Shuan Rose wrote:
<<
Seriously though, I would like some guidance on how to deal with evolution
when the topic comes up with my YEC friends
>>
I don't know specifically what you mean by "when the
topic comes up" as I expect it would depend on the
circumstances.
Three things I work with...
First:
I don't really see any point in insisting on correcting
everyone who talks about global floods and six 24 hour
day creations. People can talk with bad grammar and
diction, but it would be out of order to be constantly
correcting such people at every occasion. Likewise
with these sorts of things. There is no need to march
around waving the "science baton" playing the "science
policeman." There is a time for every matter under heaven,
and some things really aren't worth making an issue of.
Second:
Many people in my church know that
I am a scientist. If they confront me directly with the
"do you believe in evolution?" question, that opens an
avenue for dialog. In addition, because I have some
understanding of science, people come to me and ask
me questions about science when they have doubts.
That is the time to offer things that give them something
to have a real faith in. Again that offers an avenue for
constructive dialogue and they walk away strengthened.
Finally: if you actually are confronted with the "you *must*
believe X" that is when you might find that you really have
to stand your ground. Again, don't go around asking for it
by waving that "science baton" around for everyone to see
and wamping over the head anyone who says something *you*
think is really silly (and at the same time badgering everyone
with the invitation "any more dumb ideas?").
(Please note: I don't assume that you are playing the "science
policeman," the exaggeration is only meant to point out that
sometimes there can be other things working in these kind
confrontations that may have little to do with global floods
and six 24 hour day creation events. We have to be aware of
our own role, and that _is_ sometimes very difficult to see.)
by Grace alone do we proceed,
Wayne
This archive was generated by hypermail 2b29 : Wed Feb 13 2002 - 10:56:48 EST