Creation, Science and Evolution in the Story of God

The biblical story of creation in Genesis raises important questions regarding science and evolution that could be addressed in our "Story of God" series starting in small groups this next week and on January 15/16 in our services. The problem is that these questions are not central to the story or the purposes of this series, as important as they are. We will not be taking time in the messages or in the small groups to explore this issue. It will simply take too long and serve as a distraction.

If you want to delve into this important topic, I want to recommend two introductory resources.

• "Is There Conflict Between Christianity and Science?" by Mark Driscoll on Facebook. This is a very quick overview of the topic. Great orientation and about as deep as most of us will want to go.
• "Creation, Evolution and Christian Laypeople" by Tim Keller (click to download .pdf) goes deeper but still serves as a great introduction to the topic for those that want to take it to the next level. 

Harvest

Jesus said, “The harvest is great, but the workers are few. So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields.” (Matthew 9:37-38)

A lot of prayer and inviting went into our ministries in December. Between the 12 students who made first-time decisions to follow Christ at the Fusion Christmas Extravaganza and the people who made first-time decisions at our Christmas services at East Ridge, we had 49 total first-time decisions in December!

One of the things we've noticed is how many of the first-time decision were made by people who have little or no history with Five Oaks--the people we invited. One student leader brought six friends to the Fusion event and three made first-time decisions.

I know many of you have been praying for people at the "Light" station and you've been having some unexpected adventures in spiritual conversations. Some are seeing results now, but most of us will have to wait longer. But in it all, God is glorified. Let's pray for a great harvest in 2011.