authors address the conflict from its philosophical roots to its manifestations within American culture. In doing so, they take an important step toward creating a society that reconciles scientific inquiry with the human spirit. This book, which marks the  one hundredth anniversary of The Terry Lecture Series, offers a unique perspective for anyone interested in the debate between science and religion in America.--Ed

Francis C. Collins, The Language of God: A Scientist Presents Evidence for Belief, hardcover, 304 pp. ISBN:0743286391, 2006, Simon & Schuster. (List: $26.00, CBD: $18.99) PSCF Review

"...So what are we talking about when we talk about God? The geneticist Francis S. Collins bravely sets out to answer this question in light of his scientific knowledge and his Christian faith. Having found for himself "a richly satisfying harmony between the scientific and spiritual worldviews," he seeks to persuade others that "belief in God can be an entirely rational choice, and that the principles of faith are, in fact, complementary with the principles of science." As a researcher who helped discover the genetic basis for cystic fibrosis and other diseases and as the director of the Human Genome Project, Collins brings strong credentials to the scientific side of his argument. For the spiritual side, he draws on Christian authorities such as Augustine of Hippo, Thomas Aquinas and C. S. Lewis. His aim is to address "extremists on both sides of the science/faith divide." On one extreme are those scientists who insist that the universe is purely and exclusively matter, and on the other are literal interpreters of the Book of Genesis who reject the last two centuries of scientific discovery. Although Collins's purpose is grand, his manner is modest and his prose clear, as befits a man more concerned with sharing his views on the nature of things than with displaying his ego..."-- Russell Sanders, The Washington Post

Francis S. Collins is Director of the US  National Institutes of Health

Creation/Evolution

John F. Haught, Making Sense of Evolution: Darwin, God, and the Drama of Life (2010)  Westminster John Knox Press, 144 Pages, Paperback.
List $19.95, Amazon  $13.57

Denis R. Alexander (Editor), Ronald L. Numbers (Editor) Biology and Ideology from Descartes to Dawkins  (2010)  University of Chicago Press, Paperback, List Price: $35.00  Amazon $29.92.    "... As the title implies, the contributors present their arguments within a historical framework that originates at the Enlightenment, and ends with the contemporary atheist apologetics. The text presents arguments surrounding biology's influence on a diverse array of ideologies, including Nazism, Marxism, Lysenkoism, materialism, naturalism, and vitalism. The most recognizable and well-developed example presented is the application of evolutionary theory to the eugenics movement. The text contains extensive references and should be considered a must read for students of the history and philosophy of biology".-- Waldorf Heinrichs Amazon

Adrian Desmond and James Moore,   Darwin's Sacred Cause: How a Hatred of Slavery Shaped Darwin's Views on Human Evolution, Hardcover, Houghton, Mifflin, Harcourt, 2009  (List $35.00, Amazon $19.80)  "Arresting . . . confront[s] the touchy subject of Darwin and race head on . . . Adrian Desmond and James Moore published a highly regarded biography of Darwin in 1991 . . . the case they make is rich and intricate, involving Darwin's encounter with race-based phrenology at Edinburgh and a religiously based opposition to slavery at Cambridge. Even Darwin's courtship of Emma, whom he winningly called 'the most interesting specimen in the whole series of vertebrate animals,' is cleverly interwoven with his developing thoughts on 'sexual selection' . . ." - New York Times Book Review

"This book dispels the legend, long attached to retrospective accounts of Darwinís research, that the great scientistís interest in evolution was spurred by Galapagos finches. It was people all along . . . [Desmond and Moore] shed welcome light on lesser-known features of Darwinís work, while also providing an exceptionally crisp account of mid-nineteenth-century debates over the origins of racial differences."

David Livingston, Adam's Ancestors: Race, Religion and the Politics of Human Origin, John Hopkins University Press, 2008 (List $35.00, Amazon $28.63)

"A great piece of scholarship and an equally great read. Particularly instructive is Livingstone's discussion of monogenism, polygenism, and the various ways these theories of human origins were used in the social and political arena. This is a substantial contribution to the history of anthropology, of evolution theory, of race and racialist thought, and of science and religion." -- Nicolaas Rupke, Institute for Science History, Georg-August University of G–ttingen

David N. Livingstone is a professor of geography and intellectual history at the Queen's University Belfast, Northern Ireland, and author of several books, including Putting Science in Its Place: Geographies of Scientific Knowledge, The Geographical Tradition, and Darwin's Forgotten Defenders.

Denis Alexander,  Creation or Evolution: Do We Have to Choose?  paper,  Kregel Publications  352 pp. 2009 (List $18.99 , CBD $13.99 ). "Many scientists, championed by the likes of Richard Dawkins, argue with an almost evangelical zeal that science has all but disproved God. As these views begin to take root in society it is vital that Christians are able to expose the flaws and inconsistencies in the underlying arguments. Yet this task is made harder by some Christians whose desire to uphold the authority of Scripture has led them to dismiss current scientific understanding of the Universe and especially the theory of Evolution. For many scientists such views are likely to reinforce their dismissal of the Christian faith as merely an outdated superstition. Unfortunately, many books that address this issue appear to generate more heat than light as they seek to justify their own polarised position and rubbish the opposition. Denis Alexander's "Creation or Evolution - Do We Have to Choose?" is a most welcome exception and deserves to be widely read. Denis is the Chairman of the Molecular Immunology Programme at The Babraham Institute in Cambridge and an internationally respected scientist. As a Christian he believes passionately that the Bible is God's authoritative word for man, yet his scientific studies provide him with overwhelming evidence for the Theory of Evolution."--Andrew Halestrap, Christianity Today. Full Review

Daniel M. Harrell, Nature's Witness: How Evolution Can Inspire Faith, Paperback, 165 pp., ISBN-10: 0687642353, Abingdon Press 2008, (List: $ 18.00, CBD: $14.99)Author Interview

"Harrell discusses the issues in a down-to-earth, pastoral way, and manages to address some of the thorny theological questions straightforwardly, graciously, and hopefully. I don't necessarily agree with every approach Harrell takes, but I found this book enormously encouraging because it engages Truth from a broadly evangelical perspective without fear or defensiveness."--David W. Opderbeck

"...Harrell explains why evolution does indeed pose a significant challenge that deserves sophisticated thought, and then proceeds to show on a much deeper level how the different concepts fit together. I'm not sure that my answers end up being the same as his...;but this was a tremendously helpful introduction to the issues. It is also packed with footnotes, for those who would like to explore further.."--Kristen Filipic.

Dr. Daniel M. Harrell is Associate Minister at Park Street Church in Boston and holds a PhD in developmental psychology from Boston College.

Deborah B. Haarsma and Loren D. Haarsma Origins: A Reformed Look at Creation, Design, and Evolution, 255 pages. ISBN: 978-1-59255-227-6, 2007. Grand Rapids, Faith Alive Christian Resources, paperback. (List: $13.25, B&N: $11.92) . Further information.

"The Haarsmas point to recent scientific advances that raise challenging issues with which Christians must be ready to engage. One of these is the human genome
project. Francis Collins, who heads up the project, is an evangelical Christian,
says Loren Haarsma, ìand he says the data very strongly indicates that humans share common ancestry with other living things. How will we grapple with that as Christians?î

Indeed, the Haarsmas know that questions about human origins are closer to the
heart of Christian theology than questions about the age of the earth. In their
chapters in the book on human origins, they not only summarize the scientific data,
but also look at key theological issues-the human soul, the image of God, original sin, and human mortality before the Fall. Especially on the topic of human origins, the Haarsmas do not stake out a single view. They present several views held by fellow Christians and then discuss the theological and scientific challenges for each view.

Their approach throughout is to reject ìevolutionism,î an atheistic interpretation of the scientific data.
ìThe discovery of a scientific model for human origins,î they write, ìwould not eliminate Godís action. In all the views presented in this chapter, God is the Creator of humanity. The differences among the views are in how God accomplished it.î The Haarsmas say that this foundational belief n God as the creator and sustainer is at the heart of how they do science. And their hope is that approach will ring in their new book and resonate with readers."-- Calvin College Press Release.

Loren Haarsma and Deborah Haarsma are professors in the Physics and Astronomy Department at Calvin College. Deborah (Ph. D., MIT) investigates galaxies and cosmology; Loren (Ph. D., Harvard) studies electrical activity of nerve cells.

Denis O. Lamoureux, Evolutionary Creation: A Christian Approach to Evolution.Paperback, 493 pp. 2008, ISBN:1556355815, Wipf Stock Publishers (List:$55.00, Amazon: $44.57)

Denis Lamoureux is a person of faith and of intellectual integrity. His holistic and integrated view of science and Christian theology springs from both his broad academic training and his deeply held evangelical faith. This book is notable for the manner in which it forthrightly and unflinchingly addresses difficult issues at the interface of science and theology. In doing so, it remains faithful to the authority of scripture, the historical testimony of the church, and the observed record of Creation's history. Denis Lamoureux joins an increasingly long list of evangelical scholars who have shown the the divisive 'warfare' of evolution and Christian faith to be without justification." --Keith Miller, Research Assistant Professor of Geology, Kansas State University, editor of Perspectives on an Evolving Creation(2003)

"Lamoureux seeks to move the public debate on origins beyond the two simplistic choices of either 'evolution' or 'creation.' His passion for deep Christian faith and commitment to Scripture and integrity in science render his bold and provocative synthesis worthy of consideration."--Randy Isaac, Executive Director, American Scientific Affiliation.

"What a magnificent understanding of God's creatively sustaining presence reaching far beyond stereotypical received views on evolution and Christianity! This well-informed case, with teeth, defends the compatible and inclusive relationship between revelation and the findings of natural science while exposing false-choice barriers, albeit sincerely erected, between evolution and religious faith."--Thaddeus J. Trenn, President, Canadian Science and Christian Affiliation

Lamoureau is Associate Professor of Science and Religion at St. Josephís College, part of the University of Alberta. He holds three doctoral degrees ó in dentistry, theology, and biology. He co-authored, with Philip E. Johnson, Darwinism Defeated? The Johnson-Lamoureux  Debate on Biological Origins (1999). Lamoureux is a Fellow of the American Scientific Affiliation, a member of the Executive Council of the Canadian Scientific and Christian Affiliation, and a member of the Evangelical Theological Society.

Keith B. Miller ed., Perspectives on an Evolving Creation 528 pages, ISBN: 0802805124, 2003, Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing,Paperback (List: $36.00, CBD: $27.99)

"Here is a book that I would call 'state of the art' in this controversy."--Terry Morrison (former director of Faculty Ministry for InterVarsity Christian Fellowship)." (full-length review)

"An ambitious book with an impressive list of able contributors, Perspectives on an Evolving Creation should be read by everyone interested in the question of biological origins from a biblical perspective."--Edward Larson, lawyer, historian, and author, winner of Pulitzer Prize.

"This book is superb: of much interest to the scholar, it provides absolutely essential classroom resources not available anywhere else. I am so grateful to Keith Miller for putting this collection together."-- Nancey Murphy, Professor of Christian philosophy, Fuller Theological Seminary.

"All Christians should read this book for instruction and perspectives on science that they can trust and think about. So should all scientists, Christian or not, who are interested in the practical rapprochement that is possible between science and religion."-- Kevin Padian , Professor and curator, Dept of Integrative Biology & Museum of Paleontology, U of California at Berkeley.

"Perspectives on an Evolving Creation will immeasurably benefit young Christian scholars about to embark on careers that will entail a great deal of strenuous thinking on their part about the interrelationships between science and theology;... it is essential reading for those interested in these relationships."--Davis A. Young, professor of geology, Calvin College.

Dr. Keith B. Miller is research assistant professor of geology at Kansas State University.

Mark Worton & Hill Roberts,

Holman Quick Source Guide to Understanding Creation  400 pp  ISBN: 0805494863, 2008 Paperback,  B & H Publishing Group (List:$14.97. CBD:$12.99).

Understanding Creation surveys every major issue relating to the theology and science of creation. This includes proofs that the universe was created and designed by God, a discussion of the compatibility of Genesis with major theories in modern science, a survey of evangelical opinion regarding the age of Earth and the nature of Noahís flood, and an analysis of ancient non-biblical creation myths. Highly trained scientists and authors Mark Whorton and Hill Roberts are uniquely qualified to report these findings that are in line with their Christian faith. The book also includes fascinating and helpful photographs and charts.--Publisher

Dr. Mark Whorton holds a PhD in aerospace engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology and has worked for the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center for the past 15 years. Hill Roberts is a physicist employed in the aerospace community.

Hugh Ross, Creation As Science: A Testable Model Approach to End the Creation/Evolution Wars, 288 pages. ISBN: 1576835782, 2006. NavPress, Hardcover, (List: $21.99 , CBD: $15.99 )  PSCF Review

"This book provides a comprehensive coverage of all issues related to origins, and it also presents a new model, called the RTB (Reasons to Believe). The purpose of this effort is to show that the RTB model is testable and therefore acceptable as a scientific theory. The manuscript contains a wealth of information on the creation-evolution controversy. The only way I can describe it is to label it as Hugh Rossís magnum opus! In a unique way, Hugh Ross uses a multidisciplinary approach for building the RTB model, by factoring in phenomena from cosmology, astronomy, planetary science, geophysics, archeology, and paleontology. These approaches are in addition to the traditional evolutionist one from morphology, biochemistry and genetics. The bottom line of this monumental work is to demonstrate that a scientific model for creation can be developed and tested."-- Kenell J. Touryan,

Astronomer Hugh Ross is director of the Reasons To Believe Organization

Environment

Christianity, Climate Change, and Sustainable Living By Nick Spencer, Robert White & Virginia Vroblesky / Hendrickson Publishers (List $16.05, CBD $11.99) What should Christians do to protect the Earth and its people? Amounts and patterns of consumption and production in the West have reached a level that cannot be maintained. Lifestyles based on our present way of creating and using energy are no longer environmentally sustainable-and are threatening the health and well-being of both planet and people. Our activities and the policies that shape them need to change. In light of those realities, Spencer, White, and Vroblesky offer serious Christian engagement with the emerging issue of Sustainable Consumption and Production. They analyze the scientific, sociological, economic, and theological thinking that makes a Christian response to these trends imperative and distinctive. And they offer practical conclusions that explore and explain what can be done at the personal, community, national, and international levels to ensure that next generations will have the resources necessary for life. Firmly rooted in the good news of the Christian faith, this is, above all, a constructive and hopeful book that offers a realistic vision of what the future could and should look like.

Tri Robinson and Jason Chatrow, Saving God's Green Earth: Rediscovering the Church's Responsibility to Environmental Stewardship, 164 pages. ISBN-10: 0974882585, 2006. Wesscott Marketing Softcover . (List: $12.95, CBD: $9.99)

"In Saving God's Green Earth: Rediscovering the Church's Responsibility to Environmental Stewardship, pastor and author Tri Robinson clearly shows the biblical mandate for environmental stewardship---a nd how doing so will change the world around us. Through biblical examples, everyday stories, and practical know-how Robinson delivers a powerful message that cannot be ignored. His insights into how to move people from the idea of stewarding God's creation to actually participating will clearly show leaders in the evangelical Christian community how to raise this value. And not only does he make a compelling case for placing great importance on caring for God's creation, he also shows how it can become an incredible tool for evangelism."--Book Jacket

A well-written introduction, especially suited for pastors and church leaders. It is full of Scriptural references and may be appropriate therefore for a Sunday School class or Bible Study group.--Ed.

"This is the book I would write if I were to write a book about Christian ecology. He flat beat me to it and did a much better job of it than I ever could. The tone is great. Saving Godís Green Earth will appeal to pastors and ministry leaders across ideological lines. The book manages to be ecumenical, applicable to all Christian faiths, but doesnít fall into the trap of being pluralistic" --Don Bosch

Tri Robinson is Senior Pastor of Vineyard Christian Fellowship of Boise. He is also the founder of "Let's Tend the Garden," an environmental stewardship ministry which currently serves as a model for churches across the country.

Edward R Brown, Our Father's World: Mobilizing the Church to Care for Creation, 172 pages. ISBN-10: 097783722X, 2006, Doorlight Publications. (Publisher: $10.00)

"This is an important book that should be on every pastor's shelf and in every church library. Creation today is crying out for the Church to begin preaching and practicting the full biblical message of stewardship." Joseph Sheldon, Messiah College

"Our Father's World is a beautiful and inspiring book. I will keep it on hand both for consultation and reference. When I first opened it, the question on my mind was, "Will evangelicals read it?" As I approached the close, the question became "Will secular environmentists read it?" They need to read it, and understand the power Christianity has to help save the living environment--no t just in voting numbers, but also out of strength from spirituality and rational argument."--Edward O. Wilson, Harvard University

Edward Brown is Director of Care of Creation.

Geology

Davis A. Young & Ralph F. Stearley, The Bible, Rocks, and Time: Geological Evidence for the Age of the Earth, 2008, 464 pp. ISBN-0830828760, Paperback, IVP Academic (List $30.00. CBD: $21.99).

As the need to clearly define distinctions between evolutionary scientific positions on 'origins' (man, the Earth and the Universe) and the biblical scientific position (young-earth Creationism) become more necessary, books by experts from all perspectives become more prevalent. In The Bible, Rocks and Time, two Ph. D. level geologists examine the evidence from the view of secular science to make their determination of a very old earth, culminating in an attack on young-earth creationism. The authors' presentation is broad enough to fit many parts of the old-earth spectrum of origins beliefs (theistic evolution, Intelligent Design, progressive creationism, etc.). --Publisher

The Authors are both associated with the geology department at Calvin College, Young as Professor Emeritus and Stearley is professor of geology and department chair.

Karl Giberson and Mariano Artigas, Oracles of Science: Celebrity Scientists Versus God and Religion. Softcover, 274 pp., ISBN: 0-19-531072-6, 2007 Oxford University Press. (Amazon: $29.60) PSCF Review

The authors make a good case for how the misuse of science to advance philosophical and quasi-religious or antireligious ideas fails to reckon with the limitations of science. It is the polemics of these oracles and their chief antagonists, couched in what purports to be ìscientific languageî that obscure rather than illuminate the complex nature and meanings of human existence. The book is highly recommended.--PSCF Review

Giberson has been on the physics faculty of Eastern Nazarene College, director of the Forum on Faith and Science at Gordon College, and co-director of the Venice Summer School on Science & Religion. The late Mariano Artigas held doctorates in physics and philosophy.

Health and Medicine

Richard G. Bennet and W.  Daniel Hale, Building Healthy Communities through Medical-Religious Relationships Johns Hopkins University Press  2009, 228 pages. Paperback (Amazon $26.00) PSCF Review

Intelligent Design 

Stephen C. Meyer, Signature in the Cell: DNA Evidence For Intelligent Design, 288 pages, ISBN:  0061472786, 2009 HarperOne. Hardcover, (List, $28.99, CBD: $18.99) The answer that Signature in the Cell gives to the DNA enigma, Dr. Meyer acknowledged, will not be to the liking of everyone, neither to Dawkins and his followers nor to others "one thinks of theistic evolutionists ó who are committed to opposing any idea that science can have something to say about ultimate questions, including religious ones...But the primary obligation of a scientist is to follow the evidence where it leads." PSCF Essay Review

Dr. Stephen C. Meyer is the director and Senior Fellow of the Center for Science and Culture at the Discovery Institute in Seattle

Robert B. Stewart editor, Intelligent Design: William A. Dembski and Michael Ruse in Dialogue, 256 pages, ISBN: 0800662180, 2007. Fortress Press. Paperback, (List $22.00, CBD $17.99)

Not just another ID tract, this work pulls together many lines of thinking of those who would think outside. the box concerning God's action in nature.  Dembski and Ruse are joined by major players Polkinghorne, McGrath, Pannenberg, Murphy, Craig, Moreland, Lennox, Elsberry, etc. who bring their thoughts to the table in readable fashion. A must read for those who would look beyond the headlines. --PSCF Review

Dr. Robert B. Stewart is Associate Professor of Philosophy and Theology
Chair: Greer-Heard Chair of Faith and Culture, New Orleans Baptist Theological
Seminary

Michael J. Behe, Darwin's Black Box: The Biochemical Challenge To Evolution, 336 pages, ISBN: 0743290313, 2006. Free Press, soft cover. (List: $15.00, SB $9.99).

"Questioning how evolution can explain the complex chemical processes scientists are finding in humans using new technology, the author presents an argument for creation by either God or another higher intelligence, in a tenth anniversary edition of the study of Intelligent Design. Reissue."--SB. PSCF Review

Behe is professor of biochemistry at Lehigh University in Pennsylvania and a senior fellow of the Discovery Institute's Center for Science and Culture.

---

History

Ronald L. Numbers, Ed. GALILEO GOES TO JAIL AND OTHER MYTHS ABOUT SCIENCE AND RELIGION,  Harvard University Press, 2009. xi + 302 pages, including notes and index. Hardcover;  (List: $27.95.  ) The  Myths: 1. That the Rise of Christianity Was Responsible for the Demise of Ancient Science   2. That the Medieval Christian Church Suppressed the Growth of Science  3. That Medieval Christians Taught That the Earth Was Flat  4. That Medieval Islamic Culture Was Inhospitable to Science 5. That the Medieval Church Prohibited Human Dissection 6. That the Copernican System Demoted Humans from the Center of the Cosmos  7. That Giordano Bruno Was the First Martyr of Modern Science 8. That Galileo Was Imprisoned and Tortured for Advocating Copernicanism  9. That Christianity Gave Birth to Modern Science  10. That the Scientific Revolution Liberated Science from Religion 11. That Catholics Did Not Contribute to the Scientific Revolution 12. That Rene Descartes Originated the Mind-Body Distinction 13. That Isaac Newton's Mechanistic Cosmology Eliminated the Need for God  14. That the Church Denounced Anesthesia in Childbirth on Biblical Grounds 15. That the Theory of Organic Evolution is Based on Circular Reasoning  16. That Evolution Destroyed Charles Darwin's Faith in Christianity Until He Reconverted on His Deathbed 17. That Huxley Defeated Wilberforce in Their Debate over Evolution and Religion  18. That Darwin Destroyed Natural Theology 19.
That Darwin and Haeckel Were Complicit in Nazi Biology 20. That the Scopes Trial Ended in Defeat for Antievolutionism 21. That Einstein Believed in a Personal God 22. That Quantum Physics Demonstrated the Doctrine of Free Will 23. That Intelligent Design Represents a Scientific Challenge to Evolution 24. That Creationism is a Uniquely American Phenomenon 25. That Modern Science Has Secularized Western Culture" -- Preston, PSCF Review

Lindberga>, David C. and Ronald L. Numbers, , editors When Science and Christianity Meet. 368 pages., ISBN 0226482146, 2003,ont size="3"> 2008,  Paper University of Chicago Press. (List: $29.00, CBD: $27.99) ) PSCF Review

ìScience without God: Natural Laws and Christian Beliefsî brings perspective to more recent concerns over the place of God in natureóincluding the efforts of ìpartisans of IDÖto rewrite the ground rules of science to allow the inclusion of supernatural explanations of phenomena. Notes on each chapter and a guide to further reading offer valuable supplements to the text. i>The chapters are well integrated and the work is accessible for the general reader. When Science & Christianity Meet should be part of the library of any Christian who seeks to understand the influence of science on faith." -- PSCF

Ronald L. Numbers, Hilldale and William Coleman Professor of the History of Science, University of Wisconsin - Madison. David C. Lindberg is the Hilldale Professor of the History of Science, University of Wisconsin - Madison

David N. Livingstone, Adam's Ancestors: Medicine, Science, and Religion in Historical Context, hardcover, 2008 320 pp. 2 halftones, 24 line drawings (List: $35.00, Amazon:$28.00). 

 "A great piece of scholarship and an equally great read. Particularly instructive is Livingstone's discussion of monogenism, polygenism, and the various ways these theories of human origins were used in the social and political arena. This is a substantial contribution to the history of anthropology, of evolution theory, of race and racialist thought, and of science and religion."óNicolaas Rupke, Institute for Science History, Georg-August University of G–ttingen.

"A remarkable achievement. It is a tightly organized and coherently packaged account of a set of ideas which mainstream scholarship now ignores. Controversial themes and explosive issues abound in Livingstone's work, which is important, topical, and fascinating."óColin Kidd, University of Glasgow

David N. Livingstone is a professor of geography and intellectual history at the Queen's University Belfast, Northern Ireland, and author of several books, including Putting Science in Its Place: Geographies of Scientific Knowledge, The Geographical Tradition, and Darwin's Forgotten Defenders. 

___________________________________________

Mathematics/Statistics

Andrew M. Hartley,

Christian and Humanist Foundations for Statistical Inference: Religious Control of Statistical Paradigms, Paperback, 126 pages Dec 2007. ISBN-10: 1556355491 (Amazon $18.00) Full Review

 

"Andrew Hartley, in this important and pioneering book, poses the question 'Does the Christian faith have anything distinctive to say ... about the foundations or practice of statistics as a science?' His answer is a resounding `yes!' and in this book he shows us how. As he does so he exposes and refutes the dogma that statistics is religiously neutral. If such a claim seems intriguing or even outrageous, then this book is for you. He maintains that statistics has for the most part been controlled by non-Christian, humanist beliefs. His desire is to see the Christian faith integrated with statistics; hence the descriptive, if not snappy, title of the book. Hartley claims to write for a wide audience, yet the mathematical equations may put off many humanities and arts students. This a pity; they would benefit from this excellent introduction, as Hartley writes clearly and explains the difficult mathematics well. Though there were one or two places I had to read and re-read slowly!"--Steve Bishop UK

Preaching Give a copy to your pastor

Scott E. Hoezee, Proclaim the Wonder: Engaging Science on Sunday 238 pages, ISBN: 0801091640 Baker 2003 (List $16.99, CBD: $3.99)
"This is great for ministers as well as lay-people. The first half reads fairly quickly and provides interesting perspectives from both sides of the fence. It is apparent that the
author has both a theological and scientifically- aware background. At the end are some sample sermons which may be especially good for ministers."-- Randy Given

Rev. Scott E. Hoezee is currently Director, Calvin Seminary Center for
Excellence in Preaching (2005). An ordained pastor in the Christian Reformed Church in North America he served two congregations prior to his current appointment.

