Redeeming Science
Of all the academic fields, science is the one with the strongest reputation for exalting itself against God’s truth. Perhaps it is inevitable, then, that it is also the discipline that many Christian young people give the least consideration for their life’s calling. This sort of attitude, sadly, gives Satan still more leverage in using nature as a powerful tool to discredit the Creator of it all.
Prior to the publication of Charles Darwin’s The Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection in 1859, most Christians viewed science as an honorable calling. In fact, a majority of the scientific breakthroughs of the 17th through 19th centuries came from men who reverenced God. After Darwin, however, confidence in Biblical inerrancy eroded with the increasing secularization of science and the failure of many ministers to stand for truth. Darwin’s philosophy, in short order, invaded colleges and universities, extending its influence far beyond just the life sciences.
Scientism, the philosophy that views science as having the power to answer all questions, has become the new religion, and scientific experts have been ordained its high priests. According to Dr. George Matzko, chairman of the Division of Natural Science at Bob Jones University, "Never before in history has science had greater credibility and status in the eyes of society." Sadly, most of the scientists the media calls on to explain or promote scientific developments do not share our Christian belief system. Consequently, their worldview often distorts the significance or ramifications of current research. The use of embryonic stem cells, genetically modified crops, and the link between carbon dioxide emissions and global warming are just a few recent stories where this bias is obvious. If the public is so willing to accept the testimony of scientific experts, why should it not be coming from scientists who fear God?
We are called to "subdue" and "have dominion over" God’s creation in the Creation Mandate of Genesis 1:28. What better way is there to accomplish this other than serving in one of the sciences? It is time for Christian young people to answer the call to develop and use their gifts in this neglected field. While medicine and engineering are seen as "safe" for Christians, other specialties from astronomy to zoology have almost been given over to those who give no thought to the Creator. Several recent studies point to a significant decline in scientific literacy, coupled with a potential shortage of skilled scientists in the U.S. Now, as never before, Christian scientists have an opportunity not only to do good science but also to fulfill the Creation mandate. At the same time, we can use science and technology as a means of showing Christian love to our neighbors, thus meeting the demands of the second great commandment (Mark 12:31).
If you have students who show some aptitude for science, there are many ways you can encourage them to explore their options. School science or invention fairs give young people opportunities to think and act like scientists. Many regions have organized robotic competitions that cause students to apply many fields of science in creative problem solving. Field trips to research laboratories, hospitals, and some professional firms allow students to see scientists at work. Volunteer work at hospitals, botanical gardens, zoos, or veterinary clinics gives a young person valuable experience and an opportunity to test drive a career before they begin investing years in preparation. Science professionals associated with your school or church may be willing to allow a mature student to shadow them for a day or two. At the very least, these individuals could visit your classroom to discuss how they live out their faith at work.
Research shows that early influences have the strongest impact on a student’s decision to pursue a career in science. In fact, most young people move toward or away from science in the ninth grade. It is critical, therefore, that early science experiences whet their appetite for the thrill of scientific discovery. As early as junior high school, enthusiastic and knowledgeable teachers in both the science and math classes have enormous influence on science career decisions.
Certainly, God does not call every student to serve Him through science. Any Christian, however, needs to be scientifically literate enough to properly interpret science stories and to filter the secular bias. Quality high school science classes can provide this foundation. A college minor in the sciences complements many non-science majors and gives a student confidence in dealing with the growing complexities of science. A facility with the science vocabulary and concepts is also valuable preparation for witnessing as it provides conversation links and credibility. Christ himself used botany, meteorology, medicine, and many other scientific disciplines in his illustrations.
A proper understanding of our role as stewards of God’s creation demands that we view science not as a wasteland, but as fertile soil for cultivating fruits for His glory.