Being a Creationist {In Opposite World}

Being a creationist in opposite world

Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect. ~ I Peter 3:15

Our homeschool group went to the Natural History Museum in May.  We started out the day with a presentation in the planetarian.  The lights went dark and the speaker began.

“Billions of years ago there was a dense ball of energy that expanded and formed our universe.”

………………………..really?

One of the other moms said our sons both whispered out loud “wrong!”

Then this speaker explained the marvelous galaxies that our God created and I sat there in awe.

We serve an awesome God!

We went on and explored the fascinating museum of God’s creation and as we finished the dinosaur exhibit we saw this sign:

IMG_1889

Bombarded!

Since the day I’ve begun checking books out of the library to teach my children science – we have been bombarded by Opposite World’s theory of evolution.  It’s everywhere!  Just this week I got a science book from the library and here’s how it begins:

evolution 3)

Believing that the God of the Bible created the earth is no longer the default teaching and our children need to be prepared to give answers and to recognize right from wrong.

This is not a new modern problem.  When I was in high school, I carried my Bible with me to my public school everyday.  In the back of my Bible, I had these notes jotted down to help me when I was confronted by other students who challenged my beliefs.  The middle section on the right was written to help me answer evolution.

evolution 2

It has never been easy for believers in Opposite World.  The opposition has many tools in their tool belt.  One is insulting our intelligence for believing in a book of fairy tales.

Friends, there is a spiritual battle happening around us.  And when Opposite World removes God from the equation, then they remove all responsibility to Him.  There’s no Adam and Eve, there’s no sin nature, and there’s no need for a redeemer named Jesus.  God’s word becomes obsolete and the way Christians live their lives becomes a reason for ridicule.

Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect. ~ I Peter 3:15

 We must be prepared to give answers with gentleness and respect…and…

We must give our children the tools they need to defend their faith – to give an intelligent, gentle answer to those who will question them.  Because they WILL be questioned.  Here’s some of the ways I have defended my faith when asked:

1.)  I appeal to reason.  Is it possible to take a bunch of pieces of metal throw them up in the air and get a watch that works and tells time perfectly? No, clearly every watch has a watch maker.  In the same way, our amazing bodies are made with eyes that see out of a tiny black circle and hands with unique finger prints and a womb to birth babies.  It is so intricate and complex!  The human body alone is evidence of an intelligent designer.

2.) I appeal to facts.  If we are a part of evolution why do we not see half monkey/half men still walking the earth and evolving today?  Also, when animals adapt and change they micro-evolve, meaning within their breed there may be changes – but we never see dogs changing into giraffes.  Each animal produces after their own “kind”.  In Genesis 1 when God  created the animals He said: 24 And God said, “Let the land produce living creatures according to their kinds: the livestock, the creatures that move along the ground, and the wild animals, each according to its kind.” And it was so. 25 God made the wild animals according to their kinds, the livestock according to their kinds, and all the creatures that move along the ground according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good.

God did not create evolution.  He created animals to only reproduce after their own kind.

3.) I appeal to faith.  Did you see the big bang happen? Do you have pictures of it?  Did I see creation happen? Do I have pictures of it?

Nope – neither of us have 100% concrete evidence.  It takes a leap of faith to believe in creationism AND it takes a leap of faith to believe in the big bang theory.

One conclusion: If I’m wrong and the big bang theory is right – my faith in the God of the Bible has cost me to lose nothing.  But if I’m right and the God of the Bible is true – those who believe in the big bang theory are subject to hell.  It is certainly not something to quickly dismiss.

I am barely scratching the surface here of all the questions that are raised about creationism.  But let me give you some on-line resources that you can use to first equip yourself and then equip your children.

AnswersInGenesis.org – is a great place to start!

I have always found all of Ravi Zacharias’ books and videos helpful – he is a skilled apologist.  His youtube channel here is great.

The Way of the Master – Intelligent Design Vs. Evolution – has great resources too!

And finally, Josh McDowell.  I started reading his books in high school and he helped me through many difficult conversations. Evidence Demands a Verdict  is one of my favorite books and I highly recommend it if you have a child who is asking for more evidence of God’s word being true.

 Chime In:  According to I Peter 3:15, we are called to give Opposite World an answer when they ask for our reason of hope. Please share in the comment section any resources or thoughts that would help us be more equipped to answer.

Walk with the King,

152 Comments

  1. You can believe in God, believe in the Bible, and still believe that the universe and the earth are billions of years old. We cannot claim to know how God created the earth or when he did it. A Catholic priest (I believe) postulated and came up with the Big Bang theory. Taking everything in the Bible literally makes you run into a lot of contradictions. The Bible was written in many different literary forms and is not just a history book to be understood literally. Like you say in #1, we must use our reason to understand the world. God did not make contradictions between Nature and the Bible. They are both perfect and both created (or inspired) by God. So, if how we understand nature, contradicts how we understand the Bible, we must look to our interpretation of the Bible and see our mistake. — (The last is a paraphrase from an early Father of the Church, but I cannot say which one stated such.)

    1. I agree that it’s possible to maintain faith in both God and science. It’s very hard to get a hardcore evolutionist or a hardcore creationist to buy that, though. It made me so sad when a friend told me that one of her professors wouldn’t allow her to work with him in the lab anymore after she told him she’s a Christian. She’s brilliant, but this man told her that, because of her belief, she was obviously incapable of being rational.

      1. There are many professions like that today. The medical profession is another one: if you state that you are pro-life, some medical schools will not accept your application. In other words, you have to agree with (and/or be able to participate in) an abortion to be a doctor.

        1. As someone who works in the medical profession, this is uprising to me. Can you provide me an example ? Not trying to troll. Honestly just curious because I know plenty of pro life nurses and doctors and it never seemed to be a big deal.

          1. My husband completed medical school and is about to complete his second year of residency. He was never asked, forced or even questioned about his views regarding abortion. There is an elective for those desiring further education within the abortion field but it is never forced. I think you would be hard pressed to find any medical school with this mindset. Furthermore, there is no where on any medical school application that would even ask for your point of view regarding pro-choice/pro-life.
            It is very possible to have creation and evolution working hand in hand. Laura stated that there are many literary forms within the Bible and they are not limited to our idea of time and space. I completely agree. I used to believe that the entire Bible could be read as a historic document and after many years in Bible college I’m seeing this simply isn’t the case. What a gift God has given us in the living Word. I don’t believe we came from monkeys but I do believe the world is constantly evolving.
            We can read the Bible and believe it to be the literal word of God and at the same time understand that we simply don’t have all of the answers. I am raising 7 kiddos and we talk about this subject frequently. They hear about it in school and we process it at home. I don’t want them to be afraid of evolution. They understand the creation story and we explain that there are many things that don’t make sense. We believe that God is the author of the Bible and that he was not limited to time and space the same way we are.
            I can’t wait to see the big picture when we meet our creator. I’m convinced that I will have a lot of “AWE!!!” moments.

          2. I know a dear friend of mine was refused a nursing job at a local hospital’s maternity ward because she is pro-life. There is a “crisis” of health care workers who want any part of the monstrosity, and they can’t afford to hire people who won’t help with the late-term abortions. Perhaps the same is true of doctors in some areas of the States?

          3. @ Sarah

            Like I said, I haven’t seen it. But that doesn’t mean it doesn’t happen. Thank you for sharing your story. I gotta get outta this thread though. It’s depressing me! God bless!

    2. If one maintains faith in God, then they know the Bible is His word. Not only did He say “In the beginning, God created….” in the very first chapter of the Bible, but also He tells us that He created the heavens and stretched them out, He spread forth the earth and that which comes from it, He gives breath to the people on it, And spirit to those who walk on it. (Isaiah 42:5)
      And in Isaiah 45:12: I have made the earth, And created man on it. I—My hands—stretched out the heavens, And all their host I have commanded.
      And again in Isaiah 48:13: Indeed My hand has laid the foundation of the earth, And My right hand has stretched out the heavens; When I call to them, They stand up together.
      One more: Isaiah 51:13 – And you forget the Lord your Maker, Who stretched out the heavens And laid the foundations of the earth;
      The Bible cannot be watered down to suit the things people don’t fully understand. Faith is just that: Faith. I think once you choose to believe the word of God is Truth, you can seek your answers on creation knowing where to start (with God) you’ll see your mistakes are not in creation, but in the deception that is so rampant in evolution and an earth that is billions of years old.
      Of course, if you don’t believe the Bible is the word of God is and is living, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, then the Bible has lost its authority in your life and heart, and therein lies the issue. Sadly, even in the hearts of some who consider themselves Christians, the Bible has lost its authority.

    3. I agree. I’m Catholic, and it is interesting that we are generally not young earth creationists (although the Catholic Church has no official stance other than God created everything.)

      My biblical history professor in college (Lutheran university) always said we really had no idea how long it took, because the Bible was translated. Liberties were taken or words misinterpreted. Additionally the way we measure time has changed. A day today does not equal a day from the Old Testament necessarily.

      I’m a theological evolutionist like most Catholics. Believe God created everything, but I believe it was all at God’s hand.

      When we start to take the Bible literally we run into some issues: women cutting their hair, make up, Old Testament polygamy, etc etc.

      1. That is something that bothers me when people take somethings so literal from the Bible. Man is flawed, as Christians we have to know that. Man put God’s word to paper. Man has translated it over and over for hundreds and hundreds of years, many times to suit their own agenda. To think that the Bible we have today is complete and accurate to the letter of what God intended is flawed. I take the Bible as the guidebook for my life. I know some think there is no reason to dispute the historical aspects of the Bible but there is no reason to believe that it could very well have been paraphrased as well. The major point we need to focus on is, as Christians, we do not believe that we evolved from apes. God formed us in His own image. He created the Heavens and the Earth. What really does it matter to argue with each other about the length of time it took to do it all? And I want to personally apologize on behalf of Protestants for the “not a Bible Believer” comment someone made, not all of us believe that to be true of the Catholic faith.

          1. I agree with Dr. Ryrie who advocates a plain literal interpretation first. (i.e., when Jesus says, “I am the way, the truth and the life; no one comes to the Father but by me” that’s what He means, no tricky hidden allegorical meaning. It’s more than picking and choosing; it is a time-tested method of determining literal vs. symbolic.

            Because while some meaning may be symbolic, if we start to push too much text towards being allegorical, we may arrive at the point asserted by liberal theologians stating that “the Jesus myth is an allegory showing us the potential of a fully realized humanity” denying the historicity of Jesus and reducing the atonement to a moral example. At this point we have abandoned Christianity and entered into a man-made religious construct. It all depends on where we draw the line between literal symbolic interpretations of biblical text.

  2. I think that the word “evolution” has gotten a bad reputation. I’ve mentioned the word in conversation among other Christians and have gotten an instantly negative response, before even considering the context. Some people become so angry when they hear that word. All beings evolve. Species’ appearances have evolved over time, and plants and animals are able to adapt to changes in environment. Evolution is a real concept. Darwinian evolution, though, is a theory that’s being constantly challenged in the scientific community, but it’s accepted as the “norm” argument against creationism, because it’s the theory with the most evidence to back it up. However, the theory of evolution is even hard for evolutionists to explain, because species are constantly being redefined. The big bang is also hard for scientists to explain, because it’s currently understood that the chemicals needed to facilitate it couldn’t exist independently (like the old chicken and egg question.) They’re theories, not absolute truths, and I think it’s important to remember that science attempts to explain how something happened, not why. What worries me is the unwillingness of both sides (generally speaking) to respectfully discuss evolution and creation as valid ideas. My husband and I watched an interesting documentary called “Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed,” a satire hosted by Ben Stein, which raises awareness of the issue that professors are being fired for even entertaining the idea of creationism in the classroom. Thanks for sharing your resources. I hope that more people are able to respectfully share their beliefs, rather than becoming angry and dismissive.

    1. The Big Bang theory, although it is theory not fact, in fact proves God’s existence, because as Aquinas, in his proofs for God’s existence, stated there must have been an uncaused cause. Something/someone outside of “nature” to have caused the Big Bang (and obviously to have created the materials that the universe was created from). As Father Robert Barron says in his Catholicism series (an excellent series on the faith), if Aquinas had the Big Bang theory back in his day, he would have just said “Look there’s God!” (paraphrased – I would have to watch the episode again to quote exactly)

    2. Just added the Ben Stein dvd to my Netflix queue, look forward to checking it out.~ Thanks for sharing it. 🙂

    3. As a Psych major (focusing on the biological) I often had to make it clear that I did not hold to evolution. I am not smartest person when it comes to this area, but I do think there is a large difference between species evolving within their own species versus a species evolving into an entirely different species. I never found I had to compromise what research has shown about the brain and how it works with my Creationist view. Now, if I had gone on and become a professor, I’m sure there may have been some push back but in the day to day, I find it really doesn’t influence how you interpret how the world works today. 🙂

  3. The idea about combining Evolution and God, “God created the universe billions of years ago” is so stupid. You can’t reach a happy medium with facts.
    Your post is great, especially #3.When was the last time you saw a fish grow feet, or an ape become a human?

    Great post again!!

    1. Saying, “The idea about combining Evolution and God, “God created the universe billions of years ago” is so stupid,” is not very charitable and not in the best interest of promoting anyone to subscribe to your view of things. As Chelsea says, “I hope that more people are able to respectfully share their beliefs, rather than becoming angry and dismissive.” You should remember that the next time you decide to discuss any issue.

  4. Thank you for this post. I can not and will not believe what evolutionist say when they want us to believe the world began billions of years ago and that we evolved from apes. Or that the big bang theory is how it all began. As Christians we have to be very mindful that the devil is working very very hard to deceive many people that this is true and there is no God. I am glad I serve an Almighty God and that HE is the one who created our wonderful planet and all of the beautiful living creatures. This is exactly why I am praying that next year we will be able to send our son to a private Christian school so he doesn’t have to go to public school and be taught such foolishness.

    I love these opposite world posts!!! Sometimes I feel all alone, but so thankful there are others who are like me.

    1. I think that you should read my original comment (it’s the first comment) and also remember what Robyn just said, “It is so interesting to me that even within christian groups there can be such a huge diversity in beliefs around this area.” Unless you fully research the science curriculum as well as the teachers every single year at this school, you cannot be guaranteed what your children are taught, even in a Christian school. This is one of the benefits of homeschooling.

      1. I know what is taught at the Christian school my child will attend. It is the same school my husband attended and also the school connected with our church that my husbands uncle pastors. I believe without any doubt that what my Preacher preaches is 100% truth and guided by God. They do not teach earth being billions of years old!

      2. If God used evolution to create the earth, then why didn’t He say so? He doesn’t. His Word clearly states that it was 6 literal days. So we need to decide whether we belive that God’s Word is true in it’s entirety, or we say that God is a liar. Trying to fit evolution into the Bible brings up a host of problems Please take the time to read these articles to see what I am saying. They were written by Jay Seegert, co-founder of the Creation Education Center. They are very interesting and well worth the time to read.

        http://www.cecwisc.org/god-evolution-1/
        http://www.cecwisc.org/god-evolution-2/
        http://www.cecwisc.org/god-evolution-3/

  5. Hi Courtney,

    I have loved your series on Opposite World, particularly the ones on modesty and marriage. However, this post really shocked me, mainly because I have just been going through a course at my church exploring how science and faith complement each other. It is so interesting to me that even within christian groups there can be such a huge diversity in beliefs around this area. God has said that he hasn’t revealed all of his mysteries. I think the origin of the universe is one of these mysteries and to think that either side of this argument is 100% correct can cause quarrels where love, grace and kindness are needed instead. Thanks for writing a thought-provoking article!

    1. The belief in the theory of evolution isn’t ‘science’. It’s a faith position …

      The scientific method includes testing and being able to demonstrate the results again and again. Nobody (obviously!) can do that with the beginning of the world

      Both beliefs – in God’s 6-day creation *and* in evolution are just that …. beliefs.

      We have to be careful not to accept people’s ‘theory’ as ‘science’. These are two different things.

  6. I’m confused by the people who believe in God but also evolution/Big Bang Theory. Do they believe that Adam and Eve were apes or the first homosapiems or what? Or maybe they were single celled organisms?

    I don’t see how you can believe in the theories of evolution and believe the Bible. Man was made by God in his image. Man didn’t evolve from anthing. There are lineages in the Bible that show the earth is not billions of years old. It’s interesting to see though that people try to justify believing in these theories and being a Christian.

    1. Yes! So refreshing to hear your comment. So true. It’s hard for people to believe that the earth could ever be young, it must be billions of years old, right since there is evidence? Well, in actuality there it’s no real evidence. Google ” Why I Choose To Believe In The Bible” by voddie Baucham. It is a powerful and encouraging message.

  7. Arguments like these arise when we try to take the simple truths of God’s Word and twist them to fit the theories of the day. God said He created the world and everything in it. God said He did it in seven days. Jesus referenced these seven days when he talked about the Sabbath being made for man to rest. It really can’t get much clearer than that, if one chooses to believe God at His word. Thanks for the great post, Courtney!

  8. Well done, Courtney. Keep to the Truth according to Scripture. Don’t feel discouraged by those who would wish to “interpret” it to suit their own beliefs.

    1. Also, another great resource is YoungEarth.com. It’s hosted by the Real Science Radio guys, and it has a ton of info.

  9. Courtney,

    Hold your ground girl! Science does nothing but confirm that God created the earth and that the Bible is the truth. I feel that if we are willing to compromise on creation, then that would open the entire word of God up for compromise! Think about it, the entire Bible has to be true or it is a lie. I usually ask evolutionists to explain why they believe in the THEORY of evolution; they usually tell me that it is what they learned in school; no other evidence! Shocking!!!! Where is the scientific evidence? Where are the artifacts to back up the theory? The fossil record does not back up evolution. Be encouraged and thanks for the great posts!