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Technology

Jack Clayton Swearengen, Beyond Paradise: Technology and the Kingdom of God, 364 pp., ISBN: 1-59752-842-0, 2007, Wipf and Stock Publishers, Eugene OR 97401, (List $40.00, From author $28.00 postage paid: at jcswear@sbcglobal.net).

"Jack Swearengen provides us with a sacrifice of love and insight in this valuable work. It is a
labor of love in that he boldly ventures into areas to tell us that our best Biblical principles apply to
the evaluation of science and technology. A trained engineer boldly steps out of his comfort zone
into philosophy and cultural analysis to tell us our technological and scientific
idols are failing us. He does this with passion, insight, and depth, traits often
missing in today's get-it-down-now society. I highly recommend this
book." --Dr. Robert Wauzzinski, Professor of Philosophy and Religion, Ball
State University, President of Interfacing, and author of Discerning Prometheus.

"Jack Swearengen understands technology, and he cares about it passionately. A career in weapons technology and as a university professor of engineering gives him the background to discuss issues knowledgeably and skillfully. But it is his deeply Christian passion, together with his extensive thinking, dialoguing and reading, that make this a compelling challenge. Anyone concerned about the direction of our technological society will profit."-- Tim Stafford Senior Writer, Christianity Today, author of Surprised by Jesus

"Swearengen is a Jeremiah for our times, calling on Christians to stop the idolatrous worship of science and technology. Secular values are driving innovation, reshaping the world in ways neither
environmentally nor spiritually sustainable. To counteract this, he recognizes, Christians must limit and shape technology using Biblical guidelines. Church leaders and others concerned about global warming, exhaustion of fossil fuels, human cloning, surveillance, violence, and other technology-implicated problems will find this wise and learned book a tremendous resource."--Edward Woodhouse, Professor of Science and Technology Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, author of Averting Catastrophe: Strategies for Regulating Risky Technologies.

Dr. Jack Swearengen's career has included equipment design, research in materials science, and the application of science and technology to arms control and weapons dismantlement. He served as staff member, supervisor, and manager at Sandia National Laboratories, Scientific Advisor for the Secretary of Defense, and Professor and Founding Director of Engineering Programs at Washington State University in Vancouver. He was science advisor for the US delegation at the Strategic Arms Reduction Talks in Geneva, Switzerland.

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hermeneutics, commentaries

John H. Walton, The Lost World of Genesis One: Ancient Cosmology and the Origins Debate, 2009,192 pp. Paperback IVP Academic (List $16.00, CBD $11.99)

Wheaton College biblical scholar John Walton offers an interesting alternative to traditional evangelical views of ancient cosmology. Instead of insisting that God does not err or tell lies and thus allow bad ancient cosmology or twist the text to reflect current views, he asks us to consider the text as the ancient Israelites did. "It is not written to us (21)." Its message  transcends the culture in which it was written, but the form in which it was imbedded was fully permeated by the ancient culture...God has chosen the agenda of the text, and we must be content with the wisdom of those choices (21)." "In this book I propose that the people in the ancient world would believe that something existed not by  virtue of its material properties, but by virtue of its having a function in an ordered system (26)."  He works out this proposition along the lines of 18 propositions which include consideration of some issues that bedevil evangelicals today.

James McKeown, Genesis The Two Horizons Old Testament Commentary,398 pp., ISBN-10: 0802827055, 2008, Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing
Company, (List $25.00, CBD $17.99).

"In this commentary James McKeown treats Genesis as a book of
beginnings and a foundational sourcebook for biblical theology.
He begins with exegesis of the Hebrew text, highlighting the
recurrence of key words, phrases, and themes throughout the
book. He also draws attention to passages particularly pertinent
to earlier readers either facing or returning from exile, offering
a historical context outside a solely Christian perspective.

The second half of the book unpacks the numerous theological horizons of Genesis ó main unifying themes (descendants, blessing, land); key theological teachings of Genesis (creation, fall, character and image of God, life of faith); and the contribution of Genesis to theology today, including its impact on science, ecology, and feminist theology.

ìThe world of Genesis scholarship is currently embroiled in swirling change. This book offers a
solidly evangelical rock in the midst of the turbulent flow.î--Antony F. Campbell,
Jesuit Theological College

James McKeown is Vice Principal of Balfast Bible College and lecturer in Old Testament at the Institute of Theology, Queen's University Belfast.

C. John Collins, Genesis 1-4: A Linguistic, Literary, And Theological Commentary 318 pp., ISBN: 0875526195, 2006, P & R Publishing, Paperback, (List $17.99, CBD $ 14.99).

"I was privileged to read this book in manuscript form. In this commentary, Collins follows up on
his intriguing insights developed briefly in his previous book, Science and Faith: Friends of Foes?
For anyone searching for a thoughtful, informed, orthodox, and persuasive explanation of the first
four chapters of the Bible, this book is simply the best there is." --Jay W. Richards

"Collins has produced a truly scholarly and masterful exegesis of the opening chapters of
Genesis. With careful attention to the language and conventions of the text, and with an
eye towards historic Reformed theology, he argues that the narrative is an "exalted prose
narrative" that is at once historically grounded in and analogical to the ordinary human
experiences of the text's original readers. This is a useful corrective to those who insist, for example,
that the "days" of creation are "ordinary" days, as well as to those who hold that the text is merely
mythopoetic. He does this while addressing other views critically but respectfully. Whatever
position you hold on the meaning of the Biblical creation narrative, you should admire Collins' work
for both its substance and spirit."--David W. Opderbeck.

