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Designed to Evolve: Discovering God Through Modern Science
Why do we exist? Why is there something rather than nothing? Designed to Evolve examines the question of existence in light of modern science. From the birth of the universe 13.8 billion years ago, to the intricacy of the DNA molecule, nature is explored at the most fundamental level. Two possible explanations emerge. Are we the result of chance or designed for a purpose? There has never been a time when more information on origins has been available. Now we can probe this question and take a critical look at the nature of existence. In the end, the evidence for purpose prevails.
Designed to Evolve covers these topics:
AN OVERVIEW OF MODERN COSMOLOGY AND BIG BANG THEORY. What we know about the universe and what we don't. How we know what we know.
MODERN EVIDENCE FOR GOD. Why big bang theory supports creation and how the fine tuning of the laws of physics suggest an intelligent creator. Specific examples are covered in detail.
COMMON ARGUMENTS AGAINST THE EXISTENCE OF GOD. The conditions and merits of these arguments are evaluated. Some arguments made against the Designed to Evolve principle are also examined.
QUANTUM MECHANICS AS IT APPLIES TO THE QUESTION OF GOD. Some of the basic principles of quantum mechanics are explained in simple terms, so that the implications of this fundamental property of nature can be examined. This theory not only impacts our understanding of God, but of mind and soul as well.
GEOLOGICAL HISTORY, THE FOSSIL RECORD, LIFE HISTORY, AND DNA. The history of the Earth is explored through the eyes of science. Many recent discoveries give us a detailed account of our planet's origin and development through time.
OLD EARTH CREATIONISM. This view of biblical creation not only reconciles the Bible with science, but it provides another avenue of proof for God. A day by day comparison is made between Genesis one and the prominent views of scientists.
BIBLICAL PREDICTIONS OF MODERN DISCOVERIES. The descriptions in Genesis make many predictions about the early Earth and its development over time. These predictions of modern scientific discovery are a testament to the relevancy of scripture in this age.
THE THEORY OF EVOLUTION. The evidence for it, its limitations, and how it impacts the question of God.
ORIGIN OF LIFE. The inner workings of life's smallest specification, the cell, is covered in detail. The genetic code of life gives us a strong indication to life's ultimate origin.
ASTROBIOLOGY. What can the current status of searches for life outside our solar system tell us about life on our own planet?
CHARACTERISTICS OF GOD. Not only does science give us a lot of evidence for the existence of God, it also hints at His character, attributes, and identity as well.
Designed to Evolve presents a compelling depiction of creation that embraces modern science. Whether you believe, believe with doubts, consider yourself undecided, or are an atheist, this book will help you to have a fully informed view. Designed to Evolve provides clear, credible, and verifiable evidence that represents the most complete scientific assessment for the existence of God.
Designed to Evolve covers these topics:
AN OVERVIEW OF MODERN COSMOLOGY AND BIG BANG THEORY. What we know about the universe and what we don't. How we know what we know.
MODERN EVIDENCE FOR GOD. Why big bang theory supports creation and how the fine tuning of the laws of physics suggest an intelligent creator. Specific examples are covered in detail.
COMMON ARGUMENTS AGAINST THE EXISTENCE OF GOD. The conditions and merits of these arguments are evaluated. Some arguments made against the Designed to Evolve principle are also examined.
QUANTUM MECHANICS AS IT APPLIES TO THE QUESTION OF GOD. Some of the basic principles of quantum mechanics are explained in simple terms, so that the implications of this fundamental property of nature can be examined. This theory not only impacts our understanding of God, but of mind and soul as well.
GEOLOGICAL HISTORY, THE FOSSIL RECORD, LIFE HISTORY, AND DNA. The history of the Earth is explored through the eyes of science. Many recent discoveries give us a detailed account of our planet's origin and development through time.
OLD EARTH CREATIONISM. This view of biblical creation not only reconciles the Bible with science, but it provides another avenue of proof for God. A day by day comparison is made between Genesis one and the prominent views of scientists.
BIBLICAL PREDICTIONS OF MODERN DISCOVERIES. The descriptions in Genesis make many predictions about the early Earth and its development over time. These predictions of modern scientific discovery are a testament to the relevancy of scripture in this age.
THE THEORY OF EVOLUTION. The evidence for it, its limitations, and how it impacts the question of God.
ORIGIN OF LIFE. The inner workings of life's smallest specification, the cell, is covered in detail. The genetic code of life gives us a strong indication to life's ultimate origin.