  10. One thing I have discovered is Christians often use that a contradictory to Creationism when discussing the subject and often they are not well versed enough in the subject, being a Christian you really should be, in order to fully explain their position on the subject. When this happens it tends to make Christians look dumb. God created us to “adapt” not evolve. We should not use the term evolve. Anyone who is a creationist, whether young earth or not, can see that God created all things to adapt to the environments and situations they are in. Skin color is an excellent example. Christians also need to be better versed in what they believe as in Creationism. Are they Young Earth, Progressive, Old Earth, Day-Age, or Intelligent Design? You can’t very well have an educated argument with a science based Theorist if you don’t even understand exactly what you believe.

  11. Can anyone here state their authority for literally interpreting the Bible versus understanding that the Bible is a compilation of literary genres and not only a history text? Since almost all of you believe the Bible is your only authority and nowhere in the Bible does it state that the Bible should be taken only literally, I am just curious where this idea came from?

    1. I can’t answer for everyone else, but my belief in the authority of God’s Word comes from God’s Word itself. Jesus said in John 17:17 that God’s Word is truth. Psalm 119:89 says that God’s Word is forever settled in heaven. It doesn’t change based on the current theories of the day. It is the source of my faith and beliefs about creation. God’s Holy spirit convicts me every day of the absolute truth of the Bible.
      There are instances of poetic and figurative language in the Bible, so I don’t think it should be taken only literally. Jesus Himself spoke in parables, stories designed to tell a truth in terms His listeners could understand. In other words, the events didn’t actually happen but the truths of those stories were meant to be applied in the lives of the people who heard Him speak. However, when the Bible speaks of historical events (Creation, Noah’s flood, for example), it speaks literally. When it speaks of science (the stars and the heavens, etc) , it speaks literally. Does it require faith to believe so? Sure it does. But I contend that it requires no less faith than it takes to believe modern science’s interpretations of the world’s origins.

      1. I would also add 2 Timothy 3:16-17 “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, and training in righteousness so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
        If ALL Scripture is God-breathed, then it comes directly from God who is Truth, and this is one reason I interpret the Bible literally.

      2. I guess I just don’t understand how you come to the conclusion that anything in the Bible deemed “historical” is completely factual. How do you know where to draw that line. I’m not sure that the Bible being “God-breathed” means it is 100% fact. It just means it is 100% inspired by the Lord and was written exactly as He wanted it to be. I would use the example of Jesus using parables to support the idea that many things in the Bible may not be meant to be taken literally. Jesus used parables to explain concepts to people at a level they could understand. So how do we know that the creation story isn’t meant for a similar purpose- to give people who do not understand the complexities of our world some sort of framework for understanding the power of God and his sovereignty. As a believer and a scientist, this is something I have struggled with. I completely believe in our God and that He is in control, but whether or not everything in the Bible is meant to be taken literally is something I’m still unsure of. I know we are called to have childlike faith and am able to rest in knowing that maybe I will never know. Either way, God is sovereign. I like reading everyone’s thoughts, though. It’s always fun to see everyone’s different opinions and the things the Lord has revealed to them.

    2. I wanted to add, too, that Answers in Genesis (answersingenesis.org) has some excellent articles about the literal interpretation of the Bible and how it relates to science. These are written by scientists, all of whom are more knowledgeable and eloquent than I am.

    3. You have to keep in mind that you are looking at this from a Catholic point of view not a Bible Believer’s point of view. We are worlds apart in our theology.

      1. Amen! I was going to say the same thing! And Laura, I think you’ve had your say. Why don’t you actually check out the sources provided before arguing further. It’s getting to troll-level.

        1. Troll-level? All of my comments have been charitable and intelligent, which is more than I can say for some other commenters on here. As Stephanie said below, I think it’s time to leave. There is no reason to stay when all Christians are not welcome and their point of view is not respected as Truth, especially when I have someone other than myself to go to as an authority on Sacred Scripture.

          1. Laura, I’m not sure if you’ll come back, but wanted to let you know that I didn’t find your comments thus far to be offensive. In reference to your first statement that when nature and the Bible disagree, we should reexamine our interpretation of the Bible…I’m don’t agree in all cases. Yes, if a subject is unclear, it is possible that we have misinterpreted; however, if Scripture is clear, it is also very possible that we simply don’t have enough understanding of nature yet to prove out what God has already revealed. I think it has often been the case that with more information we find out that the history/science of the Bible was trustworthy.

            Also, sometimes the same set of data can be interpreted differently based on what grid you put it through. Ie: If I interpret archaeological finds without a framework of a world flood, I will come to very different conclusions about this earth and creation than one who accepts the Biblical record of that event.

            Any, thanks for joining the conversation! 🙂

      2. Catholics aren’t Bible Believers? Are we really going to go there?

        I’ve got plenty of Bible verses defending Catholicism as the one true Church. Peter isn’t the first Pope of all of the denominations. He was the first Catholic Pope.

        This is disappointing. It helps nothing to dismiss Catholicism. It makes discussions turn hostile and uncharitable.

        I’ve always enjoyed this blog, but I’m feeling more and more that it is really only written for non-denominational and select groups of Christians.

        1. Stephanie and Laura – I agree that the above comment was rude and abrasive and very exclusive. I just want to say that I’m not a Catholic. I live in a state right now that (for some reason I don’t understand) would take the view like the one stated above and that’s really unfortunate. I DONT believe we are worlds away and hope that these posts which are meant to challenge and uplift us and mold us into Christ’s image won’t be used to do the opposite and tear each other down. So, even though I didn’t say it, I’m sorry that it was said because it was rude. and Untrue. But I think we should be careful in our hurt not to retaliate and say things like “we are the one true church.” We’re all the One True Church! Anyone who accepts the salvation offered by Jesus’ sacrifice. That took me aback too. I think we, as Christians — as sinners saved by the grace of Jesus — as people who’s inherent “go-to” place is ourselves — need to be careful not to make this world about “us vs. them” and instead unite and accept the small differences we may have, remembering this lost and fallen world around us, that we came from ourselves. It’s all about Him, not about us. God forgive us for thinking we know it all!

          Again, I hate that the above comment was made to you and I hope that it won’t leave a scar of resentment.

    4. God didn’t give us His Word for it to be a riddle. When He speaks in songs and in poetry, it is clear – see Psalms, and Song of Solomon, for example.

      When He gives us historical narrative, that is also clear. Remember … He gave His Word so we could *know* Him, and know about the world He made.

    5. The idea came from God Himself. And if we need more convincing evidence than that, the Bible was penned by 40 different authors over 2000 years and it never once contradicts itself. It maintians flawless consistency throughout. There are many detailed prophesies in the Bible that all came true right to the smallest detail. The chances of that happening by accident, or the author just getting lucky in predicting it are so great, it is impossible without an all knowing God to inspire the Scriptures. Every reference that the Bible makes to science, has never failed to be accurate. Archeological finds also prove the Bible’s accuracy. “It is easier for heaven and earth to pass than for one tittle of the law to fail” (Luke 16:17).
      For a more in depth discussion on this, please read this article at Answeres in Genesis
      http://www.answersingenesis.org/articles/am/v6/n2/bible-true

  12. It’s funny. I grew up being taught creationism and hold to these truths even today, however as I grew older, I started meeting more Christians who believed in evolution and thought that maybe it didn’t matter what one believed as long as they believed in Jesus as the way, the truth and the life. But the more I started hearing the different arguments, the more I realized how evolution just didn’t add up in a Christian’s life. The biggest argument for me was if the earth really is billions of years old before man was even created, then where did death come from? If the wages of sin is death as the Bible says, and that sin was committed by the first man, then death only entered the world after man was created — meaning nothing and nobody could have died before the fall of mankind. If one wants to argue that death originated before sin, then why did Christ have to die in the first place and for what? This is just *one* of the arguments for the young earth theory, and there are many more in this same spiritual vein – arguments that many Christians who accept evolution may never have thought about. I am definitely no well-educated apologist, but it definitely encourages me to stick to the literal interpretation of the Bible. It’s a good reminder to me to interpret life through the lense of the Bible rather than the other way around.

    1. Crystal, what an excellent point. The issue of death is a deal breaker for Christians who want to believe evolution and creationism are not mutually exclusive. If one honestly examines God’s account of creation, evolution and creation cannot co-exist. I don’t find this a divisive issue but rather a misunderstood one. I highly recommend Pastor John MacArthur’s sermon series, “The Battle for the Beginning” or his book titled the same. Anyone can listen online at his website, gty.org or search “Grace to You”. One fascinating point: The five ultimate scientific forces, According to Herbert Spencer, a Darwinist, are Time, Force, Action, Space and Matter. God covers each of these forces in the very first verse of His word: In the Beginning (time), God (force) created (action) the Heavens (space) and the Earth (matter). The Bible doesn’t contradict true science and we must remember, science is ever changing. God and His word ‘s word remains the same. Evolutionists will always deny and mock Creationism because of an unwillingness to submit to a lifestyle of the Lordship of Jesus Christ. They must continue the lie because the alternative comes with a cost.