"From every standpointómethodological and theological, structural and syntactical, linguistic and
literary, apologetic and worldviewóthis expository survey is a model of ëgood readingí of the text.
Here you have a landmark treatment of Genesis 1-4 as canonical communication from God, a work of
detailed scholarship that no serious student or honest teacher will henceforth be able to ignore.î--J. I. Packer

C. John Collins (Ph.D., University of Liverpool) is professor of Old Testament at Covenant Theological Seminary. He is the author of The God of Miracles and Science and Faith.

Temper Longman III, How to Read Genesis, 192 pages, paperback, ISBN-10: 0877849439, 2005, InterVarsity Press (List: $13.00, CBD $9.99)

"Longman identifies key factors in understanding how to read the first
book of the Bible. First, he identifies its Christological goal, that "in
Genesis . . . we get the first intimations of our Redeemer" (p. 9).
Second, he sees the importance of reading Genesis in terms of the
end, or eschatology: "It is of great significance that the last two
chapters of Revelation (Rev 21-22) use language reminiscent of the
Garden of Eden to describe the time of final reunion with God. The
end brings us back to the beginning" (p. 15). And, third, he recognizes
the importance of accounting for both the human and the divine
authorship of Genesis: "While we ground our interpretation in what
we propose is the meaning of the human author, we also believe that
the divine intention can transcend that of the human author"
(p. 18; cf. 1 Pet. 1:10-11). Longman uses these interpretive goals in his
efforts to teach the reader how to read Genesis."--Rev. John Fesco.

Tremper Longman III is Robert H. Gundry Professor of Biblical Studies at Westmont College in Santa Barbara, California.

W. Robert Godfrey, God's Pattern for Creation: A Covenantal Reading of Genesis 1. 144 pages. ISBN: 087552799, 2003, P & R Publishing, Paperback. (List:$10.99, CBD: $8.99) PSCF Review

"Evangelicals often read the opening chapter of Genesis in a literal, chronological fashion
regardless of external scientific evidence which suggests otherwise. This has led to a variety
of concordistic models which satisfy only their author or a ìBible onlyî reading which ignores
revelation in nature. With Godís Pattern for Creation, ... offers ìa fresh look at Genesis 1î based
on a covenantal approach and the literary form this covenant takes in Genesis 1.... readers
would benefit by working through his exegetical argument leading to the
conclusion that ìthe days of creation are figurative descriptions of the actions
of Godî (p. 93). This pattern is followed in other historical sections of Scripture,
e.g., Exod. 12:42; Gen. 11:4,5; Ps. 113:5-6; Heb. 8:2, and so forth. "Godfrey views
Genesis 1 as foundational: ìdetailing the grand story of creation and the meaning
of creation before the entrance of sin into the worldî (p. 20). He works, verse by
verse, through the text, drawing out the implications for a covenantal peopleó
then and now. Using internal biblical evidence alone, he brings the reader to see the value of a
topical arrangement of ìdaysî instead of the traditional chronology. The meaning is seen in the
form as well as the scriptural text. In this the message is more fully portrayed. The freshness of
Godfreyís writing is an antidote to the tired polemics abroad today. This well-honed work should
be readóand re-read."--PSCF

Dr. Godfrey is President of Westminster Theological Seminary California and a
church historian

Gordon J. Glover, Beyond the Firmament: Understanding Science and the Theology of Creation Paperback, 228 pages. ISBN-10: 0978718615, 2007, Watertree Press. (BCC: $16.00)

"There are loads of books on all sides of the Bible/science controversy, but I can say without
exaggeration that Beyond the Firmament ought to be at the top of the required reading list. It
is down to earth and easy to grasp, giving a good summary of the scientific evidences for the
antiquity of the universe and biological evolution, and why Christians ought to care about
these things, while maintaining a faith-affirming interpretation of the Bible. Whether you agree
or disagree with the author's approach or with the evidences, there are still critical questions
that are often left un-asked, which the author does a good job of conveying to a primarily
non-technical audience. The book is particularly styled toward conservative Christians, who
tend to be the ones demanding scientific precision from ancient Biblical texts. The author, who
once held this view, has been where many Christians fear to tread -- honestly investigating the
scientific evidence of "the other side." He has returned, bringing an honest and forthright
testimony that believers don't have to choose between accepting faith or the scientific evidence
of the natural world. He holds that the Bible can be literally true (according to its intended
message), while not necessarily being scientifically accurate according to science's limited
knowledge in any given generation. ..." --Jon Tandy

Glover studied Mechanical Engineering at the University of Texas and Ocean
Engineering at Texas A&M University. He also served 10 years in the U.S. Navy
as a Deep Sea Diver and Ocean Engineer.

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Theology

Robert John Russell  (Editor),Nancey Murphy(Editor),William R. Stoeger S.J.(Editor), Scientific Perspectives on Divine Action: Twenty Years of Challenge and Progress, Paperback 2009, Vatican Observatory FND NDUP, 284 pp., $28.00.

"Scientific Perspectives on Divine Action: Twenty Years of Challenge and Progress" is a collection of thirteen essays assessing the scholarly contributions to the "Scientific Perspectives on Divine Action" series, which is comprised of five volumes resulting from international research conferences co-sponsored by the Vatican Observatory and the Center for Theology and the Natural Sciences between 1991 and 2000. The overarching goal of the series is to advance the engagement of constructive theology with the natural sciences with special attention to the theme of divine action and to investigate the philosophical and theological elements within science. This volume is divided into three sections: In Section One, contributors review the history of the series and the development of new research methodology and discuss philosophical issues raised by the laws of nature and the limits of science; in Section Two, authors provide philosophical analysis of specific issues in the series; and in Section Three, contributors offer theological analysis of specific issues."--Publisher

Nancey Murphy,(Ed.)William R. Stoeger (Editor), Robert John Russell (Editor), Physics and Cosmology: Scientific Perspectives on the Problem of Natural Evil, Paperback  2008 Vatican Observatory FND NDUP, 400 pp. ( List: $28.00, Amazon $25.20)
 

The essays in Physics and Cosmology: Scientific Perspectives on the Problem of Natural Evil resulted from the seventh international research conference co-sponsored by the Vatican Observatory Foundation and the Center for Theology and the Natural Sciences. It is the first in a new series on the problem of natural evil--on reconciling suffering caused by natural processes with God's goodness.

The editors have divided this volume into four sections. The first includes history of the issue and a critical analysis of how the history has often been understood, followed by two chapters that provide typologies: one of types of suffering, the other of the various "shapes" of defenses. The second section comprises chapters that address the problem of suffering head-on, with resources from science, theology, and philosophy. The third section contains essays that address the issue by offering reformulations of typical understandings of the relation between God and the world. Finally, essays in the fourth section claim, in one way or another, that the question of the volume needs to be reframed.

George  Murphy, The Cosmos in the Light of the Cross, 217 pages, Hardcover
Trinity Press International, Hardcover (List: $49.95, Amazon: $37.50).

"...have come to believe that theological issues are more important than scientific ones in todayís
science/faith controversies. Discussions tend to focus on scientific questions (or on biblical interpretation, which at least gets closer to the root problems) while underlying theological issues are ignored. Murphyís The Cosmos in the Light of the Cross is therefore a welcome contribution. Murphy, a physicist, Lutheran pastor and ASA fellow, offers a theological understanding of Godís work in the world that science describes. His framework is the ìtheology of the crossî that was advocated by Luther (and, one could argue, by the Apostle Paul). Rather than starting with human ideas of how we think God should be (which results in idolatry), the theology of the cross looks to Godís self-revelation in Jesus Christ, especially the humiliation in which God, in Bonhoefferís words, ìlets himself be pushed out of the world on to the cross.î As Paul pointed out, this is scandalous to human preconceptions about God, but it is consistent with the humble, self-sacrificing love revealed in Christ. ...The book is well written, with thoughtful, biblically based theology and scientific insight. Sometimes these are cleverly combined, as when Lamarckian evolution is described as ìa kind of biological works righteousness.î While the book does not require advanced scientific or theological expertise of the reader, it does require a willingness to give mature and careful thought to the issues and arguments. Those looking for a more introductory book (perhaps for a college student first considering science/faith issues) could turn to Murphyís earlier Toward a Christian View of a Scientific World...The Cosmos in the Light of the Cross offers a promising framework for viewing Godís work in nature. Its arguments deserve consideration even by those who disagree with Murphy, and I highly recommend the book to anyone who desires to think more deeply and clearly about these issues..".--Allan H. Harvey

Dr. Murphy holds a Ph.D. in theoretical physics from Johns Hopkins and M.Div. from Wartburg Seminary. He has been a Lutheran pastor and college physics teacher.

Alister E. McGrath, The Science of God: An Introduction to Scientific Theology, 271 pages. ISBN 0-8028-2815-9, 2004. Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, paperback. (List: $25.00, CBD: $17.99 ). PSCF Review

"..an introductory guide to the author's groundbreaking and highly acclaimed three-volume work
Scientific Theology, which Religious Studies Review called "one of the best systematic
theologies to appear in some time." The Science of God aims to achieve a high degree
of explanatory clarity in a shorter introduction that is still faithful to the ideas and approach
of the original volumes, making it accessible to a wide readership. McGrath outlines the
distinctive themes of his scientific theology, explains how he developed the approach over
a period of twenty years, and describes the theological potential of the natural sciences as dialogue
partners for Christian thought. He explores the legitimacy of a scientific theology, the purpose and
place of natural theology, the foundations of theological realism, the failure of classic foundationalism, the nature of revelation, and the place of metaphysics in theology." -- Books of Distinction.

Dr McGrath is Professor of Historical Theology at Oxford University

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ethics

Charles W. Colson and Nigel M. de S. Cameron, eds., Human Dignity in the Biotech Century: A Christian Vision for Public Policy, 252 pages. ISBN: 0830827838, 2004. InterVarsity Press, Paperback. (List $16.00, CBD $11.99), PSCF Review

"While the essays cover a wide range of issues in the development of
biotechnology, two essays caught this reviewerís special interest: ìThe Biotech Revolution: Major Issues in the Biosciencesî (David Prentice), and ìTechnoSapiensî (Christopher Hook). Prenticeís essay provided a description of ìstem cellsî that was very informative. Stem cells are pluripotent in that it is possible for them to form all the tissues of the adult human body. While they are among the first cells that form in the embryo, stem cells can also be obtained from fetuses, umbilical cord blood, placenta, and virtually all adult tissues as well as from certain adult tumors. At present, it is difficult to culture these cells in the laboratory apart from their source and only a small percentage of laboratory animals into which they have been inserted have survived. Matching the stem cells with the tissue of the recipient is also a problem and at present it is anticipated that many will have to take medication to resist rejection. Prentice suggests that, while continued research is valuable, sources other than embryos would be highly preferred since they do not involve the taking of life."

"Christian reflection on these biotech developments must take into account the degree to which such
conclusions depends on natural law, legal positivism, utilitarianism, or hedonism. While these authors
could be said to take a conservative position on the issues, they raise profound and literate concerns
that should be considered. I predict that the book will become a seminal resource for scientists, individual Christians, church bodies, and politicians alike. Among graduate students in ethics, the sciences, philosophy, and theology, it would be a valuable resource for dialogue."--H. Newton Malony

Colson is founder and chairman of Prison Fellowship and the Wilberforce Forum. He also chairs the Council for Biotechnology Policy. Cameron is research professor of bioethics at Chicago-Kent College of Law and president of the Institute on Biotechnology and the Human Future. He founded the journal Ethics and Medicine in 1983, directs the Council for Biotechnology Policy (Washington, D.C

Biography

David Fisher and Eric C. Barrett, eds. Scientists Who Believe 207 pages ISBN:
0802476341, 1984, Moody Publishers. Paperback. (List $5.99, CBD $ 4.79)

"The "Scientists Who Believe: 21 Tell Their Own Stories" carry the historical mandate
to show God's glory in the scientific world He made. These 21 scientific Christians explain how true science always proves the God's mastery in Creation. Their scientific discoveries brought them to a stronger faith and desire to extol His glory through their continued work. This is excellent reading for youth from age 10 through college. Scientific method is logically employed, as well as explanations of trials in the process."-- Robin Elwing

Dan Graves, Scientists Of Faith. 192 pages. ISBN: 082542724X, 1996, Kregel
Publications, Paperback. (List $11.99, CBC $9.99) PSCF Review

"Many teachers have recognized the need for a collection of short biographical essays on Christians
who contributed to science. This inexpensive book makes an important contribution to the task. Graves has embraced the widest possible chronology by drawing on individuals over a 1600 year period.
These biographical sketches offer candid two to four page snapshots of real people virtues and faults
packing a large amount of information in a short space, enough for the instructor to present a picture
in the limited time available in the classroom. His choice of characters was reasonably even-handed
in the light of the many candidates available. Graves is concerned about the expression of Christian
character in his actors as well as their professional contributions. They often faced opposition and in
declining to press their claims lost priority of discovery and fame. Some were sons of clergyman and
were hard pressed whether to serve God in the pulpit or the lab. All of us can profitably read this book.
Teachers in Christian institutions at all levels have a valuable and low cost link with the past. A very
complete bibliography proves sources of more information on the chosen forty eight and beyond."--PSCF

