Sample Demonstration of the Evolution Unit by Richard O. Randolph for the 2013 Kansas East Annual Conference Friday, May 31, 2013 This Presentation may be accessed at: Richard O. Randolph, © 2013
Overview of the Planned Curriculum 5-sessions, each designed for a minute period Some topics pre-selected History & Introduction to Faith and Science methodology Evolution Genetics Other topics identified through the results of a conference-wide Survey Monkey Each topic should have an explicit mercy and justice component Richard O. Randolph, © 2013
Typical Outline for Each Session A. An opening video vignette which introduces and frames the topic B. Contextual background for the relevant science(s) C. Contextual background for faith D. Identification of the mercy and justice issues at play E. Discussion questions Richard O. Randolph, © 2013
Evolution Introductory Comments Foundational Scripture: Genesis 1 Opening Vignette Richard O. Randolph, © 2013
Scientific Context Darwinism Most people date the beginning of the theory of evolution with the publication of Charles Darwin’s book, Origin of Species in Neo-Darwinism or modern evolutionary synthesis attempts to integrate Darwin’s theory of evolution with modern discoveries in genetics. In this view, “species evolve by natural selection acting on genetic variation” (The Free Dictionary) Scientific Theory versus Scientific Hypothesis Richard O. Randolph, © 2013
Faith Context: Key Challenges 1. What is the role and purpose of the Bible in Christian life? How should we interpret and use Scripture? 2. If the theory of evolution is essentially correct, what does it mean to be “created in the image of God” (Genesis 1:27)? 3. Others? Richard O. Randolph, © 2013
Alternative Approaches to Challenges Raised by Evolution Theistic Evolution God guides evolution perhaps at quantum level God guides evolution through the laws of nature Creationism Day-Age Gap Creation Science (Versus) Richard O. Randolph, © 2013
Mercy and Justice Issues Stewardship and care for the environment may offer a place of agreement for those who otherwise disagree on how to address the challenges posed by evolutionary theory. Richard O. Randolph, © 2013