Why the Universe Is the Way It Is [Hardcover]

Hugh Ross (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: October 1, 2008

Increasingly astronomers recognize that if the cosmos had not unfolded exactly as it did, humanity would not, could not, exist. Yet these researchers--along with countless ordinary folks--resist belief in the biblical Creator. Why? They say a loving God would have made a better home for us, one without trouble and tragedy. In Why the Universe Is the Way It Is, Hugh Ross draws from his depth of study in both science and Scripture to explain how the universe's design fulfills several distinct purposes. He also reveals God's surpassing love and ultimate purposes for each individual. Why the Universe Is the Way It Is will interest anyone who wonders where and how the universe came to be, what or who is responsible for it, why we are here, or how and when the universe ends. Far from leaving the reader at this philosophical jumping-off point, Ross builds toward answering the big question of human destiny and the specific question of each reader's personal destiny.

Editorial Reviews

From the Inside Flap

Do science and the Bible offer contradictory answers to life's biggest questions? Hugh Ross the astronomer knows his science. This Christian author and apologist also knows Scripture. And he sees no conflict between the two. The same God who created the universe gave humans the intellect and curiosity to explore it. The search for answers takes us on a thrilling adventure of discovery. Ross leads the exploration by showing how cutting-edge research and key biblical principles agree. This faith-building page-turner is equally useful for personal and group study, deep reflection, and serious debate. Why the Universe Is the Way It Is opens our minds--and our eyes--to a stunning new view of the Creator.

From the Back Cover

"Why?" may be the most common and emotionally charged question in human experience. With the Bible in one hand and the latest scientific findings in the other, astronomer Hugh Ross tackles many of our most pressing cosmic "why" questions. If God made the universe, • why would he make it so vast? • why would he wait to bring humans onto the scene? • why would he allow decay and death to be part of it? • why would he let one man and one woman ruin it for everyone? • why should I believe my life has any real meaning? • why is the future of the cosmos so bleak? Within these pages you will find compelling answers to these questions--answers that give you reasons to believe that our finely tuned universe "shouts loudly that life is more than a cosmic accident." "This book will expand your mind with the universe it describes. It is a challenging, fascinating, and mind-stretching discussion of the nature and purpose of our amazing universe in the light of Scripture by one of America's foremost evangelical astronomers."--Norman L. Geisler, cofounder and former dean of Southern Evangelical Seminary "Absolutely delightful! Ross's ability to take science and show the biblical correlation in prophecy and application is unparalleled; it makes God's wisdom and the biblical text seem so much more magnificent."--James M. Tour, Chao Professor of Chemistry, professor of computer science, professor of mechanical engineering and materials science, Rice University, Smalley Institute for Nanoscale Science and Technology "A groundbreaking look at the enduring questions that confront every person regarding our existence. Utilizing today's cutting-edge scientific research from a Christian worldview, Ross offers the most developed answers to date on key concerns regarding creation, God, and humanity. This book is a must-read for anyone who craves scientific information that interacts with tough biblical issues."--John Ankerberg, bestselling author and host of the John Ankerberg Show "Ross simultaneously challenges skeptics and Christians alike with his fresh take on scientific discoveries that point to the existence of God."--Ben Young, Second Baptist Church, Houston; author of Why Mike's Not a Christian

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Product Details

• Hardcover: 240 pages
• Publisher: Baker Books; 1ST edition (October 1, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0801013046
• ISBN-13: 978-0801013041
• Product Dimensions: 8.5 x 5.6 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.2 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (23 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #637,227 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Hugh Ross (Ph.D., University of Toronto) is founder and president of Reasons To Believe, a ministry team devoted to bridging the gap between science and faith. A well-known author and Christian apologist, Ross has addressed students and faculty on hundreds of campuses, churches, and professional groups in the U.S. and abroad. He also serves on the pastoral staff of Sierra Madre Congregational Church, and as adjunct faculty at A.W. Tozer Seminary in Redding, California. He and his wife, Kathy, and their two sons live in Southern California.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

63 of 72 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Answers to atheists objections about why God created the universe as He did, September 23, 2008

By 

Richard L. Deem "Rich Deem" (Los Angeles, CA USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Why the Universe Is the Way It Is (Hardcover)

In a slight departure from their usual books on a testable creation model, Hugh Ross (Reasons To Believe) takes on the big "why" questions about the universe and why God created in the way He did. This book represents a continuation of Dr. Ross' previous book, "Creation As Science" with more emphasis on how biblical theology fits with what we know about the characteristics of the universe and life on earth.

An integration of biblical theology and science is sorely needed, since most skeptics assume that God created the universe just as a nice place in which human beings could live. Such misunderstandings often lead to objections to the way the universe was designed, when a proper understanding of theology explains the "why" of the characteristics that make up the universe.

Included in the why questions are Why is the universe 1) so large, 2) so old, 3) so dark, 4) so entropic, etc. Probably the most asked question is why didn't God create a perfect universe now. The Bible provides at least 11 main reasons why the universe was created the way it was before God creates the perfect new creation.

Hugh Ross' latest book is an excellent integration of biblical theology with the latest scientific evidence that supports the Christian worldview and the Bible as God's revelation to humanity. It also provides answers to common skeptical questions and complaints. The book is not overly technical (but does contain endnotes for those who want additional detail), so it is recommended for all those interested in science and the Christian faith.

13 of 14 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great reference for any Christian apologist, December 28, 2009

By 

Paul J. Carey "Amish Bill" (Minneapolis, MN) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Why the Universe Is the Way It Is (Hardcover)

This is the kind of book you read and then put in your library for later reference. It answers many of the fundamental questions that Christians need to answer when talking about their faith as it relates to our universe. Each chapter is broken out by topic like, "Why is the universe so dark?" which makes it easier to later reference the information.

This is a "must-have" for any Christian apologist.

17 of 21 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Solid!, November 28, 2008

By 

Clint Field "Clint" (Lexington, KY) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Why the Universe Is the Way It Is (Hardcover)

Dr. Ross hits another home run with this book. If you like astronomy/cosmology, etc. then you will enjoy this book. It is packed with interesting facts about the latest discoveries of our universe and how they point to a Creator. The material is perfect for any Christian that wants to learn more about how God's righteousness is declared in the Heavens. It will change the way you look at the universe, and it will add a whole new dimension to the way you see God's handiwork.