Too often conversations on Science and Christianity skate over much deeper assumptions--or perceptions--on the nature and interpretation of Scripture, and the nature of science and of God. Instead, the rhetoric goes quickly towards contentious issues, like evolution, global warming, or genetic engineering, without establishing a framework of mutual understanding. Consequently, ""conversations"" can take place between people who completely misunderstand each other because those foundations have not been clearly articulated. In this introductory book you are invited on a journey of discovery, one that makes us self-aware of our starting assumptions. It is only from a framework of critical engagement with both science and the Bible that contemporary issues and the needs of the church and society can be addressed.
While the Creator is one who brings order, this book also reminds us that untamed chaos also has a God-ordained place within creation. The author explores the element of chance that seems to be at the heart of nature and shows how this can be incorporated constructively within Christian thinking. Nature is not mere mechanism and is more ""open"" than we might first think. This means that miracles are scientifically plausible and prayer can really change things. . . .
""The polarized positions, from within the church and from skeptics outside, are so loud and so effectively disseminated that it is often difficult for sensible, mediating positions to be heard. But I am encouraged that there are more and more such positions, including this straightforward defense of critical realism.""
--Mark Noll, Francis A. McAnaney Professor of History, University of Notre Dame; Author of Jesus Christ and the Life of the Mind
""A good book on science and faith needs to be written by someone who has a feel for science from the experience of working it, combined with a depth of theological understanding, and the lightness of touch to make it readable and exciting. Tim Reddish has written this kind of good book.""
--David Wilkinson, Principal, St. John's College, Durham; Author of When I Pray What Does God do?
""Reddish engages Scripture faithfully and science with professional integrity. . . . Reddish shows not just that science and faith can get along, but that when each is understood properly, they enrich each other.""
--Jim Stump, Senior Editor, BioLogos; Author of Science and Christianity: An Introduction to the Issues
""This is an informative book of real scholarship in which Reddish addresses the supposed 'conflict' between science and Christianity head-on. By exposing the historical and cultural roots of the divide, he points out where useful dialogue can and should occur.""
--Bill McConkey, Professor Emeritus, University of Windsor
""In Science and Christianity, Reddish lays out an authoritative, yet personal, account of why science and Christianity are not contradictory 'belief systems.' A great book to read and then give to others.""
--Mike Hulme, Professor of Climate and Culture, King's College London
Tim Reddish (PhD, Physics, Manchester, United Kingdom; MDiv, Knox College, Toronto) was a Reader in Experimental Atomic Physics at the University of Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom, before moving to Canada in 2002. In 2011 he left his professorship at the University of Windsor to study theology. Upon graduation in 2015, he received Knox College's Gold Medal. He is also the author of The Amish Farmer who Hated L.A. and 8 Other Modern Day Allegories (2015).