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Scholarship

William Lane Craig and Paul M. Gould eds., The Two Tasks of the Christian Scholar: Redeeming the Soul, Redeeming the Mind, 208 pages, ISBN: 9781581349399, 2007. Good News / Crossway, Paperback. (List $18.99, CBD $ 13.99)

"There is no honest Christian in the academy who compromises Christianity and attempts to segregate Faith from Knowledge. The fully integrated life is the best life for ministry. As Christian scholars continue to permeate academia we will have the opportunity to open doors for the gospel. That is one of the themes of this book. Not theocracy, not a conquest of the university, but an advance into a world often untouched by the Christian. It is sometimes closed, but when it opens, Christians as capable scholars and participants will gain the opportunity for ministry in the secular cathedrals."--Collin Brendemueh

 

Christian Education Materials

Thea Nyhoff Leunk, Fossils and Faith: Finding Our Way Through the Creation
Controversy (4 lessons) 2005. CRC Press, Leader's Guide, 67 pages.  ISBN: 1592551998, Paper.($12.95); student newspaper for each session ($ 4.95).  Useful for high school students grades 11 and 12 or young adults/adults in either a day school or church school setting
"If you have a child whoís obsessed with velociraptos and pterodactyls, one fine day he or she will ask you, ìWhy doesnít the Bible say anything about God making dinosaurs? Youíll blink a few times, then use the parental stall sentence: ìNow thatís a really good question . . .î while your mind scans wildly for an answer that satisfies the childís scientific curiosity without contradicting what youíve taught about creation. After youíve given your answer, you might ask yourself, ìWhat do I really believe about how science and the Bible relate to each other? What about evolution? And how does the existence of fossils affect my faith?î
A new course from Faith Alive is designed to help high schoolers (and parents of dinosaur-crazy kids) wrestle with difficult questions like these."--Sandy Swartzentruber
"Fossils and Faith is a four-session course that covers issues raised in the current debate between scientific and biblical views of creation.
These issues are raised in a Reformed Protestant context, but no one position has been selected as the "best" or "most faithful" answer. Instead, this course presents a full range of the various positions that Christians have articulated. The sessions are designed to present and explain the key issues of this debate. Discussing the various issues will help members of your group articulate more clearly what they believe."--Faith Alive

James Luther Garner, The Physics of the Natural Philosophers 358 pages, ISBN0356501807, 2008. Pearson Custom Publishing, Boston, Papeback

Physics is appropriate for a one semester course in classical physics for science and liberal arts general education students. It could be used for college or high school courses and is well-suited for Christian College, High School and home school students. Not "Christian" physics it describes the religious context from which most classical physics emerged weaving faith into the main discussion in a natural way. The text indeed offers "an imaginative and fresh approach."--JWH

ASA member Garner is Professor of Physics and Chair, Department of Physics University of North Florida, Jacksonville. His research interests range from the history of physic and new methods of physics instruction to theoretical studies on magnetic semiconductors.

Discover Creation and Science (Walk With Me Grades 6-8, Year 3, Unit 5) (4 lessons) 2006. Grand Rapids MI: Faith Alive Christian Resources, Leader's Guide. 44 pages. ISBN: 1529551637, Paper. ($5.95); student materials for each session ($3.15).A study for grades 6-8 on creation and science.

"When and how should we begin to begin to address the issues that arise when science touches Christian Faith? Surely as early as the science is taught in school. Offering kids the chance to relate the Genesis stories they learned in Sunday School to the science they are taught at school can be daunting yet it can provide a foundation upon which they can build as their knowledge of scripture and science matures with the years. Setting the stage for how one should approach these topics later on can avoid much pain later on. How this is tackled is critical to gaining kids attention and stimulating their curiosity The biggest problem for the teacher is the temptation to provide right answers. Happily, the four sessions admirably meet these challenges. Trivia games, science experiments, field trip, drama, music, and much more keep student active and thinking. This approach give the kids a chance to ask the questions and pose answers in a natural way. This series is one that should be tried in your church either in Sunday school or youth group."--ASA

DDavid S. Koetje, editor Living the Good Life on God's Good Earth (10 Lessons)
2006.Grand Rapids MI: Faith Alive ChristianResources, Paperback, 83 pages. ISBN 1-59225-292-7 (Faith Alive: $11.50) . A ten week lesson series.

Written by a team of Christian environmentalists, this thought-provoking book offers Biblically-grounded advice on living as caretakers of Godís good earth and the impact of environmental stewardship on: the way we live, the homes we live in, the food we eat, the clothes we wear, the energy we use, the plants we grow, the work we are called to do, and what we do for rest and enjoyment. It also includes discussion questions that address a Christianís role in stewardship. Great for Sr. High and Adult Sunday School study or small groups! Download/b> a sample chapter

...and from the ASA Office

introductory, general

Robert Fisher, God Did It, But How? Relations Between the Bible and Science, Second Edition, 1997, third printing, 2002. 122 pages. ISBN: 1881479021, ASA Press, Paperback. ( $10, plus $3 p/h; Volume discounts available.) PSCF Review, (First Edition) Order Form (PDF format)

"Fischer begins by outlining the distinct questions one can ask with regard to origins or almost anything else: Who, What, How, and Why? He gives clear examples to illustrate how these questions can be interrelated, but are often independent. He then gives a concise and orthodox description of how we go about interpreting the Bible and nature, which are our sources of information for answering these questions. Some of the points made with regard to science, such as what is meant by a "theory," should shed light on current misunderstandings. Some interesting points are made about the similarities and differences in these two areas of study. An evangelical Christian and a professional scientist, Robert Fischer takes both the Bible and science seriously. Never divorcing faith and reason, he nonetheless suggests we separate "Who?" and "Why?" questions from "What?" and "How?" Overall..., this book is a most welcome contribution to the science/faith area. As an introduction (suitable, for example, for college freshmen) that will help Christians think in a mature manner about these issues,"--Allan H. Harvey

RRobert B. Fischer, a chemist, was Provost and is Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Biola University.

To order: write, call, fax, or e-mail:/span>
American Scientific Affiliation, P.O. Box 668 Ipswich, MA 01938-0668
Phone: (978) 356-5656 Fax: (978) 356-4375 E-mail: carol@asa3.org

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