Coin of Truth©
Harmonizing God's Divine Tapestry through Science and Religion
The catalyst for my quest to unearth the truth was a profound encounter with the realms of pseudo-science and man-made religions, which spurred a deep introspection into the essence of my beliefs. The allure of pseudo-scientific claims and the complexities of doctrines fabricated by humans in the name of religion ignited a curiosity within me, compelling me to reassess the foundations of my understanding. And as I stated before, in order to explore the nuanced topics of science and religion, I employ the analogy of a two-sided coin.​
As I explored these topics in depth, a key moment came when I turned to the Gospel to understand the core teachings of my faith. The clear, fundamental message of the Gospel stood in sharp contrast to the confusing narratives of pseudoscience and distorted religious interpretations. This realization became a crucial turning point in my quest to uncover the true insights hidden beneath layers of misconception.
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The Gospel, with its timeless wisdom and unwavering authenticity, became my guiding compass. It illuminated the path, shedding light on the distorted interpretations that had clouded my understanding. The words inscribed in the Gospel became a beacon of clarity, offering profound insights into the nature of truth, love, and the divine. In navigating this journey, I discovered the power of discernment, distinguishing between the genuine teachings of the Gospel and the misleading currents of pseudo-science and man-made doctrines. This transformative exploration not only deepened my spiritual understanding but also fortified my commitment to unraveling truth from the clutches of distortion.
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Thus, my journey, sparked by encounters with pseudo-science and man-made religions, evolved into a profound quest for authenticity and spiritual enlightenment, guided by the unwavering truths encapsulated in the Gospel and scientific discoveries.
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To provide some context around this I will dive a little deeper.
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There are multiple challenges that can be recognized in both science and religion that should be brought to light whether you're a "believer" or not. Along my journey I recognized how mainstream science has become almost a religion within itself. Furthermore, surprisingly enough, latest theories and discoveries are moving closer to what the bible has already told us. However just like many religions, many attend to put their own spin on it whereby in many ways there are partial truths or similarities relating to a topic.
One basic example being from a prestigious American theoretical physicist and cosmologist, Lawrence M. Krauss who stated the following.
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“Every atom in your body came from a star that exploded. And, the atoms in your left hand probably came from a different star than your right hand. It really is the most poetic thing I know about physics: You are all stardust. You couldn’t be here if stars hadn’t exploded, because the elements - the carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, iron, all the things that matter for evolution and for life - weren’t created at the beginning of time. They were created in the nuclear furnaces of stars, and the only way for them to get into your body is if those stars were kind enough to explode. So, forget Jesus. The stars died so that you could be here today.”
― Lawrence M. Krauss
Indeed, the origin of humankind traces back to the formation from dust or stardust as Lawrence Krauss puts it. But it should be mentioned, life never originates from non-life. So what is the agent that created life from the elements of non-life?
Similar to Lawrence Krauss, the book of Genesis, penned over two thousand years ago, similarly details the creation of humankind from dust. It's essential to note that while the components like cells, DNA, atoms, molecules, hydrogen, protons, neutrons, or electrons constitute the physical body of man, they do not, in themselves, bring about the creation of humanity. Rather, they can be looked upon as the substances intelligently crafted for a purpose, utilized to "form" humankind and life itself.
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“The LORD God formed the man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being”.
- Genesis 2:7
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So where does this bring us? Can we prove the origins of life? The answer is simple, no.
The primordial soup hypothesis suggested that life began from simple organic molecules in early Earth's oceans and is now considered alongside other theories, such as life originating in deep-sea vents, using RNA as a catalyst, arriving from space, or starting on mineral surfaces. Despite these theories, the exact process of how simple molecules evolve into complex life and how non-life transitions to life remains unknown. Meanwhile, atheists often view life as forming through random processes of physics and chemistry over time, while theists believe in purposeful creation by intelligent design. Ultimately, it's not about proving the origin of life but acknowledging the existing evidence and having faith in what one believes to be true.​
Science has progressed to understand that our molecular biology holds "information" or data that serves as a blueprint for life. To put this into perspective, this is similar to discovering an advanced computer with all its complex components, only to find that it has software installed. Who wrote this software or did it just come into existence? This embedded information directs natural processes, allowing organisms to replicate and adapt within their own kind, as seen in microevolution. This idea aligns with the biblical concept of "kind after its kind" from Genesis 1, which suggests that each kind reproduces according to its own type. ​
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The question of whether God exists is one that has been debated for centuries by philosophers, theologians, and scientists alike. Some argue that the extreme complexity and beauty of the natural world point to the existence of a creator, while others argue that scientific discoveries such as evolution and the laws of physics can explain the universe without the need for a supernatural entity.
