Topical Encyclopedia The concept of creation as effected according to God's purpose is a foundational theme in the Bible, reflecting the divine intentionality and sovereignty in the formation of the universe and all it contains. This entry explores the biblical narrative and theological implications of creation as an act of divine will and purpose.Biblical Narrative The account of creation begins in Genesis, where the Bible describes God as the ultimate source and architect of all that exists. Genesis 1:1 states, "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth." This opening verse establishes God as the initiator of creation, setting the stage for the unfolding of His purposeful design. Throughout the creation narrative, God's purposeful acts are evident. Each day of creation is marked by divine commands and the subsequent emergence of order and life. Genesis 1:31 concludes the creation week with, "And God saw all that He had made, and it was very good." This declaration underscores the perfection and intentionality of God's creative work. Theological Implications 1. Divine Sovereignty and Authority: The creation account affirms God's sovereignty over all creation. As the Creator, God possesses ultimate authority over the universe. Psalm 24:1 declares, "The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof, the world and all who dwell therein." This verse emphasizes that everything belongs to God, reflecting His sovereign rule. 2. Purposeful Design: The intricate design and order of creation reveal God's purposeful intent. Isaiah 45:18 states, "For thus says the LORD, who created the heavens—He is God, who formed the earth and established it, who did not create it to be empty, but formed it to be inhabited." This passage highlights that creation was not a random act but was designed with a specific purpose in mind. 3. Humanity's Role and Responsibility: Humanity holds a unique place in God's creation, being made in His image. Genesis 1:27-28 describes, "So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. God blessed them and said to them, 'Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it; rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and every creature that crawls upon the earth.'" This passage indicates that humans are entrusted with stewardship over creation, reflecting God's purpose for humanity to care for and govern the earth. 4. Creation's Testimony to God's Glory: Creation itself is a testament to God's glory and power. Psalm 19:1 proclaims, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands." The natural world serves as a witness to God's majesty, inviting humanity to recognize and worship the Creator. 5. Redemptive Purpose: The New Testament reveals that creation is also part of God's redemptive plan. Romans 8:20-21 explains, "For the creation was subjected to futility, not by its own will, but because of the One who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God." This passage indicates that creation awaits restoration and renewal, aligning with God's ultimate purpose of redemption through Christ. In summary, the biblical portrayal of creation as effected according to God's purpose emphasizes His sovereignty, intentionality, and the inherent goodness of His creative acts. It calls humanity to recognize their role within creation and to live in accordance with God's divine plan. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 135:6Whatever the LORD pleased, that did he in heaven, and in earth, in the seas, and all deep places. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Of the Creation of the Human Race in Time, and How this was ... The Infallibility of God's Purpose Introduction to Proverbs viii. 22 Continued. Absurdity of ... The Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Ephesians Rom. viii. 28 Easter Tuesday The Work of the Holy Spirit Distinguished. The Work of Grace a Unit. But You Will Perhaps Seek to Know the Cause of this Error of ... The New Man Resources How do beliefs about creation impact the rest of theology? | GotQuestions.orgWhat happened on each of the days of Creation? | GotQuestions.org What is the biblical Creation story? | GotQuestions.org Creation: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Creation by Faith we Believe, to be God's Work Creation: A Subject of Joy to Angels Creation: Daily Renewal of Saints Creation: Effected by the Command of God Creation: Effected by the Holy Spirit Creation: Effected for God's Pleasure Creation: Effected in Six Normal Days Creation: Effected in the Beginning Creation: Effected: According to God's Purpose Creation: Exhibits: God As the Sole Object of Worship Creation: Exhibits: The Deity of God Creation: Exhibits: The Glory and Handiwork of God Creation: Exhibits: The Goodness of God Creation: Exhibits: The Power of God Creation: Exhibits: The Wisdom of God Creation: God Rested From, on the Seventh Day Creation: God to be Praised For Creation: Groans Because of Sin Creation: Insignificance of Man Seen From Creation: Order of Fifth Day, Making Birds, Insects, and Fishes Creation: Order of First Day, Making Light and Dividing It from Darkness Creation: Order of Fourth Day, Placing the Sun, Moon, and Stars to Give Light, Creation: Order of Second Day, Making the Firmament or Atmosphere, Creation: Order of Sixth Day, Making Beasts of the Earth, and Man Creation: Order of Third Day, Separating the Land from the Water, and Making Creation: Renewal of the Earth Creation: The Formation of Things Which had No Previous Existence Related Terms First-begotten (2 Occurrences) |
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