How do we witness to those who argue what science reports?

Question

Science reports recent Hubble discoveries that show galaxies millions of light years from earth. If the light we see TODAY is from these galaxies, then that means the light left the surface of the galaxies far beyond the existence of the earth due to the distance it travels. We know that light travels 186,000 miles a second and the earth was created in 6 days. But if the statements are true, then either light must travel faster than the known calculations OR the galaxies are closer to us than what is reported.

So how do we witness to people who argue these things?

Answer

First, there are many variables to the statements made by science.  For one thing, we don’t know for certain that the speed of light is constant. Textbooks reference Einstein’s theory of special relativity that sets the speed of light at 186,000 miles per second (300 million meters per second) and say that the speed of light is constant, but over the last couple centuries, there have been studies that suggest the speed of light is decreasing.  Additionally, photons (light particles) have a drag coefficient and are subject to friction so we don’t know that light travels at the same speed in deep space.  For more information, visit www.answersingenesis.org and www.creation.com 

So let’s answer the question:

How do we witness to those who argue what science reports? 

The answer is: in the same way we witness to anyone. Don’t spend time arguing scientific facts. That’s debating science.  It’s not witnessing about Jesus.  Address the statements, but then turn the conversation to one of spiritual importance. 

• Ask if the person has ever considered where they will go when they die?  
• Tell them that Jesus opened the way to eternal life with God.  
• Ask if they think they are good enough to go to Heaven.  

If they answer, yes, and say they are good enough to go to Heaven, then ask why?  They’ll probably tell you that they are a pretty good person.  Tell them that “good” isn’t good enough to get into Heaven.  One has to be perfect…but no one can be.  So God sent His Son.

Tell Them About Jesus

Jesus, who is God, entered into our world and took on flesh.  He lived the perfect life,  He took our sins upon Himself, He died to pay for our sins, then was buried and three days later rose from the grave, conquering death and opening the way to Heaven.  

Share the gospel of saving grace with those who desire to argue science reports. Tell them they need to turn to Jesus and trust in Him for the forgiveness of their sins.  But always do it with kindness.  

In your conversation, don’t deny their interest in science. Briefly address the science issues, the best you can.  But then move on.  Don’t let a debate about science direct the conversation or cloud the importance of the gospel message.  Be bold, be kind, and be wise. Share the love of Jesus and tell of His desire to give salvation to all who repent and trust in Him.  

***For in-depth answers to some of the most challenging Bible questions, Visit

Christian apologists Alex McFarland and Shari Abbott answer some of life's many questions concerning the gospel, faith, and the Bible by sharing Truth for a New Generation and Reasons for Hope found only in Jesus. For more information about apologist, evangelist, author, and religion and culture analyst, Alex McFarland, visit www.alexmcfarland.com. For more information about Shari Abbott, executive director of Reasons for Hope* Jesus, click here.

Truth for a New Generation (TNG) serves nationwide, featuring a multi-year conference tour and student-led club program to equip teenagers, parents, grandparents, and others who lead them to live for God. TNG's mission is to creatively communicate a compelling Christian worldview to the next generation by giving answers to tough questions, based on the truths of Scripture, and to build up the Body of Christ to stand strong and boldly proclaim the gospel in the world. For more information and resources visit www.truthforanewgeneration.com.