Introduction

The concept of God's approval of His creation is a foundational theme in the Bible, reflecting the divine satisfaction and purpose in the act of creation. This approval is expressed through the repeated declaration that what God created was "good," culminating in the pronouncement that it was "very good." This entry explores the biblical basis for understanding God's approval of His creation, focusing on key scriptural passages and theological implications.

Biblical Basis

The primary scriptural account of God's approval of His creation is found in the Book of Genesis. The creation narrative in Genesis 1 provides a detailed account of God's creative work over six days, with each day concluding with a divine assessment of the work accomplished.

1. The Days of Creation:
· Day One: God creates light, separating it from darkness. "God saw that the light was good" (Genesis 1:4).
· Day Two: The expanse (sky) is formed to separate the waters. Although the term "good" is not explicitly used on this day, the structure of creation continues to unfold according to divine order.
· Day Three: God gathers the waters, allowing dry land to appear, and brings forth vegetation. "And God saw that it was good" (Genesis 1:10, 12).
· Day Four: The creation of celestial bodies to govern day and night. "And God saw that it was good" (Genesis 1:18).
· Day Five: The waters and skies are filled with living creatures. "And God saw that it was good" (Genesis 1:21).
· Day Six: Land animals and humanity are created. "And God saw that it was good" (Genesis 1:25). After creating mankind in His own image, God surveys all He has made. "God saw all that He had made, and it was very good" (Genesis 1:31).

2. Theological Implications:
· Divine Satisfaction: The repeated affirmation of creation's goodness underscores God's satisfaction with His work. This satisfaction is not merely aesthetic but reflects the inherent order, purpose, and harmony within creation.
· Humanity's Role: The creation of humanity in God's image (Genesis 1:26-27) is the pinnacle of creation, indicating a special relationship between God and humans. Humanity is entrusted with stewardship over creation, reflecting God's approval and trust in human responsibility.
· Moral and Ethical Dimensions: The declaration of creation as "very good" implies an original state of moral and ethical perfection. This has implications for understanding the fall and the subsequent need for redemption.

Related Themes

1. Creation and Redemption: The approval of creation sets the stage for understanding the fall of humanity and the redemptive work of Christ. The original goodness of creation highlights the tragedy of sin and the necessity of restoration.

2. Sabbath Rest: Following the six days of creation, God rests on the seventh day, sanctifying it (Genesis 2:2-3). This rest signifies completion and divine approval, serving as a model for human rest and worship.

3. New Creation: The theme of God's approval of creation finds its eschatological fulfillment in the promise of a new creation. Revelation 21:1-5 speaks of a renewed heaven and earth, where God's original intent is fully realized, and His approval is eternally manifest.

Conclusion

The biblical narrative of God's approval of His creation provides profound insights into the nature of God, the purpose of creation, and humanity's role within it. This divine approval is a testament to the goodness, order, and intentionality of God's creative work, offering a foundation for understanding the broader biblical account of creation, fall, redemption, and restoration.