Date
5-23-2025
Department
Rawlings School of Divinity
Degree
Master of Arts in Christian Apologetics (MA)
Chair
Thomas A. Powell
Keywords
Cosmology, Geocentric, Heliocentric, Big Bang Theory, Biblical Cosmology
Disciplines
Christianity | Religion
Recommended Citation
Burcie, Margaret A., "The Development of Cosmological Theories and Their Correlation with Biblical Scripture in Ancient Times" (2025). Masters Theses. 1299.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/masters/1299
Abstract
Agnostics and astronomical researchers like Harlow Shapley's contributions to cosmology, specifically his recalibration of the Milky Way and the discovery of its true structure and size, marked an important moment in individuals’ understanding of the universe.”1 These theorists have redefined humanity's place in the cosmos by accentuating empirical observations over religious theories, laying the groundwork for modern cosmology while simultaneously reigniting the age-old debate about the universe's origin. “Theories may crumble, but good observations never fade,”2 accentuate the lifelong importance of scientific research.
This paper focuses on the relationship between the development of cosmological theories and biblical interpretations; these will be examined across distinct historical periods, bringing us up to modern times. By utilizing an exegetical analysis of biblical texts such as Genesis 1:1-2:3 or Psalm 19:1 (“The heavens declare the glory of God”), this thesis will critically examine the theological, historical, and apologetic aspects of biblical cosmology. Moreover, by using a Christian apologetic approach to explore the history of cosmology, including geocentric and heliocentric models, particularly modern cosmologies such as the Big Bang Theory. The thesis appreciates the intersection of science and religion that intentionally leans toward areas of harmony and collaboration while also acknowledging the areas of friction relevant to the scope of this thesis.
Within this scope, it examines the correlation between the target cosmological theories and biblical cosmology, particularly within Western Christianity. This thesis looks at ways Christian theologies have changed over time through the development of cosmological theories. It also explores how these changes have affected theological ideas and how these changes might lead to a better understanding of the relationship between religion and science. Therefore, the exegesis approach underscores the interpretive flexibility of Christian thought within the scientific space, noting that the science and theological approaches can be cohesive as characterized by the dynamic dialogue they have had across centuries. The exegesis draws attention to Christian theology's adaptability and intellectual resilience, from the early allegorical interpretations of Genesis to medieval efforts harmonizing Aristotelian philosophy with faith, theologians exhibited a readiness to engage with prevailing scientific ideas. The Copernican Revolution's heliocentric model challenged traditional biblical cosmology, requiring theologians to reexamine scriptural interpretations. Figures like Galileo advocated for metaphorical readings of Scripture, bridging faith and science. underscores the ongoing theological dialogue spurred by modern theories like the Big Bang, quantum mechanics, and multiverse theory. Christian theology is portrayed as evolving alongside scientific advancements, reflecting a steadfast commitment to exploring divine providence and the mysteries of existence. Pope St. John Paul II’s remarks on the interplay between science and religion encapsulate this harmony, advocating for the refinement of both fields through mutual engagement.
For this thesis I used a library-based research approach and qualitative content review methodology to perform a close reading of specific Bible passages as well as existing literature, focusing specifically on the theological, historical, and apologetic aspects of faith. The findings are relevant in the theological field because they provide a comprehensive contribution to attempts to unite faith and science and further detail how present-day Christianity may fit into the modern study of cosmology. Furthermore, the thesis intends not only to expand the comprehension of the history of the interconnection between science and theology but also to outline premises for future theological development in an age of unrestrained scientific advancement. In the end, this thesis argues that cosmology and theology are not separate realms of academic endeavor, but rather each one can interact harmoniously with one another, enriching scientists, and scholars, or theologians and clergy professionally and constructively.
1. Leila Belkora, Minding the Heavens: The Story of Our Discovery of the Milky Way (Bristo, UK: Institute of Physics Publishing, 2003), 246, 260, 263, 265-268.
2. Harlow Shapley, Top 6 Harlow Shapley Quotes, no. 4, accessed September 5, 2024. https://www.azquotes.com/author/21451-Harlow_Shapley.
