Topical Encyclopedia The Bible, while not explicitly mentioning continents as understood in modern geography, provides a framework for understanding the earth's landmasses through its descriptions of the world and its peoples. The Scriptures often refer to regions, nations, and lands that correspond to parts of the continents known today.Creation and the Earth: The Bible begins with the account of creation, where God forms the earth and separates the waters from the dry land. Genesis 1:9-10 states, "And God said, 'Let the waters under the heavens be gathered into one place, so that the dry land may appear.' And it was so. God called the dry land 'earth,' and the gathering of waters He called 'seas.' And God saw that it was good." This passage establishes the foundational understanding of land and sea, which encompasses the continents as part of God's creation. The Table of Nations: Genesis 10, often referred to as the Table of Nations, outlines the descendants of Noah's sons—Shem, Ham, and Japheth—and their spread across the earth. This chapter provides insight into the early distribution of peoples and the regions they inhabited, which can be associated with various parts of the continents. For example, the descendants of Japheth are often linked to areas in Europe and Asia, while the descendants of Ham are associated with regions in Africa and the Middle East. The Promised Land and Surrounding Nations: Throughout the Old Testament, the land of Canaan, promised to the descendants of Abraham, is a focal point. This region, part of the modern-day Middle East, is central to biblical narratives and is surrounded by nations that correspond to parts of Asia and Africa. The Bible frequently mentions Egypt, a significant nation in Africa, and Assyria and Babylon, which are located in Asia. The Great Commission: In the New Testament, the spread of the Gospel to all nations implies a global reach that encompasses all continents. Jesus' command in Matthew 28:19 states, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit." This directive underscores the universality of the Christian message and its intended reach across all lands and peoples. Prophetic Visions and the Ends of the Earth: The Bible contains prophetic visions that speak to the ends of the earth, suggesting a comprehensive view of the world. Isaiah 45:22 declares, "Turn to Me and be saved, all the ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is no other." Such passages reflect the biblical perspective of God's sovereignty over the entire world, which includes all continents and their inhabitants. The New Heaven and New Earth: Revelation 21:1 speaks of a new creation: "Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and earth had passed away, and the sea was no more." This vision of a renewed creation encompasses the entirety of the earth, transcending the current understanding of continents and emphasizing the ultimate restoration of all creation under God's dominion. In summary, while the Bible does not specifically mention continents, it provides a theological and geographical framework that encompasses the entirety of the earth's landmasses, reflecting God's creation, the spread of humanity, and the global scope of His redemptive plan. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 1:9,10And God said, Let the waters under the heaven be gathered together to one place, and let the dry land appear: and it was so. Nave's Topical Index Job 26:7,10 Job 28:8-11 Job 38:4-18 Psalm 95:5 Psalm 104:5-9 Psalm 136:6 Proverbs 8:29 Proverbs 30:4 Library The Great Controversy The Extent of Messiah's Spiritual Kingdom Acts XVII The Marvels of Holy Scripture, --Moral and Physical. --Jael's Deed ... Introduction Gregory the Great, Bishop of Rome. Chapter vii Chapter i Colossians iii. 17 The Contribution of the Natural and Social Sciences Resources What is Beulah Land? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Promised Land? | GotQuestions.org Why was Israel called the land of milk and honey? | GotQuestions.org Land: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Continents: General Scriptures Concerning Land: Appeared on the Third Creative Day Land: Conveyance of, by Written Deeds and Other Forms Land: Original Title To, from God Land: Sale and Redemption of, Laws Concerning Land: To Rest Every Seventh Year for the Benefit of the Poor People Land: Unmarried Woman's Rights In Related Terms |