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While science and God are different concepts, they're not necessarily mutually exclusive. Many people believe that science and religion can coexist, and that scientific discoveries can deepen our understanding and appreciation of the natural world and the divine. However, others see science and religion as fundamentally incompatible, and view scientific explanations as replacing the need for a belief in God.
"Science without religion is lame, religion without science is blind."
- Albert Einstein
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To an honest judge, the alleged convergence between religion and science is a shallow, empty, hollow, spin-doctored sham.
- Richard Dawkins
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Just like me, many find themselves taking that first step being a difficult one. Not knowing how or where to begin, who to trust or what to believe. Unfortunately many are led to believe that its science vs God, but its quite the contrary. I found it most interesting that prestigious scholars exist on both sides of the spectrum.
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In fact many scientific and religious scholars agree around the core concepts around creation: that the evidence points that the universe is not the uncaused first cause - meaning the universe didn't and couldn't have created itself, so there must be something beyond the universe that is. This entity that's beyond the universe, must be spaceless, timeless and immaterial. And because it's "timeless", it does not have a beginning nor end, has always been and just is. It IS the uncreated creator.
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The question now becomes, who or what is this "uncreated creator" that sits outside the very universe it created? Having the power, marvelousness and complexity that caused the potential Big Bang and brought into existence space, time and matter. A trinity brought into existence at that very moment. Is it God through intelligent design or is it through natural process?
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“At the close of the nineteenth century, most biologists thought life consisted solely of matter and energy. But after Watson and Crick, biologists came to recognize the importance of a third fundamental entity in living things: information.”
― Stephen C. Meyer
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“If you look at the details of biochemistry, molecular biology you might find a signature of some sort of designer and that designer could well be a higher intelligence from elsewhere in the universe.”
- Richard Dawkins
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However, by taking a step back we're trying to solve not only one point of origin but two; the origin where space, time and matter came into existence and the origin how life started. ​​Combined they define creation of space, time and matter that allowed the perfect foundation to reproduce and sustain all life in which were life began and continues to remain.
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"What I can't understand is why you can't see the extraordinary beauty of the idea that life started from nothing – that is such a staggering, elegant, beautiful thing, why would you want to clutter it up with something so messy as a God?"
- Richard Dawkins
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Determining what is true can be difficult at times, as different people may have different perspectives, beliefs, or interpretations of the same information. Seeking after truth is a complex and ongoing process that requires an open mind, critical thinking skills, and a willingness to challenge one's own beliefs and assumptions.
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It’s important to approach such topics with a willingness to learn from both ancient and modern perspectives, which is what this book is all about. Rather than telling you what to believe, it brings insight into interesting topics around the Hebrew bible, religion and scientific studies. Don't just take my word for it, but research yourself to formalize your own conclusion based on the numerous data at hand. Because to my surprise, I became humbled into the realization that to a lot of what I thought was true in both the religion and scientific establishments, were nothing more than conjectures. This holds true even within our history books, hence the need to modify such theories as new discoveries become revealed. This fueled my interest in all topics of studies, as the blinding veil slowly became removed. These new discoveries led to numerous revelations, as I became flabbergasted each step of the way.
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“Nonsense remains nonsense, even when talked by world-famous scientists.”
- John C. Lennox
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I firmly believe that science and God can coexist, and that scientific discoveries can deepen our understanding and appreciation of the natural world and the divine. Not because someone told me or its a bias irrational decision but because of the available scientific and historical evidence. Regardless of one being an atheist or theist, we all soon come to the realization that our universe is in fact far stranger than fiction.
“I am not postulating a “God of the gaps”, a god merely to explain the things that science has not yet explained. I am postulating a God to explain why science explains; I do not deny that science explains, but I postulate God to explain why science explains."
- Richard Swinburne.
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Given the evidence supporting the coexistence of God and science, I encountered another challenge—religion. I will delve into the specific reasons behind my choice of Christianity in more detail later. For now, I'll outline at a high level the revelations inherent in Christianity.
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“Anyone who thinks sitting in church can make you a Christian must also think that sitting in a garage can make you a car.”
― Garrison Keillor
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Believing in God also leads many to form a set of beliefs, values, and practices based on the teachings commonly through a Religion. As I said earlier, many religious leaders just like scientists, attend to put their own spin on it. Thus, seeing the many hypocrisies, contradictions, burdens and deceptions within religious establishments - even within Christian churches.
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Critics assert that Christianity is a violent religion, contending that certain facets of the faith might be susceptible to misinterpretation, leading to support for violence. In fact we have numerous historical examples of those who use religion such as Christianity to condone human aggression. But this doesn't mean this is what Jesus taught.
Instead, we are to adhere to the teachings of Jesus Christ not humanity, who vehemently opposed all forms of violence, hatred, racism, sexual abuse, inequality that led to slavery and so much more. Encouraging followers to walk in his footsteps of non-violence and to love all - including your enemies.
