A Series of Discourses on the Christian Revelation, Viewed in Connection with the Modern Astronomy

Chalmers argues that despite the immensity of creation and the likelihood of extraterrestrial life, God is concerned with human affairs.

Thomas Chalmers (Author)

9781108005272, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 24 September 2009

280 pages
21.6 x 14 x 1.6 cm, 0.36 kg

In 1817 the Scottish mathematician and churchman Thomas Chalmers (1780–1847), who was later invited to write one of the Bridgewater Treatises (also reissued in this series) published this book, based on weekday sermons preached by him in Glasgow. His main aim is to refute the 'infidel' argument that because the earth and humanity are such insignificant parts of the universe, God - if he existed - would not care about them. However, he is also addressing the 'narrow and intolerant professors' who 'take an alarm' at the idea of philosophy rather than incorporating science into their Christian preaching. Chalmers writes from the viewpoint of an admirer of science and modern astronomy. However, he also argues that wonder at the magnificence of creation and even acknowledging it as God's work is not enough, and that a truly moral Christian life is essential for salvation.

1. A sketch of the modern astronomy
2. The modesty of true science
3. On the extent of the divine condescension
4. On the knowledge of man's moral history in the distant places of creation
5. On the sympathy that is felt for man in the distant places of creation
6. On the contest for an ascendency over man, amongst the higher orders of intelligence
7. On the slender influence of mere taste and sensibility, in matters of religion.

Subject Areas: Evolution [PSAJ]