Topical Encyclopedia The term "science: so-called, false" is derived from the Apostle Paul's warning to Timothy in the New Testament. In 1 Timothy 6:20-21 , Paul exhorts Timothy, "O Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to you. Avoid irreverent, empty chatter and the opposing arguments of what is falsely called knowledge, which some have professed and thereby swerved away from the faith." The Greek word translated as "knowledge" in this context is "gnosis," which can also be rendered as "science" in some translations. This passage highlights the early Christian concern with teachings and philosophies that were contrary to the core tenets of the faith.In the biblical context, "false science" refers to any system of thought or knowledge that contradicts or undermines the revealed truth of Scripture. During the time of the early church, this often included Gnostic teachings, which claimed secret knowledge and often distorted the nature of Christ and salvation. The Gnostics presented a worldview that was at odds with the apostolic teaching, promoting ideas that were speculative and not grounded in the revelation given through Christ and the apostles. From a conservative Christian perspective, the warning against "false science" is seen as timeless, applicable to any ideology or scientific claim that contradicts biblical truth. This includes modern theories or philosophies that deny the existence of God, the creation account, the moral law, or the historical reality of Jesus Christ. The Bible is viewed as the ultimate authority, and any knowledge or science that conflicts with its teachings is considered suspect. The biblical worldview acknowledges the value of true science—understood as the study of God's creation and the pursuit of knowledge that aligns with divine revelation. The natural world, as created by God, is seen as orderly and intelligible, reflecting the wisdom and power of the Creator. Psalm 19:1 declares, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands." Thus, science, when properly conducted, is seen as a means to explore and appreciate the intricacies of God's handiwork. However, the distinction is made between true science, which seeks to understand the world within the framework of God's revelation, and "false science," which elevates human reasoning above divine truth. Romans 1:21-22 warns of the consequences of such an approach: "For although they knew God, they neither glorified Him as God nor gave thanks to Him, but they became futile in their thinking and darkened in their foolish hearts. Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools." In summary, the biblical admonition against "science: so-called, false" serves as a caution to remain vigilant against any knowledge that contradicts the foundational truths of the Christian faith. It encourages believers to discern and uphold the integrity of the gospel in the face of competing worldviews and to recognize the harmony between true science and the revelation of God in Scripture. Nave's Topical Index 1 Timothy 6:20O Timothy, keep that which is committed to your trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called: Nave's Topical Index Library The Apostasy which Prepares the Way for the Antichrist. The Heresies of the Apostolic Age. Snares of Satan. Snares of Satan What True Philosophy Is, and Whence So Called. On the Wisdom of this World Christianity Misunderstood by Men of Science. John Chapter xvi. 12, 13 (Continued). On Threefold Wisdom. The Error of Seneca in Philosophy, and How the Speech of ... Resources What is BioLogos? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is scientism? | GotQuestions.org What is the problem of good? | GotQuestions.org Science: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Science: Observations of, and Deductions From, Facts Sciences: History and Chronology Related Terms |
    |