Men of Science, Men of God
By Editorial Staff
Published April 2008
By Dr. Henry M. Morris
In the six decades of the 19th century before the appearance of Darwin’s Origin of Species, the climate of the western world was increasingly one of religious skepticism. The industrial revolution had fostered a climate of evolutionary optimism; at the same time its excesses were also creating a spirit of revolution. Nevertheless, faith in God and the Bible were still strong, especially in America. Scientists for the most part maintained at least nominal allegiance to the Scriptures, but there was a strong undercurrent of doubt and desire to cast off these shackles. When Darwin proposed his theory of natural selection, it was like a dam breaking, and in only a few short years practically the entire scientific world seemed to have capitulated to unbelief. Nevertheless, even in this period there were many notable men of science who maintained strong and vital Christian testimonies.
Michael Faraday (1791-1867) is universally acknowledged as one of the greatest physicists of all time. He was especially gifted in scientific experimentation, particularly in developing the new sciences of electricity and magnetism. He discovered electromagnetic induction and introduced the concept of magnetic lines of force. He invented the generator and made many other other key discoveries and inventions. Two basic units, one in electrolysis, one in electrostatics, are named in his honor. He also made many key contributions in the field of chemistry.
Yet this great man was one of the most humble and sincere Christians one could ever find. His family was desperately poor, but deeply spiritual, members of a small Christian church whose teaching included emphasis on God’s creation as purposeful and harmonious, designed for man’s well-being. He had an abiding faith in the Bible and in prayer.
Unlike Newton, however, he made little attempt to “harmonize” his science with his Biblical faith, supremely confident that the two were both based on divine truth and were necessarily in agreement. He was very regular and faithful in the various ministries of his church, both public and personal. He fully believed in the official doctrine of his church, which said: “The Bible, and it alone, with nothing added to it nor taken away from it by man, is the sole and sufficient guide for each individual, at all times and in all circumstances…Faith in the divinity and work of Christ is the gift of God, and the evidence of this faith is obedience to the commandment of Christ.”
Samuel F. B. Morse (1791-1872) is justly famous for his invention of the telegraph, one of the most important milestones in human history. The first message sent in 1844 over the wire, “What hath God wrought!” was from the Bible (Numbers 23:23). It was indicative of Morse’s entire life and purpose, desiring to honor the Lord in all things.
Morse was profoundly influenced by Timothy Dwight at Yale, where he graduated in 1810. In addition to his inventive genius, Morse was an outstanding artist, serving for 20 years as the founder and first president of the National Academy of Design. In 1831 he was appointed Professor of Sculpture and Painting at New York University, the first chair of fine arts in America. He also built the first camera in America and made the world’s first photographic portrait. Today he is ranked among the greatest portrait artists of all time.
Just four years before he died, Morse wrote, “The nearer I approach to the end of my pilgrimage, the clearer is the evidence of the divine origin of the Bible, the grandeur and subtlety of God’s remedy for fallen man are more appreciated, and the future is illumined with hope and joy.”
From Men of Science, Men of God: Great Scientists Who Believed the Bible, by Henry M. Morris, Master Books, © 1982, 1988. Used with permission.
Dr. Henry M. Morris is a respected scientist and author of a number of science textbooks. He is president of the Institute for Creation Research, San Diego, California.
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A Revival Account: Asbury 1970 (DVD)
What is true Revival and Spiritual Awakening?
Discover the answer in this eyewitness account by Dennis Kinlaw, President of Asbury College, Wilmore, Kentucky, who recounts the story of a visitation of the Holy Spirit in 1970. This is the presentation that has continued to spark the flames of Revival in the hearts of people around the world. Contains eyewitness footage from the Revival at Asbury College in 1970 in Wilmore, Kentucky.
Certain to challenge you to greater holiness and a deeper commitment to full-scale revival. Original news and private footage has been included. If you are a student who longs to see a spiritual awakening at your school, you must see this video!
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Running Time: 40 minutes
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Abortion Clinic 911 Calls
Exposes the Dangers of Abortion to Women!
These shocking eyewitness accounts expose the dangers of abortion not only to unborn children, but to the health and lives women as well. An antidote to the smokescreens of the liberal media, these six short clips show what really happens in and around abortion clinics.
Although the content is emotionally gut-wrenching, these videos have been used in church seminars and small groups to educate Christians on the abortion issue and to lead people toward a pro-life position.
Watch these pro-life videos on-line.
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God's Law and Society (DVD)
Download the Free on-line Study Guide!
God’s Law and Society powerfully presents a comprehensive worldview based upon the ethical system found in the Law of God.
Speakers include: R.J. Rushdoony, George Grant, Howard Phillips, R.C. Sproul Jr., Ken Gentry, Gary DeMar, Jay Grimstead, Steven Schlissel, Andrew Sandlin, Eric Holmberg, and more!
Sixteen Christian leaders and scholars answer some of the most common questions and misconceptions related to this volatile issue:
1. Are we under Law or under Grace?
2. Does the Old Testament Law apply today?
3. Can we legislate morality?
4. What are the biblical foundations of government?
5. Was America founded as a Christian nation?
6. What about the separation of Church and State?
7. Is neutrality a myth?
8. What about non-Christians and the Law of God?
9. Would there be “freedom” in a Christian republic?
10. What would a “Christian America” look like?
Perfect for group instruction as well as personal Bible study.
Ten parts, over four hours of instruction!
Running Time: 240 minutes
Watch over 60 on-line video interviews from God’s Law and Society.
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Amazing Grace: The History and Theology of Calvinism (DVD)
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Just what is Calvinism?
Does this teaching make man a deterministic robot and God the author of sin? What about free will? If the church accepts Calvinism, won’t evangelism be stifled, perhaps even extinguished? How can we balance God’s sovereignty and man’s responsibility? What are the differences between historic Calvinism and hyper-Calvinism? Why did men like Augustine, Luther, Calvin, Spurgeon, Whitefield, Edwards and a host of renowned Protestant evangelists embrace the teaching of predestination and election and deny free will theology?
This is the first video documentary that answers these and other related questions. Hosted by Eric Holmberg, this fascinating three-part, four-hour presentation is detailed enough so as to not gloss over the controversy. At the same time, it is broken up into ten “Sunday-school-sized” sections to make the rich content manageable and accessible for the average viewer.
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The Beast of Revelation: Identified (DVD)
Who is the dreaded beast of Revelation?
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Historical footage and other graphics are used to illustrate the lecture Dr. Gentry presented at the 1999 Ligonier Conference in Orlando, Florida. It is followed by a one-hour question and answer session addressing the key concerns and objections typically raised in response to his position. This presentation also features an introduction that touches on not only the confusion and controversy surrounding this issue — but just why it may well be one of the most significant issues facing the Church today.
Ideal for group meetings, personal Bible study — for anyone who wants to understand the historical context of John’s famous letter “… to the seven churches which are in Asia.” (Revelation 1:4)
Running Time: 145 minutes
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