The Natural Sciences (Reclaiming the Christian Intellectual Tradition) [eBook]

A Student’s Guide

Whether it’s widely promoted debates streamed over the internet or a big-budget documentary series on TV, the supposed “conflict” between science and faith remains as prominent as ever. In this accessible guide for students, a well-regarded science professor introduces readers to the natural sciences from a distinctly Christian perspective. Starting with the classical view of God as the Creator and Sustainer of the universe, this book lays the biblical foundation for the study of the natural world and explores the history of scientific reflection from Kepler to Darwin. This informative resource argues that the Christian worldview provides the best grounds for scientific investigation, offering readers the framework they need to think and speak clearly about this important issue.

John A. Bloom (PhD, Cornell University) is a professor of physics and chair of the chemistry, physics, and engineering department at Biola University. He is the founder and academic director of Biola’s master’s degree program in science and religion, which was started in 2005. He holds another PhD in ancient Near Eastern studies from the Annenberg Research Institutes, which is now the Center for Judaic Studies at the University of Pennsylvania. He has published articles on intelligent design, ancient creation myths and the Bible, and human origins.

“Bloom has written an excellent overview of the main philosophical issues facing Christians working in the natural sciences. He shows that not only is there no conflict between science and belief in God, but there are now many scientific discoveries that support such belief. A clear, concise, and highly readable treatment. I highly recommend it, especially for college students.”
—Stephen C. Meyer, Director, Center for Science and Culture, Discovery Institute; author, Signature in the Cell: DNA and the Evidence for Intelligent Design

“With PhDs in ancient Near Eastern studies and physics, John Bloom is one of the top thinkers today on the relationship between science and Christianity. Written with a clarity of style and level of approach that a freshman in college would have no trouble reading, Bloom traces the relationship between Christianity and science through history up to the present. This enables him to put his finger on the erroneous tension points between the two, debunk these alleged tension points, and chart a way forward. Though a small book, it is packed with important ideas and information. It is must reading for any college course in science and Christianity.”
—J. P. Moreland, Distinguished Professor of Philosophy, Biola University; author, The Soul: How We Know It’s Real and Why It Matters

“With doctorates in physics and theology, John Bloom presents a biblically sound understanding of science as it relates to Christian faith, offering many intriguing historical insights along the way.”
—William A. Dembski, Senior Fellow, Center for Science and Culture, Discovery Institute; author, Being as Communion