Review R E D Clark on apologetics 1939

Book Review from Inter-varsity XI.3 Easter 1939

"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.