The phrase "the surface of the whole earth" is a concept that appears in various contexts throughout the Bible, often emphasizing God's creation, sovereignty, and the universality of His presence and judgment. This entry explores the biblical understanding of the earth's surface, its theological implications, and its significance in the biblical narrative.

Creation and Sovereignty

The Bible begins with the account of creation, where God forms the earth and all that is within it. Genesis 1:1-2 states, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and void, and darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the surface of the waters." Here, the "surface of the waters" indicates the initial state of the earth before God shaped it into a habitable world. The creation narrative underscores God's authority over the entire earth, as He commands the land to appear and vegetation to grow upon its surface (Genesis 1:9-12).

The Flood and Judgment

The surface of the earth is also central to the narrative of the Great Flood, where God's judgment is executed upon humanity's wickedness. Genesis 7:18-19 describes the floodwaters prevailing "greatly upon the earth, and all the high mountains under the whole heaven were covered." The flood narrative illustrates the extent of God's judgment, as the waters cover the entire surface of the earth, eradicating all life except for Noah, his family, and the animals aboard the ark. This event serves as a powerful reminder of God's righteousness and the consequences of sin.

The Tower of Babel

In Genesis 11, the account of the Tower of Babel highlights humanity's attempt to assert its independence from God. The people, unified by a single language, seek to build a city and a tower that reaches the heavens. Genesis 11:4 records their intent: "Come, let us build ourselves a city, with a tower that reaches to the heavens, that we may make a name for ourselves and not be scattered over the face of the whole earth." God's response is to confuse their language and scatter them across the earth's surface, demonstrating His control over human affairs and His desire for humanity to fill the earth as originally commanded (Genesis 1:28).

God's Presence and Provision

The surface of the earth is also a testament to God's provision and care for His creation. In Psalm 104, the psalmist praises God for His works, noting how He "waters the mountains from His chambers; the earth is satisfied by the fruit of His works" (Psalm 104:13). The earth's surface, with its diverse ecosystems and resources, reflects God's ongoing sustenance and the abundance He provides for all living creatures.

Prophetic Visions and Eschatology

Prophetic literature often uses the imagery of the earth's surface to convey messages of hope and restoration. Isaiah 11:9 envisions a future where "the earth will be full of the knowledge of the LORD as the sea is full of water." This prophetic vision anticipates a time when God's glory and knowledge will cover the entire earth, transforming it into a place of peace and righteousness.

In the New Testament, the Great Commission given by Jesus to His disciples in Matthew 28:19-20 echoes the theme of spreading God's message across the earth: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you." This command underscores the global scope of the Gospel and the call for believers to reach every corner of the earth.

Conclusion

The surface of the whole earth, as depicted in the Bible, is a canvas upon which God's creative power, judgment, provision, and redemptive plan are displayed. It serves as a reminder of His sovereignty and the ultimate fulfillment of His purposes for creation.