“We’re going to follow science!”
This is the rallying cry of politicians and pundits alike who aver that unless there is scientific evidence to support a course of action with the current COVID pandemic, it is hearsay or political posturing. Unquestionably, our leaders and politicians should heed the recommendations of physicians and scientists who are actively involved in studying the disease, seeking the best ways to contain the virus, treat affiliated patients, and seek safe and effective vaccines. Yet, some of these same politicians seek to politicize results of some scientific studies, claiming that it justifies their actions. The problem is some of these studies are based upon research performed with poor methodology or postulating unjustified or unsubstantiated conclusions. Yet, because these studies fall under the moniker of science, its advocates can quote these studies to support their political agendas and proudly defend their decisions as proof they are following science. It is a science of convenience and is brazenly dangerous and disingenuous.
Science cannot simply be conveniently used when it supports one’s ulterior motives and then discarded when it contradicts one’s objectives or perceptions. Yet, this is exactly what is happening in many cities in our country. Devastating financial and economic consequences have already been inflicted when certain segments of our society are closed down while others, deemed essential services, remain open.
Like science, our spiritual relationship with God cannot simply be convenient and expedient. If we have confessed and repented of our sins and accepted Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, we cannot cherry pick the commands of the Bible to support our lifestyle and reject the ones that condemn it. If we do, we would feel the sting of Jesus’ rebuke just as the religious leaders of His day received.
I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not even the smallest detail of God’s law will disappear until its purpose is achieved. So if you ignore the least commandment and teach others to do the same, you will be called the least in the Kingdom of Heaven. But anyone who obeys God’s laws and teaches them will be called great in the Kingdom of Heaven.
Matthew 5:18-19 (NLT)
The religious leaders of the day were alarmed and frightened by the teachings of Jesus Christ, accusing Him of blasphemy and being empowered by Satan. Their political power was threatened by the preaching of Jesus Christ who condemned the hypocrisy of their teachings and actions. They would selectively follow some of God’s teachings while ignoring others. Jesus admonished them that every detail of God’s Word must be understood and followed, even if it meant personal and spiritual hardship.
God created science as a means to allow man to understand how His Creation functions. However, it is up to us to critically examine all of the data and objectively reach a conclusion that is untainted by political motives. Science cannot be convenient and the conclusions must always be re-evaluated in the light of new discoveries. Even with the COVID-19 pandemic, the standards of prevention and treatment have changed since the first cases were reported.
There is no place for a science of convenience in this world. Science continually evolves and earlier discoveries and tenets are modified as new data emerges. In God’s Kingdom, there is no place for a religion of convenience. While the world around us changes, we do not change, diminish, or alter God’s Word to make it acceptable to new ears and fit in new conditions. It is absolute and will always remain the standard for Truth.
The grass withers and the flowers fade, but the word of our God stands forever.
Isaiah 40:8 (NLT)
Amen!
Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.