Faith, Science & the Next Generation

One of the six primary reasons that 18- to 30-year-olds leave the church is that they see the church as disconnected from scientific debate and development. How can we engage in thoughtful research and logic-based conversations to show how science complements theology rather than disproves it? Is it possible for science to inspire worship rather than doubts?

By Greg Cootsona

Takes approximately 16 hours to complete.

$125.00

Training more than one person?

Topics:

Church, Faith & Everyday Life, Thinking Theologically, and Youth Ministry

Course Description

Engaging in conversations about faith and science can be intimidating but critical for anyone wrestling with their faith. You may personally see God’s fingerprint all over creation—from subatomic particles to the expanding universe—but lack the confidence to answer your friends’ or families’ questions (or your own). In this course, Understanding Faith & Science, you’ll identify the roles of theology and science, the major challenges on both sides of the dialogue, better understand their compatibility, and discover how the wonder and beauty of the natural world can inspire deeper worship. You will engage issues at the intersection of faith and science, including the relationship between evolution and Scripture, how to address new atheism, and the role of technology and AI in our spiritual lives. Join Dr. Greg Cootsona—professor, pastor, and associate director of the nonprofit Science for the Church —as you wrestle with these crucial concepts and help others with their questions.

Meet Your Instructors

Greg Cootsona

Greg Cootsona is Lecturer in Religious Studies and Humanities at California State University at Chico and directs Science and Theology for Emerging Adult Ministries (or STEAM), a $2 million grant funded by the John Templeton Foundation and housed at Fuller Theological Seminary. STEAM is designed to catalyze the engagement of faith and science in Christian ministries with 18-30 year olds. His books include Creation and Last Things: At the Intersection of Theology and Science (Geneva, 2002) and C. S. Lewis and the Crisis of a Christian (WestminsterJohnKnox, 2014). He is currently writing Emerging Adults, Christian Faith, and Science to be published by InterVarsity Press in 2017.

Greg studied comparative literature at U.C. Berkeley and theology at Princeton Theological Seminary (M. Div.), the Universities of Tübingen and Heidelberg, as well as Berkeley’s Graduate Theological Union (the latter where he received his Ph.D.) He has just finished 18 years as Associate Pastor for Adult Discipleship at Bidwell Presbyterian Church in Chico and Fifth Avenue Presbyterian in New York City.

What is a FULLER Equip course?

The FULLER Equip courses are designed with the goal of providing a comprehensive education in the study of Scripture and its practical applications to life, work, and the advancement of God's kingdom.

These courses are specifically tailored to meet the needs of learners around the world, offering a global perspective on the study of Scripture and its relevance to everyday life.

Whether you are looking to deepen your personal understanding of Scripture, or seeking to apply its principles to your professional life or ministry, FULLER Equip courses offer a wide range of resources and tools to help you achieve your goals.

From online lectures and interactive discussions to practical assignments and case studies, these courses are designed to engage learners at all levels and equip them with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. So whether you are a beginner or an experienced student of Scripture, FULLER Equip courses have something to offer everyone.

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About FULLER Equip

FULLER Equip is an extension of Fuller Theological Seminary. It offers non-degree courses, professional certificate programs, training services, and research to help individuals and organizations advance the kingdom of God. FULLER Equip provides courses covering theology, leadership, counseling, and more. Professional certificate programs offer specialized study. Equip also offers training services such as customized workshops and coaching. Lastly, Equip conducts research and engages in strategic partnerships to innovate Christian ministry and service.

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