Nov 5 : Science and Genesis

On Nov 5th, we’ll meet at our place again to listen to this lecture from the BeThinking website:

http://www.bethinking.org/science-christianity/advanced/scientific-perspectives-on-genesis-1-3.htm

In addition to having a lot of great content and thought-provoking ideas, Loen & I were interested in the diverse approaches of the three presenters. Simply listening to the three should inspire us all about how to present our thoughts and beliefs.

Note that this is about an hour and a half long, so we’ll want to start right away.

Please bring cookies.

Unlocking the Mystery of Life

In our June meeting, I found out about this video:

Unlocking the mystery of life [videorecording] / produced by Illustra Media.
[S.l.] : Illustra Media, c2002.
Subjects DNA — DVD-Video discs

Intelligent design (Teleology) — DVD-Video discs
Description:
1 videodisc (ca. 65 min.) : sd., col. ; 4 3/4 in.

I’m putting it on hold from the public library and we’ll all watch it together ~ date to be discussed. Our original plan was July, but maybe we shall consider August? Or saving it for a busy week once school starts again in the fall.

Aug 15: The history of science and Christianity

On August 15th, we will be discussing the article,

“Science – friend or foe?” by D. Alexander

If you think of questions to consider regarding this topic, please comment them here. For example, does the author refer to scripture? In what context should we use the bible, and are there contexts when we should refrain?

I also posed a question at the end of the Jul 25 meeting: What would we consider to be a “high standard of evidence” for spiritual truth or for resolving science / faith issues? I think it is good to articulate or discuss what we find persuasive. If we have a somewhat objective perspective on evidence, then it will be possible to test that standard against some of our readings.

So, do come with your own personal thoughts about evidence and persuasive / valid argumentation.

http://www.bethinking.org/resource.php?ID=192&TopicID=2&CategoryID=1

July 11: Wellness Gospel

We will finally get to discuss:

“The Wellness Gospel and the Future of Faith” by R.W. Dworkin.

http://www.hoover.org/publications/policyreview/3460706.html

While reading, look for both statements you like, and also for one or two points you disagree with. Also, how about proposing at least one scripture relevant to this reading.

Is it possible that those who are seeking healing, might make an invalid pursuit of religion in the absence of faith or sincerity? What about the role of a “wellness gospel” within Christianity, and how it changes the definition of our faith?

What is religion, and what does it mean for a person to be “spiritual?” Is Dworkin belittling all religious people as gullible? Is he saying we have no meaningful impact on science and society? I think we need to discuss what his biases are, and is he for or against Christianity (religion) ?

If you have trouble accessing the full text online, please contact me or stop by the KCC Office. We will be discussing this article on WED JULY 11.