Among the many theories which from time to time have arrested the thought of mankind, the theory of evolution seems to have had a greater influence upon human thinking than most of them. It purported to give a new view of the origin of mankind, a possible explanation of the human enigma; and to many it may have seemed natural and inevitable, laying bare the long trail of strife and struggle down which the human race has progressed. Although but a theory, it has been, nevertheless, regarded by many as a revelation, fascinating to material reasoning.
Although apparently reasonable and consistent in its conception, the theory of evolution has given to the world a view of man which is sadly lacking. Riveting attention, as it does, upon unintelligent matter as the source from which all vegetable and animal types, including mankind, are evolved, this theory turns thought always backwards to materiality. It presents a concept of man which would make him the victim of chance and change, the puppet of circumstance and time.
In marked contrast with this there has stood throughout the ages, too long unheeded and unrecognized by many, a grander view of creation. It is to be found in the first chapter of the book of Genesis. There we can read three statements behind which lies a mighty truth that of necessity makes all mere human theory pale into insignificance: "In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. . . . And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion . . . . And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good." These words are direct and simple. They uplift thought and present to the yearning hearts of men a grander view than any other that has ever been presented.
