When we look at the world around us—the towering mountains, the vast oceans, the intricate ecosystems, and the diversity of life—we cannot help but marvel at the beauty and complexity of creation. According to the Bible, creation is not a random occurrence or a mere accident of nature. Instead, it is the intentional work of a divine Creator who designed the universe with purpose, precision, and love.
In this post, we will explore the biblical doctrine of creation, which reveals God as the sovereign architect of the cosmos and highlights the uniqueness of humanity’s role within creation. As we dive into the scriptures, we will unpack the significance of creation, its theological implications, and how humanity is called to steward and care for God’s masterpiece.
The Biblical Account of Creation
1. “The Act of Creation: “In the Beginning…”
The Bible opens with a powerful statement:
“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth” (Genesis 1:1).
This opening verse of Scripture establishes God as the Creator of all things, both visible and invisible. It affirms that the universe had a definite beginning, and the creative power and will of God initiated that beginning. The doctrine of creation “ex nihilo” (creation out of nothing) is a foundational belief in Christian theology. It asserts that God did not fashion the world out of pre-existing matter but spoke everything into existence by the power of His word.
Due to various scientific hypotheses (which is a more appropriate label for the theory of evolution), some ‘believe’ the earth is millions of years old, we are not here to argue for or against a young earth but look closely at the text in Genesis 1:1-3, it did not say when God spoke, then the earth was made. The Bible accounts for the creation of life on earth and we will limit this discourse only to that premise. If you are interested in the scientific and theological evidence then head to this wonderful resource: Answers in Genesis. Just to spark your interest, the Bible speaks about Dinosaurs in the book of Job which is the oldest book of the Bible. Back to our topic.
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The six days of creation, as recorded in Genesis 1, describe the systematic and orderly process by which God formed the universe:
Day 1: God created light, separating it from darkness (Genesis 1:3-5)
Day 2: God separated the waters, forming the sky (Genesis 1:6-8)
Day 3: God gathered the waters, allowing dry land to appear, and created vegetation (Genesis 1:9-13)
Day 4: God created the sun, moon, and stars to govern day and night (Genesis 1:14-19)
Day 5: God created the creatures of the sea and the birds of the air (Genesis 1:20-23)
Day 6: God created land animals and, as the pinnacle of His creation, humanity in His own image (Genesis 1:24-27).
The culmination of creation occurs on the seventh day when God rested from His work, establishing the Sabbath as a day of rest and reflection (Genesis 2:2-3). As a matter of principle, you should observe a day of rest, it greatly recharges your life and productivity. Follow the God pattern.
2. The Goodness of Creation
One of the repeated refrains in the Genesis creation account is that God saw what He had made, and it was good (Genesis 1:4, 10, 12, 18, 21, 25). After the creation of humanity, God declared that everything was “very good” (Genesis 1:31). This emphasis on the goodness of creation highlights that the physical world is not inherently evil or corrupt, as some ancient philosophies suggested, but is a reflection of God’s glory and goodness.
Creation, in its original state, was a harmonious and beautiful expression of God’s creativity and wisdom. The earth, the heavens, and all living things were designed to function in perfect balance and unity, each serving a specific purpose within God’s divine order.
3. The Creation of Humanity: Made in God’s Image
The creation of humanity is unique within the biblical narrative. On the sixth day, God said:
“Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth” (Genesis 1:26).
Unlike the rest of creation, humanity is created in the image and likeness of God (“imago Dei”). This concept has profound theological implications and distinguishes humanity from the rest of the animal kingdom. Being made in God’s image means that human beings possess certain qualities that reflect God’s character, such as rationality, creativity, moral responsibility, and the capacity for relationships.
The imago Dei also confers upon humanity a special dignity and value. Every human being, regardless of race, gender, or social status, is endowed with inherent worth because they bear the image of their Creator.
Be careful how you treat others, every human being is an image of God
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4. Humanity’s Role in Creation
After creating humanity, God gave them a mandate, often referred to as the “Cultural Mandate” or the “Dominion Mandate”:
“And God blessed them. And God said to them, ‘Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it, and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over every living thing that moves on the earth'” (Genesis 1:28).
