Transcript:

Hello, this is Pastor Don Willeman of Christ Redeemer Church. Welcome to a special-edition series of the Kingdom Perspective.

How should we as the church respond to the coronavirus?

We should seek and follow the best science available.

The word science comes from an old Latin term for knowledge. When we speak of “science” we speak of a particular method of obtaining knowledge and the collective/generational wisdom that comes from following that method. Biblically speaking, knowledge (and its attendant concepts—understanding, discretion, wisdom) are categorically good things. Science is essentially good and true because we live in an orderly universe, created by an unchanging God who governs his world in an orderly way. Thus, we can know things through observation and testing. We can gain understanding by applying ourselves to the task of data collection and interpretation.

This is true with the present pandemic. Therefore, we should always be looking for the best “science” available. Agencies like the CDC are experts at summarizing scientific findings and guidelines that are not only proven but also helpful. Thank God for them!

On the flip side, we should avoid immersing ourselves in the media and the 24/7 news cycle. Such sources, though entertaining, thrive on the sensational “breaking news” instead of what is tested and proven. They live on the anxious edge of fear—a great tactic for attracting viewers, but not for promoting wisdom, knowledge, and compassion.

Something to think about from The Kingdom Perspective.

“The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork. Day to day pours out speech, and night to night reveals knowledge.”

~ Psalm 19:1-2