Re: [asa] YEC--What can we offer them?

Christine:
Perhaps we might start by pointing out that when looking at the Bible it
is an advantage to replace a set of fixed focus and monochromatic
spectacles by a variable focus and polychromatic optical system. It
takes more effort to employ the more complicated system, but a 3D and
colorful image that reveals the diversity (within a basic unity) in the
Bible is worth the effort. Also, a willingness to accept assistance from
people who are familiar with the more complicated system should be
encouraged. Importantly, people need to be reassured that if they change
their spectacles they are not going to be on a slippery slope leading to
blindness.
Don

Christine Smith wrote:
> Hi all,
>
> All the critiquing of the YEC folks got me
> thinking...while our criticisms are very important to
> maintain the integrity of the science and the faith,
> what positive alternatives/perspectives can we offer
> them? More specifically, one of the questions I think
> they often ask, and I think is a geniunely valid one,
> is, if you don't take the Bible literally, HOW in
> general (thinking mental framework, not specific
> passages) do we discern what is to be taken literally
> and what isn't? Particularly from the vantage point of
> a lay person who isn't a scientist or a Biblical
> historian?
>
> I know we all have our viewpoints on this, which have
> been expressed in variety of different places, but
> thinking of those readers who happen upon our website
> and maybe aren't familiar with us or our perspectives,
> it might be nice to consolidate such views, resources,
> etc. into a single thread?
>
> Have at it! :D
>
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>

-- 
Donald A. Nield
Associate Professor, Department of Engineering Science
University of Auckland
Private Bag 92019
Auckland 1142, NEW ZEALAND
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d.nield@auckland.ac.nz
http://www.esc.auckland.ac.nz/People/Staff/dnie003/
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