  13. The biggest problem with it all is Christians argue with each other about the whither to’s and the why for’s when all that really matters is we believe God created all things. The deceiver loves that fact we nit pick with each other about the little details that essentially don’t matter in the big picture. We all get so busy fighting over these things that the devil gets a big laugh out of it and we haven’t shown the world what a true Christian is.

    1. AMEN! What’s that old saying: “the devil is in the details.” I believe God created the heavens and the earth and everything in it. I have no clue how he did it and I won’t until I get to heaven.

      I do think God enjoys watching us question and attempt to figure all this out!

    2. Actually, I think you have it backward. The devil was the one who cause Eve and then Adam to question God’s Word. God says His word is truth. God said he created the world in 6 days. If we are questioning God’s Word regarding creation we are questioning God, the same way Adam and Eve did. It is Satan that has brought about this deceit of evolution that has caused the nit picking. I am sure it saddens the Lord that His people are so divided.

  14. Our struggle is not with science. I believe in the science behind electricity and meteorology and biology. Science is wonderful! You don’t see Christians disagreeing with OBSERVABLE science. Where it breaks down is theories about how things began because it is not provable OR observable. I will take the Bible at face value and not try to fit the Bible into someone’s ideas of how things began. I wonder if God laughs at our theories and how smart we think we are.

    Thanks for your post, Courtney. I appreciate your courageous spirit to follow what God has called you to do. We are hoping to make it to the Creation Museum in Kentucky sometime this year.

  15. My friend and I teach in public school, and recently 2boys were arguing over whether man evolved from apes. They asked my friend the science teacher her opinion. She told them man did not evolve from apes because if they had there would no longer be any apes. Stand strong Courtney and keep doing what your doing.

    1. Nonsense. None of you understand the theory of evolution. 1. We are also apes. 2. We had a common ancestor 2.5 million years ago which our line split with chimpanzees.. But of course A book written by bronze age desert nomads which is just chock full of contradictions and superstitions is a much better source of information. Delusion…definition. When presented with empirical evidence and indisputable fact, you choose to believe the opposite. All the evidence of science is there for you to behold, and yet you delude yourselves and convince your selves with pseudo science that your faith rules over reason. And then you have the gall to fight among yourselves which delusion is correct (baptist, Catholic). It’s time to look at the world as it actually is, not how you wish it to be.

      1. Hi Steve – Welcome to WOMEN Living Well!

        I won’t bother to argue with you but can I just chuckle a little and say that your profile picture looks more like you descended from a power ranger than an ape? lol! 😉

        God bless!
        Courtney

  16. Excellent post! And I agree – stand your ground! Opposite World is fighting back hard on this one. I don’t go for the “tolerance” trick from unbelievers or the “Christian unity/it doesn’t matter/you’re being petty” jab from people in the church. Both are ploys of Satan. God doesn’t call us to trade His Word for bad theology and good relations – quite the opposite. Jesus said we would be hated. And to discredit Genesis 1 is to undermine the entire Word of God.

    1. Amen, Leigh. “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God and the Word was God. And the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us.”

      1. I sort of agree, Leigh-we need to always be kind to one another, because that is what we are commanded to do. I in no way took your comment to mean otherwise, but I do feel we need to be ‘tolerant’ in the sense that we must be kind. However, I have a hard time understanding how a person can believe that God created them and knew them forever, but that the human body also evolved from another species. It doesn’t add up in my mind. I believe God created us as humans. I believe things are always ‘evolving’ and changing, but I agree with a comment above, that the word that best describes what we keep doing is ‘adapt.’ I believe in science, I believe that God created science-but I do not believe in evolution as a means to create the universe or the living creatures we have here.

  17. One single question every Christian who wants to believe evolution should ask themselves – how can there be death before the fall?

    1. Woohoo! I was waiting for this question to be raised!

      People who claim to be Christians and then claim to believe in billions of years have to throw out a whole load of theology too.

      When God created this world in 6 days, He looked on it all and behold, ‘it was very good’. Can people seriously reckon that would have been God’s verdict, had there been billions of years’ worth of death and destruction already there?

      No. It was ‘very good’ because it was without sin, and therefore without death.

      Thanks, Dawn 🙂

      1. Sure, it was good up until yahweh decided it was not good anymore and he destroyed it with a massive flood. Except he had an arc built to hold all the species of the earth. Hmmmn Christian naturalists in the 1800’s tried to figure out how this was possible since they had the measurements of the arc as it’s posted in the bible. And they used scientific reason. Asking such questions as , how would you feed the thousands upon thousands of animals, where would they all fit, what about there waste. These christian scientists ultimately had to concede this was impossible. This led to further questioning of the bible and faith, which cannot stand up to scientific reason.

        1. We could throw facts and arguments at each other all day and still remain firm on our views. You use your “scientific reasoning” to remain skeptical and I use mine to confirm belief in creation. Why is that? Obviously there is more at play here than “scientific reasoning”. It is a spiritual battle that is waging, not a battle of the facts. Satan knows that destroying the Genesis account of creation and the Fall, ultimately destroys our need for a Savior. It’s not that skeptics can’t belive that God created the Earth, or that they don’t see any evidence of it, it’s because they don’t want to admitt their need for a Savior. They don’t want to acknowledge their responsibility for their actions, they “reason” it away. 2 Peter 3:5 says “For this they willfully forget: that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of water and in the water” It is sin that blinds the eyes to the truth. “whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them. ” 2 Chorintians 4:4 The real and honest fact ( and I think the most important one) Is that we are all sinners in need of a Savior. And God through His love and mercy sent Jesus, His only son, to die and take the punishment for our sins, so that we can be redemmed and one day live with Him forever. John 3:16-17 “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whosoever belies in Him, should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved”

  18. I am really enjoying your opposite world series. As a new Christian, I really appreciate the resources you provided on this topic, thank you Courtney. Some of the comments have been really insightful too. Have a blessed week all. Tara (The Proverbs 31 Sanctuary)

  19. Thank YoU! This Post Will Be Helpful To Me. My Kids Go To A Public School (For Now Anyway) & Their Belie In God & Jesus Christ Seem To Always Be A Hot Topic With Other Students & Even Some Teachers. I Believe These Resources & This Post Will Help Me To Help Them Defend Their Faith! Thank You Again. You All Are Wonderful.

    1. I agree. I am a Christian Universalist and this post is appalling on a number of different levels. One, that it continues this damaging train of thought that the main reason to believe in God is out of a fear of hell. This doctrine does much more harm than good and obscures God’s true- loving- nature. On another point, as long as Christians continue refusing to allow just a *bit* of rationality into their beliefs, we are going to be continually marginalized in the real world. Not “opposite world”- real world. Love God, love your neighbor, do good to others. Simple. Why people insist on sticking their head in the sand and giving the rest of Christianity a bad name in the process is beyond me.

  20. I hope you’ve gotten the chance to take your kids to the Creation Museum in KY. So educational and can really help answer the questions about evolution/creation!

  21. My kids have learned so much about creation vs. evolution from listening to the Jonathan Park Series put out by Vision Forum Ministries. They have really enjoyed the whole series.

  22. Interesting post. Interesting reading the conversations it illicted too. I believe much of the ‘debate’ within Christian circles is just distraction… pulling and further dividing us, making us weak to the real mission of the Great Commission. Watch and pray!!!
    1. Loved the Creation Museum!! If you haven’t been, go!!!
    2. Love Jonathan Park’s CD’s… if you,ve not enjoyed them with your family do!!! Visionforum.org
    3. Courtney, do you have the back pg of your Bible typed out as a resouurce to be shared with our families?!

    Thank you for sharing your heart!
    S.

  23. Wow, I hope you stand firm after many of these emails. I just finished a year in depth study of Genesis. I have two points to make to those who think creation took longer than 6 days – why would God be specific in creation time, yet does not tell us how long Adam and Eve walked the garden before they sinned? And no indication of how long it was to the to Noah or to the Tower of Babel. I wouldn’t go as far as billions of years, but it is not for me to know.

    I fully support your writing. answersinGenesis is the same organization for the Creation Museum which provides great Biblical foundation behind all the “evolution.” If you aren’t with God – you are against Him. He is GREAT enough, POWERFUL enough to do it. To me, that is the biggest issue man faces today.

    We were made each to his own kind. All the birth defect that the children of the world are born with and none have come out like a monkey – amazing.

    1. I agree we don’t know how long Adam and Eve were in the garden before they sinned. But before they sinned there was still no death, so I am not sure what you were trying to get at.
      However, I was a little confused when you say we don’t know how long it was til Noah. We have the genealogies in the beginning of Genesis that show how many years there were. I actually, for the fun of it one day, sat there making out a chart. I don’t remember the length of time, but you can figure it out with all the: he lived this long and had a son and lived this long and died and so forth. It was also fascinating to me how all these patriarchs lived at the same time.

  24. Courtney, it is most hard to know that our children are being attacked through their mind.
    As an empty-nester I have been through the elementary, middle, high school and college battleground. And IT IS A FIGHT! Mom’s must be aware and ready to defend. My daughter failed a college course and had to repeat the class because she mentioned GOD in her nursing term paper. During a science class in high school, by son stated the teacher threw the Bible in the trash can and stated…”that is what I think of that.”
    How do you fight? Through prayer. Through all this is wears you down but not out. My daughter came through the battle but my younger son was injured on the battlefield of faith. He read the Bible through school, late into the night. Then in college he sadly became an atheist. A strong willed one at that, who today supports this evolution theory.
    But this mother is not defeated. With God all things are possible and I will fight through prayer and faith for my child to be restored to His faith and His Savior.
    BEWARE parents….mine are in their 30’s now and I should have been even more alert than I was.
    BEWARE parents…this is a spiritual battle that you can win.

    Louis Giglio is a great person to learn from. Excellent presentation especially for youth today.
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EAzCP8SEKwc

    May God help us to take a stand and guard the hearts and minds of our children.
    All for Him.

  25. I am over the moon happy I have surrounded myself with women like you and blogs that help me through the day — Blessings.

  26. I’m with you! My girls are 5 and 7. Several months ago we took them to the Field Museum in Chicago to see Sue the dinosaur. There is an exhibit called the Evolving Planet (my girls are homeschooled, and we really have not studied evolution yet – only creationism so they get a good foundation). Part of that exhibit is a figure of a “monkeyish” human. It’s supposed to depict one of the first “humans.” My five year old asked what it was – I explained and she said “Well that is the most ridiculous thing I have seen in my life. Everyone knows God created people.” I hope her resolve lasts. 🙂 Stand strong.

  27. Apologetics Press (they have a really good web-site and fb page) and the Institute for Creation Research (also have a fb page) have some really good information about the Bible, science, creation, …. I recommend everyone give them a look. They could help answer any questions you might have. I have seen DVDs by Apologetics Press and those men really explain things very well. Very knowledgeable about the Bible and science.

  28. You won’t love what’s on my heart, but I wanted to share my oppinion with you.

    “2.) I appeal to facts. If we are a part of evolution why do we not see half monkey/half men still walking the earth and evolving today? Also, when animals adapt and change they micro-evolve, meaning within their breed there may be changes – but we never see dogs changing into giraffes. Each animal produces after their own “kind”. In Genesis 1 when God created the animals He said: 24 And God said, “Let the land produce living creatures according to their kinds: the livestock, the creatures that move along the ground, and the wild animals, each according to its kind.” And it was so. 25 God made the wild animals according to their kinds, the livestock according to their kinds, and all the creatures that move along the ground according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good.”

    I haven’t studied biology since I was 15 years old, and I don’t need to be an expert to understand that WE ARE EVOLVING. If you don’t see right now the Neanderthals or “the half monkeys/half men” as you call them, it’s just because you are not living at the same time they were. It’s not a valid reason, because you can’t “see” evolution, as it happens in a really long time period.

    “3.) I appeal to faith. Did you see the big bang happen? Do you have pictures of it? Did I see creation happen? Do I have pictures of it?
    Nope – neither of us have 100% concrete evidence. It takes a leap of faith to believe in creationism AND it takes a leap of faith to believe in the big bang theory.”

    I respect everyone, and I can understand that you can have faith, but sciente is not a question of faith, is a question of facts. So you cannot compare Religion with Science. Scientists do not “have faith” on the Big Bang Theory, they have studied multiple facts and used logic to connect them; while, believers just read the Bible and made interpretations of it.

    And the first one, but I leave it to be the last one to discuss:
    “1.) I appeal to reason. Is it possible to take a bunch of pieces of metal throw them up in the air and get a watch that works and tells time perfectly? No, clearly every watch has a watch maker. In the same way, our amazing bodies are made with eyes that see out of a tiny black circle and hands with unique finger prints and a womb to birth babies. It is so intricate and complex! The human body alone is evidence of an intelligent designer.”

    This might be a really obvious question, and I believe that many people has asked you that, but it just popped in my head when I read this first paragraph: How, and why, if God is so perfect and good, can he let people have many difficulties? How can he let people starve? Why are there people becoming richer while there are people that has nothing but their lives?
    I believe religions are all the same but with different hues, and for some people are necessary, and I have no problem with that. But when I see this I can’t believe there are people that can’t see such evidence. I think that respecting is not teaching your kids there’s only one way of seeing the world, but many. Anyway, it’s your choice and I can understand you’re trying with your best intentions.

    PS.: Hope you feel my respect.
    PS2.:Jesus was the first communist in history.

    1. Hi Maria! Thank you for your comment. And I appreciate that you went step by step through my thoughts…but I felt that you still left us with no evidence.

      On your first point you only confirmed what I said – there are no monkey/men that we can see today – so there is no evidence…you have to take that on faith. On the second point you mentioned that scientists base this on facts. But even in my library book that I photographed above –they call it a theory. Scientists call these theories. And on your final point – rather than answering intelligent design you scope shifted with another question that is unrelated.

      If there was an explosion in your home today – would your home be destroyed or would it become larger, more beautiful, more decorated and landscaped? It would be a mess…reason tells us that order does not come from explosions…

      In Romans 1:20 the Bible says, “For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.”

      Creation is evidence of God – he is clearly seen in it but man wants to suppress this innate ability we have to spiritually understand God through creation by explaining him away with theories made by simple man. I encourage you to study this further – just look out your window or stand on your front lawn for 5 minutes today and let the sun shine on your face (or rain) and the wind blow and just take in God’s creation. Pray and ask God to reveal himself. I encourage you to not suppress these thoughts but rather pursue knowing our creator God by reading a Bible. I believe it will come alive for you when you open your heart and mind to the God who made you and loves you.

      Lots of Love,
      Courtney

    2. Actually, Maria, science does require faith. Historical science, that is. You said that scientists looked at the evidence and connected the dots to come up with the Big Bang Theory. A theory is just that, something that cannot be proven because it wasn’t observed. And before we put too much credence in the way science connects the dots, let’s pause for a minute and think of how many times that dot-connecting has been wrong. Look at how theories change all the time. Science is continually updating and revamping as new things are observed and recorded. What people believe to be true today might be disproven tomorrow.
      There is evidence for a historical world-wide flood that explains the fossil record and other geological formations. But if a person looks at that evidence with the presupposition that there is no Creator and His Word is just a collection of fairy stories, he will interpret the evidence differently. I look at the evidence and see the hand of God.
      I really encourage you to visit the Answers in Genesis website and read some of their articles on observational and historical science. Many of the authors are PhDs whose study of science actually led them to believe in a Creator.

    3. Evolution is used for man to deny God!

      You can’t claim to be a Christian and believe in God if you also believe in evolution when the Bible clearly tells us that “In the beginning GOD created the Heavens and the Earth”. No one living today was there when God created the earth, but the Bible is a record of the events that happened and was inspired by God to be written.

      As a Christian I have faith that God created a perfect world where there was no death and no sin until the fall of man. Evolution tells us death always existed, but my Bible says not until the first man (Adam) sinned!

  29. Right on Courtney;) I’m going to go with the creator of the world’s version of creation than a simple minded human. We humans think we know so much but really we don’t. The real problem in all of this is how God’s word is being turned into just a book with no authority in the Christians life..I see so many Christians wanting to do Christianity their own way and fit the bible to met their beliefs and own feeble attempts at understanding God and the world..I guess I fear God too much to try to do that. I will seek to continue to trust God and His word and not once have I been proven wrong by anyone that He has changed my life..noone can explain that away:) thank you for not being afraid to speak out in an area of such diverse and contraversial topic. It amazes me that it’s even an issue among bible believing Christians. Why are we fighting such a basic idea and afraid to take it so literally? God created the world and everything in it..no need to add or take away…the end..it’s purely a way for man to seek to be wiser and smarter than God..interesting I think that was Satans first lie in the garden that caused the fall…He continues to deceive:(

  30. Please forgive me if these have already been offered, (no time to read through all the comments this morning). Have you heard of Apologia Science by Dr. Jay Wile? I think his General Science book does a great job of discussing the evolution and creation science from both a Biblical and scientific point of view. Very good resource for equipping our kids with answers. Also, Ben Stein’s movie “Expelled” is a look at the problems with evolution, not from a Christian point of view, but from an intelligent design perspective. So encouraging to see young moms with such a heart for raising competent members of society. Keep up the good work!

