Counsel #8 — Proving A Point

Picture: Counsel #8 — Proving A PointCSe 18.1

After examining the fossils of Eusthenopteron and Ichthyostega from Counsel #7, do you believe amphibians evolved from fish? Does this suggest science knows more about origins than the Bible? The intention here is not to discredit science. The illustration presented reflects what is taught in evolutionary biology at secular universities worldwide, remaining the prevailing theory today. Evolutionary scientists recognize the stark differences between the fossils: Eusthenopteron is clearly a fish, adapted for swimming, while Ichthyostega has a robust skeleton suited for walking on land. If evolution is possible, it would require millions of specific, random mutations to transition from fish to amphibian, as evolution theory asserts that all mutations are random and not designed. To understand why evolutionary scientists support this theory, we must reexamine the relationship between evidence and assumptions, which will be discussed further in Counsel #9.^{[15]https://adventistreview.org/news/commentary/seven-truths-the-creation-account-teaches-us/}CSe 18.2

“How countless are your works, Lord! In wisdom you have made them all; the earth is full of your creatures.” Psalms 104:24 CSBCSe 18.3

“With every living creature, from the mighty leviathan among the waters to the insect mote that floats in the sunbeam, Adam was familiar. He had given to each its name, and he was acquainted with the nature and habits of all. On every leaf of the forest, in every shining star, in earth and air and sky, God's name was written. The order and harmony of creation spoke of infinite wisdom and power.” Ellen White in From Eternity Past, p. 20CSe 18.4

Reflect: What are the potential biases that can influence scientific interpretation, and how can we mitigate them?CSe 18.5