ASTROBIOLOGY. What can the current status of searches for life outside our solar system tell us about life on our own planet?
CHARACTERISTICS OF GOD. Not only does science give us a lot of evidence for the existence of God, it also hints at His character, attributes, and identity as well.
Designed to Evolve presents a compelling depiction of creation that embraces modern science. Whether you believe, believe with doubts, consider yourself undecided, or are an atheist, this book will help you to have a fully informed view. Designed to Evolve provides clear, credible, and verifiable evidence that represents the most complete scientific assessment for the existence of God.
222 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 7, 2015
84 people are currently reading
78 people want to read
About the author
Christopher S. Davis
5 books14 followersChristopher S. Davis has squandered a good deal of time pondering unanswerable questions. His odd love of quantum physics motivates him to stay current on the latest theories. He is the author of Designed to Evolve, a scientific and spiritual inquiry into the origin of the universe and life.
Christopher is a mechanical engineer and stress analyst by profession. He creates simulations of products yet to be made. In leisure, he enjoys immersing himself in virtual reality games. It is no wonder that he would speculate that the universe is a simulation in his debut novel, Wake from Reality.
As a fifth generation native of the Pacific Northwest, Christopher is a husband, the father of four active boys, and caregiver for two spoiled cats. He is addicted to chocolate and running obstacle course races that are abundant in mud.
Christopher is a mechanical engineer and stress analyst by profession. He creates simulations of products yet to be made. In leisure, he enjoys immersing himself in virtual reality games. It is no wonder that he would speculate that the universe is a simulation in his debut novel, Wake from Reality.
As a fifth generation native of the Pacific Northwest, Christopher is a husband, the father of four active boys, and caregiver for two spoiled cats. He is addicted to chocolate and running obstacle course races that are abundant in mud.
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
November 1, 2018
Great treatment of a complex subject
I found this book to be an extraordinary treatment of both the cosmos and it's relationship to the bible
This should remove anyone's doubt about God's presence and his hand in the formation of our world and the universe and his continued presence.
I found this book to be an extraordinary treatment of both the cosmos and it's relationship to the bible
This should remove anyone's doubt about God's presence and his hand in the formation of our world and the universe and his continued presence.
July 9, 2017
Very interesting read. I enjoyed discussing the physics parts with my son (who loves physics). Science and faith don't have to be at odds.
June 1, 2024
A PERSPECTIVE THAT SEES CREATION AS MANIFESTED THROUGH SCIENCE AND EVOLUTION
Author Christopher S. Davis wrote in the Preface of this 2015 book, “This book is written for those who wonder if there is a logical basis for belief in God in the modern age. For this reason, this book takes a very critical look into the evidence and counter-evidence to provide an answer Through this, all realms of science will be scoured… Many aspects of biology will also be examined… While the decided may appreciate the critical methods in questioning God’s existence, this may be disconcerting to a firm believer. This investigation proceeds under the assumption that basic science is valid, and it is from science that the question of God is tested… [This book] takes you on a journey through time and space, piecing together clues from mainstream science that provide extensive evidence for a created universe.”
He explains in the Introduction, “For years I wrestled with two world views, using each one in separate compartments of my life. For I believed in God, as the creator of the world. And I lived and worked in science, having a firm understanding of the physical laws that govern reality. Occasionally, I would become tempted by ‘creation science’ theories that promised to demonstrate how the Earth could be very young. But careful review quickly led to the realization that the details of these ideas were scientifically flawed… So I decided to embark on a quest for knowledge. I would temporarily shelve my opinions, my beliefs, my prior education, and all that I had come to understand about the world… For years I have researched every aspect of origins and how our universe, our planet, and our species came to be… I accepted nothing without proof… This book analyzes both viewpoints, and shows why the evidence favors reason and purpose in the universe… By studying creation, the nature of God is also revealed.”
He suggests, “The most obvious reason for fine-tuning is that the universe is the work of an intelligent creator, whose purpose was the building of a richly complex universe with stars, galaxies, and life… science has quantified this perfect balance with great precision… This represents one of the most foundational pieces of evidence for creation by God that can found through science.” (Pg. 39)
He asserts, “Since (random) quantum effects play a huge role in the final outcome at all levels… any desired outcome cannot be assumed by conditions set at an earlier time. So it becomes clear that the principles of quantum mechanics not only allow for intervention by God, but require it. For God would need to be continuously in control of these quantum effects to ensure any final result… This portrays a picture of God expected by theologians, that God is in control of everything at all times… In the Bible, God is described as acting many times throughout history… Healing, visions, celestial events, and every biblical miracle could be orchestrated through quantum actions taken by God at the appropriate time. Does this seem too limiting for an all-powerful God? Power over the quantum world is power over everything.” (Pg. 57-58) He adds, “We know that the Creator must be continuously involved in the universe, as implied by the uncertainty principle. If He were not , then no final outcome could be guaranteed.” (Pg. 65)
He states, “Genesis creation is progressive, not an instantaneous transformation. Specifically, the atmosphere is described as changing slowly from an initial state in verse two until its completion on day four… These biblical descriptions of atmospheric a biological change are quite compatible with the geological and fossil records.” (Pg. 119)
He outlines, “All life on Earth is based on the same code represented in DNA. The same basic procedure to exploit DNA for self construction and reproduction is also used by all known life… The fitfulness of DNA for life is only possible due to the many properties of matter that have been divinely appointed for the purpose of constructing life-forms. The ability to change over time is built into the DNA molecule. Life is designed to evolve.” (Pg. 137) He adds, “evolution need not be in conflict with the Bible, nor should it impact theology. The creation account need not be taken as parable. It is compatible with evolution even when taken as a literal historical account.” (Pg. 140-141)
He speculates, “The universe is fine-tuned for life and is huge, so it seems likely that the intent is for more than just one occurrence… Perhaps SETI, could one day have success not in our own galaxy, but by finding alien communications from distant galaxies. The combined signals of an entire galaxy of communications or some other technological activity may be detectable from great distances.” (Pg. 168)
He observes, “The real difficulty in accepting evolution into theology is not the creation account, it is [the] multitude of new questions it raises… we ask, ‘Were Adam and Eve literal people? Did they also evolve? Does this imply death before the fall of man?’ … I believe that the nature of the Genesis stories and genealogies support a literal man named Adam. Though he may not have been the first humanoid, he was the first human to call on the name of the Lord. It may be that he was the first human given a soul by God….” (Pg. 178)
He concludes, “This line of reasoning finds that biblical texts need not be allegory to accommodate acceptance of evolutionary science. This view recognizes scripture as an accurate account of history … and when the use of metaphor is considered for the time scales involved… The designed to evolve principle could include progressive creationism, with evolution working to modify the basic body plans originally created… Theistic evolution fits the designed to evolve principle with the major difference being that the biblical creation account is taken to be a historical account not simply allegory.” (Pg. 192-193) “When the biblical account of creation is read in context, no contradiction with science is encountered… It is most amazing to consider that the God who made the universe, in its vast complexity and extent, desires a personal relationship with each one of us… To be complete, we need a relationship with Him, through His Son, Jesus Christ.” (Pg. 217-218)
This book may appeal to some Christians wanting to accept both Christianity and evolution.
Author Christopher S. Davis wrote in the Preface of this 2015 book, “This book is written for those who wonder if there is a logical basis for belief in God in the modern age. For this reason, this book takes a very critical look into the evidence and counter-evidence to provide an answer Through this, all realms of science will be scoured… Many aspects of biology will also be examined… While the decided may appreciate the critical methods in questioning God’s existence, this may be disconcerting to a firm believer. This investigation proceeds under the assumption that basic science is valid, and it is from science that the question of God is tested… [This book] takes you on a journey through time and space, piecing together clues from mainstream science that provide extensive evidence for a created universe.”
He explains in the Introduction, “For years I wrestled with two world views, using each one in separate compartments of my life. For I believed in God, as the creator of the world. And I lived and worked in science, having a firm understanding of the physical laws that govern reality. Occasionally, I would become tempted by ‘creation science’ theories that promised to demonstrate how the Earth could be very young. But careful review quickly led to the realization that the details of these ideas were scientifically flawed… So I decided to embark on a quest for knowledge. I would temporarily shelve my opinions, my beliefs, my prior education, and all that I had come to understand about the world… For years I have researched every aspect of origins and how our universe, our planet, and our species came to be… I accepted nothing without proof… This book analyzes both viewpoints, and shows why the evidence favors reason and purpose in the universe… By studying creation, the nature of God is also revealed.”