  31. We try to understand our experiences through a Biblical lens. We don’t try to understand the Bible through our experiences. We either take God at His Word or we don’t. I believe science and God definitely co-exist. God is a God of order and not random. However, if there was an explanation for everything, there would be no reason for faith.

    Thanks for taking a stand on this one. I’m with you, sister!

  32. My son continues to read books, etc. that refer to billions/millions of years ago and always says “that’s not right”. In fact last night he came in to my room to tell me that the book he was reading started out that way. “That’s just not right mom. It’s really only thousands of years.” My children are in the public school system and my daughter has made it to her senior year with very strong beliefs and convictions (which the majority if not all of her fellow students are aware of) and I pray that my son will also have strong beliefs and convictions and he continues to move forward through school and life.

  33. As I suspected this post today has created a lot of buzz. It amazes me what a polarizing issue this is….among Christiians! Thank you Courtney for posting it. It is well written, clear and to the point. We MUST teach our children the truth about what the Bible says and not allow human reason to undermine His word. This is how Satan deceived Eve. Did God “really” say? If we use excuses like, oh, we don’t know what it said because its translated or the Bible is really contradictory, or the words could mean this or that. These are all attempts to do what Satan did. Did God really say? Once we undermine Genesis, we may as well throw the whole thing out because from that point on we are following man, not God. Keep up the great posts!!

  34. I am so thankful for ministries, bloggers and just regular people who continue to stand for the truth if the Bible. I,myself, have just finished a study of the book of Genesis, and I just have to marvel at our great God and His plan for the universe He created. It is amazing how His story of redemption is seen throughout Genesis and the Bible! Thanks for your post!

  35. Thank you for proclaiming Truth even when it isn’t popular! Especially when fellow Christians give you attitude because of it. God has gifted you and has provided you with this awesome platform to reach many with His message. Thank you for being faithful to Him and for the encouragement you always share. 🙂
    As far as some of the comments you have received, the ones from Christians believing in evolution especially make me sad. Why are people so afraid to take God at His word? Why can’t the Bible be read literally? That scares me, because then other parts don’t have to be trusted – like the resurrection. It is as if God isn’t all powerful, like a 6 day creation was too hard for Him. That is NOT the Truth, but a lie straight from Satan himself.

  36. Fascinating subject – one that my husband and I have become very absorbed with recently. In the interest of discussion, here are a couple of website/resources that are helpful.

    http://biologos.org

    http://www.reasons.org

    Can you believe in an ancient earth and scripture? The only way to really know is to not be afraid to read/listen to differing views and carefully consider the evidence all sides present. We do a disservice to those who are honestly seeking answers (or hold different interpretations of scripture) when we brush scientific research off as silly and immediately assume it is all in contradiction to God’s Word. There is much to be learned from genuine discussion and thoughtful consideration – and when we model this conversation to our kids, they are much better prepared to deal with differing viewpoints when they leave home.

  37. This is a tricky one. My husband is a fundamentalist Christian and believes in evolution. I have a Catholic background and accept evolution as our best way of understanding how the world came to be AT THIS POINT IN TIME. Evolution and Christianity were never mutually exclusive too me. I admit that before I met my husband, I did not give creationists enough credit for the logic that they use to come to their conclusions. We have since enlightened each other but haven’t changed each others minds.

    I am curious what bible passage you use to support your statement that “But if I’m right and the God of the Bible is true – those who believe in the big bang theory are subject to hell” Jesus never seemed to care what people thought about the beginning of the universe- or any popular scientific theory of the day. What’s important is that you follo* Him and treat others with respect.

    *(sorry for the typo. my keyboard is messed up)

    1. I don’t think she was talking about saved people who actually believe in Jesus!! I thought she was talking about scientist who believe in science and not Jesus or the Bible!

  38. Courtney, I appreciate this post very much and agree wholeheartedly.
    I read about the big bang theory on wikipedia awhile back. Honestly, there is so much of it that I really don’t understand. A lot of it is too technical for me to understand. What I got out of it was that if they were able to go back to the time of creation and look at the images, it very well could have looked like a big explosion coming from nothing.

  39. You can believe whatever you want to believe, but don’t tell me that other Christians who believe differently from you on this issue that has NOTHING to do with salvation are going to hell because they believe it. That is why people tune out Christianity nowadays, because of that nonsensical kind of bad theology.

    1. Agreed. What a terrible thing to wake up to when I was really looking forward to my morning WLW post. I myself believe in science and am Christian, however I respect creationists. I have no problem with Courtney’s stance on evolution, we’re allowed to have different opinions on a murky subject.

      I do have a problem with mass-condemning an entire group to pain and torment, though. That’s not loving or Christ-like and it never has been at any point in the long history of people doing so.

      1. AR – I just responded to Amy’s comment that you commented on to further explain why I brought “hell” into it – so please read it below.

        You stated that it was not Christ-like of me to mention hell but I wonder if you knew that Jesus spoke more of hell and judgement than anyone else in scripture? I know it’s not a warm fuzzy and if I could avoid this fact – I would but it’s just there – all over scriptures.

        Here are Jesus’ very words in Matthew 13:40-43

        “As the weeds are pulled up and burned in the fire, so it will be at the end of the age. 41 The Son of Man will send out his angels, and they will weed out of his kingdom everything that causes sin and all who do evil. 42 They will throw them into the blazing furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. 43 Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Whoever has ears, let them hear.”

        This is just one example…I know it’s not comfortable to talk about but it’s in scripture and I believe all of it. I believe Genesis 1: 1 – in the beginning God created the heavens and the earth and I believe there’s a hell because Jesus says there is.

        But there is a way to escape it and Jesus provided that way!! He loved us so much that he went to the cross and died a painful death to cover our sins so that those who place their faith in him and repent of their sins would escape it.

        I hope that clarifies.
        Lots of Love,
        Courtney

        1. Courtney, thank you for taking the time to reply. I think that you misread my post, I’m not arguing the existence of hell. Jesus may have talked about hell and punishment, but he also gave grace to the unlikeliest of people (Luke 23:32-43 comes to mind). I stand by my original statement, however I respect you for standing by yours.

          It sounds like you’ve had to put a lot of effort into defending your faith in this area and I am sad that you have had to endure others hurting you because of your beliefs. I’m very sorry that happened to you.

          1. AR – this might be the first time I ever said the word Hell on my blog. lol! So grace is something I have spoken of for 5 years here on-line. I think it’s appropriate to warn those who believe false philosophies of the coming danger they could face…it is the most Christ-like thing I can do. To demand that Bible believing Christians never speak of the very real impending consequences for those who reject God’s word is the least grace-filled thing I can imagine. People must know they are lost and in need of a Savior in order to get saved.

            You stated of my mention of hell:
            “That’s not loving or Christ-like and it never has been at any point in the long history of people doing so.”

            I think the most hurtful comments come from those who call themselves believers yet accuse me of things like being unChrist-like (or unloving). Which I suppose is why I felt this need to explain that Christ spoke of hell – he was loving and grace-filled but he also spoke of coming judgement, the wrath of God, judgement and hell.

            Lots of Love,
            Courtney

    2. Amy, that statement was referring to my above thoughts where I stated that I believe most want to believe in the Big Bang theory so they can remove a God that they are accountable to and when they remove creation, Adam and Eve, and original sin then they don’t need a redeemer – Jesus – to cover their sins. Believing in a creator God has everything to do with salvation – it is the starting point of God’s word in Genesis 1:1.

      If we don’t believe verse 1,2,3, 4, 5 and so on of the Bible…then we are immediately off track theologically and it places a disbelief over all of God’s word –or a picking and choosing.

      The word says Jesus is one with God and is the creator (John 1:2 “through him all things were made, without him nothing was made that has been made.”) we cannot reject Jesus and expect him to welcome us into his kingdom…as John 14:6 says “I am the way the truth and the life – no man comes to the Father except through me.”

      Here’s one example of where the Bible talks about Jesus at creation.
      Colossians 1:15-20 says:

      15 The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. 16 For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. 17 He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. 19 For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, 20 and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.

      John Chapter 1 also explains this further. So my conclusion is based on the fact that those who reject the first 3 chapters of the Bible – are also rejecting the other parts of the Bible that state how God created the universe with his outstretched hand or that Jesus was there in the beginning creating…and as a result they are in danger of rejecting Jesus himself through which our only salvation comes. And that my friend, puts them in danger of hell.

      I know it’s not an easy truth to digest…and most will reject it but that is what this post is all about. Being a creationist in Opposite World – is not welcomed. But this is what I believe.

      Lots of Love,
      Courtney

      1. I feel like the issue here is that your definition of “rejection” is “doesn’t believe an exact literal interpretation of every word of the beginning of genesis.”. There are SO many Christians who look at the word “days” in “7 days” and read it to mean thousands or even millions of years, not a literal 7 days. For you, this is a rejection, for those others, it is a hermeneutical difference. And so you can understand how Christians who believe in some sort of Intelligent Design theory or a variant of evolution will come to see this post as an outright rejection and condemnation of their beliefs, and therefore a condemnation to hell when you say that not believing the way you believe genesis 1 is a straight path to eternal seperation from god.

