There are ways to have the convo. In the end, since we live in a universe where causality exists, as long as you stick to mechanical assumptions, you will be able to discuss all but the prime mover and movement.

Only mechanical discussions though not meaning or intent of it all. If they push an interpretation you can tell them not to blaspheme as no man knows the mind of any God.

I know some brilliant religious folk, hell Newton was a devout Christian and the numbers weused commonly for calculation were Muslim dudes etc etc.

Not willing to throw all that out so gotta accept well meaning folk and try be kind.

Try ...