“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” Genesis 1:1 is a foundational scripture for Christianity. Regardless of denomination, we share a consensus as to the Who of creation. The how and when, however, are subject to debate, even within each group.

Scripture and science are sometimes challenging to reconcile, so the Christian position has often been one of silence. Perhaps, however, such avoidance has contributed to the decline of today’s church. Kids with unanswered questions eventually stop asking, or they seek answers elsewhere. 

My opinion, which is admittedly fallible, is that Christians should not shy away from respectful discussion on such topics. I believe it’s a disservice to fellow believers and potential believers if we refuse to acknowledge there is room for differing views. When it comes to creation one thing is certain. We don’t know what we don’t know.

In 1 Timothy 4:7 Paul cautions against arguing over things which don’t matter. My intent is not to promote useless debate nor to pretend I have insightful explanations. I believe, however, there are benefits to having honest and amicable conversations.

Creation is something I’ve long considered writing about but have been hesitant to address. I’m not qualified to explain theology or science, so I encourage you to make your own prayerful examination. Here is a sampling of things to ponder. 

An article in The Macon Telegraph prompted this column. The story was about Ocmulgee Mounds, a settlement of Native Americans considered to be 12,000 to 18,000 years old. If those dates are correct, how does that fit in with Genesis’ account of mankind which totals roughly 6,000 years and occurred in another part of the world? 

As Christians I believe it’s important we don’t shy away from questions such as, “How old is man?” Artifacts, presumably man-made, have been dated to tens of thousands of years ago. Human fossils have been discovered from much earlier periods. I have no idea as to the accuracy of such dating, but it’s a discussion people of faith should participate in rather than shun.

Genesis includes the story of Cain being punished for taking his brother Abel’s life. As God sends him away from his presence, Cain expresses fear of being killed by those he would encounter. We’re not given details about who Cain was afraid of, so it’s reasonable to ask how and when they got there. 

The Nephilim, mentioned in the sixth chapter of Genesis, are an intriguing group. Verse 4 reads, “The Nephilim were on earth in those days – and also afterward – when the sons of God went to the daughters of humans and had children by them.” Some believe the Nephilim were fallen angels. I don’t know if that’s the case, but they apparently had human traits. The Nephilim don’t tie in with the biblical story of creation, but could they account for archaeological finds dated to earlier times?

Dinosaurs are another timeline enigma. Scholars generally agree they roamed the earth from 66 to 245 million years ago, which doesn’t align with a creation measured in thousands of years. When Christians maintain it does, I believe it damages our credibility. Faith is not dependent on what is provable, but should never be dismissive of what is factual.    

I’m not trying to change anyone’s beliefs about creation. The point I’m hoping to make is that Christians should engage in constructive dialogue rather than avoiding it, or giving defensive responses which don’t invite further discussion. 

My personal view is that Genesis is entirely reliable, but was not intended to be a complete account of what God has done over eons of time. Otherwise we have archaeological findings which are inexplicable, plus the rather untenable situation of brothers and sisters having children together. 

I believe God is the creator and sustainer of everything – past, present, and future. I consider it an immeasurable blessing that Genesis reveals man was made in God’s image. My full confidence and faith are in The Who of creation. If, however, we consider the how and when of creation with open minds along with open Bibles, there is one thing that is certain. We don’t know what we don’t know.