More than centering focus on creation, Genesis 1 focuses on the God who began everything. Rather than concentrating on details in the creation story, “Man’s meaning is to be found not in himself or in his natural environment but in relationship to the Maker, for God is the source not only of all being but also of value, hope, and purpose” (Arthur Holmes).
“Beginning” introduces God’s plan of salvation and its unfolding. Only God is the subject of “created” in the Old Testament. Only God can bring something into being that did not previously exist. Human creativity only can come from sources that already exist. Humans have no claim upon God or against Him: “God is the One who determines all things and is determined by none” (Emil Brunner), so God is absolutely independent of all that exists.
“Heavens and earth” refers not only to the natural world but also to unseen things. Grace acted with initiative to express the perfect love of His nature. To that purpose, humankind is dependent on God for life and for livelihood from created things. What He created was for human benefit (1:29).
He continues to provide what we need to excel in life and please Him, for what God created for us is still here.
Augustine observed, “All substance that is not God is creature; and all that is not creature is God.” His thought on creation affirms the sovereignty of God. Sovereignty means God is in control and remains in control always. Under His sovereignty, what humans do should be the development of the Creator’s will. His sovereignty commands our allegiance, our faithfulness to Him in the present. And there is a day of accounting coming when every person will answer to Him. The faithful will be with Him: “According to His promise we are looking for new heavens and a new earth, in which righteousness dwells” (Second Peter 3:13).
For the present, creation challenges us toward responsible stewardship. As the work of God, creation demands we act responsibly in using it. Goodness characterized creation (1:31). Our use of it should also.
How does our view of creation connect to the gospel of Jesus? Creation was an act of God’s grace; salvation is by God’s grace. Jesus is Lord over creation; He is Lord over your life as well. You are living out your life before the Lord. Live well before Him.
Dr. David Moore can be contacted at dm5867se@outlook.com
