Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, the term "foundation" is often used metaphorically to describe the stability and order of the created universe, including the heavens. This figurative application underscores the belief in God's sovereign power and the intentional design of creation. The heavens, as part of God's creation, are depicted as having a foundation, emphasizing their permanence and the divine authority behind their existence.Scriptural References: 1. Psalm 104:5 · "He set the earth on its foundations, never to be moved." While this verse directly refers to the earth, the broader context of Psalm 104 celebrates the majesty of God's creation, including the heavens. The imagery of setting the earth on foundations can be extended to the heavens, suggesting a similar divine establishment and order. 2. Job 38:4-7 · "Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth? Tell Me, if you have understanding. Who fixed its measurements? Surely you know! Or who stretched a measuring line across it? On what were its foundations set, or who laid its cornerstone, while the morning stars sang together and all the sons of God shouted for joy?" In this passage, God challenges Job by highlighting the mysteries of creation. The mention of the "morning stars" and "sons of God" singing and shouting for joy at the laying of the earth's foundations can be seen as a poetic depiction of the heavens' involvement in creation, further implying their own foundational establishment. 3. Isaiah 48:13 · "Indeed, My hand laid the foundation of the earth, and My right hand spread out the heavens; when I summon them, they stand up together." Here, the parallelism between laying the earth's foundation and spreading out the heavens suggests a similar foundational act for both realms. The heavens are portrayed as being spread out by God's hand, indicating His control and the intentionality behind their creation. Theological Implications: The figurative application of "foundation" to the heavens serves to highlight the orderliness and reliability of the cosmos as part of God's creation. It reflects the belief that just as a building requires a solid foundation to stand firm, so too do the heavens rest upon the sure foundation of God's will and power. This imagery reassures believers of the stability and constancy of the universe, rooted in the unchanging nature of God. Furthermore, the use of foundational language in relation to the heavens underscores the interconnectedness of all creation. The heavens, like the earth, are part of a divinely orchestrated cosmos, each element fulfilling its role within God's grand design. This perspective encourages a sense of awe and reverence for the Creator, who has established the heavens with wisdom and purpose. In summary, the metaphorical use of "foundation" in reference to the heavens in Scripture serves to affirm God's sovereignty, the intentionality of creation, and the enduring stability of the universe as a testament to His divine authority. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Samuel 22:8Then the earth shook and trembled; the foundations of heaven moved and shook, because he was wroth. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Faustus Asserts that Even if the Old Testament could be Shown to ... The Figurative Language of Scripture. He Then once More Excellently, Appropriately, and Clearly Examines ... Interpretation of Prophecy. The Prophet Joel. How Christ Performed the Office of Redeemer in Procuring Our ... The Doctrine of God The Seven Trumpets. The Tabernacle of the Most High A Discourse Resources What does the Bible say about hope? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the rock in Matthew 16:18? | GotQuestions.org Who was Zerubbabel in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Foundation: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Foundation: Decrees and Purposes of God Foundation: Doctrines of the Apostles Foundation: Figuratively Applied to Kingdoms Foundation: Figuratively Applied to The Earth Foundation: Figuratively Applied to The Heavens Foundation: Figuratively Applied to The Mountains Foundation: Figuratively Applied to The Ocean Foundation: Figuratively Applied to The World Foundation: First Principles of the Gospel Foundation: Joined Together by Corner Stones Foundation: Security Afforded By Foundation: Security of Saints' Inheritance Foundation: The Lowest Part of a Building, and on Which It Rests Related Terms Foundation-stone (1 Occurrence) |
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