© The Author(s) 2016 279
K.J. Archer, L.W. Oliverio, Jr. (eds.), Constructive
Pneumatological Hermeneutics in Pentecostal Christianity,
DOI 10.1057/978-1-137-58561-5_17
CHAPTER 17
Surprising Bedfellows: Theology and Science
Interpretation and Integration
Michael Tenneson , David Bundrick , and Donald Johns
M. Tenneson () • D. Johns
Evangel University , Springfi eld , MO , USA
D. Bundrick
Independent Scholar , St. Louis , MO , USA
INTRODUCTION
The relationship between science and theology is complex and provoca-
tive. Interpretation of God’s world and God’s Word requires different
tools and approaches. Consequently, coherent and consistent relational
approaches are diffi cult to conceive, much less apply. In response, some
people take the easy way out by leaving science to the scientists and theol-
ogy to the theologians. This dualistic approach, however, is not satisfying
to many thoughtful Pentecostals. We agree with Alister McGrath when he
wrote, “It is increasingly clear that relating Christian faith to the natural
sciences is one of the most pressing academic tasks of our day.” 1
But how can we relate the two with confi dence? Can Pentecostals con-
tribute to the discourse? As part of this project on Pentecostal/renewal
traditions and movements, we will address these questions beginning with