        I also think it is a false assumption to say that those who believe the Big Bang theory are trying to remove god. Certainly there are those who do, but there are many who see gods work in the gorgeous science behind all of these amazing theories.

        1. Amy –

          I kindly ask you to reread the post and see that this post was not about hermeneutics or the literal interpretation of scripture. My conclusion specifically used the words – “big bang”. I am not talking hermeneutics here, we are talking about two opposing views…either a big ball of energy exploded and made this earth (which is not in scripture – there’s no hermeneutics to discuss) or Genesis 1:1 “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.”

          The two are completely opposed to each other. One is in God’s word and the other is not…only one of us can be right and that is the crux of this post. Being a Creationist in Opposite World is different.

          I recognize that this is not a politically correct post…but Jesus was not politically correct – if he had been – he would not have been crucified.

          Thank you for your patience as we talked this out and for your kindness and transparency with how my words were coming across to you. I will continue to consider them in future posts.

          Lots of Love,
          Courtney

  40. Amy,
    A lot of scientists and people who accept the theory of evolution do not believe in God. To ignore that God exists does not keep the punishment for sin away. The punishment for sin is death. This means eternal separation from God in hell. A believer accepts what God’s Word has to say. The book of Genesis tells us that in the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. It gives us an overview and then later goes into telling us the earth was created in 6 days and then on the 7th day, God rested. The Bible tells us that God spoke and things came into being. God does not tell us every detail of everything ever done in the Scriptures. He has chosen to reveal some things, but some things have been hidden (Deuteronomy 29:29). Those secret things belong to Him. The things He has revealed belong to us. He has revealed those things in Genesis. We can stand it. We may have questions that go deeper than what the Scriptures reveal. That’s ok. God may answer those one day or He may not. In the end, we have to trust what God has revealed.

  41. I think you either believe God or you don’t. The bible is our source of information for our faith. Our love letter from God. It is like a brick wall. You take away parts of it, because you don’t believe it is possible, then the wall is weakened. The foundation of the wall is that God created the earth. If you start believing that God didn’t create it, then what else do you not believe? If God didn’t create it and it is a cosmic accident, then Jesus as Savior isn’t real. If you start picking and choosing what to believe in the bible, then the wall comes crashing down. That is why it is a salvation issue. If you don’t believe Jesus is the way, and Jesus is the Word and that Jesus was there at creation, then you don’t have anything. What I don’t understand is that if you believe that Jesus healed and performed miracles, that He was God in flesh on earth to save our souls, then why can’t God speak the world into existance? The devil is the prince of lies. The best lies sound so true. Unbelief is so easy to do without even realizing it. This should be an area that all Christians really study and pray about earnestly. Thank you, Courtney, for not being afraid to go there on this topic.

  42. Hi there – thank you so much for this post! This is so helpful, and I am going to bookmark it on my devices. This past year I have had to deal with my children being exposed to “opposite world thinking”, but we have tried to reinforce at home the truth. They are just so little, I worry they will be pressured to believe something differently.

  43. I also say “wrong” at billions of years when it comes up. I used to substitute teach in a public school and just dreaded teaching science. I always added, “Of course this is just a theory.”

    Have you been to the Creation Museum? It is AMAZING! It is the books Ken Ham has published come to life. Answers in Genesis also has books to help parents guide children through zoos.

    One of my favorite object lessons to illustrate God’s hand in creation is to get a balloon, fill it with letter beads, blow it up, and then pop it. The beads will scatter all over the place. Ask the kids how long do you think it will take for the letters to make words if no one touched them? How long to make a sentence? The point being a pretty long time if there wasn’t someone to move the beads.

    Thanks for being a creationist and putting it out there. It is unpopular, but I believe it takes just as much faith the secular view.

  44. The devil knows to break down Christians, the belief in the Trinity, the death and resurrection of Christ for salvation, he must take out the foundation. Genesis is the foundation of Christian faith. If you take out the literal Adam and Eve and have death, destruction, and disease before God’s creation, which was good, then how can the flood be true and ultimately Christ? Even Atheists, who shouldn’t care as everything is formed by chance and there is no purpose or rhyme nor reason, are becoming aggressive toward young earth Christians. Satin is working overtime and he may be running out of time! In order to answer the tough questions of the Bible, one must know the foundation of Genesis as truth, literal, God inspired truth. A young earth is not integral to going to heaven, but it is integral to the truth that many need to hear. If people feel the Bible is contradictory then they turn away, but of they hear the truth, it brings them closer to Christ.
    Thank you Courtney, it is good to have a support group!!

  45. Very well said Courtney! We are doing a study on creation at our church! I suggest looking into the study yourself at the museum and to all the others who are reading this post. It is an amazing study and I cannot wait to go to the museum myself. Ken Ham explains in the study that there are only two religions in the world. 1. God’s word, 2. Man’s word. He then takes you into the Word of the Bible and explains everything from the foundation. In addition we have many talks as a whole group about how society has us to believe in evolution yet inside that themselves they fight over which story is true. One thing our Pastor has said and they study says it too, you cannot believe in the big bang and such and believe in the word of God. No where in the Bible does it state after a “big bang” the world was created. God planned out each day to make the world we have today. He put the plants and the trees before us, Why? Because we need them to survive! You see each day he created something to go with the next, you cannot have trees without sun.
    Also as you stated in your writing, how come we don’t see half ape humans, how come there is no evidence of this ever happening? One reason, because it doesn’t. If it didn’t would apes today stay apes? God is our creator not an ape.

    Here is the link to Ken Ham’s page. I am sure you will love it. Also I love that the kids knew right away the other person was wrong!

    http://www.answersingenesis.org/

  46. Great post! I agree with you Courtney.
    I also enjoy listening to Ravi Zacharias online radio broadcasts called “Let My people Think”. I remember one of his programs he said, truth by definition is exclusive and the word of God challenges the sovereignty of man. We either believe the word of God or we don’t but we can’t have it both ways.

    Also, another reason why evolution is not reasonable to me is because there has never been a beneficial human mutation recorded in all of human history.

  47. My only question is dinosaurs and carbon dating of soil, rocks, and fossils….the bible never mentions dinosaurs but we have fossils and such…Perhaps the big bang theory is Creation by God? The other thing to point out is that we don’t know the Lord’s timeline…His one day could be 1,000 years for us.

    1. Hi Michelle! I have also wondered about dinosaurs and the Scripture that says 1,000 years is like one day and one day like 1,000 years. It was pointed out to me recently in a Bible study that the verses in Genesis use the phrase “it was evening and morning” and then goes on to list the day. It shows us that the day existed as evening and morning and not 1,000 years (does that make sense?). I’m not really sure when carbon dating came in or how they can really even know how to date those things since none of us existed even 1,000 years ago.

      1. I will look into it..this has been something that has bothered me for a very long time. The bible talks about the animals and such, but never mentions the dinos; however, we have fossils of them. It also doesn’t really discuss galaxies or anything like that either. I have no doubt that the Lord created everything at all, but where does the universe and dinosaurs fit in :)?

        1. Michelle, read the accounts in Job 40 of behemoth and leviathan. The descriptions of these animals match very closely with dinosaurs – specifically a brachiosaurus and possibly a sea dragon. The term dinosaur wasn’t even coined until the 1800’s, so all the author of Job had to go by was descriptive language. Answers in Genesis addresses this topic, too. Here’s a great article to get started.
          http://www.answersingenesis.org/articles/2010/11/19/big-about-behemoth

    2. Look into Kent Hovin’s studies on the fossils and dinosaurs it is VERY interesting!!
      (yes I know he is in prison for tax evasion but that is another can of worms)

    3. I agree with those above who mentioned the behemoth and leviathan. I became a Christian in part by listening to Answers..with Ken Ham so I am very strongly a young earth creationist, though I have a hard time expressing myself.
      I did want to mention another thing I learned in reading The Answers Book (that you might want to look into), the dating methods do not always give reliable results. I remember a mention of something modern being tested (not sure what method) and them coming up with an age of hundreds or thousands of years, or something. Like I said, I am not very good at expressing myself, and it has been years since I read it, plus there is a revised edition. It could really answer your questions.

  48. Another amazing Science supported book on creation is Lee Strobel’s Case for Creation. Brilliantly done, scientifically backed, super book.

  49. Okay, last comment on here – Courtney, I just want to say I so appreciated reading the comments. The differing opinions were interesting but even more so I enjoyed seeing how you handled their comments with love. I wish I knew you IRL, but will settle for reading blog posts here and there. 😉 Be blessed today!

  50. Thank you Courtney for tackling this subject. What you say is absolutely correct. If you believe in the Bible and what it says, then you can’t believe in evolution. That’s the bottom line.

    I look forward to meeting you in August! Blessings to you and yours!

