#122 Mirjam Schilling: Why did God create mosquitoes?
Sep 17, 2024
auto_awesome
In this engaging discussion, virologist and theologian Mirjam Schilling tackles thought-provoking questions that intertwine science and faith. She explores the surprising ecological role of mosquitoes and the link between climate change and pandemics. Mirjam delves into the nature of miraculous healings, the moral implications of divine actions in biblical texts, and the ethical narratives surrounding technology and gene manipulation. Join her as she navigates the complexities of suffering, goodness, and the intersection of personal belief with scientific inquiry.
Dr. Mirjam Schilling discusses the integration of science and theology, emphasizing its role in understanding miracles and human suffering.
The podcast highlights the ecological importance of seemingly harmful organisms like mosquitoes, illustrating the complex interdependence within ecosystems.
Deep dives
The Intersection of Science and Faith
The podcast delves into the complex relationship between science and faith, particularly through the lens of Dr. Miriam Schilling, a virologist with a background in theology. She emphasizes that science can help explain and understand many phenomena but also reaches limits where it cannot provide answers, especially regarding miracles or the nature of suffering. The discussion includes an exploration of healing from diseases, where Dr. Schilling explains that while science can track recoveries linked to immune responses, exceptional cases might defy scientific explanation, suggesting a divine involvement. This highlights the necessity of integrating both scientific inquiry and theological reflection to grapple with profound life questions.
God’s Goodness Amidst Suffering
A significant theme discussed is the nature of goodness and how it relates to God's character, especially in the context of human suffering. Dr. Schilling articulates her conviction that the act of Jesus sacrificing himself serves as the ultimate example of goodness, which reassures her of God’s benevolence. However, she also acknowledges the challenge of reconciling instances of unexplained suffering and divine silence, as they can lead to confusion about God’s nature. This underscores the importance of context and faith in understanding good from a theological standpoint while recognizing human limitations in grasping divine purposes.
The Role of Viruses in Ecosystems
Dr. Schilling engages in a discussion on the ecological roles of viruses and other organisms often perceived negatively, such as mosquitoes. She highlights that while mosquitoes are typically viewed as nuisances, they play vital roles in pollination and ecosystem balance, which demonstrates the complexity of nature. She expresses a growing appreciation for these creatures, suggesting that their contributions extend beyond what is immediately seen as beneficial or harmful. This perspective encourages a broader view of life forms and their interconnectedness within ecosystems, reinforcing the idea that all aspects of creation have purpose, even those that seem to cause suffering.
Ethics in Scientific Advancement
The conversation also extends to ethical considerations regarding scientific manipulation, especially with advancements in genetic engineering and cloning. Dr. Schilling advocates for using scientific capabilities to enhance human health and welfare, provided these efforts are approached ethically and consider the broader implications for life. She cautions against the reckless pursuit of technological advancement for its own sake, emphasizing the necessity of understanding our limits as humans. This ethical lens encourages dialogue among scientists, theologians, and ethicists to navigate the challenges posed by new technological possibilities responsibly.
Is there a connection between climate crisis and viruses? Can science explain "miraculous healings"? Is God morally "good" and where do we get our reference point for "goodness"? How should we approach the "genocide" passages in the Bible? Do humans have souls? What about clones? Virologist and theologian Dr Mirjam Schilling answers questions asked by a live audience at Holy Trinity Church, Aylesbury. This show was recorded in partnership with Aylesbury Vale Youth For Christ.
For Mirjam: https://twitter.com/mirjamschilling
• Subscribe to the Unapologetic podcast: https://pod.link/1622170986
• More podcasts, free ebook & newsletter: https://premierunbelievable.com
• Watch Unapologetic YouTube playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2Ds_nyh5gM_0OQDM3me0ZjLcNg2345GX
• For conference & live events: http://www.unbelievable.live
• For our apologetics courses: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/training
• Support us in the USA: http://www.premierinsight.org/unbelievableshow
• Support us in the rest of the world: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/donate
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode