Evolution and intelligent design

In “God allows the universe to create itself—and evolve” (October) Mark Hollabaugh says he both believes “God created me and all that exists” and that God would not in any way inject even the smallest fingerprint into the complexities of evolution. If the God he believes in did indeed “become flesh,” reveal himself in human form, heal the sick, rise from the dead and ascend into heaven, why would such a proactive God utterly and completely keep his hand, mind and will out of the entire evolutionary process and simply “allow the universe to create itself”? If God’s role was that passive, why should he be worthy of my praise? To believe in a God who made me and also believe I am the end result of an unguided and mindless process is trying to have it both ways. No wonder many of us are confused.

Let’s hear another side

Mark Hollabaugh’s article misrepresented the intelligent design argument and presented those who argue in its favor as “simple creationists engaged in poor science and theology.” Many of the scientists who today are investigating ID hold credible doctoral degrees and are engaged in scientific research and not just “political activism.” Allen R. Utke, in his article ('ID remains a legitimate gray area between random evolution and God'), declares himself “an advocate of theistic evolution ....” It would have been more balanced to obtain a response from someone who agreed with ID and could have offered a credible counterpoint to Hollabaugh. We need a follow-up article or series.


Not a salvation issue

The way we view what actually occurred in the biblical creation account is not a salvation issue in itself. However, the theory of evolution is viewed by many as “putting God out of a job.” If the formation of the universe and life itself is credited to a nearly infinite series of chance events, and we therefore say that the formation of these things didn’t happen the way the Bible explains it, then many feel the validity of the entire Scriptures is in jeopardy. Rather than shake our heads in dismay at their “lack of faith” or “ignorance,” we should be willing to show them the alternative to the theory of evolution that is supported by many scientists, supported by the facts and supported by Scripture.