Belief in God and quantum physics — are they compatible?

TL;DR:

Quantum physics explores the behavior of matter and energy at a subatomic level, revealing fascinating and counterintuitive phenomena. While some interpret quantum mechanics as supporting God’s existence, others see it as evidence of randomness. The Bible asserts that creation reflects God’s nature and handiwork, regardless of scientific interpretation.

what does the bible say?

Quantum physics, or quantum mechanics, requires a deep understanding of mathematics and physics, as it applies to the behavior of matter and energy at a nanoscopic scale. It also requires an ability to think and solve in counterintuitive ways. This field of study is relatively young, just 100 years old or so, and still growing. Its value is in helping us understand more of what happens in the minuscule transactions in extremely small subatomic places, which can be helpful in theoretical physics and high-level design. But to the average person, quantum physics rarely has a noticeable impact on daily life.

The Bible teaches that God’s creation reveals His power, creativity, and divine nature. Psalm 19:1 declares, "The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork." Similarly, Romans 1:20 emphasizes that "his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made." These verses affirm that the intricate and awe-inspiring nature of the universe, whether studied on a cosmic or quantum level, points to a Creator.

Pioneers of modern physics, many of whom were Christian theists, believed that their work illuminated aspects of God’s creation. Figures like Isaac Newton and John Polkinghorne exemplify how scientific discovery can coexist with, and even enhance, faith. Polkinghorne, a physicist and theologian, famously said, "Science and religion are friends, not foes." This perspective aligns with the biblical view that exploring creation leads to greater awareness of God’s majesty.

from the old testament

Psalm 19:1 declares, "The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork." This verse affirms that creation, at all scales, reveals God’s glory.
God’s challenge to Job in Job 38:4–7 reveals the complexity of creation and humanity’s limited understanding: "Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell me, if you have understanding."

from the new testament

Romans 1:20 supports the idea that complex aspects of the universe, like quantum mechanics, reflect God’s nature: "For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made."
Colossians 1:16–17 tells us that Christ is the ultimate source and sustainer of all creation, from galaxies to quantum particles, "for by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible… And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together."

implications for today

Quantum physics reveals a world that often defies human intuition, challenging our understanding of cause and effect, time, and space. These discoveries can deepen our awe of creation, regardless of how they are interpreted. For Christians, such findings can serve as a reminder of God’s infinite creativity and power. While concepts like the Many Worlds hypothesis or quantum randomness are often used to challenge the necessity of a Creator, they lack direct evidence and remain speculative. Some philosophers claim it is impossible to determine which ordered, objective, determined systems exist and which do not, so they default to the theory that all exist in parallel universes. No physical evidence supports this theory, but because it sets aside intelligent design arguments and a universe of a finite age, it is sometimes strongly held. The Bible encourages believers to engage with creation thoughtfully, recognizing that science and faith are not inherently at odds, but complementary ways of understanding the universe.

Those who pioneered modern physics, mostly Christian theists, believed that their discoveries shed light on God's abilities and creativeness. John Polkinghorne, with others, discovered sub-nuclear particles known as quarks. After teaching at Cambridge for twenty-five years, he retired to become an Anglican priest. Polkinghorne's scientific credentials are such that his faith cannot be written off as delusion or confusion by even the most aggressive anti-theists.

The existence of God is not dependent on quantum mechanics or scientific interpretation. God’s presence and power are evident in all aspects of creation, whether at the vast, cosmic scale or the intricate, subatomic level. Christians can approach scientific inquiry with confidence, knowing that all truth ultimately points back to the Creator.

understand

Quantum physics reveals subatomic phenomena that don’t negate God’s existence.
The Bible teaches creation reflects God’s power.
Science and faith can complement each other.

reflect

How does the truth that creation reflects God’s nature deepen your sense of awe toward God and His creation?
How can scientific discoveries, like those in quantum physics, inspire a stronger connection to your faith?
How do you reconcile the mysteries of quantum physics with your belief in a Creator who is both omnipotent and involved in every aspect of creation?

engage

How can we engage with complex scientific theories, like quantum physics, while maintaining faith in God as the Creator of all things?
How does the relationship between science and faith challenge common perceptions that they are at odds?
How can our understanding of the universe, from both a scientific and biblical perspective, help us live with greater purpose in our lives?