How does Hebrews 11:3 connect with Genesis 1:1 about creation? Text of the Two Verses • Hebrews 11:3: “By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible.” • Genesis 1:1: “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” Shared Message: God Alone Is the Origin • Both verses point to God as the sole Source of everything that exists. • Genesis states it directly—He created “the heavens and the earth.” • Hebrews explains how: God “formed” all things “at His command,” emphasizing that nothing pre-existed to help Him. Creation ex nihilo—Out of Nothing • Hebrews highlights that “what is seen was not made out of what was visible.” • Genesis 1 repeatedly shows God speaking (“And God said…”) before anything appears. • Together they affirm a literal, material universe produced from absolute nothing by God’s word alone. Faith Bridges Us to the Beginning • Hebrews 11:3 opens with “By faith we understand,” reminding us we can’t travel back to Day 1 but we can trust the One who was there. • Genesis 1:1 gives the historical record; Hebrews tells us the proper response—faith. The Power of God’s Word • Psalm 33:6, 9: “By the word of the LORD the heavens were made… For He spoke, and it came to be; He commanded, and it stood firm.” • John 1:1-3, 14 ties the creative word to the Son, showing Christ active in Genesis 1. • Colossians 1:16 reinforces, “All things were created through Him and for Him.” Consistency Across Scripture • Romans 4:17 describes God as the One “who gives life to the dead and calls into being what does not yet exist.” • Revelation 4:11 praises God because “by Your will they existed and were created.” • Each passage echoes Genesis 1:1 and Hebrews 11:3—creation is historical, instantaneous, and accomplished solely by God. Practical Takeaways • Confidence: If God can create the universe from nothing, He can handle any present need. • Worldview: Reality is not random; it begins and ends with the purposeful act of a personal Creator. • Worship: Recognizing God’s creative power deepens awe and gratitude, fueling daily praise. |