Gain of Function Research
Guests: Doug Sharp and Rich Geers
Description: Gain of function research, for those who might not be familiar, involves manipulating the genome of an organism to study the effects of such changes, often in viruses. This can lead to viruses gaining new abilities, such as increased transmissibility or virulence. While the intent behind such research is often to understand diseases better and to develop treatments or vaccines, it’s a double-edged sword. It raises significant ethical, safety, and moral concerns, especially from a biblical perspective. From a biblical standpoint, stewardship of creation is a key principle. God gave humans dominion over the earth (Genesis 1:28), which implies a responsibility to care for and manage it wisely, not recklessly. This stewardship involves respecting the life God has created and not altering it in ways that could cause harm or go against its Creator’s design. First and foremost, it’s essential to recognize that God, in His infinite wisdom, created the heavens and the earth and all that dwells within it (Genesis 1). Each creature, each microbe, was created with purpose and function, intricately designed and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). The complexity of life is a testament to the Creator’s intelligence and care, not an accident of nature.
