ICR is saddened to hear of Dr. John Whitcomb’s passing last night. Almost 60 years ago, Dr. Whitcomb co-authored The Genesis Flood with ICR’s founder, Dr. Henry M. Morris. The two men combined their expertise in theology and science for this groundbreaking publication, and many believe it was the catalyst for the modern creation movement.
Dr. Whitcomb was not only an influential author, theologian, seminary professor, and creation advocate, but he was also a close friend of the Morris family. Dr. Henry Morris III, eldest son of the founder and ICR’s current CEO, says,
John became a good friend as well as a co-laborer with many of us over the years. His legacy lives on in the lives of the many students he taught while on the faculty of Grace Seminary at Winona Lake as well as the thousands that benefited from his many seminars, books, articles, and newsletters.
The founder’s daughter Rebecca Morris Barber has served in creation ministry for many years, and she has fond memories of Dr. Whitcomb. She says,
Throughout my whole life Dr. Whitcomb has stood as a standard to look up to in wisdom, doctrine, and dignity. But my favorite memories of him were the visits he made to the Morris household. As a child I was mesmerized by Dad’s dear friend as he entertained us, playing classical tunes by blowing through his cupped hands. This great servant was a blessing to our family in so many ways.
ICR Research Associate Dr. Brian Thomas recognizes Dr. Whitcomb’s valuable contribution to the creation science movement. He says,
Dr. Whitcomb helped construct the first modern comprehensive defense of early Genesis as history. Until he came along, those who understood from Scripture that creation took six days and the Flood covered the whole world had few theologians to champion their view. Now, because of this great pioneer, generations of believers have full confidence that God meant exactly what He said, even in the first chapters of the book of beginnings.
ICR staff and friends continue to reflect on Dr. Whitcomb’s life well lived in service to his Creator. As Dr. Morris III reminds us, “Although we will miss Dr. Whitcomb here on Earth, we rejoice that he is now present with the Lord.”
*Christy Hardy is an editor at the Institute for Creation Research.
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