The Christian view of science and Scripture

Bernard Ramm's treatment of the supposed "war" between science and scripture is refreshing yet deep. A professor at Biola University, and then at American Baptist Seminary of the West, he was a prolific writer. His book on hermeneutics remains a useful textbook on the subject. In the present volume he explores the purported incompatability between scientific reason and biblical accuracy, and shows that the illusion is because of improper interpretation of scientific evidence and/or the Biblical texts. Although some of the scientific data he cites are somewhat dated (e.g. supposed age of the earth), his reasoning still stands. The strength of the book is in its ability to sweep away the controversy and clear the way for intellectual honesty on both sides. As the list of books referencing this work demonstrates, "The Christian View of Science and Scripture" is a seminal work. Reaction to this book was evidently the impetus for the writings of Henry Morris, who shortly thereafter published his first major works on so-called "scientific creationism". Thus, it may have been the opening volley in the current "war", but as Ramm points out, the debate goes back to Augustine's time. While Morris' work is meant to exclude and divide, Ramm's book paves the way for those trained in the sciences to approach the Bible without having to "check their brain at the door". It also allows the Christian to approach science without a sense of guilt or heretical treason, free to explore its wonders, and yet, understand its limits. But most importantly, it opens a dialogue between serious believers and serious scientists that can lead to salvation on one hand, and greater appreciation for the works of the creator on the other. It is obvious that Bernard Ramm had a great love of the Bible and science. His most cogent point is that we, as Christians, must be cautious when we speak of scientific subjects, and we must be sure that we really understand the scientific method and the field of which we speak. Otherwise we will be dismissed as ignorant, and even more tragically, we may exclude honest seekers from coming to the Bible for reconciliation with the Creator. Also, as scientists, we must not impose a scientific framework on the Biblical texts. It will almost always result in misinterpretation and obscure the intended message. That however does not imply that the Bible cannot stand up under scientific scrutiny. While it was not the intent of the Biblical authors to write a scientific treatise, Ramm points out many instances where statements in the Bible have proven far ahead of their time for scientific and historical accuracy. And when viewed from a phenomenological perspective, even the creation account violates no basic tenants of science, a remarkable accomplishment for such an ancient text. This book remains a classic on the subject. I recommend it to all who honestly seek to reconcile science and scripture, not merely compromise one or the o