Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines the scientific method as, “principles and procedures for the systematic pursuit of knowledge involving the recognition and formulation of a problem, the collection of data through observation and experiment, and the formulation and testing of hypotheses.”
In addition, it gives the following four applicable definitions of science:
1. The state of knowing: knowledge as distinguished from ignorance or misunderstanding
2. a) A department of systematized knowledge as an object of study
b) Something (as a sport or technique) that may be studied or learned like systematized knowledge
3. a) Knowledge or a system of knowledge covering general truths or the operation of general laws especially as obtained and tested through the scientific method
b) Such knowledge or such a system of knowledge concerned with the physical world and its phenomena: natural science
4. A system or method reconciling practical ends with scientific laws
The foundational principles of science have enabled humanity to understand the world around us. Through the systematic pursuit of knowledge, the collection of data, and subsequent testing of formulated hypotheses, we have established “definitive” conclusions about ourselves and what can be perceived. Hence, established scientific laws must either be proven inconsistent, using the scientific method or fully accepted. In other words, you have two options: beat them or join them.
By definition, other than the natural sciences, science as a whole is an approach to gaining understanding. It is systematic and objective so that the conclusions can be reproduced if the same steps are followed under similar conditions.
In Faith Science, we will approach faith using the scientific method so that the conclusions drawn in the Bible can be reproduced in our personal lives. We will begin by drawing a connection between certain scientific phenomena and foundational biblical principles in order to make them easier to comprehend. Then we will prove them with case studies.
But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.
1 Corinthians 2:14 KJV
Scientists who think that spiritual laws are inherently inaccurate are themselves, inaccurate. The Bible refers to them as carnal thinkers who will never understand spiritual things. No human mind on its own is able to perceive the things of God. So even though they may be experts at natural things, without Christ, they are unskilled in spiritual things. Thus, even the greatest scientists on their own will never be able to bridge the gap between scientific and spiritual laws.
Therefore, it’s easy to understand that just the mention of the word faith sends shivers down the spines of secular scientists. They consider Christianity foolish and don’t see how it’s possible for intelligent people to believe what’s written in the Bible. What many of them really have are preconceived notions that instantly reject anything that contradicts what they believe. So proving the viability of faith to them on a purely academic level will be impossible regardless of the evidence provided.
But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man. For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? but we have the mind of Christ.
1 Corinthians 2:15-16 KJV
The Bible says that he who is spiritual comprehends all things while he who is natural is not qualified to speak on spiritual things. The two systems, though they exist simultaneously, are not equal. Spiritual laws are inherently superior to natural laws because all that is natural came from that which is spiritual. I will prove this by Scripture later in the book. However, since God is behind both systems, unless it’s necessary for carrying out his purpose, they shouldn’t inherently contradict. Here are a few instances when they did contradict and spiritual laws triumphed.
Jesus and the Apostle Peter broke the law of gravity when they walked on water in Matthew 14:25-29. Elijah broke natural laws when he stopped rain from falling using words in 1 Kings 17 and then started it again in 1 Kings 18. He also broke natural laws when he called fire out of heaven several times in 2 Kings 1:9-14. Philip broke physical laws when he disappeared from one location and appeared in another in Acts 8:39. Paul broke natural biological and chemical laws when he was bitten by a venomous snake and nothing happened to his body in Acts 28:3-6. Like Paul said in Romans 8:2, the spiritual law of life in Christ Jesus triumphed over the law of sin and death. Though discernible, natural laws were made obsolete in specific human lives.
If you approach it with an open mind and heart, Faith Science will be a blessing to your life. Above everything else, it will change the way you see the spirit realm. Since your perspective forms the basis of your interpretation of what’s written in the Bible, you will have a renewed understanding of spiritual things. Combined with the knowledge you may already have, the systematic approach in this book will strengthen your faith. While others choose to remain limited, God can open your eyes to the possibilities of your human existence.
