Honoring the Creator God
By
ANGEL MANUEL RODRIGUEZ
Question: Is it true that some Adventist scientists and theologians no longer believe that God created everything in six literal days.?
The short answer is, "Yes, it is true." In your letter you also asked why this is the case. I cannot go into all the details, but I will give you some of the main reasons behind their views. Let me make clear that the number of Adventist theologians embracing some type of evolutionary model is very small. I suspect that the same applies to scientists. Among theologians the fundamental issue relates to the proper methodology of interpreting the Bible. Their reading of Genesis 1-11 is based on a particular understanding of revelation and inspiration.
1-Revelation and Inspiration: Adventists believe that the Bible is its own interpreter. This is based on the conviction that the ultimate author is God; that since there is one Author, there is a fundamental unity in the Bible's message; and that a passage is to be interpreted in its literal sense unless the context points in a different direction. Those who promote some form of
evolutionism within the church have rejected or questioned most of those principles. In the area of revelation and inspiration they overemphasize thought-inspiration-that God only reveals thoughts and ideas to the prophets. This idea, taken to extreme, limits the authority of the Bible. With respect to Genesis 1 and 2,
this means-to them-that God did not reveal to the biblical writer how He created. For them the question is What was the idea or thought God revealed to the prophet? They answer: God was revealing that He was the Creator. Since the text, they say, does not define how He created, the answer to that question could be evolution. Instead of allowing the Bible to interpret itself, which in this case would mean that God is the Creator because He created everything in six days, they arbitrarily conclude that it does not answer the how question. One could even suggest that they first accept evolution as a concept and then reinterpret the text to make it fit their previous conclusions.
2-Assumptions Brought to the Text: Those theologians use nonbiblical materials to determine the meaning of the biblical text. They argue that the biblical creation narrative should not be interpreted literally because this type of literature was common in the ancient Near East, where this literature served to convey the idea that a particular god was the supreme creator. That argument is then applied to Genesis 1 and 2. But the creation narratives of the ancient Near East hardly describe a particular god creating everything. In fact, scholars now consider one of the longest of those narratives to be a propaganda story meant to justify the supreme role of one god over the other gods, not a creation narrative.
Besides, Genesis 1 and 2 are unique in the ancient Near East. None of the ancient texts come close to it in terms of narrative style, organization, and theological depth. In Genesis we seem to have a witness describing what he saw. This uniqueness places it in a different category, the category of biblical revelation. Some of these scholars have concluded that the explanatory force of natural evolution was sufficient to establish its reliability. Now "science" is used to define Christian theology and doctrine.
3-Your Concern: Space does not allow me to say more about the tragedy of Adventists who are evolutionists. But I do want to address the concern expressed in your communication about what Adventist parents should do in this situation. I agree that having teachers in our colleges and universities arguing and supporting the idea that natural evolution is the best alternative for the understanding of origins is outrageous. They not only violate the meaning of the biblical text, but also violate the trust the church placed in them by calling them to teach our young people.
Your alternatives are few. Remember, you are paying for your children to obtain an Adventist education; and if the school is not providing what you're paying for, you have to make a decision. This is what I suggest: Visit our colleges and talk to the teachers about their views on natural evolution and their interpretation of Genesis 1 and 2. If you are unsatisfied with their answers, discourage your son or daughter from attending that school. Most teachers in other Adventist schools stand by what the Bible teaches. You may also want to inform the school's administration
about your findings.
Angel Manuel Rodriguez is director of the Biblical Research Institute of the General Conference.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Evolution
La Sierra University Teaches Evolution (taken from "Waymarks" by Vance Farrell)
On May 22, 1999, the Press-Enterprise, the newspaper published in nearby Riverside, California, reported on what is taking place at La Sierra University. Shortly afterward, we reprinted a summary (which is reprinted on pages 7 and 8 of this present report).
Our report was entitled La Sierra University Rejects the Bible, Christianity, and God [WM-902}.
Reading the report, you discover that the title was a remarkably accurate statement of fact. We will reprint much of that article near the end of the present report.
A new aspect to the crisis has developed since then. As more of our people have become aware of the astounding fact that LSU is no longer a Christian institution, they are increasingly voicing their concerns and urging responsible leadership in our denomination to take action! Something has to be done! Frankly, a lot has to be done! That entire educational facility needs to overhauled.
There are teachers and administrators at La Sierra University who should be discharged. They should not merely be transferred to other schools to infect them with their agnostic theories.
Here are several quotations which will support what I have just stated, and provide you with additional information. As you will learn below, the administration at LSU is adamant that it is not going to change, and faithful believers are just as urgent that changes must be made! The minds of Adventist youth who are lured to LSU, thinking that it teaches Adventist beliefs, are, in many cases, being irreparably harmed.
STATEMENTS BY THE PRESIDENT OF LSU
Randal Wisbey's May 18, 2009, statement in response to complaints:
" 'Naturalistic evolution' is a phrase that either in code or direct definition implies a perspective of 'atheistic evolution.' We reject this implied atheistic charge. Everyone of our science faculty share the goal of students experiencing a vibrant Adventist Christian faith while pursuing their education in the sciences."-Randal Wisbey. Statement made May 18. 2009, in response to complaints.
Wisbey goes on to say this:
[La Sierra provides] "an excellent setting for examining the evolutionary process-a subject that is foundational to the modern biological and behavioral sciences," and it is La Sierra's "commitment to responsibly address difficult issues" and to "consider a variety of views."
On November 21,2008, Wisbey delivered a major philosophical address to one of the largest organizations of Adventist Ph.D. professors.
This important 7-page speech was given to the Adventist Society of Religious Studies. In this pivotal address, entitled Nurturing the Adventist Mind, he declares that Seventh-day Adventists should integrate "Adventist thinking" with a "vast array of intellectual disciplines." In other words, bring as much of the false theories and teachings found in worldly universities-into our schools. As an example of how our denomination "needs" to be integrated, he cites the need to bring every aspect of evolutionary theory into all of our schools!
