Persuaded by evidence

Until the 16th century, the accepted scientific theory was that the earth was at the centre of the solar system, if not the universe! This theory is known as the geocentric model. This belief had been around since before the time of Jesus, having been advanced by the well known Aristotle (350 BC) and Ptolemy (150 BC).

The theory was widely accepted by the scientific community until around 500 years ago. With the advent of scientists like Copernicus, Galileo and Newton that all changed. Their research led them to believe that it was actually the sun that was at the centre of the solar system, a teaching known as a heliocentric system. 

To propose this 'radical' idea was a particular problem for Galileo. He was an Italian, born in Pisa, famous for its leaning tower. He was placed under house arrest by the Catholic Church in Italy for his ‘heresy’. Sadly, the established teaching of the time, both in the dogma of the Catholic Church and the scientific community, was the geocentric theory. It is alleged that the church said that the Bible taught that the sun orbited the earth… something it most definitely does not.

It's a bit like the hit song of 1956 "Mary's boy child" recorded by Harry Belafonte which contains the verse that says "Long time ago in Bethlehem, So the Holy Bible say, Mary's boy child Jesus Christ, Was born on Christmas day."

One can search, as the saying goes, ‘until the cows come home’, and no reference can be found in the Bible to a day called Christmas Day.

Similarly, one can also search ‘until the cows come home’ for a Bible statement that the sun orbits the earth, or even a hint to that effect.

Unfortunately though this is how beliefs sometimes become established… by constant repetition. Folklore becomes "fact".

Isaac Newton also was led by evidence to the conclusion that the universe was created by God. He wrote, “This most beautiful system of the sun, planets and comets, could only proceed from the counsel and dominion of an intelligent and powerful being” (Newton, circa 1687). Christians have come to the same conclusion as Newton, believing that God has created the whole universe.  And also that He did so for a purpose. He wants us to be a part of His future Kingdom on the earth. His son Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30, NIV)

It is up to us whether or not we examine the evidence in the Bible to see if these claims are valid, or whether they are just folklore.  It’s definitely worth looking into it for yourself. Don’t take someone else’s word for it!