Beyond the Conflict: Genesis Chapters 1 and 2 in the Perspective of Science and Biblical Theology

Abstract

The conflict between creation and evolution has long dominated discussions surrounding the first two chapters of Genesis in the Old Testament. In efforts to ameliorate the conflict various creationist theories have emerged that attempt to relate Genesis 1 and 2 to the broader consensus of science. Some views have been adversarial in nature while others have attempted to reconcile Biblical interpretation with scientific theory. Even while different schools of creationist thought have developed, however, parallel developments in the discipline of Biblical theology have emerged. These developments have sought not, primarily, to interpret Genesis 1 and 2 in the light of emerging scientific discovery and theory but, instead, within the broader context of Old Testament theology. In recent years the two schools of thought—creationist theory and Biblical theology—have started to converge in ways that show some promise for moving beyond the debate between creation and evolution that has typically overshadowed the broader theological importance of Genesis 1 and 2 for the Christian faith. This study examines some of these developments in Biblical theology and envisions how removing the “versus” between science and theology can hold new promise for Christians to engage the world today.