"One example of how the church needs this integration is in the vexing issue of the relation of Adventist thinking to the natural sciences as pertains to the history of life on planet Earth. On the one hand, for more than a hundred years Adventists have believed that 'the book of nature and the written word shed light upon each other. They make us acquainted with God by teaching us something of the laws through which He works.' On the other hand, we recognize that 'creationists do not have an adequate explanation' for 'radiometric dates of many millions of years, , The most difficult question is probably the apparent sequence of radio¬metric dates, giving older dates for lower layers in the geologic column and younger dates for upper layers.'
"What Adventist colleges and universities can do is to provide a supportive environment and conceptual assistance not only to their students but also to
the whole church in addressing this issue effectively by reexamining our understanding of both the 'book of nature' and the 'written word.' In the process. Adventist colleges and universities can be examples of thinking faithfully. "-Randal Wisbey. "Nurturing the Adventist Mind." speech given to the Adventist Society of Religious Studies. on No¬vember 21.2008,
In that speech. Wisbey cited Karl W Giberson's book, Saving Darwin. as an example of how we as Seventh-day Adventists can engage in reexamining our understanding of nature and the Word of God.
Giberson calls himself a "Christian evolutionist." The subtitle of the book is: "How to Be a Christian and Believe in Evolution." But should our people be trying to connect the two? In reality, it cannot be done. We are either genuine disciples of Christ, and worshipers of the living Creator God, who, according to the Bible, created our world in six days and commanded us to commemorate it by sacredly keeping the Seventh day Sabbath,-or we become practical agnostics who accept theories about origins that atheists have carefully pieced together over a period of more than one hundred and fifty years.
Tragically, in his first footnote in the above address, Wisbey declares that the Bible teachers at LSU, as well as a number of leaders of other Adventist colleges and universities, are in agreement with his determination that Adventist schools must boldly unite with the worldly universities-in teaching the very same subjects, theories, and concepts! Here is this footnote:
"I wish to acknowledge my colleagues in the School of Religion at La Sierra University who have generously dialogued with me in preparation for the writing of this paper. I have also been encouraged by conversations with members of the Association of Adventist Colleges and Universities who heard an earlier version of this paper presented during its 2008 Mission Conference."-Ibid.
Wisbey essentially discards the Bible (and Spirit of Prophecy) as useless. He does this in his declaration that, apart from the wisdom of educated moderns as taught in their schools, mankind will never find its way through the dark maze of life.
"Over the years I have been involved in many conversations that remind me of the difficulty of finding a way through the myriad of life choices young adults face. As Dante wrote in the Divine Comedy:
" 'In the middle of this road we call our life. I found myself in a dark wood. with no clear path through' (Dante Altghieri. The Divine Comedy. Inferno: Canto IJ.
"In many ways, this struggle to find the path that provides clarity and direction is one in which all of us are constantly involved with. This is certainly true for our students as they are increasingly faced with a world that demands the very best of them. Careful academic preparation is imperative for those who are committed to making a difference through their work and leadership.
"For the Adventist Church, it is also clear that we are dependent upon finding properly trained individuals who will guide and support the work of a global community. consistently and ably providing resources in a rapidly changing and challenging environment. We need people who can think with clarity and purpose. whose opinions and commitments are born of a broad understanding of opportunities and challenges. Adventist higher education can help our community navigate these exciting times through our work of properly training the very ones who will one day lead our denomination." Ibid.
Is the Office of Higher Education in the General Conference worried about the educational direction in which La Sierra is headed? According to Wisbey, it is not.
In the above address, Wisbey boasts that Adventist educational leadership ranks LSU at the top as one of the two best in Adventism, along with 125 outside colleges and universities in which to send our youth for a preparation for their life work in the church and in the world! Does Wisbey really believe this? Can this really be true?
"Last year La Sierra University was inducted into the President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll-an honor we were delighted to share with Union College and 12~ other outstanding institutions in the United States."-Ibid.
Then, in this major address to the Adventist Society of Religious Studies in November 2008, Wisbey turns to a favorite topic: the need for Adventist schools to adopt modern evolutionary theory. Here are his words:
“Another way in which we faithfully serve the best interests of our church involves the integration of Adventist thinking with a vast array of intellectual disciplines. How does our faith inform our understanding of the natural. social, and health sciences? What about the humanities? And what of the growing interest in the performing and visual arts-theater, music, and the fine arts? And how will our understanding of current ethical issues-environmental, Social, and biomedical-be guided in a uniquely Adventist perspective if we do not rely upon our universities and colleges?
"One example of how the church needs this integration is in the vexing issue of the relation of Adventist thinking to the natural sciences as pertains to the history of life on planet Earth."-Ibid.
Remarkably, at this point in his comments on the value of evolution, Wisbey quotes the individual in charge of our Geoscience Research Institute, who, he says, has stated that Creationists do not have valid answers to questions about purported long ages of time! Wisbey is trying to implicate every educational thought leader in the church in his drive to make modern evolutionary theory the orthodox teaching of Adventism.
Here is this quotation:
"We recognize that creationists do not have an adequate explanation for radiometric dates of many millions of years. The most difficult question is probably the apparent sequence of radiometric dates, giving older dates for lower layers in the geologic column and younger dates for upper layers." James Gibson. director, Geoscience Research Institute. "Frequently Asked Questions."
Since Dr. Gibson actually said that, we would suggest that he read pp. 167-207 in our book. The Evolution Handbook. In careful detail, this 41-page chapter, entitled "Inaccurate Dating Methods," nicely unravels the radiodating enigma-by showing that, due to a variety of scientific reasons and evidence, neither radiometric dating nor radiocarbon dating can provide any valid means of measuring earlier time spans, or dating earlier specimens. Therefore neither can be used to support or prove the speculations of evolutionists.
