Bach, Newton, and God’s Glory

“Isaac Newton’s ideas were well known in the superficially peasant lands of Saxony and Thuringia, and its significant that Newton was to science and physics, Bach was to music. Essentially they both sought to prove that their works, their discoveries, their observations-and all the implications they drew-illuminate the workings of a supreme Creator in the universe.”

This is an excerpt from a new book by Rick Marschall, Johann Sebastian Bach: Christian Encounters Series published by Thomas Nelson Publishers. Its a great quote about how our religion, beliefs, and worldviews relate to all areas of life, including our profession. Newton said that all his discoveries and scientific laws “pointed to the operations of God.” Bach said “Music has been mandated by God’s Spirit.”

These two men viewed their professions through a biblical worldview.

The Heavens declare the Glory of God and the skies proclaim the work of his hands.”- Psalm 19

When one reads this verse, one can see that Newton and Bach’s belief that everything they discover or create “illuminates the workings of a supreme Creator in the universe” is true. Having a consistent, biblical worldview is what gives us the freedom to see God’s glory; not just in scripture, but in all areas of life including our work. Viewing the world through the lens of scripture gives us the freedom to fulfill our purpose regardless of our state, class, or profession because these things point to God and his Glory.

How do you view your vocation or chosen profession as Glorifying to God? Can you view your profession the way Newton and Bach viewed theirs?

See my post about Truth and Freedom.