Final answer:
Evolution is often seen as unscriptural because it contradicts a literal interpretation of the creation account in the Bible and raises theological issues. However, evolution is a scientific theory unconcerned with spiritual matters and widely accepted within the scientific community. Some theologians propose non-literal readings of religious texts to reconcile evolutionary theory with theistic beliefs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question of why evolution is considered unscriptural and impossible from a religious standpoint primarily relates to several theological concerns. Some believers argue that the concept of evolution conflicts with the traditional theistic view of creation as described in biblical texts such as Genesis. They see issues such as the incompatibility of God's omniscience with human freedom, the existence of evil despite an infinitely good God, and the impossibility of creating something (the universe) from nothing, as challenges to evolutionary theory.
However, it's important to note that evolution as a scientific theory does not address the existence of a deity or the spiritual realm. This silence means that while evolution may appear to contradict certain interpretations of scripture, it does not inherently do so. Scientific disciplines like biology are concerned with the material world and are inherently incapable of testing or proving theological claims.
Facts about evolutionary theory noted in the sciences include its strong explanatory power for the diversity of life, with extensive evidence from the fossil record and genetic research supporting it. Moreover, the scientific community overwhelmingly accepts evolution as a well-founded explanation for the diversity of life on Earth, with positions such as the Voice for Evolution project affirming its place in public education. When it comes to theology, thinkers like John Hick have suggested non-literal interpretations of creation that allow for compatibility with evolutionary theory, treating creation as ongoing rather than completed.