Counsels on Christian Worldview

Counsel #11 — Theory Vs. Evidence

Picture: Counsel #11 — Theory Vs. Evidence CCW 148.1

Desert sand or underwater sand? Some sandstone^[222] has sloping layers of sand resembling sand sliding down dunes. These layers can also form underwater, sparking much discussion among 1900s geologists about their origins. CCW 148.2

In Arizona, a creationist geologist studied the Coconino Sandstone, a type of cross-bedded sandstone. While many earth geologists believe this sandstone formed in a desert, the creationist found much evidence indicating underwater formation. Key evidence included fossilized animal trackways starting or ending abruptly, unexplained if formed above water. Birds might make such tracks by flying down, walking, and flying away, but these were not bird tracks. They belonged to reptiles or amphibians, which cannot fly! The only way these animals could have made such tracks is by swimming down, walking, and swimming away. CCW 148.3

Although this and other evidence was published, many geologists still insist the sandstone formed in a desert, without explaining the trackways. This situation exemplifies a common challenge in studying the ancient past: entrenched theories can overshadow evidence.^[223] CCW 148.4

“Speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish of the sea tell you. Every one of these knows that the hand of the Lord has done this.” Job 12:8, 9 NCV CCW 148.5

“God has permitted a flood of light to be poured upon the world in both science and art; but when professedly scientific men treat upon these subjects from a merely human point of view, they will assuredly come to wrong conclusions.” Ellen White in Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 113 CCW 148.6

Reflect: What is the significance of accepting the authenticity of an actual world-wide flood — as the Bible describes? CCW 148.7