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"For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”"
- Galatians 5: 14
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"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these."
- Mark 12:30-31
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"You have heard that it was said, "Love your neighbor and hate your enemy". But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven."
- Matthew 5:43–44
Furthermore, interesting enough, we're hinted in Hebrew scripture about what religion(s) God looks upon as "pure and undefiled" or faultless.
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"Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world."
- James 1: 27
However, when we see the words, "unstained by the world" what does this actually mean? This is a very ambiguous statement. This is an area where many either adopt to what abides in scripture, or implement personal commandments, judgements, and religious tasks upon their followers as if they need to earn God's acceptance or grace which couldn't be further from the truth. Not only this, many give the false pretense that if you believe in God and become a "good person", your life will be without extreme challenges - as if hardships magically disappear. This includes many who use religion as a facemask to hide their true character. Similar to contemporary individuals who employ social media as a digital persona, to create the illusion of their true selves it may appear pleasant and content to external observers. However, beneath the surface, malevolent intentions may persist, and or true happiness may be lacking in their lives.
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“For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ. And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. So it is no surprise if his servants, also, disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their deeds.”
― 2 Corinthians 11:13-15
I believe this is another contributing factor to why many individuals reject God or, sadly, experience a loss of faith, often prompted by challenging life events or unmet expectations. Regrettably, some distort the word of God for personal gain, tailoring it to suit people's desires rather than delivering the truths they need to hear. In more troubling instances, followers find themselves burdened with additional anxieties instead of receiving the expected support, comfort, and relief they need. Observing various cases, it becomes evident that individuals often feel heightened stress and guilt, particularly when unable to fulfill religious obligations imposed by their church. This heightened anxiety arises from negative emotions or the uncomfortable sense of judgment from friends and family members.
Like many others, I've experienced the challenge of taking that initial first step—uncertain of how or where to commence, unsure of whom to trust, and faced with the myriad of religions and churches available. It's a journey that can leave one feeling a bit overwhelmed. Therefore, I'd like to share a quote that beautifully illustrates what the Bible conveys and what the Gospel unequivocally emphasizes:
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“The Christian does not think God will love us because we are good, but that God will make us good because He loves us.”
― C.S Lewis
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In the exploration of Jesus's teachings, we delve into the profound concepts of unconditional love and the transformative power inherent in the divine relationship. The exact phrase above, resonates with the essence of the Gospel of Jesus Christ:
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Unconditional Love: Jesus's teachings consistently emphasized the boundless nature of God's love, transcending human notions of deservingness. Through parables like the Prodigal Son, he conveyed the concept that God's love extends to all, irrespective of one's moral standing. Again proven in the account of the adulteress described in John 8:6-7. Can any person of faith confidently assert they're sinlessness? Absolutely not, not one person.
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Transformative Power: Within the teachings of Jesus lies a profound truth — the transformative power of God's love. By embracing this love, individuals are invited to undergo a journey of personal growth and moral improvement. This aligns with the idea that God's love has the capacity to shape and refine our character because he loves us.
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Sacrifice and Temptations: Jesus, having been made fully human, experienced the same hardships and temptations as we do. His suffering and sacrifice on the cross were profound demonstrations of his empathy and commitment to redeem humanity. As described in Hebrews 4:15, Jesus is able to understand our struggles because he has faced them himself: "For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin." His experiences mean that we can turn to him with our challenges, knowing that he truly understands and supports us in our struggles.
“So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and anyone who abides in love abides in God, and God abides in them.”
― 1 John 4:16
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This verse underscores a profound link between experiencing God's love and the transformative journey it initiates. It accentuates the far-reaching influence of God's love, asserting that individuals can undergo remarkable changes by simply remaining in that love and truth. Crucially, this transformation is not earned through our works but is a product of our faith. Moreover, it emphasizes that within this love, there exists a stance of non-judgment towards others.
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As we reflect on the teachings of Jesus, we find a rich tapestry woven with threads of unconditional love and transformative grace. Inviting us to explore the depths of a relationship with a God whose love not only accepts us as we are, but also has the power to mold us into beings of greater goodness - To walk in the likeness of Jesus Christ. The Gospel invites readers to embark on a journey of discovery, guided by the timeless principles of love, forgiveness, and the profound grace found in the teachings of Jesus.
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Once more, propelled by my profound love, respect, and fascination for both science and theology, I found myself compelled to offer a glimpse into the personal revelation that guided me toward embracing Christianity. This realization extended beyond viewing the Bible as a mere informational guide; rather, it unfolded as a transformative narrative.
These transformations, in turn, serve as powerful testimonies to the influence of the Holy Spirit within us.
“So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and anyone who abides in love abides in God, and God abides in them.”
- 1 John 4:16