In October 2004, the small town of Dover, Pennsylvania became the first community in the United States to require the teaching of “intelligent design” in biology class as an alternative to evolution. “Intelligent design” is a concept that attributes the universe’s complexity to the work of an undefined intelligent force. As you might imagine, Dover’s decision has raised the ire of critics who contend “intelligent design” is just another term for the biblical teaching of creationism, which is based on a literal reading of the book of Genesis. At least two other school districts, one in Wisconsin and one in Georgia, have recently become embroiled in the debate over teaching evolution.
So far, school administrators have not commented on the new curriculum, aside from issuing a statement that said officials would monitor the science lessons “to make sure no one is promoting but also not inhibiting religion.” They said they wanted to provide a balanced view of evolution and not present religious beliefs.
While not entirely embracing the biblical account of creation, the move by the Dover school board is a positive one. Paul wrote in Romans 1:20, “For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse.” To teach the general theory evolution in schools as a scientific “fact” is not only bad science because it is unprovable, but it is also in clear contradiction to God’s word. May more people have the strength to stand and point us back to God!
Kyle Campbell