The Perils of Theistic Evolution

Introduction

Theistic evolution is the belief that God used evolution to bring living things into being. This perspective has caused intense debate within the Christian community. Some argue that it brings the gospel into disrepute and damages the spread of God's kingdom. However, it is important to critically examine the dangers of embracing theistic evolution in order to make an informed decision.

1. Denial of Biblical Authority

Theistic evolution often places secular thinking above the authority of Scripture. It insists that evolution is an indisputable fact, even when it contradicts a straightforward reading of the Bible. This undermines the perspicuity of Scripture, which means that the Bible can be understood by anyone who reads it with an open heart and mind. The Bible is perfect and unalterable, and its teachings should not be made subservient to evolutionary interpretations.

Why This Matters: Denying biblical authority undermines the foundation of Christianity and can lead to a distortion of essential biblical teachings.

Think About It: How can we maintain the integrity of Scripture while engaging with scientific theories like evolution?

2. Undermining a Plain Reading of Scripture

Theistic evolution forces a reinterpretation of the historical accounts in Genesis 1-11, reducing them to myth, allegory, poetry, or parable. It suggests that only those who advocate for biblical creation are behind the times and divisive. This undermines the perspicuity of Scripture by disregarding its plain meaning. When Scripture's plain reading is forced into an evolutionary straitjacket, it distorts its intended message.

Why This Matters: The plain reading of Scripture provides important insights into God's creation and His relationship with humanity.

Think About It: How does reinterpreting Genesis impact our understanding of other foundational biblical doctrines?

3. A Conflicting View of God

The TE perspective raises questions about the attributes of God as described in Scripture. If God used evolution, it suggests that He lacks the power or knowledge to create creatures quickly and perfectly. Additionally, if evolution involved suffering and death over millions of years, it challenges God's inherent goodness. The TE view diminishes the glory of Christ as the eternal Word of God made flesh.

Why This Matters: A consistent application of theistic evolution robs Christ of His rightful glory and distorts our understanding of God's attributes.

Think About It: How does theistic evolution impact our understanding of God's character and His relationship with creation?

4. Contradiction with Christ and the Apostles

Theistic evolution calls into question the teachings of Christ and the New Testament writers. It suggests that they were in error or deceitful about fundamental theological concepts such as man's antiquity, Earth's creation, the Noahic Flood, man's distinction from animals, a literal Adam and Eve, and the temptation of Eve by Satan. Accepting theistic evolution weakens the connection between Genesis and the Gospel.

Why This Matters: The teachings of Christ and the Apostles provide a solid foundation for our understanding of salvation and our relationship with God.

Think About It: How does theistic evolution impact our view of sin, redemption, and the need for a savior?

5. Dehumanization of Humanity

Theistic evolution diminishes the unique value and dignity of human beings created in God's image. It reduces humans to mere animals driven by selfish desires. Evolutionary indoctrination has historically led to a disregard for human life and an emphasis on power, greed, and indifference. Theistic evolutionists often downplay or ignore these negative consequences.

Why This Matters: Recognizing the value of human life is essential for upholding human rights, justice, and compassion.

Think About It: How does embracing theistic evolution impact our understanding of human dignity and the sanctity of life?

6. Undermining the Gospel

Theistic evolution distorts key biblical doctrines related to the Fall, sin, death, and suffering. By accepting human evolution, it redefines sin and weakens the conviction of the Holy Spirit regarding human sinfulness. This undermines the message of salvation through Jesus Christ and erodes the need for His redemptive work on the cross.

Why This Matters: The Gospel is central to Christianity and offers hope, forgiveness, and reconciliation with God.

Think About It: How does theistic evolution impact our understanding of sin, redemption, and our need for a savior?

Conclusion: Embracing Faithful Obedience

There are scientific reasons for rejecting evolution, both from an atheistic and theistic perspective. However, it is crucial to approach this issue with a commitment to truth and scientific integrity. Theistic evolution requires accepting that great Christian minds for centuries misunderstood the true meaning of Genesis. Furthermore, it contradicts Darwin's own views on the involvement of God in the evolutionary process.

By critically examining the dangers of theistic evolution, Christians can make informed decisions about their beliefs. It is essential to uphold biblical authority, maintain a plain reading of Scripture, and preserve the integrity of foundational biblical doctrines. Engaging with creationist ideas encourages deeper understanding and enables us to defend our faith faithfully.

Why This Matters: Carefully considering different perspectives helps us grow in our understanding of God's creation and strengthens our faith in His Word.

Think About It: How can we engage in discussions about creation while demonstrating love and respect for those who hold different views?