Topical Encyclopedia The concept of creation as effected in the beginning is foundational to the Christian understanding of the universe, life, and humanity's place within it. The Bible begins with the account of creation, emphasizing God's sovereign act of bringing the cosmos into existence. This entry explores the biblical narrative of creation, its theological implications, and its significance within the broader biblical canon.Biblical Account of Creation The primary biblical account of creation is found in the opening chapters of Genesis. Genesis 1:1-2 states, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and void, and darkness was over the surface of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the surface of the waters." This passage introduces the concept of creation ex nihilo, or creation out of nothing, underscoring God's omnipotence and the intentionality behind the universe's existence. The creation narrative unfolds over six days, with God speaking various elements of the world into being. Each day is marked by a specific creative act, culminating in the creation of humanity. Genesis 1:27 declares, "So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them." This verse highlights the unique status of human beings as image-bearers of God, endowed with dignity and purpose. Theological Implications The doctrine of creation has profound theological implications. It affirms God's transcendence and immanence, as He is both above and actively involved in His creation. The repeated refrain "And God saw that it was good" (Genesis 1:10, 12, 18, 21, 25, 31) emphasizes the inherent goodness of the created order, reflecting God's character and intentions. Creation also establishes the framework for understanding humanity's relationship with God and the rest of creation. As stewards of the earth, humans are called to exercise dominion and care for the world (Genesis 1:28). This stewardship is rooted in the recognition of God's ultimate ownership and authority over all things. Creation in the Broader Biblical Canon The theme of creation is woven throughout the biblical narrative, serving as a backdrop for God's redemptive work. The Psalms frequently celebrate God's creative power, as seen in Psalm 19:1 : "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands." Similarly, the prophets often appeal to creation to underscore God's sovereignty and faithfulness (Isaiah 40:28). In the New Testament, creation is linked to the person and work of Jesus Christ. John 1:3 affirms, "Through Him all things were made, and without Him nothing was made that has been made." This passage identifies Christ as the divine Logos, the agent of creation, and underscores His preeminence in all things. The eschatological hope of a new creation is also rooted in the biblical understanding of creation. Revelation 21:1 envisions a renewed heaven and earth, where God's presence dwells with His people, restoring the original harmony and goodness of creation. Conclusion The biblical doctrine of creation as effected in the beginning is central to the Christian worldview. It affirms God's sovereignty, the goodness of the created order, and humanity's unique role within it. As the foundation of the biblical narrative, creation informs the understanding of God's redemptive purposes and the ultimate hope of a restored creation. Torrey's Topical Textbook Genesis 1:1In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 24:21 Library Of the Creation of the Human Race in Time, and How this was ... Meaning of the Phrase --In the Beginning Tertullian Connects it ... The Word in Eternity, in the World, and in the Flesh That the Holy Spirit is in Every Conception Separable from the ... The Creaturely Man. Whether the Production of Light is Fittingly Assigned to the First ... He Further Very Appositely Expounds the Meaning of the Term "Only ... Relation of Manich??ism to Zoroastrianism. Whether the Rational Soul is Produced by God Immediately? But You Will Perhaps Seek to Know the Cause of this Error of ... Resources What does it mean that all creation groans (Romans 8:22)? | GotQuestions.orgQuestions about Creation (All) | GotQuestions.org What similarities are there between the Enuma Elish and the Genesis creation account? | 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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