  51. Courtney,

    I’ve read your blog for quite some time and have always been impressed with your writings. I’ve printed many a page with your signature at the bottom for future reference or to share with others. Your “Opposite World” posts are some of my favorite and I’m thrilled to share them all with friends and family.

    Thank you so much for taking the time to share your heart and faith with others. I’m so grateful that the Lord has given you a heart to minister to other wives and mothers, including myself.

    I will continue to pray for you and your family and again, thank you!

  52. This is great discussion over something so important that few people put much thought to. We are going through the Sunday School Curriculum throughout our entire church of Ken Ham’s “Answers in Genesis.” It is wonderful. It’s is amazing what IS found in Genesis to answer all of these questions previously mentioned here if we just look and study intently.
    Just this week, our lesson dives into the idea that some people that are christians DO believe in an old earth or evolution and just don’t REALIZE that they are in error. We must be graceful and help to lead them to the facts with intense bible study and study aids that show the original intention of God’s word.
    I pray that all that have commented here saved and sanctified by a Holy God and that we would all gracefully listen to what the Lord wants to teach us.
    Blessings,
    Shan
    The-How-to-Guru.com

  53. My only comment is this… If God created the universe, wouldn’t it stand to reason that He would operate within the laws and design of the universe He created?

  54. “One Heartbeat Away” by Mark Cahill (http://www.oneheartbeataway.org/) is a wonderful book too.

    I always like to point out to those people that were raised in the Christian bubble and in the church that those outside of the church frequently don’t know anything about Christianity. I have to remind myself that, before I came to Jesus, I had NO IDEA who Jesus was, I had never heard of “creationism” and I couldn’t tell you anything in the Bible. I grew up in a HUGE city in South Florida and was part of a well education white middle-class family. So just because we have churches on every street corner, America is still a huge mission field! That being said, I was saved in 2008 and am just now learning about creationism and it is so very cool! It will be interesting when my child starts school. I was taught evolution as fact, without any knowledge that there was anything else. Sad world.

    1. I grew up in the Catholic Church and attended CCD(religious education) classes yearly from grades 1-11( didn’t go after I was confirmed). We NEVER opened the Bible and in the 80’s, it wasn’t encouraged in the Catholic church either. At least not the one I went to! I never had my OWN bible till high school, when I went to the Youth Camp put on by the bible church I babysat for on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. THAT is where I learned a little about God. One of the Sunday School classes met just outside of the nursery area so I overheard quite a bit and then learned SO much more at youth camp that year(1988).

  55. I wish more Christians would step up and speak truth about God’s word. Thank you Courtney!!! Tomorrow, I’ll be at the Creation Museum – soaking up every moment!!

  56. Hi Courtney,

    I really enjoy all the posts on this blog. Thank you for posting this one. Most Christians tend to shy away from topics like this that tend to spark arguments and nasty words from opponents. I hope no one minds that I posted this in two places, but I believe that it is very important and the root of all the arguments.

    Some people, inorder to avoid an argument, will try to combine evolution and the Bible, but that is just not possible. In no place in the Bible does God say that he used billions of years to creat the Earth, and if He did, why didn’t He just say He did? Either we believe that God is true, or we say that He is a liar. I believe that The Bible is God’s inspired Word and is true from cover to cover. We as Christians can’t compromise on the Genesis account of creation just so everyone can get along. Jesus said that he would rather have us cold than lukewarm. There are many many resources on the answeres in Genesis website and also the Creation Education Center.

    We could throw facts and arguments at each other all day and still remain firm on our views. You use your “scientific reasoning” to remain skeptical and I use mine to confirm belief in creation. Why is that? Obviously there is more at play here than “scientific reasoning”. It is a spiritual battle that is waging, not a battle of the facts. Satan knows that destroying the Genesis account of creation and the Fall, ultimately destroys our need for a Savior. It’s not that skeptics can’t belive that God created the Earth, or that they don’t see any evidence of it, it’s because they don’t want to admitt their need for a Savior. They don’t want to acknowledge their responsibility for their actions, they “reason” it away. 2 Peter 3:5 says “For this they willfully forget: that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of water and in the water” It is sin that blinds the eyes to the truth. “whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them. ” 2 Chorintians 4:4 The real and honest fact ( and I think the most important one) Is that we are all sinners in need of a Savior. And God through His love and mercy sent Jesus, His only son, to die and take the punishment for our sins, so that we can be redemmed and one day live with Him forever. John 3:16-17 “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whosoever belies in Him, should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved”

  57. I love your blog and look forward to reading your posts! This article definitely got me thinking. If I could add my two cents into this:
    I have ZERO doubt that God created our universe and everything in it. As a result, the first time I heard the Big Bang theory, I thought, well, maybe that was God dividing dark from light – they just don’t have the theory exactly right. I don’t take the 7 days literally due to 2 Peter 3:8 – “Do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day.” I know that that passage refers more to the end of times, but it does reference creation and confirm that God created the earth. I just don’t think that I’m bowing to science or compromising my faith to think it’s possible that God’s days are like a thousand years when that reference is made in scripture. With God, all things are possible (I’m pretty sure we’re reminded of that too in countless ways in the Bible).
    Please keep things like this coming, this was a great article for many people to see.

  58. I was thrilled to run into your post (saw it on LaToya Edwards facebook page). We done. The only thing I point out beyond what you said is that there WAS a witness to creation and He told us exactly how He did it over and over again. Looking forward to sharing you post. 🙂
    Blessings
    PS the idea of “opposite world” is a great descriptor for what we experience. It’s hard to even imagine what they see and they don’t believe what we so clearly see.

  59. I realize its been a while since this “debate” started, but still wanted to chime in. If you believe God created Adam and Eve literally, then surely you also believe that Adam and then Eve were formed and made alive as fully-functioning, perfect-in-every-way adults. When Christ turned the water contained in the six vats (six days, six vats?) to wine (His first recorded miraculous act) the result was wine that was the finest “aged” wine. I DO believe in an Earth that was created no that long ago, but who knows how old God made the Earth at its creation???

  60. I should say up front that I’m not a Christian, so it’s probably weird of me to be reading your blog at all 🙂 But I have been reading along and watching your videos for a while! As a resident of “Opposite World”, I find your blog really interesting and it’s important to me to try to understand other points of view.

    As a scientist in the field of evolutionary biology, I’ll admit that this post made me cringe, mostly because I think the three appeals you mentioned are flawed. But I understand that accepting evolution would raise some serious dilemmas for Christians. Many are able to reconcile the two, as some of your readers who commented pointed out; but I guess in a way, I admire the integrity of an all-or-nothing stance 😉

    I am wondering though, have you studied evolution from a mainstream source? I would encourage anyone who is anti-evolution to read things from the scientific community, too, in addition to the Creationist resources you mentioned, if only to know for themselves what they are disputing. This article from talkorigins.org is a good overview of the evidence for evolution: http://www.talkorigins.org/faqs/comdesc/index.html I really hope you’ll at least read the introduction, to perhaps understand where scientists are coming from.

    Seeking to understand a different point of view, even if you strongly disagree with it, can be edifying. I know personally, it has helped me see others more lovingly and helped me think more deeply about my own convictions.

  61. “One conclusion: If I’m wrong and the big bang theory is right – my faith in the God of the Bible has cost me to lose nothing. But if I’m right and the God of the Bible is true – those who believe in the big bang theory are subject to hell. It is certainly not something to quickly dismiss.”

    Exactly! You said this perfectly! This post was exactly what’s been on my mind! Thank you for sharing and being open about your thoughts – and not being afraid to tackle these difficult topics!

  62. Hey Courtney! I have certainly been blessed by your posts! I have been combing through your archives all day (taking notes, writing down bible verses and titles of books to read)! I came across your blog a while back after seeing “Having a Baby (In Opposite World)” posted on a friend’s FB. I like the picture you included in this post with your bible but cannot see it very well…is it possible to see a typed version of what you wrote? I am always seeking resources that can help me help others understand God’s word!

  63. I also believe that science and God go hand-in-hand. I believe in all things scientific, and I believe that God is the hand behind it all. I can’t be egotistical enough to think that I, lowly dust, am meant to understand the mind of God. Maybe each day in the creation story represents a billion years. His ways are not like our ways, after all. Maybe the creation story is a parable much like the rest, so that peoples of the time were able to understand it. What about, say, 6000 years ago in what is now Ireland or Greece where we know people lived? They didn’t even have the Word then. But they existed as God’s people, right, even if they didn’t know Him yet. I can’t say for sure, but at the same time as I teach my kids that God created everything, I’m teaching them about dinosaurs. They can believe that God created dinosaurs and then sent a meteor (or whatever) when He was done with that part of His plan. I don’t believe that we are meant to fully understand Him & His ways.

  64. If anyone is in or coming through eastern Montana on I-94, stop at the Glendive Dinosaur and Fossil Museum. It is the largest dinosaur and fossil museum set in the context of Biblical history.

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