The New Idol?
by David Gibson
A cartoon depicts people bowing to a golden calf. The calf is labeled SCIENCE.
Do you find that amusing, offensive, or right on target?
The word “science” simply means knowledge. One of the definitions of science is “systematic knowledge of the physical or material world gained through observation and experimentation [dictionary.com].
Good or Evil?
Should Christians support or oppose science? The Scriptures tell us that mature Christians “have their senses trained to discern good and evil” (Hebrews 5:14 NASB). So, are scientific endeavors good or evil? That depends. It’s like asking, “Is education good or evil?” “Is entertainment good or evil?” “Is government good or evil?” Whether anything is good or evil depends on whether it conforms to righteousness and truth, as God defines them.
A few observations:
- Scientists are not infallible. “To err is human,” and scientists are human. Some things scientists once believed have since been discredited. Is it possible, then, that future studies may prove current scientific conclusions untenable?
- Many scientists truly want to go wherever the evidence leads. However, as in any field of study, not all scientists are so committed. Rather, they have an agenda, and they use their white-coat, degreed status to pose as experts, when in reality, they are agents of propaganda. We are made to feel that we who lack their credentials must unquestionably trust whatever they tell us, regardless.
- The Bible warns against putting ultimate trust in people, military strength, material things, etc. Only God is fully trustworthy.
- So, can we afford to assume that everything purportedly scientific is 100% trustworthy? It pays to be both open-minded and a bit skeptical at the same time.
It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to know that much.
