Why the Universe Is the Way It Is
by Hugh Ross
Baker Books, 2008, 240 pages, $17.99 (hardback),
ISBN-13: 978-0-8010-1304-1

Long before the intelligent design movement reached its current prominence, astronomer Hugh Ross was cataloging evidences in astronomy and physics pointing to God of the Bible. Explaining science in a way that is understandable, yet still scientific, has been Ross’ strength.

In this book Ross takes on the tough “why” questions of Christians and skeptics. “Why such a vast universe?” “Why a decaying universe?” “Why not a perfect universe?” He uses the latest finds in astronomy and shows how we can answer these questions, while keeping the science as simple as possible, without losing its force. (Some of the science topics are detailed in more depth in his other books such as Creation as Science and Beyond the Cosmos.)

Many readers will appreciate the “question and answer” format. This book is timely in light of the current onslaught of atheist attacks. While many atheists often ask “tough” questions, they usually do not stop to listen for the answers. Ross presents the scriptural and scientific answers to these issues. The answers are not always complete in every detail, for human knowledge is incomplete. Open-minded seekers will find in this book a strong argument that science is clearly the mortal enemy of atheism.

The focus on the distinct purposes behind the attributes of the universe makes this a valued addition to the field of science apologetics. Whether or not science is your field of study, this book can help you understand why the universe is the way it is. The purposes described are enough to answer—and silence—the best atheism has to offer. Reviewed by Darrick Dean.

Back to Contents Does God Exist?, NovDec09.