Questions around Science and Faith seem to dog the Church in our day. There are outsiders who argue that science makes faith irrelevant, and there is even some heated controversy within the Church. Many seekers and Christians (and even Pastors!) would love some assurance that there are coherent answers, but have no idea where to turn, and we are often leaving our young people vulnerable to shallow internet arguments.
About Marty
It is much easier to take thoughtful steps if you have a map of the terrain! There are three very different ways Christians approach these issues. There are six scientific categories in which some argue for a natural theology, that there is evidence for divine intervention. And we need to learn to discuss these things with integrity and with mutual respect. The material presented is NOT rocket science and has proven accessible to people with all levels of background, including middle and high school students.
The good news here is that Science and Faith belong together!
Stimulate learning by gracefully addressing different Biblical and scientific views - see 1 Cor 11:19.
Did you know that early Genesis is the most remarkable and influential text ever written?
Does it matter that our universe had a beginning? Did Life really start on its own?
Are humans just another species?
Plenty of devout people figure "God's knows how it all fits together" and that's enough for them. But others have a question or two they'd kinda like to have some perspective on. Still others are held back because of doubts about their faith due to their questions.
Q&As - conversations - in a group or one on one over coffee help people sort issues out and go back with renewed strength to their daily lives.
Do you know some people who would like to dialog?
When I talk about my faith and my understanding of the Bible, I have more confidence. I can integrate scientific insights into a faith perspective that compliments both faith and science. I feel more secure in talking about my approach ...”
– Mike Laurence – Lead Pastor Faith Community Church Hopkinton (fcch.org)
I had a friend ask … This gave me the opportunity to mention ... With this opening, I was able to state my opinions … I feel like I helped him learn that there isn't necessarily an incompatibility between Christianity and science... Thank you for all the hard work and devotion Marty.”
– David Su – 20-something friend
“Now I had a clear set of facts and explanations that helped me merge the two apparently contradictory stories about the origin of our world. … He has helped me be comfortable with this issue and able to discuss it when others express interest.”
– Carol Mitchell, clinical social worker, Framingham Salvation Army Advisory Board member
"I have personally found Marty’s unique ability to address complex issues with clarity and focus without providing simplistic responses helpful and engaging. People have responded well to his classes and groups allowing broader discussion and learning not always seen in these specific issues."– Dorian Botsis – Framingham Campus Pastor, Faith Community Church (fcch.org)
I have enjoyed science since I was young. In my 20's I had to honestly look at some issues to see if I needed to jettison Christianity. I discovered quite to the contrary that Christianity was a very defensible option in the world of ideas.
In the last few years I have become passionate about the beauty and brilliance of all that God has done for us – including our universe, our planet, especially life, and our self-awareness. While I have opinions about God's involvement with these, I am much more concerned that Science need never become a stumbling block to anyone's Faith. After teaching and helping in my home church for many years, and with the encouragement of my Pastor, I have been speaking around New England on science and faith issues.