Overview
One of the most relevant and accessible writers of theology working today, Hans Schwarz here explores the Christian doctrine of creation from biblical, historical, and scientific perspectives, arguing that true dialogue between religion and the sciences provides the fullest and most meaningful picture of the universe. Schwarz first surveys scientific explanations for the origins of the universe and of life and discusses the scientific understanding of matter, space, time, and determinism. He then reviews the history of Christian responses to science's discoveries, including a summary of reactions from Christian scientists. He completes his analysis with a proposal for the development of a Christian understanding of creation. Through this engaging approach Schwarz leads Christians and scientists away from isolation in their respective arenas and draws them toward an appreciation of their complementary contributions to the questions of humanity's origin and destiny. Ultimately, he maintains that Christian hope is based neither on science nor on the denial of science, but on God's self-disclosure in the life and destiny of Jesus the Christ.Synopsis
One of the most relevant and accessible writers of theology working today, Hans Schwarz here explores the Christian doctrine of creation from biblical, historical, and scientific perspectives, arguing that true dialogue between religion and the sciences provides the fullest and most meaningful picture of the universe. Schwarz first surveys scientific explanations for the origins of the universe and of life and discusses the scientific understanding of matter, space, time, and determinism. He then reviews the history of Christian responses to science's discoveries, including a summary of reactions from Christian scientists. He completes his analysis with a proposal for the development of a Christian understanding of creation. Through this engaging approach Schwarz leads Christians and scientists away from isolation in their respective arenas and draws them toward an appreciation of their complementary contributions to the questions of humanity's origin and destiny. Ultimately, he maintains that Christian hope is based neither on science nor on the denial of science, but on God's self-disclosure in the life and destiny of Jesus the Christ.
Library Journal
Schwarz (Univ. of Regensburg, Germany; Eschatology) has written a series of books explaining theological concepts in language accessible to the lay reader. In this volume, he considers the question of creation from both a scientific and a religious perspective. Holding that the relationship between science and religion-often at odds in the popular mind-can be mutually enriching, he shows that it is possible to accept the scientific explanation of the origin of the universe while at the same time believing in God's creation of the world. His explanations of such topics as the Big Bang theory and the uncertainty principle are both understandable and enlightening. Schwarz offers a good, basic introduction to the topic, surveying historical and current literature while at the same time offering some critical analysis. His respect for both science and religion is shown particularly in his discussion of miracles. He ends with a chapter on developing a Christian understanding of creation that takes into account what scientists have discovered. Recommended for general collections.-Augustine J. Curley, Newark Abbey, NJ Copyright 2003 Cahners Business Information.