Religious Philosophy

Master of Religious Philosophy ~ Lesson 23 ~ Religion and Science - Partners or Competitors Rev.Fr. Andrew R. M. Manley Q.1.) What is your view? Which relationship do you usually accept? Even if you have not previously used these terms, which is your view of scientific and religious knowledge? A.) I personally would agree more with the Religious Philosophers and open minded scientists. Q.2.) Numerous religions recount stories of miracles (events or actions which appear to defy the so-called 'laws of nature'). What are your thoughts on these miracles. A.) Mark Ch. 4 Ver. 9 thru 12; vers.9) And he said unto them, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. 10) And when he was alone, they that were about him with the twelve asked of him the parable. 11) And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables: 12) That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; This is just one of many examples within the Holy Bible that give some credit to what I believe to be true of Natural Science and Religious acceptance. There are other books,chapters and verses with in the Holy Bible that reinforce my belief that there are intersection between both throughout history. Most of it has to do with acceptance of something new, challenged or perceived as factual until proven other wise. until that time all knowledge is in Gods time to reveal to mankind, and for mankind to except, or not. Q.3.) Do you believe that these miracles are true, but the natural sciences are simply incapable of understanding them (because they are outside their 'field of expertise')? A.) Yes, by the knowledge of the doctrine of the Holy Bible which is by faith, it is so. Science can not prove faith nor can it prove spirituality and God. Q.4.) Do you tend to believe that there is a scientific explanation for these miracles that we just have yet to discover? A.) All things are possible, when we are ready to hear and believe than and only then will we except what is revealed. Q.5.) Do you believe that God (or gods) intervened and set aside these natural laws? A.) I believe in what I know, I also believe in faith and things not yet revealed. So yes, In my thought, my heart, and my knowledge God did and does intervene with natural law as we know it. I emphasize as "we know it". Q.6.) Do you think that the miracles are religiously exaggerated to make a religious point, and that the actual event would be harmonious with the natural laws if this exaggeration had not occurred? A.) I can not tell for sure because I was not present at the time of the accuracies. However, throughout the Holy Bible parables are used to help people to understand and relate to what message is being conveyed at the time. We do the same thing today it is just that our technology and our ability to communicate has advanced far beyond what was understood decades ago. Q.7.) Or, do you think that anyone who believes in miracles should be confined to a facility where they can't hurt themselves? A.) No, absolutely not. There are many things that have happened throughout history that can not be explained and if two or more experience a situation than it, with a small degree of doubt and faith should be accredited to the possibilities of account. ******************** The Universal Life Church offers handfasting ceremonies, funeral ceremonies and free minister training. As a long time member of ULC, Rev. Long created the seminary site to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials.  I've been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and have loved watching the continual growth of the seminary. Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar