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My grandson is a Jesus-skeptic but loves to have discussions with me about my beliefs. In our last conversation, I suggested that God and science weren't in opposition. but he remains unconvinced. He did agree to study the issue. I recently re-read The Case for Christ. Would you recommend this book or other resources?
The notion that Christianity and the empirical sciences are opposed is a well-worn assertion, and it is also untrue. While many people are trained to conduct scientific research, most are unable to provide a complete and unambiguous definition of “science.”
This is not a criticism of scientists. To do science is a scientific task. To define science is a philosophical task. And a notoriously difficult one at that. In any case, there is no definitive, universally recognized definition of “science.”
There are, no doubt, many scientific methods by which we gain information and knowledge and know truths about the natural world, but there is not one sole entity called “science.” That is why the claim that “Christianity and science are opposed” is rather a vague assertion.
I encourage you to share Lee Strobel’s excellent book, The Case for Christ, with your grandson. As you know, Strobel outlines the historical case for the resurrection of Jesus through interviews with leading Bible scholars, historians, and philosophers.
Regarding the relationship between the Christian faith and empirical study: he may appreciate Strobel’s follow-up book, The Case for a Creator, which outlines the case for the creation and design of the universe through interviews with scientists and philosophers.
A curious and open-minded individual like your grandson will find further references from the people Strobel’s interviews, including William Lane Craig, Robin Collins, and J. P. Moreland. These experts have written books on the topic from a Christian perspective. May the Lord help you and may He be glorified in your future conversations with your grandson.