Some Christians regard the creation-evolution debate as a side issue, but it can have devastating consequences. The creation story and the fall of man are closely tied. These events, along with Noah’s flood, are described in the first eleven chapters of Genesis. Many would like to, and have, regarded these chapters as “nice stories teaching a lesson” and not as real history. But if there was no actual, historical fall, then there is no real need for salvation. Did Jesus die on the cross to overcome a myth? If you don’t believe there was an actual fall, then why would you believe there is an actual need for salvation? And if there is no need to, why trust in Jesus? The tragic result of this line of thinking makes a difference for all of eternity.