(Although nearly a thousand pages in length, Evolution Handbook is available from us for only $7.00 a copy ppd or only $1.00 a copy. plus shipping, in small boxful quantities.)
Here is the remainder of the above statement by Wisbey. He states that by adopting these modern theories, the ability of Seventh-day Adventists to think more clearly will be greatly improved:
"What Adventist colleges and universities can do is to provide a supportive environment and conceptual assistance not only to their students but also to the whole church in addressing this issue effectively by reexamining our understanding of both the "book of nature" and the "written word." In the process, Adventist colleges and universities can be examples of thinking faithfully"-Ibid.
Immediately after that statement, Wisbey emphasizes once again the urgency of our people coming in line with the thinking of worldlings about us.
"One of the more important contributions the Adventist learning community provides on behalf of the denomination is in establishing Adventist credibility through participation in external academic communities and conducting research that increases the sum of human knowledge. When demonstrating the intellectual soundness of Adventist faith, our professors contribute to current theological, scientific and ethical conversations."-Ibid.
Wisbey adds that another reason why Adventists should adopt the teachings of modern intellectuals is because we are already enjoying all the entertainments which the world has to offer anyway! We might as well indulge in all the rest.
"Because we live in a global community-connected by the Internet and by satellite television, we listen to the same songs, wear the same clothing, watch the same movies, and give adoration to the same actors and athletes. This is the world our church must address, and our faculty and students have much to offer to this intriguing, and daunting, work. A valuable resource that Adventist higher education offers the church is research that enables the denomination to better understand itself. "-Ibid.
Elsewhere in this speech, Wisbey mentioned, as a plus factor for LSU, the time spent by students in helping others in the community.
"On our campus, over the past school year, La Sierra University students logged some 45,000 hours of service to benefit others. "-Ibid.
That truly sounds laudable; but it should be remembered that, for years, La Sierra has instructed its students to spend their Sabbath afternoons cleaning and painting houses in the greater Riverside area!
That fact was revealed in an article in the Pacific Union Recorder, a number of years ago. The staff at LSU are proud of the fact that they train students to use Sabbath hours to do many of the things which they do not want to bother with on Sunday or during the week.
STATEMENTS BY LSU BIOLOGY TEACHERS
In addition to Randal Wisbey's astonishing statements, here are several others about the problem at La Sierra University:
La Sierra University Biology Department teaches naturalistic evolution as the best explanation of the living world. According to retired La Sierra biology professor Larry McCloskey, "nothing makes much, if any, sense outside of this unifying theory." In effect, this theory nullifies the historicity of the Genesis account. The Seventh-day Adventist Church affirms the Genesis account of a literal six-day creation, and recognizes that denial of this brings into question a number of other fundamental beliefs. which cannot be redacted [edited or changed].
Dr. Larry McCloskey, now retired, taught in the Biology Department at LSU for a num-
ber of years.
His Biology 112 Syllabus was actually a mix¬ture of quotations taken from his slide presentation and his Biology 112 syllabus. For example, in the third lecture, slide 10, McCloskey made this statement:
"There is nothing 'theoretical' about the evidence supporting evolution. The research about evolution is ongoing and continues to support and refine Darwin's original ideas. No data have been found to refute the idea. It is the single unifying explanation of the living world, and nothing makes much, if any, sense outside of this unifying theory."-Larry McCloskey, Biology 112 Syllabus, LSU publication.
Gary Bradley is a current biology teacher at LSU. One of his slide sets, Hominin Evolution, was published only this year by LSU,for use in its biology classes as required viewing. ("Homminid is an evolutionary biology term. and means "any of a family of primates of whom the only surviving species is man.")
The slide set can be viewed on Scribd on the internet. Look for Gary Bradley, Hominin Evolution. Biology Capstone, 2009, LSU. It clearly reveals that Bradley believes that humans evolved over a very long period of time, a position that is clearly different from the Bible, the Spirit of Prophecy, or our historic beliefs. We are not here discussing random philosophy; Creationism is a solid, historic Adventist Bible doctrine, fully supported in the Inspired Books.
Another production by Gary Bradley, produced with the full approval of LSU, is The Fossil Record, Spring 2009. In it, he teaches that all living creatures in our world, nothing excluded, slowly evolved from more primitive forms of life. Go back far enough and there is nothing but worms, and then amoeba, and finally raw chemicals.
Of course, all this is ridiculous speculation.
Read our 992-page book, The Evolution Handbook. The scientific evidence for Creationism is overwhelming! The evidence for evolution is a speculative maze of confused thinking and theories.
Lee Greer is another biology teacher at LSU.
His UNST/UHNR 404B Presentation is yet another attempt to indoctrinate the young minds who come to LSU for knowledge.
The April-May 2009 issue of a local journal, Riverside Magazine, mentioned, as a news note,
Greer's project to use sunlight to help produce electricity for LSD, and for sale to the community. Here is part of the news note:
"LSU biology Professor Lee Greer is leading a project that will consider multi-million-dollar bids for photovoltaic arrays that will be situated on campus."-Quoted in Riverside Magazine. April-May 2009.
Explaining why he is interested in conducting this project, Greer is quoted by the magazine as saying this:
.. 'As a biologist and an evolutionary biologist concerned about bio-diversity on the planet, it is an ethical concern of mine,' Greer says. 'It's a pocketbook issue as well.' "-Ibid.
A CURRENT LSU BIOLOGY STUDENT
Louie Bishop is currently studying at La Sierra University, and tells what he is being taught there right now. Bishop received a B.S. in Business from the University of California at Davis. Afterward, he attended the Amazing Facts Center of Evangelism. He then worked as a Bible worker for two churches in Trinity County, California.
"I came to La Sierra University knowing the popular scientific views regarding life on earth. I previously attended a secular university, where evolution was taught. That is one reason I chose La Sierra University to begin pre-medicine classes. The first day of General Biology 2 I sat down only to see Charles Darwin's face on the first slide. In my opinion, there would be no problem with that, except for the fact that we were taught only evolutionary principles of life for the next several weeks, and were told they were the truth. In fact, we were told Evolution "is the single unifying explanation of the living world, and nothing makes much, if any, sense outside of this unifying theory."
''After a few class lectures, I sat down to talk with Biology department head Dr. Wilson. Though it has now been almost five months since that meeting, I distinctly remember him saying "I was afraid this was going to happen." In other words, he was not looking forward to the day when someone would take a stand and speak up concerning the teachings of the Biology department. Not to go unsaid, I have had many good conversations with members of the Biology department, including Dr. Lee Greer. He has taken the time to talk with me for over an hour on a number of occasions, providing me with reasons for his views of life on earth. I respect him for the fact that he has studied both the Bible and science to a great extent. and is convicted concerning what he believes. Yet what he and many others teaching Biology at La Sierra believe and teach involves many assumptions and, most importantly, is contradictory to the clear messages of the Bible. This fact was made clear to me when I attended one of Dr. Greer's worship "breakouts." He talked about the Biblical Creation accounts in detail, and concluded that Genesis chapters 1 and 2 are contradictory accounts. The message I received was a message of doubt toward the Bible, which is no doubt what many other students were led to feel. I can now believe this is happening on a Seventh-day Adventist campus, because I've seen it with my own eyes!
"It is a fact that Evolution is being taught and promoted by professors of Biology on the La Si¬erra University campus. They are obviously welcome to hold such views, yet I believe they have come to the wrong place to promote those beliefs. I know that La Sierra was founded for the purpose of raising up young people to share God's message of mercy and truth with the world-young people who, out of their own free will choose to say "What does the Bible say?" Yet many young people on the La Sierra University campus are being led to doubt their beliefs. I asked my lab teaching assistant during Winter Quarter what her views were concerning Evolution vs. a literal Creation week. She ended up giving me her testimony at La Sierra. She told me that she was the daughter of a Seventh-day Adventist pastor, and that she came to La Sierra to study Biology. After going through General Biology and being presented with the theory of evolution, she wrestled with her faith in God and seemed to find some middle ground. She then took a Senior Capstone course entitled Religious, Social. and Moral Aspects of Biology. She was presented with all the 'evidence' that seems to support Evolution, and now considers herself to be an agnostic."-Louie Bishop, statement made June 5,2009.
-Christina Harris is a Ph.D. research chemist in Kalamazoo, Michigan.
She obtained her B.S. from Oklahoma State University, Ph. D. at the University of Colorado Boulder campus, and did post doctoral work at Memorial Sloan Kettiering Cancer Center in Hew York City. She was baptized in New York City in 2003.
Although she never attended LSD, her comment about the situation is well-worth reading.
The following letter was written to the members of the Board of Trustees of La Sierra University, which includes the presidents of the General Conference, Pacific Union Conference, and several other conference presidents:
"June 8, 2009
"Dear Pastors Paulsen, Schneider, Graham, and Officers of the Board of Trustees (Arnold Trujillo, Ted Benson, Kelly Bock, Tony Anobile)
"Undoubtedly, you are aware that the evolution-creation debate is a growing point of concern in our Adventist educational system among various church leaders, pastors, and lay-members. This open letter addresses my concerns about theistic macro-evolution being taught at La Sierra University as the preferred worldview. I am a converted Seventh-day Adventist Christian, a Ph,D. scientist. and Creationist according to the Genesis account-a literal creation week consisting of seven literal, contiguous, consecutive 24-hour days ..
"While it is conceivable to believe in God and hold to the idea of Darwinian-style evolution occurring over the course of billions of years, for a Seventh-day Adventist in a Seventh-day Adventist setting, these beliefs are untenable and irreconcilable. Consequently, those professors finding themselves unable to accept and promote these fundamental beliefs should naturally seek employment elsewhere-perhaps at a public or other non-SDA college or university. -There are many options.
"Having taught chemistry at the university level, I am acutely aware that young adults of college age are greatly impressed by what their professors think, say and believe. Those parents who want a truly Seventh-day Adventist education for their young people should be able to obtain what their hard-earned dollars have paid for; otherwise, a public institution of higher learning would be more suitable and less expensive.
"As Seventh-day Adventists, with a clear statement of our belief in creation posted for the world to see, why do we not strive to be the head in this important debate? God has designed that His ambassadors be the head and not the tail; why should we clearly take on a position that will place us at the tail?
"I challenge the leadership of LSU and the leaders and laity of the Seventh-day Adventist Church to hold to and support the Bible truths that our name represents. I close with the following quote taken from the pen of inspiration:
" 'Since the book of nature and the book of revelation bear the impress of the same master mind, they cannot but speak in harmony . . Inferences erroneously drawn from facts observed in nature have, however, led to supposed conflict between science and revelation; and in the effort to restore harmony, interpretations of Scripture have been adopted that undermine and destroy the force of the Word of God. Geology has been thought to contradict the literal interpretation of the Mosaic record of the creation. Millions of years, it is claimed, were required for the evolution of the earth from chaos: and in order to accommodate the Bible to this supposed revelation of science, the days of creation are assumed to have been vast, indefinite periods, covering thousands or even millions of years. Such a conclusion is wholly uncalled for' (Education, pp. 128-130).
"Sincerely,
"Christina R. Harris, Ph.D .. Senior Research Sci¬entist, Kalamazoo, Michigan."-Open Letter to the Board of Trustees of La Sierra University.
Clifford Goldstein, editor of the Adult Sabbath School Bible Study Guide, has deep feelings about this matter:
"What amazes me isn't so much that people can believe in evolution (after all, I used to), but that those who do still want to be Seventh-day Adventists. I can respect someone who, believing in evolutionary theory, rejects the Adventist Church entirely. I have no respect for those who think they can meld the two.
