When you are in need of answers

Many people look to science for answers. This has been demonstrated most recently with the debates and controversies surrounding the novel coronavirus pandemic. Understanding what science is meant to do and its limitations is helpful in deciding whether science can provide the answers for which people are searching.

Modern science and the scientific method have come about since the 14th century. It came about as a way to investigate and understand the natural world we perceive through our senses. Early pioneers in science believed there was a God who created the universe, and His methods were rational, discoverable, and predictable. The focus is investigating the natural world we perceive. Scientific advancement has accomplished a great deal to benefit the lives of every human on earth.

Problems arise when people ask science to do things for which it was not intended. Science cannot make moral judgements. Science can help describe how the world is. It cannot tell us whether the current situation is good, bad, right, or wrong. Science cannot make aesthetic judgements. Science can tell us the frequency of a sound or describe how we perceive color. It cannot tell us whether a musical score or a painting is beautiful or horrible. Science cannot tell us how to use scientific knowledge. The knowledge making it possible to do something does not mean we should do it. Remember science helps us to describe the world around us. It doesn’t not tell us how to use that knowledge.

Science investigates the natural world. It was not intended to explain the supernatural world. Science cannot answer questions such as “Is there meaning to life?” “Does my life have purpose?” “What happens when I die?” These are spiritual questions which science cannot answer. A 2005 survey of top research universities revealed that 48% of the scientists surveyed had a religious affiliation and 75% believe religion conveys important truths. One does not need to relinquish their faith to be a very good scientist.

Many scientists follow Jesus Christ. Why? Because Jesus has the answers to those questions that linger in the hearts of people that science cannot answer. There is a God that loves all people. He gives our lives both meaning and purpose. He has shown us His love by forgiveness and reconciliation with us through Jesus. We can know the peace He gives and the joy of walking in relationship with Him. We can live in the assurance of eternal life. We can share His love and forgiveness with others. There is no pit so deep that Jesus cannot pull you out of it.

Bud McConnaughey serves on the staff of North Summit Church, 201 N. Division, Sandpoint.