Pushing the Boundaries of Science and Morality

Researchers from the Oregon Health and Science University have successfully “edited” a gene mutation in human embryos that they created (National Geographic, August 2, 2017). “The team used ‘genetic scissors’ called CRISPR-Cas9 to target and remove a mutation associated with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a common inherited heart disease, in 42 embryos.” While many scientists are hailing the research as revolutionary, many bioethicists are labeling it as “scientists... out of control.” To conduct the research, scientists created 58 living embryos. Following the successful gene editing, the embryos were destroyed. If the U.S. government prevents research from continuing, through bioethics laws, some scientists plan to conduct their research in other countries that allow this type of research. Many liken genetic editing to “playing God” and are thus opposed.

In today’s rapidly changing world, it is worth remembering why God intervened in human affairs at the tower of Babel. God saw human society going in a direction He did not want it to go, so He confused the languages because He knew that “nothing that they propose to do will be withheld from them” (Genesis 11:6). Today, science and technology are advancing faster than the ethics needed to control this advance—which is one more indicator of the need for Christ’s return! Scientific progress without a godly foundation is a recipe for disaster. For more on this important subject, read “Wanted: Leaders with Character.”