
David Wilkinson is unique in that he is both a scientist and a Christian theologian. He can survey a massive amount of material to present a masterful argument for the way in which God can act in our lives. While the first chapter is a challenge to those with an unscientific education he rapidly makes the history of science intelligible to those of us who lack his credentials. Science is much more open and unpredictable than it is usually presented by its experts. Creation is more supple and subtle than imagined. Christianity has had its variety of exponents in relation to scientific discovery. From Newton to Chaos theory there is much to be said for humility on both sides. He contributes much to the discussion on the problem of evil, suffering, natural disasters and pandemics. I particularly liked his survey of miracles and their understanding by various Christians and sceptics such as David Hume. God cannot be limited to reason and a mechanistic view of the universe. and natural law. So often our understanding of science is outdated. Christians can be intimidated by so-called scientific or medical experts instead of questioning their presuppositions. They can also come to different conclusions. This was the case in the response to the Covid pandemic. Francis Collins of the NIH, a devout Christian, supported the government lockdowns, social distancing and mandatory vaccinations. Wilkinson writes that this was important and wise. Yet other Christian leaders opposed them, particularly when they were extended to the closing of churches and schools. People were deprived of the consolation of congregational worship and pastoral care by politicians who panicked and wanted to appear knowledgeable. They spread fear rather than common sense. Those who defied the governments were prosecuted or lost their jobs. There was more concern for saving the NHS in Britain than saving souls. Wilkinson noted that the church always has to be a critical friend to the government and that friendship must be broken at times if it is simply being used. Then there is the criticism of some vaccines that were suspected of causing cardio problems. I myself had heart bypass surgery after taking one of the vaccines. Was that cause and effect or not? The mantra to “follow the science” was used to silence discussion. As Wilkinson says, “Theology should not be “led by the science” in thinking about God’s action in the world.” He is very cognizant about Pentecostal and charismatic movements that celebrate God’s action in the world and is critical of those who would exclude God from daily life and question the efficacy of prayer. He makes a great distinction between the God of Deism and the God of biblical Christianity who works through death and resurrection to make a new heavens and a new earth. This is an enormously stimulating book that gave me much to think about.
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What a thoughtful exploration of the intersection between faith and science. It’s a great reminder that both disciplines require humility, and that questioning prevailing assumptions, whether scientific or theological, is often where the deepest insights begin.