Curiosity.
I'm very curious about something. I admit I was inspired by a recent post about a rather comical explanation of what happened at Mount Sinai (apparently Moses was stoned?). But, it got me thinking. I watch a lot of the History Channel, and a few years ago a special was run that was touted as the definitive explanation for the ten plagues of Egypt as outlined in the bible. In this special, several things were explained scientifically. For example, the water turned to blood was explained in one way by a red, toxic algal bloom that would not only have turned the waters red like blood, but would also have killed fish and any other creatures living in that water. The frogs could, then, be explained by the same token. They would have left the waters of the river and, in many cases, have died. This explanation goes on and on, and many more have been offered. For your perusing pleasure, I link you to Wikipedia: under the heading "Natural explanations".
Now, my question is not whether or not you believe that these things can be explained away, thus disproving the bible. My question is this: Why could not all of these things have happened precisely as (or nearly precisely as) scientists explain them, and all of them been precipitated by God? After all, if God created the Earth, man, etc. he surely must understand the mechanics of toxic algae and swarms of locusts. Could he not have orchestrated all of these things and also have afforded us a scientific explanation for them, should we desire it? Could this not be an instance in which science and religion could someone intermingle?
I've noticed that many of the members of this community seem very open-minded and pleasantly open to interpretation of the bible and any other religious edicts, so I'm very curious to hear what you have to say on the subject. Please know that I am in no way suggesting that you are wrong and scientists are correct. I'm merely curious to know if you would be supportive of an idea that the scientific explanation could actually support the biblical account and visa versa.
x-posted to ljchristians
Now, my question is not whether or not you believe that these things can be explained away, thus disproving the bible. My question is this: Why could not all of these things have happened precisely as (or nearly precisely as) scientists explain them, and all of them been precipitated by God? After all, if God created the Earth, man, etc. he surely must understand the mechanics of toxic algae and swarms of locusts. Could he not have orchestrated all of these things and also have afforded us a scientific explanation for them, should we desire it? Could this not be an instance in which science and religion could someone intermingle?
I've noticed that many of the members of this community seem very open-minded and pleasantly open to interpretation of the bible and any other religious edicts, so I'm very curious to hear what you have to say on the subject. Please know that I am in no way suggesting that you are wrong and scientists are correct. I'm merely curious to know if you would be supportive of an idea that the scientific explanation could actually support the biblical account and visa versa.
x-posted to ljchristians