Faith, Science, and Creation: Key Concepts
Faith and Science: Conflict or Consistency?
1. Why is it stated that there is a conflict between faith and science?
Because there is a perceived inconsistency between different types of knowledge: scientific and religious. Science tends to rely solely on itself, while faith, as held by believers, often challenges scientific data.
Origin vs. Start: A Key Difference
2. What is the difference between the concepts of ‘origin’ and ‘start’?
The ‘start’ describes a ‘how’ and often refers to a creator God. However, ‘origin’ reveals a ‘why’ and implies a formative process.
The Story of Creation: Then and Now
3. How can we explain the story of creation, both in its historical context and today?
The historical account of ‘how’ describes the physical processes of the universe’s formation and various cosmological models, including the Earth and living things. This narrative addresses the problem of God becoming ‘useless,’ thus eliminating anthropocentrism.
The modern understanding of ‘how’ describes research that has led to current results. Anthropocentrism is now marginalized, mainly considered by philosophers and religious thinkers. Scientists are more modest, acknowledging their limits and not complicating their work with religious themes.
The Second Biblical Account of Creation
4. What is the second biblical account of creation?
It is the older story in Genesis, focusing on the creation of man and woman. The author uses metaphors to convey the concepts within their society. It highlights the absolute and relative freedom of man, created free but with warnings. This parable describes God’s plan for humanity.
Relative vs. Absolute Freedom
5. Explain the differences between relative and absolute freedom.
Absolute freedom depends solely on itself. In this context, God embodies this, as the lawgiver who can do as He pleases. Relative freedom is earthly; it is the freedom to act within the boundaries of the law. Humans must adhere to the law, or they risk losing the privileges of freedom granted to them.
The Importance of Woman’s Creation
6. What is the importance of the creation of woman?
The creation of woman was primarily to accompany man, as she is of the same social level. Therefore, man and woman are considered one, a part of each other. There is also a sense of admiration from men towards women, as she completes him. She is also a gift from God.
Rationality of God Speaking to Man
7. What constitutes a rational basis for the idea that God can speak to man?
Man possesses the power of knowledge. When God speaks, it is not just a new discovery but a transmission of profound truths. Revelation is a reasonable idea, as it flows from human thought to some extent.
Christ as the Summit of Revelation
8. Why is Christ considered the summit of revelation? (Two reasons and justification)
First, God wanted to reveal Himself and express His desire. Through Christ and the Holy Spirit, men can reach the Father and participate in the divine nature, establishing communion with them.
Second, God wants to guide us to salvation. ‘Salvation’ is man’s happiness in God, surpassing all desires. Revelation is salvation, and salvation is revelation. The more God is revealed, the more He gives, and the more one is saved.