For the purpose of educating forum members interested in a more indepth understanding of the positions and beliefs of individual members, it is my hope that all who are interested will state their positions here. This may better enable members to engage each other in discussion, having a better understanding of each others views.
I will begin by stating that I am an OEC. I accept a literal six day re-creation, based upon my studies numerous writings, chiefly those within, but not limited to, the Holy Scriptures, which includes, but is not limited to, the book of Genesis. I accept the possibility of the universe being billions of years in age, while also acknowledging the possibility, however remote, of the universe being only several thousand years old. I arrive at my conclusions of the universe being extremely old solely on the authority of the Holy Writ.
While science can be a helpful tool in understanding the world in which we live, it is of little use when attempting to uncover the fulness of the mysteries of the ancient past. For example, using the presently accepted speed of light as a barometer for determining either distance or time is, given the ongoing debate of whether light is moving at a slower rate now than it did in the past, an unprofitable source of reference.
If light is constant, (something science cannot yet fully agree upon), then a young universe seems an impossibility. If light is indeed traveling at a slower rate of speed today than in the distant past, then all possibilities as to the age of the universe remain open for discussion, considering all the unkowns that must be taken into account. If light was instantaneous at the moment of creation, whether by Intelligent Design or by a Big Bang, then even the YEC position concerning the age of the earth is a viable one. Consider the following while keeping an open mind as to the infinite possibilities that may be involved when considering the beginning of all things known and unknown.
http://perso.club-internet.fr/molaire1/e_plan.htmlMSNBC News - Breaking News and News Today | Latest Newshttp://nedwww.ipac.caltech.edu/level5/Turner/Turner2.html
BBC NEWS | Science/Nature | Einstein's theory 'may be wrong'http://www.arn.org/docs2/news/lawsofphysicschange82901.htm
The few examples above will, if nothing else, cause us to question the validity of so-called constants. Science can be a wonderful tool, as long as those who enlist its' services understand its' limitations due to the flawed nature of those who must rely on it for answers.
Shalom
Jet
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As we survey all the evidence, the thought insistently arises that some supernatural agency - or, rather, Agency - must be involved. Is it possible that suddenly, without intending to, we have stumbled upon scientific proof of the existence of a Supreme Being? Was it God who stepped in and so providentially crafted the cosmos for our benefit?
Prof. George Greenstein
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