that mankind is either the pinnacle of all that exists or is not-at-all unique among other living things. Be aware that some books with great science include some unwanted metaphysical claims.
- Is there the sense that the work of creation is ongoing (creatio continua)—not just something that God did one time in the past? Some interpretations of Genesis 2:1-2 can make this appear to be true. Yet, we know babies are being born, some species are going extinct, continents are shifting, stars are forming and dying off. The universe is not static and our God reigns over all. He is the Creator not just as portrayed in Genesis 1 but also in Isaiah 42:5, “This is what God the Lord says—the Creator of the heavens, who stretches them out, who spreads out the earth with all that springs from it, who gives breath to its people, and life to those who walk on it.” To miss this emphasis on divine activity is to miss an opportunity for our young ones to have their eyes open to the power and “bigness” of God.
- How are scientists and the scientific endeavor portrayed? Is there a subtle distrust being communicated? Do the materials present science (or scientists) as a battleground (or enemy) for Christians to defeat rather than a tool to help us actively engage God’s creation for his glory? Do our children see scientific careers as a way to faithfully serve him and others?
Young children devour books and there are a lot of choices out there. The message they receive from them matters. From these early, formative years come their foundational understanding of the character of God and the universe he has made. And their interaction with it all. Let’s choose carefully.
Know about some great children’s books? Let me know at email@example.com.
In tomorrow’s post, we’ll hear from a new Christian publisher we’re excited about: Novare Science and Math. Their focus is to change how science education happens in Christian schools so that students actually learn science, and “not something else which may be calling itself science but which doesn’t reflect the actual nature of scientific knowledge.” They acknowledge that “Biblical faith informs research, and scientific research informs faith,” and when science and faith are rightly handled, they complement rather than conflict, with each other. [From Teaching Science So That Students Learn Science (2009) by John Mays].