Difference Between Creationism and Ignorance

Last week we discussed the opening of a new evolution exhibit at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History—where security guards mistakenly expected creationist protestors. (The protests instead came from those worried about global warming.) Media coverage of the event included quotations from Answers in Genesis president Ken Ham. But what we missed from earlier in the month was Agence France-Presse coverage of a group of creationist students from Liberty University visiting that same museum.

“They plan to become doctors, researchers, and professors, but these students [are creationists].”

The Telegraph carried the story, atop which ran a photograph of an illustration by Answers in Genesis artist Dan Lietha (as featured on an Answers in Genesis T-shirt). Beneath ran the provocative caption, “The group included a biology major who didn’t understand the principle of evolution.”

The article opens with similar provocation: “They plan to become doctors, researchers, and professors, but these students [are creationists]” (emphasis added). Among the quotes gathered in the article are Liberty University professors Marcus Ross and Dr. David A. DeWitt.

In one quote, Ross succinctly explains, “Creationism and evolutionism have different ways of explaining the evidence. The creationist way recognises the importance of biblical records.” He added something else that most of us know: “The attitude [of others is that] when you are a creationist you are ignorant of the facts.”

No explanation is given for the strange photo caption, but we presume the disconnect between caption and article may have escaped the notice of editors—and readers—in which case Ross’s claim is verified.

But Ross also noted, “In order to be the best creationist, you have to be the best evolutionist you can be.” That is, a knowledgeable creationist should fully understand evolution and related concepts—and therefore understand why they do or do not mesh with the biblical worldview. This knowledge is an important element not only of forming a biblical worldview, but also of witnessing when the topic turns to origins. That’s why we encourage biblical Christians to understand (at the appropriate age and with the appropriate guidance) competing worldviews, including evolution and its close counterpart, secular humanism.

By the way, our congratulations to Dr. DeWitt. He has just overseen the opening of the new Creation Hall Museum this week in Liberty University’s massive DeMoss Learning Center. The new displays of fossils and models will expose students and campus visitors to creation research and help individuals “view fossils and artifacts up close while learning how to defend their belief system.” This year is also the 25th anniversary of the university’s Center for Creation Studies.

Remember, if you see a news story that might merit some attention, let us know about it! (Note: if the story originates from the Associated Press, Fox News, MSNBC, the New York Times, or another major national media outlet, we will most likely have already heard about it.) And thanks to all of our readers who have submitted great news tips to us.

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