"For anyone, especially our young people, struggling with these issues, I say: Keep seeking with a fervent and honest heart. As long as you stick to the Bible (and Ellen White's books and articles) you will not go wrong. For those among us who have already decided-despite the Bible and Ellen White-on evolution, there are plenty of other churches for you. Ours isn't one. And to those teaching in our schools who believe in evolution and yet take a paycheck from the Seventh-day Adventist Church, I say: If you honestly reject a literal six-day creation in favor of theistic macroevolution, fine; now turn that honesty into integrity and go somewhere [else] where you won't have to cloak your views under the anfractuosities of language."-Clifford Goldstein, Seventh-day Darwinians, article published in 2003 in the Adventist Review.
"Given the vital importance of the Biblical Doctrine of Creation to the Christian Faith and to the Seventh-day Adventist message, the ASI Missions Inc. Board voted unanimously to urge the top leadership of the church to weigh in on this matter with voice, pen, broadcast, and any other media or administrative vehicle that will send a clear, unmistakable signal of reassurance to our lay members.
"It seems only fair that this dialog move to a point where parents and prospective students have a full disclosure of what our Colleges and Universities are offering, so they can make informed decisions and have realistic expectations regarding the philosophy and quality of education being offered.
"We also believe time is of the essence due to the viral internet communication technologies that are powering this dialog.
"You are in our prayers. Courage!"-Harold J. Lance, Chairman of the Board, ASI Missions, Inc .. letter dated May 27, 2009, to Don Schneider, President, North American Division, Silver Spring, Maryland.
We are deeply thankful for faithful Advent believers, such as Dr. Christina Harris, Clifford Goldstein, and Harold Lance. We need more such influential people in high places-to speak up and lead a reformation in our denomination-which will fully return it, on all levels and in all areas, to our historic beliefs!
On May 22, 1999, the Press-Enterprise, the newspaper published in nearby Riverside, California, reported on what is taking place at La Sierra University. Shortly afterward, we reprinted a summary (which is reprinted on pages 7 and 8 of this present report).
Our report was entitled La Sierra University Rejects the Bible, Christianity, and God [WM-902}.
Reading the report, you discover that the title was a remarkably accurate statement of fact. We will reprint much of that article near the end of the present report.
A new aspect to the crisis has developed since then. As more of our people have become aware of the astounding fact that LSU is no longer a Christian institution, they are increasingly voicing their concerns and urging responsible leadership in our denomination to take action! Something has to be done! Frankly, a lot has to be done! That entire educational facility needs to overhauled.
There are teachers and administrators at La Sierra University who should be discharged. They should not merely be transferred to other schools to infect them with their agnostic theories.
Here are several quotations which will support what I have just stated, and provide you with additional information. As you will learn below, the administration at LSU is adamant that it is not going to change, and faithful believers are just as urgent that changes must be made! The minds of Adventist youth who are lured to LSU, thinking that it teaches Adventist beliefs, are, in many cases, being irreparably harmed.
STATEMENTS BY THE PRESIDENT OF LSU
Randal Wisbey's May 18, 2009, statement in response to complaints:
" 'Naturalistic evolution' is a phrase that either in code or direct definition implies a perspective of 'atheistic evolution.' We reject this implied atheistic charge. Everyone of our science faculty share the goal of students experiencing a vibrant Adventist Christian faith while pursuing their education in the sciences."-Randal Wisbey. Statement made May 18. 2009, in response to complaints.
Wisbey goes on to say this:
[La Sierra provides] "an excellent setting for examining the evolutionary process-a subject that is foundational to the modern biological and behavioral sciences," and it is La Sierra's "commitment to responsibly address difficult issues" and to "consider a variety of views."
On November 21,2008, Wisbey delivered a major philosophical address to one of the largest organizations of Adventist Ph.D. professors.
This important 7-page speech was given to the Adventist Society of Religious Studies. In this pivotal address, entitled Nurturing the Adventist Mind, he declares that Seventh-day Adventists should integrate "Adventist thinking" with a "vast array of intellectual disciplines." In other words, bring as much of the false theories and teachings found in worldly universities-into our schools. As an example of how our denomination "needs" to be integrated, he cites the need to bring every aspect of evolutionary theory into all of our schools!
"One example of how the church needs this integration is in the vexing issue of the relation of Adventist thinking to the natural sciences as pertains to the history of life on planet Earth. On the one hand, for more than a hundred years Adventists have believed that 'the book of nature and the written word shed light upon each other. They make us acquainted with God by teaching us something of the laws through which He works.' On the other hand, we recognize that 'creationists do not have an adequate explanation' for 'radiometric dates of many millions of years, , The most difficult question is probably the apparent sequence of radio¬metric dates, giving older dates for lower layers in the geologic column and younger dates for upper layers.'
"What Adventist colleges and universities can do is to provide a supportive environment and conceptual assistance not only to their students but also to
the whole church in addressing this issue effectively by reexamining our understanding of both the 'book of nature' and the 'written word.' In the process. Adventist colleges and universities can be examples of thinking faithfully. "-Randal Wisbey. "Nurturing the Adventist Mind." speech given to the Adventist Society of Religious Studies. on No¬vember 21.2008,
In that speech. Wisbey cited Karl W Giberson's book, Saving Darwin. as an example of how we as Seventh-day Adventists can engage in reexamining our understanding of nature and the Word of God.
Giberson calls himself a "Christian evolutionist." The subtitle of the book is: "How to Be a Christian and Believe in Evolution." But should our people be trying to connect the two? In reality, it cannot be done. We are either genuine disciples of Christ, and worshipers of the living Creator God, who, according to the Bible, created our world in six days and commanded us to commemorate it by sacredly keeping the Seventh day Sabbath,-or we become practical agnostics who accept theories about origins that atheists have carefully pieced together over a period of more than one hundred and fifty years.
Tragically, in his first footnote in the above address, Wisbey declares that the Bible teachers at LSU, as well as a number of leaders of other Adventist colleges and universities, are in agreement with his determination that Adventist schools must boldly unite with the worldly universities-in teaching the very same subjects, theories, and concepts! Here is this footnote:
"I wish to acknowledge my colleagues in the School of Religion at La Sierra University who have generously dialogued with me in preparation for the writing of this paper. I have also been encouraged by conversations with members of the Association of Adventist Colleges and Universities who heard an earlier version of this paper presented during its 2008 Mission Conference."-Ibid.
Wisbey essentially discards the Bible (and Spirit of Prophecy) as useless. He does this in his declaration that, apart from the wisdom of educated moderns as taught in their schools, mankind will never find its way through the dark maze of life.
"Over the years I have been involved in many conversations that remind me of the difficulty of finding a way through the myriad of life choices young adults face. As Dante wrote in the Divine Comedy:
" 'In the middle of this road we call our life. I found myself in a dark wood. with no clear path through' (Dante Altghieri. The Divine Comedy. Inferno: Canto IJ.
"In many ways, this struggle to find the path that provides clarity and direction is one in which all of us are constantly involved with. This is certainly true for our students as they are increasingly faced with a world that demands the very best of them. Careful academic preparation is imperative for those who are committed to making a difference through their work and leadership.
"For the Adventist Church, it is also clear that we are dependent upon finding properly trained individuals who will guide and support the work of a global community. consistently and ably providing resources in a rapidly changing and challenging environment. We need people who can think with clarity and purpose. whose opinions and commitments are born of a broad understanding of opportunities and challenges. Adventist higher education can help our community navigate these exciting times through our work of properly training the very ones who will one day lead our denomination." Ibid.
Is the Office of Higher Education in the General Conference worried about the educational direction in which La Sierra is headed? According to Wisbey, it is not.
In the above address, Wisbey boasts that Adventist educational leadership ranks LSU at the top as one of the two best in Adventism, along with 125 outside colleges and universities in which to send our youth for a preparation for their life work in the church and in the world! Does Wisbey really believe this? Can this really be true?
"Last year La Sierra University was inducted into the President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll-an honor we were delighted to share with Union College and 12~ other outstanding institutions in the United States."-Ibid.
Then, in this major address to the Adventist Society of Religious Studies in November 2008, Wisbey turns to a favorite topic: the need for Adventist schools to adopt modern evolutionary theory. Here are his words:
“Another way in which we faithfully serve the best interests of our church involves the integration of Adventist thinking with a vast array of intellectual disciplines. How does our faith inform our understanding of the natural. social, and health sciences? What about the humanities? And what of the growing interest in the performing and visual arts-theater, music, and the fine arts? And how will our understanding of current ethical issues-environmental, Social, and biomedical-be guided in a uniquely Adventist perspective if we do not rely upon our universities and colleges?
"One example of how the church needs this integration is in the vexing issue of the relation of Adventist thinking to the natural sciences as pertains to the history of life on planet Earth."-Ibid.
Remarkably, at this point in his comments on the value of evolution, Wisbey quotes the individual in charge of our Geoscience Research Institute, who, he says, has stated that Creationists do not have valid answers to questions about purported long ages of time! Wisbey is trying to implicate every educational thought leader in the church in his drive to make modern evolutionary theory the orthodox teaching of Adventism.
Here is this quotation:
"We recognize that creationists do not have an adequate explanation for radiometric dates of many millions of years. The most difficult question is probably the apparent sequence of radiometric dates, giving older dates for lower layers in the geologic column and younger dates for upper layers." James Gibson. director, Geoscience Research Institute. "Frequently Asked Questions."
Since Dr. Gibson actually said that, we would suggest that he read pp. 167-207 in our book. The Evolution Handbook. In careful detail, this 41-page chapter, entitled "Inaccurate Dating Methods," nicely unravels the radiodating enigma-by showing that, due to a variety of scientific reasons and evidence, neither radiometric dating nor radiocarbon dating can provide any valid means of measuring earlier time spans, or dating earlier specimens. Therefore neither can be used to support or prove the speculations of evolutionists.
(Although nearly a thousand pages in length, Evolution Handbook is available from us for only $7.00 a copy ppd or only $1.00 a copy. plus shipping, in small boxful quantities.)
Here is the remainder of the above statement by Wisbey. He states that by adopting these modern theories, the ability of Seventh-day Adventists to think more clearly will be greatly improved:
"What Adventist colleges and universities can do is to provide a supportive environment and conceptual assistance not only to their students but also to the whole church in addressing this issue effectively by reexamining our understanding of both the "book of nature" and the "written word." In the process, Adventist colleges and universities can be examples of thinking faithfully"-Ibid.
Immediately after that statement, Wisbey emphasizes once again the urgency of our people coming in line with the thinking of worldlings about us.
"One of the more important contributions the Adventist learning community provides on behalf of the denomination is in establishing Adventist credibility through participation in external academic communities and conducting research that increases the sum of human knowledge. When demonstrating the intellectual soundness of Adventist faith, our professors contribute to current theological, scientific and ethical conversations."-Ibid.
Wisbey adds that another reason why Adventists should adopt the teachings of modern intellectuals is because we are already enjoying all the entertainments which the world has to offer anyway! We might as well indulge in all the rest.
"Because we live in a global community-connected by the Internet and by satellite television, we listen to the same songs, wear the same clothing, watch the same movies, and give adoration to the same actors and athletes. This is the world our church must address, and our faculty and students have much to offer to this intriguing, and daunting, work. A valuable resource that Adventist higher education offers the church is research that enables the denomination to better understand itself. "-Ibid.
Elsewhere in this speech, Wisbey mentioned, as a plus factor for LSU, the time spent by students in helping others in the community.
"On our campus, over the past school year, La Sierra University students logged some 45,000 hours of service to benefit others. "-Ibid.
That truly sounds laudable; but it should be remembered that, for years, La Sierra has instructed its students to spend their Sabbath afternoons cleaning and painting houses in the greater Riverside area!
That fact was revealed in an article in the Pacific Union Recorder, a number of years ago. The staff at LSU are proud of the fact that they train students to use Sabbath hours to do many of the things which they do not want to bother with on Sunday or during the week.
STATEMENTS BY LSU BIOLOGY TEACHERS
In addition to Randal Wisbey's astonishing statements, here are several others about the problem at La Sierra University:
La Sierra University Biology Department teaches naturalistic evolution as the best explanation of the living world. According to retired La Sierra biology professor Larry McCloskey, "nothing makes much, if any, sense outside of this unifying theory." In effect, this theory nullifies the historicity of the Genesis account. The Seventh-day Adventist Church affirms the Genesis account of a literal six-day creation, and recognizes that denial of this brings into question a number of other fundamental beliefs. which cannot be redacted [edited or changed].
Dr. Larry McCloskey, now retired, taught in the Biology Department at LSU for a num-
ber of years.
His Biology 112 Syllabus was actually a mix¬ture of quotations taken from his slide presentation and his Biology 112 syllabus. For example, in the third lecture, slide 10, McCloskey made this statement:
"There is nothing 'theoretical' about the evidence supporting evolution. The research about evolution is ongoing and continues to support and refine Darwin's original ideas. No data have been found to refute the idea. It is the single unifying explanation of the living world, and nothing makes much, if any, sense outside of this unifying theory."-Larry McCloskey, Biology 112 Syllabus, LSU publication.
Gary Bradley is a current biology teacher at LSU. One of his slide sets, Hominin Evolution, was published only this year by LSU,for use in its biology classes as required viewing. ("Homminid is an evolutionary biology term. and means "any of a family of primates of whom the only surviving species is man.")
The slide set can be viewed on Scribd on the internet. Look for Gary Bradley, Hominin Evolution. Biology Capstone, 2009, LSU. It clearly reveals that Bradley believes that humans evolved over a very long period of time, a position that is clearly different from the Bible, the Spirit of Prophecy, or our historic beliefs. We are not here discussing random philosophy; Creationism is a solid, historic Adventist Bible doctrine, fully supported in the Inspired Books.
Another production by Gary Bradley, produced with the full approval of LSU, is The Fossil Record, Spring 2009. In it, he teaches that all living creatures in our world, nothing excluded, slowly evolved from more primitive forms of life. Go back far enough and there is nothing but worms, and then amoeba, and finally raw chemicals.
Of course, all this is ridiculous speculation.
Read our 992-page book, The Evolution Handbook. The scientific evidence for Creationism is overwhelming! The evidence for evolution is a speculative maze of confused thinking and theories.
Lee Greer is another biology teacher at LSU.
His UNST/UHNR 404B Presentation is yet another attempt to indoctrinate the young minds who come to LSU for knowledge.
The April-May 2009 issue of a local journal, Riverside Magazine, mentioned, as a news note,
Greer's project to use sunlight to help produce electricity for LSD, and for sale to the community. Here is part of the news note:
"LSU biology Professor Lee Greer is leading a project that will consider multi-million-dollar bids for photovoltaic arrays that will be situated on campus."-Quoted in Riverside Magazine. April-May 2009.
Explaining why he is interested in conducting this project, Greer is quoted by the magazine as saying this:
.. 'As a biologist and an evolutionary biologist concerned about bio-diversity on the planet, it is an ethical concern of mine,' Greer says. 'It's a pocketbook issue as well.' "-Ibid.
A CURRENT LSU BIOLOGY STUDENT
Louie Bishop is currently studying at La Sierra University, and tells what he is being taught there right now. Bishop received a B.S. in Business from the University of California at Davis. Afterward, he attended the Amazing Facts Center of Evangelism. He then worked as a Bible worker for two churches in Trinity County, California.
"I came to La Sierra University knowing the popular scientific views regarding life on earth. I previously attended a secular university, where evolution was taught. That is one reason I chose La Sierra University to begin pre-medicine classes. The first day of General Biology 2 I sat down only to see Charles Darwin's face on the first slide. In my opinion, there would be no problem with that, except for the fact that we were taught only evolutionary principles of life for the next several weeks, and were told they were the truth. In fact, we were told Evolution "is the single unifying explanation of the living world, and nothing makes much, if any, sense outside of this unifying theory."
''After a few class lectures, I sat down to talk with Biology department head Dr. Wilson. Though it has now been almost five months since that meeting, I distinctly remember him saying "I was afraid this was going to happen." In other words, he was not looking forward to the day when someone would take a stand and speak up concerning the teachings of the Biology department. Not to go unsaid, I have had many good conversations with members of the Biology department, including Dr. Lee Greer. He has taken the time to talk with me for over an hour on a number of occasions, providing me with reasons for his views of life on earth. I respect him for the fact that he has studied both the Bible and science to a great extent. and is convicted concerning what he believes. Yet what he and many others teaching Biology at La Sierra believe and teach involves many assumptions and, most importantly, is contradictory to the clear messages of the Bible. This fact was made clear to me when I attended one of Dr. Greer's worship "breakouts." He talked about the Biblical Creation accounts in detail, and concluded that Genesis chapters 1 and 2 are contradictory accounts. The message I received was a message of doubt toward the Bible, which is no doubt what many other students were led to feel. I can now believe this is happening on a Seventh-day Adventist campus, because I've seen it with my own eyes!
