Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, the term "foundation" is often used figuratively to describe the creation and establishment of the world. This metaphorical application underscores the divine order and stability that God has instituted in the cosmos. The concept of the world's foundation is deeply rooted in the understanding of God's sovereignty and creative power.Scriptural References: 1. Hebrews 1:10 : "And: 'In the beginning, Lord, You laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the work of Your hands.'" This verse highlights the foundational act of creation, attributing the establishment of the earth to the Lord's sovereign will and craftsmanship. It emphasizes the divine initiative in bringing the universe into existence. 2. Psalm 102:25 : "In the beginning You laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the work of Your hands." This psalm echoes the theme of God's creative authority, portraying the earth's foundation as a testament to His eternal nature and unchanging purpose. 3. Job 38:4-6 : "Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth? Tell Me, if you have understanding. Who fixed its measurements? Surely you know! Or who stretched a measuring line across it? On what were its foundations set, or who laid its cornerstone?" In this passage, God challenges Job, using the imagery of construction to illustrate His unparalleled wisdom and power in establishing the earth. The rhetorical questions serve to remind humanity of its limited understanding compared to the Creator's infinite knowledge. 4. Proverbs 8:29 : "when He set a boundary for the sea, so that the waters would not surpass His command, when He marked out the foundations of the earth." Here, wisdom is personified and speaks of the order and boundaries God established at creation. The foundations of the earth are depicted as part of the divine decree that maintains cosmic order. Theological Implications: The figurative use of "foundation" in reference to the world underscores several key theological themes: · Divine Sovereignty: The foundation of the world is a testament to God's ultimate authority and control over creation. It reflects His intentional design and purpose in the universe. · Order and Stability: The imagery of a foundation conveys the idea of stability and order. Just as a building relies on a solid foundation, the world is sustained by God's unchanging nature and providential care. · Wisdom and Knowledge: The biblical texts emphasize that the foundation of the world is laid with divine wisdom and understanding, surpassing human comprehension. This serves as a reminder of the Creator's infinite wisdom. · Eternal Nature: The foundation of the world is often linked to God's eternal nature, highlighting that His creative acts are not bound by time and that His purposes endure throughout generations. In summary, the figurative application of "foundation" to the world in Scripture serves as a powerful metaphor for God's creative authority, the order of the cosmos, and the enduring nature of His divine plan. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 18:15Then the channels of waters were seen, and the foundations of the world were discovered at your rebuke, O LORD, at the blast of the breath of your nostrils. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 13:35 Library Faustus Asserts that Even if the Old Testament could be Shown to ... On Zeal This vision Interpreted by Tertullian of the Resurrection of the ... Philo's Account of the Ascetics of Egypt. The Figurative Language of Scripture. The Section Chap. I. -iii. Sin's Writing and Its Erasure The Great Confession - the Great Commission - the Great ... The Last Discourses of Christ - the Prayer of Consecration. How Christ Performed the Office of Redeemer in Procuring Our ... Resources What does the Bible say about hope? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the rock in Matthew 16:18? | GotQuestions.org Who was Zerubbabel in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Foundation: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Foundation: Decrees and Purposes of God Foundation: Doctrines of the Apostles Foundation: Figuratively Applied to Kingdoms Foundation: Figuratively Applied to The Earth Foundation: Figuratively Applied to The Heavens Foundation: Figuratively Applied to The Mountains Foundation: Figuratively Applied to The Ocean Foundation: Figuratively Applied to The World Foundation: First Principles of the Gospel Foundation: Joined Together by Corner Stones Foundation: Security Afforded By Foundation: Security of Saints' Inheritance Foundation: The Lowest Part of a Building, and on Which It Rests Related Terms Foundation-stone (1 Occurrence) |
    |