Evolution: Fact or Theory?

Many people assume evolution is an established fact, but the reality is far more complex. Christians who trust the biblical account of creation in Genesis sometimes wonder how to engage others in considering the possibility of a Creator. This article offers a starting point: examining the scientific and biblical challenges to evolutionary theory and highlighting the evidence for Intelligent Design.

What Darwin Really Intended

When Charles Darwin published On the Origin of Species in 1859, he did more than propose a scientific theory. As historian Carl Wieland notes, Darwin’s ideas were a frontal assault against the concept of an intelligent Designer. His writings reveal not just a scientific curiosity but a deep hostility toward the God of the Bible, especially God’s role as Judge.

Far from being neutral observations, Darwin’s ideas were shaped by a worldview that rejected spiritual realities. Understanding this helps explain why the theory of evolution has been championed beyond scientific circles—it has influenced the entire culture’s view of life, origins, and meaning.

The Challenge from Biochemistry

Evolution claims life began with simple forms and gradually became more complex through natural selection. However, recent advances in biochemistry and molecular biology show that even the “simplest” living cells are incredibly complex. Scientists now describe the cell as “irreducibly complex,” meaning all parts must be in place at once to function.

If a cell needs every system working together from the beginning, how could it have evolved slowly over time? As molecular biologist Michael Behe writes, “Life on earth at its most fundamental level, in its most critical components, is the product of intelligent activity” (Darwin’s Black Box, p. 193).

The Fossil Record and Dating Methods

The fossil record also challenges evolutionary claims. Instead of showing countless transitional forms as Darwin predicted, it reveals distinct types and kinds without clear transitions. Additionally, the dating methods used by evolutionists often rely on assumptions that are increasingly questioned by scientists.

Together, the complexity of life, the gaps in the fossil record, and the shaky foundations of dating methods build a strong case for Intelligent Design—a view supported by many biologists, geologists, paleontologists, and other scientific professionals today.

Intelligent Design: Not Just a Religious Idea

One major criticism of Intelligent Design is that it’s “just religious.” However, the evidence for a Designer stands on its own, apart from specific theological claims. Observing complex, purposeful systems in nature points to intelligence without immediately identifying the Designer.

Of course, for Christians, Scripture makes it clear who the Designer is: the Triune God, who made the heavens and the earth (Genesis 1:1). But even apart from the Bible, Intelligent Design offers a scientifically credible explanation for the origins of life and the universe.

Evolution’s Dogma

Interestingly, those who dismiss Intelligent Design often fail to recognize that evolutionary theory itself is based on unprovable assumptions. Evolutionary naturalism—the belief that life arose by random mutation without purpose—is just as much a faith-based worldview as theism.

If creation points to a personal, purposeful Author, then atheistic evolution insists on a purposeless, unguided process. Both are ultimately matters of belief. Yet for generations, evolution has been taught in public schools, museums, zoos, and media outlets as fact without serious competition. That is beginning to change.

Can Christians “Baptize” Evolution?

Some Christians attempt to reconcile evolution with their faith, suggesting God used evolutionary processes to create. But this effort is fraught with danger. Evolutionary theory contradicts fundamental teachings of Scripture, such as the special creation of Adam and Eve (Genesis 2) and the goodness of God’s original creation (Genesis 1:31).

Trying to “baptize” evolution inevitably leads to watering down the authority of the Bible. As 2 Corinthians 5:17 reminds us, faith in Christ makes us a “new creation”—not the result of a long process of random mutations, but a miraculous act of God. Similarly, the creation of the world was a direct, intentional act of God’s will.

Faith and Science Together

Christians do not need to fear true scientific discovery. In fact, the more we learn about the natural world, the more it points to a brilliant, purposeful Designer. As the psalmist declares, “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well” (Psalm 139:14).

Faith in the Creator—and in the Redeemer, Jesus Christ—is a gift of the Holy Spirit, not the result of scientific analysis (Ephesians 2:8-9). Yet scientific evidence can support the truth that Scripture proclaims.

The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) and Immanuel Lutheran Church in Tuscola, IL, confesses that Adam and Eve were real, historical people and that Genesis records actual events, not myths. Christians are called to trust God’s Word fully, without compromise, even as we engage respectfully and thoughtfully with scientific findings.

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Further Reading:

• Michael Behe, Darwin’s Black Box: The Biochemical Challenge to Evolution

• William Dembski, Intelligent Design: The Bridge Between Science and Theology

• Michael Denton, Evolution: A Theory in Crisis

• Carl Wieland, “Darwin’s Real Message, Have You Missed It?” Creation Ex Nihilo (1992)

• Issues, Etc podcast on this topic.