Journal of the ACMS
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Cumulative Indices
Letter from the Editor
Journal of the ACMS, 2008-2009 Issue
The Heavens and the Scriptures in the Eyes of Johannes Kepler
Dale L. McIntyre, Grove City College
Abstract: The heavens declare the glory of God... Ps. 19:1
Acclaimed as one of the most accomplished and influential scientists of his time, the subject of this paper was also a passionate defender of the Christian faith who believed he had been called by God to glorify Him in the study of His Creation. We see a man who was so immersed in both the Scriptures and his exploration of the heavens that his scholarly writings often burst forth with biblical quotations and songs of praise for God the Creator. Though always magnanimous and tolerant of others, he suffered persecution from both Lutherans and Catholics for differing with them in points of doctrine, and risked his professional reputation by publicly upholding a scientific theory not yet accepted by most Christians or scientists. Such a man was the German astronomer and mathematician Johannes Kepler.
This paper intends to demonstrate Kepler's complete absorption in the Scriptures, exploring his understanding and application of them as gleaned from the many biblical quotations, paraphrases, and allusions found in his scientific works and in his personal letters. His perspective on the Bible's authority, its interpretation, and its bearing upon knowledge of the cosmos, will be addressed. Also, a biographical sketch will be given, emphasizing Kepler's call to vocation, position on the creeds, and personal character, in the context of his life and works.
Article in .pdf format
