In Whose Image: Faith, Science, and the New Genetics
Reviewed by Jon S. Evans, February 1, 1999
This book published by Geneva Press for the Office of Theology and Worship in the Presbyterian Church (USA) is intended as a study guide – either personal or group – to be completed in five to ten sessions. Its purpose, as stated in the preface, was “not to produce a consensus statement or a policy document, but to provide a basic introduction to the kinds of issues that face the church.” It succeeds in this task, and quite well.
There are people speaking from different theological centers, and each is aware of the others and accepts the differences between them. Several of the essays are brilliant, but there needs to be a trained and well grounded leader to recognize the inherent assumptions made by each writer, and to critically evaluate them in a positive or negative manner – as the case may be. A couple of essays may be particularly rough going for those uninitiated into biology; the writers do a good job of presenting high school level biology basics to help, but for those out of school for a long time, it may still be a lot to absorb.
As might be expected from such a document, it brings up far more questions than it answers; it forces the reader to think – always a worthwhile endeavor. It is meant to stimulate discussion, and can succeed very well with proper leadership. I recommend it to the strong of faith, to stretch your limits and your understanding.
Jon S. Evans, pastor of Presbyterian Kirk of the Lakes on Houghton Lake, Mich., holds a graduate degree in molecular biology.