From June 21-22, 2024, the Education Department of the Northern Asia-Pacific Division (NSD) and the Geoscience Research Institute (GRI) held the ‘Creationism, Faith, and Science Conference’ at Sahmyook University’s Hong Myung Ki Hall. Held every five years, this was the third event. Speakers included Dr. Benjamin L. Clausen and Dr. Timothy Standish, senior scientists at GRI, Kim SoonGi, a presenter and pastor; and Heo SangMin, a university professor. Yoon SuRin, a university professor, provided translation services.
Understanding the Stone, Bronze, and Iron Ages
Kim Soon Gi, a presenter and pastor, explained the historical background of the Stone, Bronze, and Iron Ages, and how these periods connect to biblical creationism. He emphasized that the artifacts and relics from these periods demonstrate that human civilization’s development aligns with God’s creation. Kim argued that these archaeological evidences support the historical accuracy of Genesis, underscoring the rational basis of faith grounded in scholarly and logical foundations.
Plate Tectonics: Researching Worldwide Rates, Genesis to Revelation
Dr. Clausen, explored the relationship between geological phenomena and biblical records through the lens of plate tectonics. He introduced research on plate movement speeds worldwide and explained geological events from creation to Revelation. Clausen claimed that the Bible references geological catastrophes, which can align with scientific discoveries.
Recent Biological Evidence for Creation
In his seminar, Dr. Standish discussed recent biological research supporting creationism. He emphasized that the complexity and design features of organisms favor creationism over natural selection-based evolution. Standish presented various biological evidences that align the origins of life with biblical creation, highlighting the sophisticated design of genetic structures and physiological processes.
Theistic Evolution: Between Creationism and Evolutionism
Professor Sang Min Heo discussed theistic evolution, which combines elements of creationism and evolutionism. He highlighted fundamental issues with this theory, warning that interpreting biblical events symbolically undermines their historicity and weakens biblical authority. Heo argued that theistic evolution limits God’s omnipotence to natural laws.
Radiometric Dating: Trusting the Creator’s Time Mystery
Dr. Clausen explained how radiometric dating can be understood within a creationist framework. He acknowledged that radiometric dating suggests millions of years for Earth’s geological history but introduced creationist rebuttals. Clausen stressed the importance of maintaining faith in the Bible and God’s word despite scientific uncertainties.
Competition vs. Cooperation for Survival
Dr. Standish concluded with a discussion on the importance of cooperation over competition for survival. He contrasted Darwinian emphasis on struggle with the reality that life thrives on cooperation. Standish explained how understanding nature as an interconnected, cooperative system can improve environmental stewardship and biodiversity conservation.
The event saw the participation of over 70 attendees on-site, with many more joining via live online broadcast. After each seminar, a Q&A session was held, featuring insightful questions from the attendees. This event aimed to explore the intersection of faith and science, emphasizing the divine creation described in Genesis, and to enhance understanding of how scientific discoveries align with biblical teachings. Participants engaged in meaningful discussions about the harmony between faith and science, feeling inspired to comprehend God’s creation through scientific knowledge. The organizers stated that this aligns with the Seventh-day Adventist education goals of fostering critical thinking, scientific knowledge, and spiritual growth. They also announced that future events would include more interactive sessions, additional hands-on activities, and networking opportunities to enhance collaboration among attendees.
Edgard Luz, director of the Education department of NSD, remarked, “This event has reaffirmed the importance of integrating faith and scientific research,” adding, “This is a core aspect of Seventh-day Adventist education, aimed at developing students physically, mentally, spiritually, and socially.”
Following this event, there are plans to continually promote the exchange between faith and science, organize conferences and workshops on creationism in other countries within the NSD, and create a platform for ongoing research and discussion in this field. Additionally, these lectures will be integrated into the Seventh-day Adventist education curriculum to enrich students’ learning experiences and fields of study.
The original article was published on the Northern Asia-Pacific Division website.
