That's certainly true, Dave! What I don't understand is why this issue has to be an "either/or" proposition, in the sense that you can only have one, but not both. Certainly we need to be clear about what epistemological/methodological framework we're operating in; i.e., science or philosophy/theology. But I can't help but look at the matter this way: God gave us two revelations, the Holy Scriptures and the "Book of Creation." They are not only NOT in conflict (as Alamo-Girl often points out), but I imagine that they explicate each other. Not that the Bible is a science textbook; but for instance, when I read Genesis 1 and 2, I gain insight into the time problem -- for these two chapters apparently do not operate within the same time construct: It seems to me Genesis 1 unfolds in eternity; Genesis 2 suggests the commencement of time as we humans experience it. Now it has been argued (e.g., by Israeli physicist Avshalom Elitzur et al.) that what physics needs right now is a better understanding of "the time problem." I imagine he's read Genesis -- maybe it would be helpful to reflect on what Genesis 1 and 2 suggest about the "two times."
Anyhoot, both of God's revelations are Truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth (so to speak). We are invited to consider both -- and when we do, I think we find that the Book of the Word and the Book of Creation (or Nature, if one prefers) cannot be in conflict, or contradict each other in any way.
If, however, we think we do see a conflict nonetheless, perhaps that's because we have not yet penetrated deeply enough into the core of God's Word. There is only one infallible "expert" on the Word of God: And that is God Himself.
If that makes any sense at all! Thank you so much for writing, Dave!
Just so you all know where I stand, I *am* an either/or kinda gal, and though when I was first saved I did not see a problem with evolution having a place post-Creation, I now know without qualm or doubt or equivocation that Creation was a one-time event and that there is no "evolution" as defined by "Science"/scientists. I know a lot of things now that I didn't know then!
One's understanding, concepts, ideas, dreams, hopes, cares, plans "evolve" over time, but not the created beings who have them, unless one considers the aging process or weight gain/loss, etc. to be forms of "evolution." Similarly, cross-breeding (organic or imposed) produces a sort of "evolution" but this is not the same sort of evolution which is generally discussed on these threads.
Hope that sets me apart and sets my position straight with you all whom I so admire and love! (: