"The Universe and
God" By R. E. D. Clark. A study of the order of nature in the
light of modern knowledge. (Hodder & Stoughton, 7s. 6d.)
This is certainly the
most notable contribution to the literature of what is called
Apologetics that we have read for a very long time. The sub-title
indicates the line of approach which is, as one would have expected
from the learned author, thoroughly scientific. He starts by granting
for the sake of argument the case of the opponent of Theism and
Creation in the Biblical sense of the word, and then proceeds to
examine the position in the light of modern knowledge. There are many
features of this book which call for comment, and which really merit
a more prolonged discussion. The most important feature is that the
book is written mainly from the standpoint of physical science. The
author is thoroughly at home when he deals with Biology, general
Philosophy and Psychology, but it is his handling of Astronomy that
impresses one most of all. This is partly the case because so much of
the argument in the past has been conducted in terms of Biology and
Geology only. The author shows clearly that there has been a greater
advance in true knowledge in the realm of physical sciences than in
Biology or any other branch of knowledge. Here he uses that new
knowledge with masterly skill to dismiss and at times to ridicule the
glib generalisations that have so frequently been made in the name of
"Science". There is a sense in which anyone who has the
"root of the matter" within him needs no help from
Apologetics, but so far as we are concerned, there is nothing which
so helps to strengthen faith and to give one truly scientific
confirmation of what has already been believed on the authority of
the Scriptures as such a book as this. But our reason for urging all
students to read it and to purchase it is that it will equip them and
arm them for the constant discussion in which they are engaged with
those who ignorantly believe that it is unscientific to be Christian.
But still better should such students hand their copy to those who
are still unbelieving and ask them to read it. It may not convert
them, but it will certainly disabuse their minds of many prejudices
and prepare the way for the Gospel. The author's method and manner
are especially conducive to this. He does not bludgeon his opponent
and his method is the exact opposite to that excessive zeal and
proselytising spirit that often antagonises instead of attracts. He
writes with a charm and apparent detachment and a pawky humour which
must captivate any intelligent reader. His illustrations are masterly
and his arguments invariably immaculate. We would press this book
upon all pleading with them to master it, and then - to pass it on!
D. M. L-J.
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