Topical Encyclopedia The concept of creation by divine command is a central theme in the Bible, illustrating the power and authority of God as the sovereign Creator of the universe. This doctrine is foundational to the understanding of God's nature and His relationship with the created order.Biblical Foundation The account of creation is primarily found in the opening chapters of Genesis. Genesis 1:1-3 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. And God said, 'Let there be light,' and there was light." Here, the phrase "And God said" introduces the divine command that brings creation into existence. This pattern continues throughout the chapter, with each act of creation initiated by God's spoken word. The psalmist also reflects on the power of God's word in creation. Psalm 33:6, 9 declares, "By the word of the LORD the heavens were made, and all the stars by the breath of His mouth... For He spoke, and it came to be; He commanded, and it stood firm." This passage emphasizes the immediacy and effectiveness of God's command in bringing forth the cosmos. Theological Implications The creation by command underscores God's omnipotence and sovereignty. Unlike human artisans who require materials and tools, God creates ex nihilo, or "out of nothing," by the sheer power of His word. This demonstrates His ultimate authority over all things, as nothing exists apart from His will. Furthermore, the act of creation by command reveals God's intentionality and purpose. Each element of creation is brought into being with a specific function and order, reflecting God's wisdom and design. The repeated affirmation that "God saw that it was good" (Genesis 1:10, 12, 18, 21, 25, 31) indicates the perfection and harmony of the created world as it aligns with God's will. New Testament Affirmation The New Testament reaffirms the concept of creation by divine command, attributing the creative work to Jesus Christ, the Word of God. John 1:1-3 states, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through Him all things were made, and without Him nothing was made that has been made." This passage identifies Christ as the agent of creation, emphasizing the continuity of divine action from the Old Testament to the New. The epistle to the Hebrews also highlights the sustaining power of God's word in creation. Hebrews 11:3 asserts, "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 reinforces the belief that the visible world is a product of God's invisible word, affirming the reality of creation as an act of divine will. Conclusion The doctrine of creation by the command of God is a profound testament to His power, wisdom, and purpose. It establishes the framework for understanding the relationship between the Creator and His creation, inviting believers to trust in the God who speaks and brings forth life. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 33:9For he spoke, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast. Torrey's Topical Textbook Hebrews 11:3 Library Other Quotations from Holy Scripture Adduced in Proof of the ... Before his Fall, Adam had not the Power to Believe, Because There ... Introduction to Proverbs viii. 22 Continued. Absurdity of ... Adoption The Lord of Hosts, the God of Jacob Commendation of those who came to Hear after Taking a Meal. ... The Scheme of Necessity Makes God the Author of Sin. South -- the Image of God in Man Wherein is a Partial Inquiry into the Nature of the World, and a ... Easter Tuesday Resources How do beliefs about creation impact the rest of theology? | GotQuestions.orgWhat happened on each of the days of Creation? | GotQuestions.org What is the biblical Creation story? | GotQuestions.org Creation: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Creation by Faith we Believe, to be God's Work Creation: A Subject of Joy to Angels Creation: Daily Renewal of Saints Creation: Effected by the Command of God Creation: Effected by the Holy Spirit Creation: Effected for God's Pleasure Creation: Effected in Six Normal Days Creation: Effected in the Beginning Creation: Effected: According to God's Purpose Creation: Exhibits: God As the Sole Object of Worship Creation: Exhibits: The Deity of God Creation: Exhibits: The Glory and Handiwork of God Creation: Exhibits: The Goodness of God Creation: Exhibits: The Power of God Creation: Exhibits: The Wisdom of God Creation: God Rested From, on the Seventh Day Creation: God to be Praised For Creation: Groans Because of Sin Creation: Insignificance of Man Seen From Creation: Order of Fifth Day, Making Birds, Insects, and Fishes Creation: Order of First Day, Making Light and Dividing It from Darkness Creation: Order of Fourth Day, Placing the Sun, Moon, and Stars to Give Light, Creation: Order of Second Day, Making the Firmament or Atmosphere, Creation: Order of Sixth Day, Making Beasts of the Earth, and Man Creation: Order of Third Day, Separating the Land from the Water, and Making Creation: Renewal of the Earth Creation: The Formation of Things Which had No Previous Existence Related Terms First-begotten (2 Occurrences) |
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