Reader-Submitted Review: The Lost World of Adam and Eve by John H. Walton

Subtitled "Genesis 2-3 and the Human Origins Debate," this thoughtful work by a noted Wheaton College professor of Old Testament gives perspective on a topic that divides believers and unbelievers and also creates friction between members of Christ’s church. Using 21 propositions followed by conclusion and summary, he discusses the character of Genesis, the role of Adam and Eve, and how Paul uses Adam.

He notes that we need to have this conversation because it bears on our care of the creation, and it helps us minister to Christians working in science who may be marginalized in the workplace because of their faith and in the church because of their work as scientists. We can also be more welcoming to seekers if we don’t expect them to discard their scientific understandings. Most importantly, forcing our youth to choose between “science” and “the Bible” may push them to make the wrong choice. (IVP Academic)