The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence

Romans 8:20-21
“For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected [the same] in hope, because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God.”

A century before the birth of Christ, a Roman named Lucretius suggested that since life evolved on earth, one might expect that there are other planets like earth where life also evolved. Modern scientists who believe in evolution also feel that if life could be found on other planets, their arguments for evolution would be stronger. They even persuaded the United States Congress to approve millions of dollars to search for radio signals that might come from other planets. The centerpiece of their effort was a radio receiver linked to a computer. The system could simultaneously listen to over eight million channels for any sign of space communication.

A few scientists were critical of this effort. For any theory to be regarded as scientific, it must be capable of disproof, not proof. Almost anything can be proven by selection of evidence. The critics pointed out that given the size of the universe we could spend billions of dollars and never disprove that there is life on other planets. In this way, it leaves the situation open-ended and it can always be argued without proof that there may be life.

The Bible offers no direct mention of life on other planets. However, it does tell us that the entire creation was subjected to the consequences of man’s sin here on earth. Likewise, Christ’s atonement for sin on Calvary delivered the entire creation from the bondage of sin. This suggests that our earth is the only place in the universe where morally responsible beings live.

Prayer:
Lord, I thank You that when we ruined the creation, You loved us so much that You gave Your life that we might again be restored to fellowship with God through the forgiveness of sins. Amen.

Notes:
D. E. Thomsen. “NASA to Help Listen to E.T.’s Call.” Science News, Vol. 123, p. 52. Photo: Screenshot of SETI Home. Courtesy of Namazu-tron.