Science Without God
Memory Verse
Romans 1:20 — “His eternal power and divine nature … so that they are without excuse.”
Lesson Objectives
- State what creation reveals about God and what only the gospel reveals.
- Distinguish scientific investigation from philosophical naturalism.
- Trace the descent from suppressed truth to futile thinking and a darkened heart.
- Respond with honest examination, gratitude, submission, and obedience to the gospel.
Thesis
Creation makes God’s eternal power and divine nature plain, but suppressing that truth removes wisdom’s foundation and leaves the sinner without excuse.
Study Guide
I. God Has Made Himself Known — Romans 1:19–20
God made the truth evident. Creation does not reveal everything about Him, but its existence, order, power, and provision give a public and continuing witness to its Maker.
1. What two truths about God does Paul say are understood through what has been made?
2. What can creation reveal, and what saving message must be heard through the word of Christ?
II. Sinners Suppress What God Made Plain — Romans 1:18, 21
Suppression is not an empty mind waiting for evidence. It holds down known truth because the Creator’s authority interferes with the life a person wants. The refusal appears in withheld honor and gratitude.
3. What do the commands to honor God and give thanks expose about unbelief?
4. Where can a desire for autonomy distort your own response to truth?
III. Rejected Light Produces Darkness — Romans 1:21–23
Paul’s sequence is moral and intellectual: revelation is resisted, honor and thanks are refused, reasoning becomes futile, and the heart is darkened. Rejecting the Creator raises something within creation into His place.
5. Trace Paul’s sequence from known truth to a darkened heart.
6. What created thing is most likely to compete for God’s place in your thinking or conduct?
IV. Study Creation Under Christ’s Rule — Colossians 1:16–17
All things were created through Christ and for Christ, and in Him they hold together. Honest study examines His works without worshiping them. The gospel then reveals the crucified and risen Christ who reconciles sinners to God.
7. How does Christ’s authority change the purpose and posture of scientific study?
8. Why can creation make a sinner accountable but never wash away one sin?
Science studies God’s works; naturalism turns a method into a verdict against God.
Word Study
Katechō — to hold down, restrain, or hinder. Romans 1:18 describes active resistance to truth made known by God.
Anapologētos — without a valid defense. Creation removes the plea that God left humanity without witness.
Application
- Separate observation from worldview: Ask what was measured and what philosophical conclusion was added.
- Bring resistance into the light: Confess where obedience threatens a habit, relationship, pride, or hidden sin.
- Practice gratitude: For seven days, name one gift, thank God for it, and obey the duty it brings.
- Obey the gospel: Believe Christ, repent, confess His name, and be baptized for the forgiveness of sins.
Personal Response
Truth to hold:
Obedience to practice:
Error to reject:
Prayer: