My friend believes in evolution. Can you offer any advice like what to tell him? Thank you for any information you can give me!
S.S.
S.,
Thanks for contacting Answers in Genesis. The answer to your question depends on what your friend specifically believes. Does he believe God used evolution to create, or does he not believe in God at all, relying on atheistic evolution as the basic reason we are all here?
Nonbeliever
If your friend does not believe in God, I would suggest reading Atheism: An Irrational Worldview.
As the article says, there is no rational reason for atheism, which is just another religion. (See Chapter 21: Is Evolution a Religion?) And for further in-depth study, I suggest buying and reading The Ultimate Proof of Creation. (This is also a good book for believers who have been duped into believing evolution.)
Saying that God’s Word is the only rational explanation for the universe—and everything in it—targets an atheist’s beliefs at their starting point. Scripture gives a reason for logic whereas evolution does not. For example, Scripture states that God cannot deny himself (2 Timothy 2:13)—God is logical, and He is the originator of logic. Since we are made in His image, we too can follow logic (albeit humanity is fallen and we don’t always do it right).
However, I would not start with this argument, as we need to show him our starting point first. Starting with Scripture, show him there really is a God who created the universe as Scripture states in Colossians 1:15–20. As Jesus said, “If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded though one rise from the dead” (Luke 16:31). If Scripture will not convince him, then nothing will, so it is definitely important to continue using Scripture when talking with your friend.
After you start with this verse and he begins to question you, bring in the argument that God’s Word is the only rational explanation, using the resources I mentioned above.
Believer
If your friend believes God used evolution, then I would suggest starting with this article.
Basically, it comes down to trusting God’s Word or man’s word when one says God used evolution. First, you should ask him to read through Genesis 1—chances are that he may have never closely read through Genesis 1 for himself. Ask him to make logical conclusions strictly from the text without any philosophies of man, including scientists (1 Corinthians 2:12).
If your friend continues to appeal to scientists and theologians who have also given up the historical account of Genesis to agree with evolution, then point out that what he is doing is considering fallible people to be equal to God and His Word. And then read these passages from Scripture:
You shall have no other gods before Me. (Deuteronomy 5:7)
Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ. (Colossians 2:8)
Every word of God is pure; He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him. (Proverbs 30:5)
Then after he has read through Genesis 1, ask him about his conclusions, and if those conclusions are based on Scripture.
For further study on this topic, I would suggest checking out The Lie: Evolution, which is available to read online, as well as the Answers Book series.
Along with these answers, it will take a personal study of God’s Word in order to effectively give an answer for your faith. In your discussions with your friend, remember to bring God’s Word into the conversation, as it is the best tool you can use:
So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please, And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it. (Isaiah 55:11)
I hope this is a good start for you. Remember you are not alone in showing your friend the truth, “for the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say” (Luke 12:12). And always be in prayer for your friend.
God Bless,
Jeremy Ham