Mapping the contested border between science and faith
Allen Henderson, Review for the National Science Teachers Association
"If you are looking for a book that offers a basic overview of the issues in the origin debate, then this book is for you. Rau successfully attempts to present a summary in a way in which mature readers can become more informed in this debate. It would make thoughtful summer reading for teachers or policy makers, to better understand the discussions that occur outside of the classroom."
Timothy H. Heaton, Professor of Earth Sciences at the University of South Dakota, Review for the National Center for Science Education (NCSE)
"Most books on origins are designed to defend a particular perspective, but occasionally a book comes out that offers a semi-fair analysis of different viewpoints. This book falls into that category."
Jonathan Merritt interviewed Gerald Rau in Religion News:
JM: Why does this matter? What's the importance of figuring out the Earth's and humanity's origin?
GR: One of the main reasons it is important to study this issue is that our understanding of the origin of earth and humans is intimately connected to our understanding of the Bible and how God relates to his creation. If our position in all of those areas is not logically consistent and intellectually defensible, how can we expect to convince others that Christ is the truth? We owe it to ourselves and others to do whatever is necessary to know why we hold a particular interpretation, both of the scientific evidence and of the Bible, rather than merely accepting it because it the church we grew up in taught a certain thing. Many young people from the churches go off to college and don't really know what they believe or why, so they are easily led away from the faith. In today's society, with its emphasis on science and technology, it is important that the scientific evidence be considered along with the Bible, both for our sake and to be able to communicate with those around us.
Melissa Travis, Assistant Professor of Apologetics at Houston Baptist University, posted on Reasons to Believe (RTB)
"Anyone seeking clarity and an improved understanding of how the various origins models approach the evidence would benefit from this book. Specialists who need an objective, succinct resource to recommend to non-specialist friends and family need look no further. Although Rau intends the book for both high school and college students, I think the text is best suited for college students and other adults. It is also a fantastic choice for Christian leaders and parents who need a better understanding of the origins debate (a large majority, in my experience)."
Chris Talbot, Minister of Students at Unity Free Will Baptist Church
"Too often we take for granted our views concerning the universe, life, species, and even ourselves. For those who want to wrestle with the intricacies of evolution and the different viewpoints held there, I would recommend this book."
(c) 2014 Gerald Rau
