Evolution, ' proclaimed the Rev. Daniel Miner Gordon during his inaugural lecture at Presbyterian College in Halifax, 'with its concept of growth rather than mechanism, of life working from within rather than a power constructing from without, helps further illustrate the method of Him who is the life of all that lives.' Seen in this way, evolution gave evidence of God's existence and watchful Providence; it revealed that the Creator was omniscient and omnipresent. Christian evolution implied a God of immanence, a God who dwelled within and constantly guided the natural world. This contrasted sharply with the orthodox view of a transcendent God who ruled the world from afar and touched it only by the occasional intervention in nature or history - a miracle. It now seemed that God was within nature and history, and close to humankind. Moreover, God the harsh judge had been banished by scientific understanding. It was understood that God was an active benevolent spirit. Some of the mystery had been lifted. Evolution had cast new light upon nature, the destiny of humanity, and the ways of God. It seemed to have provided a more inspiring and certain Christian world-view. Ironically, the clergy could base their arguments regarding the existence and nature of God on science, the source of so much doubt regarding the truth of Christianity.David B. Marshall
About This Quote
The meaning of the quote: The idea that we all stem from a common ancestor, and that we are all part of a single species, has been accepted by philosophers and theologians for centuries. Many people today still believe in the natural evolution of species; however, many scientists and religious scholars have contested this view, stating that species come together through breeding, not through natural selection. Some people also believe in intelligent design, which states that the human species was created by a supernatural force. The concept of evolution and intelligent design state that we came from a common ancestor and that we are all part of the same species. The phrase: "the greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall" refers to the fact that you should get up every time you fall down because it will help you become even stronger than before.
Source: Secularizing The Faith: Canadian Protestant Clergy And The Crisis Of Belief, 1850 1940
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