The Prism and the Rainbow

A concise yet comprehensive exposition of the fundamental issues in the current debates between (and among) Christians and evolutionary biologists on creationism, intelligent design, and theistic evolution. It addresses all the key issues, both biological and theological, in a form and language easily accessible to Christian laity, including teens, and evaluates them fairly and with erudition. I would recommend this book without hesitation for use in both parish and university settings.

Professor Martin has a very good understanding of the relationship of science to religion. He applies that understanding effectively in this sensitive and sensible discussion of evolution and Christian faith.

A wonderful introduction to the evolution-creation debate... I think it would be a wonderful book to use in discussions both at school and at church. I could see it having a wide readership and doing much good in the direction of reconciling those who want to run with the hare of science and hunt with the hounds of religion.

A concise and clear explanation of how science and faith are not at war with each other but instead can complement our understanding of the world that God created.

Teenagers need a place where they can get straight talk and reputable answers about evolution, all the more so if they come from religious backgrounds that prepare them to mistrust what they might be told. Joel Martin provides a safe place for them. He is a first-class, accomplished scientist and a dedicated Christian, and his is a perspective well worth listening to.

Joel Martin's marvelous book echoes the sentiments of Charles Darwin himself, who reminded readers of The Origin that one cannot be too learned ‘in the book of God's word, or in the book of God's work.’ It is a powerful testament to the compatibility of faith and reason, and demonstrates with remarkable clarity that the conflict between religion and evolution is a false and contrived choice that does justice to neither science nor religion.

Dr. Martin explains why Christians should have confidence in their faith while accepting the science of evolutionary biology. There is no conflict between Christianity and evolution, and Dr. Martin explains why with extraordinary clarity. This book should be required reading for all Christian teens.

The Prism and the Rainbow provides a very effective introduction to arguments—some good, some bad—swirling around evolution and its critics in contemporary churches and their social context. A careful, critical reading of it could help young people get off to a good start in dealing with issues that trouble many people today.