He suggests, “The most obvious reason for fine-tuning is that the universe is the work of an intelligent creator, whose purpose was the building of a richly complex universe with stars, galaxies, and life… science has quantified this perfect balance with great precision… This represents one of the most foundational pieces of evidence for creation by God that can found through science.” (Pg. 39)
He asserts, “Since (random) quantum effects play a huge role in the final outcome at all levels… any desired outcome cannot be assumed by conditions set at an earlier time. So it becomes clear that the principles of quantum mechanics not only allow for intervention by God, but require it. For God would need to be continuously in control of these quantum effects to ensure any final result… This portrays a picture of God expected by theologians, that God is in control of everything at all times… In the Bible, God is described as acting many times throughout history… Healing, visions, celestial events, and every biblical miracle could be orchestrated through quantum actions taken by God at the appropriate time. Does this seem too limiting for an all-powerful God? Power over the quantum world is power over everything.” (Pg. 57-58) He adds, “We know that the Creator must be continuously involved in the universe, as implied by the uncertainty principle. If He were not , then no final outcome could be guaranteed.” (Pg. 65)
He states, “Genesis creation is progressive, not an instantaneous transformation. Specifically, the atmosphere is described as changing slowly from an initial state in verse two until its completion on day four… These biblical descriptions of atmospheric a biological change are quite compatible with the geological and fossil records.” (Pg. 119)
He outlines, “All life on Earth is based on the same code represented in DNA. The same basic procedure to exploit DNA for self construction and reproduction is also used by all known life… The fitfulness of DNA for life is only possible due to the many properties of matter that have been divinely appointed for the purpose of constructing life-forms. The ability to change over time is built into the DNA molecule. Life is designed to evolve.” (Pg. 137) He adds, “evolution need not be in conflict with the Bible, nor should it impact theology. The creation account need not be taken as parable. It is compatible with evolution even when taken as a literal historical account.” (Pg. 140-141)
He speculates, “The universe is fine-tuned for life and is huge, so it seems likely that the intent is for more than just one occurrence… Perhaps SETI, could one day have success not in our own galaxy, but by finding alien communications from distant galaxies. The combined signals of an entire galaxy of communications or some other technological activity may be detectable from great distances.” (Pg. 168)
He observes, “The real difficulty in accepting evolution into theology is not the creation account, it is [the] multitude of new questions it raises… we ask, ‘Were Adam and Eve literal people? Did they also evolve? Does this imply death before the fall of man?’ … I believe that the nature of the Genesis stories and genealogies support a literal man named Adam. Though he may not have been the first humanoid, he was the first human to call on the name of the Lord. It may be that he was the first human given a soul by God….” (Pg. 178)
He concludes, “This line of reasoning finds that biblical texts need not be allegory to accommodate acceptance of evolutionary science. This view recognizes scripture as an accurate account of history … and when the use of metaphor is considered for the time scales involved… The designed to evolve principle could include progressive creationism, with evolution working to modify the basic body plans originally created… Theistic evolution fits the designed to evolve principle with the major difference being that the biblical creation account is taken to be a historical account not simply allegory.” (Pg. 192-193) “When the biblical account of creation is read in context, no contradiction with science is encountered… It is most amazing to consider that the God who made the universe, in its vast complexity and extent, desires a personal relationship with each one of us… To be complete, we need a relationship with Him, through His Son, Jesus Christ.” (Pg. 217-218)
This book may appeal to some Christians wanting to accept both Christianity and evolution.
February 4, 2017
An attempt to meld modern science with the Bible
Although I agree with the author that modern science points to a creator or prime intelligence to explain the existence of the universe, I can't say that I go so far as he does to imply that the Christian Bible is in complete agreement with science as we understand it today. To say that the uncertainty principle proves that God can control actions that defy natural laws is quite a stretch. I do think it is likely that evolution is a plan designed by God , or a superior intelligence, to allow life on Earth to adapt to changing conditions in the environment. I've often thought that if I were God, I could not think of a better system to allow life to survive and thrive on a changing planet.
Although I agree with the author that modern science points to a creator or prime intelligence to explain the existence of the universe, I can't say that I go so far as he does to imply that the Christian Bible is in complete agreement with science as we understand it today. To say that the uncertainty principle proves that God can control actions that defy natural laws is quite a stretch. I do think it is likely that evolution is a plan designed by God , or a superior intelligence, to allow life on Earth to adapt to changing conditions in the environment. I've often thought that if I were God, I could not think of a better system to allow life to survive and thrive on a changing planet.
August 13, 2016
While I disagree with his interpretation of Genesis, I found this an interesting read. Here the author makes it very evident that science and Christianity don't have to be at odds with one another. He also pointed out that science suggests there was a beginning, and if a beginning then there's a need for a creator.
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews