If you’ve taken any science course in school, you’ve probably heard of the scientific method. You know—observation, hypothesis, experiment, analysis, conclusion, and report. In some of your experimentation (or just in your textbooks), you’ve also probably heard of alkali, acids, compounds, elements, refraction, and Boyle’s Law. What do all of these scientific terms have in common? Mr. Robert Boyle—also known to many as the first modern chemist, but most importantly, known as a believer in Jesus Christ.
In our world today, sometimes you hear that science and faith cannot mix. Robert Boyle (1627-1691), however, completely disagreed with that way of thinking. One of his main goals was to show how science pointed directly to God. Think about it—how can you separate the created from the Creator?
Robert Boyle contributed much to the field of science, but many don’t realize how much he did to spread the gospel and further God’s kingdom. He sponsored missionary work and the translation of the Bible in other countries, he wrote on biblical topics, and, even in death, he left resources for Christian philosophy and doctrine to be widely proclaimed through lectures.
What can we learn from Robert Boyle? First of all, the Christian life is not compartmentalized. Mr. Boyle did not keep his faith for Sundays and science for his weekday job. No, his faith in Christ permeated who he was, what he studied, and the purpose of his work. Secondly, he used his giftedness and his resources for the glory of God.
So, the next time you pull out your science book in class or at home, remember the testimony of Robert Boyle—an intelligent scientist, but most importantly, a follower of Christ. To God be the glory. • Emily Rudolph
• Are science and faith in Christ at odds? Why or why not?
• Reread Colossians 1:9-20. Why is our faith in Christ central to every area of our lives?
For everything was created by him [Jesus], in heaven and on earth, the visible and the invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and by him all things hold together. Colossians 1:16-17 (CSB)
Read Verses:
John 1:1-14; 20:30-31
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