"It is a fact that Evolution is being taught and promoted by professors of Biology on the La Si¬erra University campus. They are obviously welcome to hold such views, yet I believe they have come to the wrong place to promote those beliefs. I know that La Sierra was founded for the purpose of raising up young people to share God's message of mercy and truth with the world-young people who, out of their own free will choose to say "What does the Bible say?" Yet many young people on the La Sierra University campus are being led to doubt their beliefs. I asked my lab teaching assistant during Winter Quarter what her views were concerning Evolution vs. a literal Creation week. She ended up giving me her testimony at La Sierra. She told me that she was the daughter of a Seventh-day Adventist pastor, and that she came to La Sierra to study Biology. After going through General Biology and being presented with the theory of evolution, she wrestled with her faith in God and seemed to find some middle ground. She then took a Senior Capstone course entitled Religious, Social. and Moral Aspects of Biology. She was presented with all the 'evidence' that seems to support Evolution, and now considers herself to be an agnostic."-Louie Bishop, statement made June 5,2009.
-Christina Harris is a Ph.D. research chemist in Kalamazoo, Michigan.
She obtained her B.S. from Oklahoma State University, Ph. D. at the University of Colorado Boulder campus, and did post doctoral work at Memorial Sloan Kettiering Cancer Center in Hew York City. She was baptized in New York City in 2003.
Although she never attended LSD, her comment about the situation is well-worth reading.
The following letter was written to the members of the Board of Trustees of La Sierra University, which includes the presidents of the General Conference, Pacific Union Conference, and several other conference presidents:
"June 8, 2009
"Dear Pastors Paulsen, Schneider, Graham, and Officers of the Board of Trustees (Arnold Trujillo, Ted Benson, Kelly Bock, Tony Anobile)
"Undoubtedly, you are aware that the evolution-creation debate is a growing point of concern in our Adventist educational system among various church leaders, pastors, and lay-members. This open letter addresses my concerns about theistic macro-evolution being taught at La Sierra University as the preferred worldview. I am a converted Seventh-day Adventist Christian, a Ph,D. scientist. and Creationist according to the Genesis account-a literal creation week consisting of seven literal, contiguous, consecutive 24-hour days ..
"While it is conceivable to believe in God and hold to the idea of Darwinian-style evolution occurring over the course of billions of years, for a Seventh-day Adventist in a Seventh-day Adventist setting, these beliefs are untenable and irreconcilable. Consequently, those professors finding themselves unable to accept and promote these fundamental beliefs should naturally seek employment elsewhere-perhaps at a public or other non-SDA college or university. -There are many options.
"Having taught chemistry at the university level, I am acutely aware that young adults of college age are greatly impressed by what their professors think, say and believe. Those parents who want a truly Seventh-day Adventist education for their young people should be able to obtain what their hard-earned dollars have paid for; otherwise, a public institution of higher learning would be more suitable and less expensive.
"As Seventh-day Adventists, with a clear statement of our belief in creation posted for the world to see, why do we not strive to be the head in this important debate? God has designed that His ambassadors be the head and not the tail; why should we clearly take on a position that will place us at the tail?
"I challenge the leadership of LSU and the leaders and laity of the Seventh-day Adventist Church to hold to and support the Bible truths that our name represents. I close with the following quote taken from the pen of inspiration:
" 'Since the book of nature and the book of revelation bear the impress of the same master mind, they cannot but speak in harmony . . Inferences erroneously drawn from facts observed in nature have, however, led to supposed conflict between science and revelation; and in the effort to restore harmony, interpretations of Scripture have been adopted that undermine and destroy the force of the Word of God. Geology has been thought to contradict the literal interpretation of the Mosaic record of the creation. Millions of years, it is claimed, were required for the evolution of the earth from chaos: and in order to accommodate the Bible to this supposed revelation of science, the days of creation are assumed to have been vast, indefinite periods, covering thousands or even millions of years. Such a conclusion is wholly uncalled for' (Education, pp. 128-130).
"Sincerely,
"Christina R. Harris, Ph.D .. Senior Research Sci¬entist, Kalamazoo, Michigan."-Open Letter to the Board of Trustees of La Sierra University.
Clifford Goldstein, editor of the Adult Sabbath School Bible Study Guide, has deep feelings about this matter:
"What amazes me isn't so much that people can believe in evolution (after all, I used to), but that those who do still want to be Seventh-day Adventists. I can respect someone who, believing in evolutionary theory, rejects the Adventist Church entirely. I have no respect for those who think they can meld the two.
"For anyone, especially our young people, struggling with these issues, I say: Keep seeking with a fervent and honest heart. As long as you stick to the Bible (and Ellen White's books and articles) you will not go wrong. For those among us who have already decided-despite the Bible and Ellen White-on evolution, there are plenty of other churches for you. Ours isn't one. And to those teaching in our schools who believe in evolution and yet take a paycheck from the Seventh-day Adventist Church, I say: If you honestly reject a literal six-day creation in favor of theistic macroevolution, fine; now turn that honesty into integrity and go somewhere [else] where you won't have to cloak your views under the anfractuosities of language."-Clifford Goldstein, Seventh-day Darwinians, article published in 2003 in the Adventist Review.
"Given the vital importance of the Biblical Doctrine of Creation to the Christian Faith and to the Seventh-day Adventist message, the ASI Missions Inc. Board voted unanimously to urge the top leadership of the church to weigh in on this matter with voice, pen, broadcast, and any other media or administrative vehicle that will send a clear, unmistakable signal of reassurance to our lay members.
"It seems only fair that this dialog move to a point where parents and prospective students have a full disclosure of what our Colleges and Universities are offering, so they can make informed decisions and have realistic expectations regarding the philosophy and quality of education being offered.
"We also believe time is of the essence due to the viral internet communication technologies that are powering this dialog.
"You are in our prayers. Courage!"-Harold J. Lance, Chairman of the Board, ASI Missions, Inc .. letter dated May 27, 2009, to Don Schneider, President, North American Division, Silver Spring, Maryland.
We are deeply thankful for faithful Advent believers, such as Dr. Christina Harris, Clifford Goldstein, and Harold Lance. We need more such influential people in high places-to speak up and lead a reformation in our denomination-which will fully return it, on all levels and in all areas, to our historic beliefs!
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