Reviews
These eminent astronomers waste no time in getting to the heart of the issue at stake regarding the complementarity (when rightly interpreted) of the book of nature (science) and the book of revelation (the Bible, Word of God). They explore what hassled to the conflict, the enduring misunderstandings, the fraud of scientism posing as science, and the root of the dispute about Galileo being over authority to interpret. By recounting their visit to the Vatican Library and the rare privilege of examining with their own hands and eyes the original documents of Galileo’s trial, they reduce in the mind of the reader any misperception that events 400 years ago are too remote to be relevant. In fact, many atheists continue to point to the trial of Galileo as exhibit number one for their case that science has triumphed over the supposedly primitive and irrational beliefs of theism. The rift is longstanding.
It was not until 1992 that the Vatican offered acknowledgement of the error of judgement against Galileo and his empirical observations of the heavens. Block and Freeman argue persuasively that the conflict between Galileo and the pope was not, in actuality, a contest over which was a valid source of truth – experimental science or biblical revelation – but rather a dispute over who rightfully has the authority to interpret. Questions about how one ought to interpret the findings of science in light of Scripture, and vice versa, are still with us today while powerful telescopes gather astonishing images from the deepest riches of space. The trial of Galileo is a useful historical episode to assist the reader inn recognizing the limits of, as well as the necessity for, considering and putting to the test both perspectives of empirical investigation and divine revelation, in the search for unity of truth.
Dr W. P. Cheshire, 2 June 2024
Dear Prof. Block,
I received a copy of your new book, "God and Galileo", from mutual friends - Wim and Leonie Smit. I had the opportunity to read it this week. I had to give you feedback on this exceptional book. During my lifetime as church-leader, I have had few books that have meant more to me and impacted my life as much. I want to thank you (and Prof. Freeman) for producing such a clear, convincing and responsible testimony of faith in Jesus Christ.
As a distinguished scientist of our time, you have a voice, a credibility and an opportunity to be salt and light for God's Kingdom like few other Christians have. Thank you for doing it! I have cherished the hope for many years already, that somewhere in the course of our revolutionary scientific development, the current tide of atheism will dwindle as more and more scientists discover the truth of Rom. 1:20.
Like the early astronomers from the East who - through their primitive science - eventually met God's Personal Revelation, Jesus Christ, I pray that your influence will be greatly used by the Hoy Spirit in the lives of many atheists and unbelievers! May God bless you with many years and may He continue to enlarge your territory for His Name sake!
Your brother in Christ - Isak Burger, Church-Leader
Review of God and Galileo: What a 400 year old letter teaches us
God and Galileo: What a 400-Year-Old Letter Teaches Us about Faith and Science, which takes us back, in an engaging and accessible way, to Galileo’s struggle: not by focusing on the details of the trial itself, but on a lengthy letter written by Galileo as a way to promote his own understanding of the proper relationship between science and religion.
Reviewed by Louis Markos - Humanities, Houston Baptist University
Click here to read the full review
