Topical Encyclopedia The concept of creation as an exhibition of God's glory and handiwork is a central theme in the Bible, reflecting the majesty, power, and wisdom of the Creator. The Scriptures consistently affirm that the natural world is a testament to God's divine attributes and serves as a visible manifestation of His invisible qualities.Biblical Foundation The opening chapters of Genesis lay the groundwork for understanding creation as the handiwork of God. Genesis 1:1 declares, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." This foundational statement establishes God as the ultimate source and sustainer of all that exists. The subsequent verses describe the orderly and purposeful process by which God brought the universe into being, culminating in the creation of humanity in His own image (Genesis 1:26-27). The Psalms frequently celebrate creation as a display of God's glory. Psalm 19:1-2 proclaims, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge." This passage emphasizes that the natural world continuously communicates the magnificence of its Creator, offering a silent yet profound testimony to His greatness. Creation as Revelation The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Romans, underscores the revelatory nature of creation. Romans 1:20 states, "For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—His eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse." Here, Paul argues that the evidence of God's existence and attributes is so evident in creation that it leaves humanity without excuse for unbelief. The Wisdom and Power of God The book of Job also reflects on creation as a demonstration of God's wisdom and power. In Job 38-41, God speaks to Job out of the whirlwind, highlighting various aspects of the natural world as evidence of His unparalleled wisdom and might. Job 38:4-5 records God's challenge: "Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth? Tell Me, if you have understanding. Who fixed its measurements? Surely you know!" These rhetorical questions emphasize the vastness of God's knowledge and the intricacy of His creative work. Humanity's Role and Responsibility While creation reveals God's glory, it also establishes humanity's role and responsibility within the created order. Genesis 1:28 records God's mandate to humanity: "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 command entrusts humans with stewardship over creation, calling them to manage and care for it in a way that honors the Creator. Worship and Awe The recognition of creation as God's handiwork naturally leads to worship and awe. The book of Revelation envisions a scene of heavenly worship where the twenty-four elders fall before God, declaring, "You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for You created all things, and by Your will they exist and came to be" (Revelation 4:11). This acknowledgment of God's creative authority inspires reverence and adoration. Conclusion The biblical portrayal of creation as an exhibition of God's glory and handiwork invites believers to contemplate the majesty of the Creator and to respond with worship, stewardship, and a deeper understanding of His divine nature. Through the beauty and complexity of the natural world, God reveals Himself, inviting humanity to know Him and to marvel at His infinite wisdom and power. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 19:1The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows his handiwork. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Typical Significance of the Scriptures Declare their Divine ... Three Homilies. On Our Lord. Period iii. The Critical Period: AD 140 to AD 200 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) |
    |