Definition and Concept
Creation ex nihilo is a theological doctrine that asserts God created the universe out of nothing. This concept is foundational to the understanding of God's omnipotence and sovereignty, emphasizing that the material universe was not formed from pre-existing matter but was brought into existence by the divine will and command of God.

Biblical Basis
The doctrine of creation ex nihilo is supported by various passages in the Bible, which highlight God's unique role as the Creator. Genesis 1:1 states, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." This verse introduces the biblical narrative with the assertion that God is the originator of all things, setting the stage for the subsequent acts of creation described in Genesis.

Hebrews 11:3 further reinforces this concept: "By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible." This passage underscores the belief that the visible world was not crafted from pre-existing materials but was spoken into existence by God's command.

The Gospel of John also affirms this doctrine in John 1:3: "Through Him all things were made, and without Him nothing was made that has been made." This verse attributes the act of creation to the Word, identifying Jesus Christ as the divine agent through whom all things came into being.

Theological Implications
Creation ex nihilo has significant theological implications. It affirms God's absolute authority and independence, as He is not reliant on anything outside Himself to create. This doctrine also highlights the distinction between Creator and creation, emphasizing that the universe is contingent upon God for its existence and sustenance.

Furthermore, creation ex nihilo underscores the idea of God's transcendence and immanence. While God is wholly other and distinct from His creation, He is also intimately involved with it, sustaining and governing all things by His power and wisdom.

Historical Development
The doctrine of creation ex nihilo was articulated and defended by early Church Fathers in response to various philosophical and theological challenges. In the face of Greek philosophical ideas that posited the eternity of matter, early Christian theologians like Irenaeus and Tertullian emphasized the biblical teaching of creation from nothing to uphold the uniqueness and supremacy of the Christian God.

The doctrine was further developed in the writings of Augustine, who argued against the notion of pre-existing matter and affirmed that God created time itself along with the universe. This understanding was later codified in the creeds and confessions of the Church, becoming a central tenet of orthodox Christian theology.

Contemporary Relevance
In contemporary discussions, creation ex nihilo remains a vital doctrine, particularly in dialogues between science and faith. It provides a framework for understanding the origins of the universe that is consistent with the biblical narrative, while also engaging with scientific theories about the beginning of the cosmos.

The doctrine also serves as a foundation for Christian environmental ethics, as it affirms the goodness and intentionality of God's creation, calling believers to steward the earth responsibly in accordance with God's purposes.

Conclusion
While the doctrine of creation ex nihilo is not explicitly stated in a single biblical verse, it is a coherent and consistent interpretation of the biblical witness to God's creative activity. It remains a cornerstone of Christian theology, shaping the understanding of God's nature, the relationship between Creator and creation, and the purpose and destiny of the universe.