Rachel Jordan, a marine biologist and author of 'If the Ocean Has a Soul,' discusses the captivating blend of science and faith. She shares how a high school biology class ignited her passion for marine life and addresses the often-overlooked connection between the ocean and divine glory. The conversation weaves in whimsical Titanic conspiracies, the ecological significance of coral reefs, and the spirituality of sea creatures. Through humor and insight, Rachel emphasizes the harmony between scientific inquiry and spiritual experience.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Passion Ignited by Coral Lesson
Rachel Jordan discovered her passion for marine biology in 10th grade biology class.
A lecture on coral reefs excited her so much she told her mom and cried.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Church Pushback on Science
Rachel faced pushback from her church when studying biology in college.
People feared she was going astray when she embraced scientific topics like evolution.
insights INSIGHT
Science Welcomes Faith
The scientific community is generally welcoming to religious scientists.
Science encourages leaving personal biases at the door for objective study.
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John Walton's "The Lost World of Genesis 1" offers a fresh perspective on the book of Genesis, challenging traditional interpretations. Walton argues that the creation account in Genesis 1 should not be understood as a scientific or historical narrative but rather as a literary work conveying theological truths about God's relationship with humanity. He emphasizes the ancient Near Eastern cultural context of Genesis, suggesting that the text's primary purpose was to establish God's kingship and covenant relationship with Israel. Walton's work encourages readers to appreciate the literary and theological richness of Genesis 1, moving beyond simplistic literal interpretations. The book has sparked significant debate among biblical scholars and theologians, prompting a re-evaluation of traditional approaches to Genesis.
If the Ocean Has a Soul
If the Ocean Has a Soul
Rachel Jordan
Marine biologist and author Rachel Jordan joins Esau McCaulley in studio to talk about her new book If the Ocean Has a Soul. They dive into the deep waters of science and theology, discussing coral reefs, climate change, and why the ocean might be one of the most overlooked witnesses to God's glory. Rachel shares how a tenth-grade biology class changed her life, how she navigates faith in scientific spaces (and vice versa), and what the church often misses about the natural world. Plus: jellyfish football teams, Titanic conspiracies, and the surprising spirituality of sea creatures.
0:00 - Theme Song
0:52 - Low-Stakes Conspiracy Theory
6:07 - Aquatic Sports Mascots
17:18 - Sponsor - No Small Endeavor - Award-winning podcast where theologians, philosophers, and best-selling authors talk about faith with Lee C. Camp. Start listening today: https://pod.link/1513178238
18:35 - Scientists and Faith
26:12 - The Ocean and God’s Glory
32:35 - Can Fish Talk?
46:25 - End Credits
If the Ocean Has a Soul: A Marine Biologist’s Pursuit of Truth through Deep Waters of Faith and Science by Rachel G. Jordan: https://a.co/d/f0hLtQZ
The Esau McCaulley Podcast 