This mandate outlines humanity’s role within creation: to be fruitful, to fill the earth, and to exercise dominion over the rest of creation. However, this dominion is not a license for exploitation or destruction. Rather, it is a call to stewardship. Humanity is entrusted with the care and cultivation of the earth, managing it in a way that reflects God’s own care for His creation.
In Genesis 2:15, Adam is placed in the Garden of Eden to “work it and take care of it.” This suggests that humanity’s role is both to nurture and protect the natural world, ensuring its flourishing and sustainability.
The whole of creation is too complex to have come out of disorder. Entropy increases! There is an intelligent design in place, not randomness.
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Theological Reflections on Creation
1. Creation and the Revelation of God
Creation is not just a backdrop for human activity; it is a means by which God reveals Himself to humanity. The natural world serves as a testimony to God’s existence, power, and majesty. Psalm 19:1 declares:
“The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.”
Likewise, Paul writes in Romans 1:20:
“For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.”
Through the beauty, complexity, and order of creation, God communicates His greatness and invites humanity to know and worship Him. Creation, in this sense, serves as a form of general revelation—accessible to all people, regardless of culture or religion.
2. The Fall and Its Impact on Creation
While creation was originally “very good,” it did not remain in that state. The fall of humanity, as described in Genesis 3, introduced sin and brokenness into the world. As a result of Adam and Eve’s disobedience, the ground was cursed, and creation itself was subjected to frustration and decay (Genesis 3:17-19, Romans 8:20-22).
The fall disrupted the harmony that once existed between humanity and the rest of creation. Instead of exercising dominion in a way that reflects God’s goodness and care, humanity often exploits and abuses the earth for selfish gain. The natural world suffers as a result of human sin, and the effects of the fall are evident in environmental degradation, natural disasters, and the suffering of living creatures.
3. Redemption and the Restoration of Creation
The good news of the Gospel is that God’s redemptive plan extends not only to humanity but to the entire created order. In Romans 8:19-21, Paul writes:
“For the creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed. For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God.”
Christ’s work of redemption is cosmic in scope. Just as sin brought death and decay to creation, so Christ’s resurrection inaugurates the renewal of all things. The ultimate hope of creation is that it will be restored to its original goodness and glory when Christ returns to establish His kingdom in its fullness.
Revelation 21:1-5 describes the new heaven and new earth, where God will dwell with His people, and creation will be fully renewed and restored to its intended purpose.
God has a plan to bring humanity into a new and beautiful world. You have to trust Him and find out the details of this plan from the Bible. Which is easier: locating a destination with a plan in your hand or you’ve got no plan? It is up to you to discover God’s plan. It’s your responsibility.
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Humanity’s Role in Creation Today
1. Stewardship of the Environment
In light of the biblical mandate to care for creation, Christians are called to be responsible stewards of the environment. This means recognizing that the earth and its resources are gifts from God, entrusted to humanity for their proper use and care. Environmental stewardship involves:
a. Sustainable Practices: Ensuring that the use of natural resources is done in a way that preserves the environment for future generations. This includes reducing waste, conserving energy, and protecting ecosystems from destruction.
b. Conservation: Taking steps to protect endangered species, forests, wetlands, and other vital habitats. Conservation efforts reflect the biblical principle of preserving the goodness of creation.
c. Advocacy: Speaking out against environmental injustices, such as pollution, deforestation, and climate change, which disproportionately affect vulnerable communities and degrade God’s creation.
2. Creativity and Culture-Making
Humanity’s role in creation also involves creativity and culture-making. As image-bearers of a creative God, we are called to cultivate the earth and contribute to the flourishing of society. This can take many forms, such as:
a. Art and Music: Creating beauty through artistic expression that reflects God’s creativity and inspires worship. The materials produced should bring glory to God and not degrade humanity at any level.
b. Science and Technology: Advancing knowledge and developing technologies that improve human life while honoring God’s creation. In many ways, science confirms what the Bible says about God and His creation. Do your research.
c. Agriculture and Industry: Cultivating the land and producing goods in a way that benefits humanity while maintaining the health of the environment. Genesis 8:22 is worth noting. It speaks of seed time and harvest.
While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, winter and summer, and day and night shall not cease.
In all of these endeavors, Christians are called to seek the common good and to use their gifts and talents in ways that honour God and bless others.
Conclusion
Creation is God’s masterpiece, a reflection of His glory, power, and wisdom. As humanity, we are uniquely created in God’s image and entrusted with the care of the earth. While sin has brought brokenness and decay to creation, God’s plan of redemption offers the hope of restoration and renewal.
As stewards of God’s creation, we have the responsibility to care for the environment, promote sustainable practices, and contribute to the flourishing of society. By fulfilling our role as God’s image-bearers, we participate in His ongoing work of creation and redemption.
Let us be mindful of our role in creation, seeking to honour God through our care for the earth and our contributions to culture and society. As we do so, we reflect the goodness and creativity of our Creator and anticipate the day when all things will be made new.
Thank you for reading. If you have any reflections on creation or questions about our role as stewards of the earth, feel free to share them in the comments below. Let’s continue to seek understanding and grow together in our faith and stewardship of God’s creation.
Next week, we will be taking a look at “The Fall: Sin and Its Consequences”. Have you ever wondered why a toddler lies without being taught how to lie? See you next week!
Every business has the goal of making a profit, and the business owner will do all that’s possible to ensure that goal is achieved. When a business is not profitable, the owner(s) and the workers are indeed not happy and will strategize and re-strategize to ensure that the business returns to profit.
This should be the attitude of every Christian, as God puts a premium on soul-winning. Remember, the soul is the MOST expensive item in the world.
I never thought of this as a business until I started reading “Personal Evangelism Course” by E.W. Kenyon. This transformative perspective has not only deepened my understanding of evangelism but has also ignited a renewed passion for reaching out to the lost.
The Value of a Soul
In the business world, the value of a commodity drives the intensity and dedication with which business owners pursue it. Similarly, in the spiritual realm, the value of a soul is beyond measure. Jesus Christ Himself emphasized this when He asked, “For what shall it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?” (Mark 8:36). This underscores the immense worth of a single soul, highlighting why we must be relentless in our efforts to win souls for the Kingdom of God.
Strategic Planning for Soul-Winning
Just as businesses have strategic plans, Christians must adopt a strategic approach to evangelism. This involves:
Understanding the Market: Knowing the needs and struggles of those around us. Just as a successful business understands its customers, we must be aware of the spiritual hunger and pain points in our communities.
Effective Communication: Businesses invest in marketing to communicate their value proposition effectively. Similarly, we must be equipped to share the Gospel in a clear, compelling, and relatable manner. This involves continuous learning and practising how to present the message of salvation.
Building Relationships: Successful businesses build strong customer relationships. In soul-winning, building genuine, loving relationships opens hearts to the Gospel. People are more likely to listen and respond to someone they trust and respect.
Utilizing Resources: Businesses leverage various resources to enhance their profitability. We, too, must utilize the resources God has given us – our time, talents, finances, and spiritual gifts – to reach out effectively.
Measuring Success
In business, success is measured by profit margins and growth metrics. In soul-winning, our success is measured by transformed lives and the expansion of God’s Kingdom. Every testimony of a life changed by the Gospel is a testament to our success and a motivation to keep going.
Continuous Improvement
Just as businesses continuously improve their products and services based on feedback and results, we must continually seek to improve our evangelism efforts. This involves prayerfully assessing our methods, learning from our experiences, and being open to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. It’s not just about the number of souls won but also about the quality of our discipleship – nurturing new believers to grow in their faith.
Passion and Commitment
No business thrives without passion and commitment from its owners and workers. Similarly, soul-winning requires a deep passion for the lost and an unwavering commitment to the Great Commission. This passion is fueled by our love for Christ and our desire to see others experience His transformative power.
Take Away
Viewing soul-winning as a business might seem unconventional, but it aligns with the intentional and strategic nature of our mission as Christians. The stakes are incredibly high – eternal destinies hang in the balance. Let us, therefore, adopt a business-like dedication to our evangelistic efforts, knowing that the profit we seek is not material wealth, but the priceless treasure of souls saved for eternity.
Remember, the soul is the MOST expensive item in the world. Let this truth drive us to strategize, re-strategize, and give our all to the divine business of soul-winning. As we invest our time, resources, and hearts into this mission, we will see a return on investment that echoes into eternity.
Life often unfolds in unexpected ways, altering our paths and shaping our destinies in ways we may not immediately recognize. The stories of Rebekah, Joseph, Mary, Moses, and even Judas Iscariot reveal a recurring theme in Scripture: the journey of becoming. Understanding who we are becoming is crucial in aligning with God’s divine plan and purpose for our lives.
2. Identifying Who You Are Becoming
Rebekah’s story is a prime example. She was living her daily life, fulfilling her roles as a daughter and sister, when she encountered Abraham’s servant. Unbeknownst to her, this meeting was a divine appointment. Her acceptance to follow the servant set her on a path to becoming Isaac’s wife and, eventually, a pivotal figure in God’s promise to Abraham. Rebekah did not initially realize the significance of her pregnancy, which carried the future of nations within her.
Similarly, Joseph’s journey from favoured son to Egyptian prime minister was fraught with hardship and uncertainty. Each trial he faced was a step toward his ultimate role as a saviour of his people. In each situation, Joseph remained faithful and diligent, though he could not foresee the full scope of his destiny.
Mary and Joseph also didn’t fully grasp their roles in the divine narrative when they found themselves expecting the Messiah. Their commitment to righteousness placed them in positions they could never have imagined.
Moses, too, underwent a profound transformation. From a prince of Egypt to a fugitive, and finally, to the leader and prophet who would deliver Israel, Moses’ life was a testament to the often unseen but divinely orchestrated journey of becoming.
Judas Iscariot, despite his close association with Jesus, failed to recognize the destructive path he was on until it was too late. His life serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of self-awareness and alignment with God’s will.
3. Enforcing Who You Are Becoming
Once you identify who you are becoming in God’s plan, it’s vital to live in accordance with that truth. John 8:31-32 and Galatians 5:16-18 emphasize the importance of continuing in God’s Word and being led by the Holy Spirit. Your daily actions should reflect the person God is shaping you to be. Whether it’s through prayer, study, or service, consistently align your life with God’s truth and purpose.
4. Changing Who You Are Becoming
If you find that your current path does not align with God’s plan, change is necessary. Acts 2:37-43 highlights the steps to realign with God’s will:
Accept Jesus as Lord and Savior: Begin by acknowledging and accepting Jesus (John 1:12, Romans 10:9-11).
But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name
John 1:12 NKJV
That if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. 11 For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame.”
Romans 10:9-11 NKJV
Study Scripture: Discover what God’s Word says about who you should become.
Engage the Holy Spirit: Seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance to transform and align your life with God’s will (John 16:13-14).
Should you find that you are becoming someone who is not in line with God’s standards—whether it’s as a spouse, parent, minister, or professional—commit to the scriptural guidelines for those roles. Implement changes, and let the Holy Spirit empower you to become who you are meant to be.
5. Reflection and Prayer
It’s essential to continually evaluate and reflect on your spiritual journey. Ask God to reveal who you are becoming and to help you conform to His Word and ways.
Prayer:
Lord, reveal who I am becoming to me and help me to align with Your Word and ways.
Holy Spirit, guide me into all truth and help me to fulfil my divine purpose.
Embrace this journey of becoming with faith and diligence, trusting that God is at work in your life to fulfil His promises and purposes.
What is the most expensive item in the world? The answer might seem relative, depending on one’s financial status and personal values. For some, the pursuit of the most expensive item—be it a car, jewellery, a house, or any other luxurious possession—is a significant life goal. Such items often serve as symbols of success and status, attracting admiration and accolades.
However, according to the greatest teacher ever, Jesus Christ, the true value of life’s most precious item far surpasses any material possession. In Matthew 16:26, He says:
“And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?”
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Let’s take a moment to ponder this profound statement.
The Value of the Soul
Jesus’ question challenges us to reconsider our priorities. He implies that one can amass all the wealth and possessions the world has to offer and still suffer a tremendous loss—losing one’s soul. This verse underscores the unparalleled value of the soul.
“But what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?” – Matthew 16:26
The Incomparable Worth of the Soul
For Jesus to make such a statement highlights the soul’s extraordinary importance. But what makes the soul so valuable?
Eternal Significance: Unlike material possessions, which are temporary, the soul is eternal. It transcends the fleeting nature of earthly wealth and holds everlasting significance.
Divine Creation: The soul is a unique creation of God, imbued with His image and breath of life. Its value is intrinsic and not dependent on external factors.
Relationship with God: The soul’s value is also tied to its potential for a relationship with God. This relationship is the source of true fulfilment and purpose, far beyond what material possessions can provide.
We are too complex to have just happened by chance or random events. We are designed by purpose hence extremely valuable in the universe.
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Reflecting on Priorities
Jesus’ words urge us to reflect on what we truly value. While it’s natural to seek comfort and security through material means, we must not lose sight of what is ultimately most important. Our souls—our very essence and being—are priceless and deserve our utmost care and attention.
Worth Thinking About?
In a world that often measures success by wealth and possessions, Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 16:26 serves as a poignant reminder of the soul’s supreme value. It calls us to prioritize our spiritual well-being and seek a deeper, more meaningful relationship with God. Nothing is worth more than our soul, and no worldly gain can ever compensate for its loss.
Have An Eternal (Long-Term) Value System
Understanding the immense value of the soul encourages us to embrace long-term value systems that transcend immediate gratification and material wealth. Here are key principles to guide us in cultivating these enduring values:
1. Spiritual Growth and Development
Investing in our spiritual growth is paramount. This involves nurturing our relationship with God through regular prayer, meditation, and studying the scriptures. Spiritual disciplines help align our lives with God’s purposes and foster inner peace and fulfilment.
2. Building Strong Relationships
The quality of our relationships significantly impacts our well-being and legacy. Cultivating genuine, loving relationships with family, friends, and community reflects God’s love and creates a supportive network that enriches our lives and the lives of others.
3. Pursuing Integrity and Character
Character and integrity are foundational to long-term success and fulfilment. Upholding honesty, kindness, and ethical behaviour not only honours God but also builds trust and respect with others. Our character shapes our destiny and leaves a lasting impact on those we interact with.
4. Service and Contribution
Serving others and contributing to the greater good aligns with the biblical call to love our neighbours as ourselves. Acts of service, whether through volunteering, mentoring, or supporting charitable causes, reflect Jesus’ teachings and create a positive ripple effect in society.
5. Lifelong Learning and Growth
Embracing a mindset of continuous learning and personal growth enables us to adapt to life’s changes and challenges. Seeking wisdom, whether through education, experiences, or the counsel of others, helps us make informed decisions and grow in our understanding of God’s world.
6. Stewardship of Resources
Faithful stewardship of our resources—time, talents, and treasures—is crucial. This includes managing our finances wisely, using our abilities to serve God and others, and making time for what truly matters. Stewardship reflects gratitude for God’s blessings and ensures that our resources are used purposefully.
7. Legacy and Impact
Consider the legacy you wish to leave behind. Our actions and choices today shape the memories and impact we leave for future generations. Strive to live in a way that reflects God’s love and truth, inspiring others to follow a path of righteousness and purpose.
Conclusion
Embracing long-term value systems rooted in spiritual principles ensures that we prioritize what truly matters. By focusing on spiritual growth, building strong relationships, pursuing integrity, serving others, committing to lifelong learning, stewarding our resources, and considering our legacy, we align our lives with God’s eternal purposes.
Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 16:26 reminds us that no material gain can compare to the value of our souls. As we navigate life’s journey, let us keep our eyes fixed on the eternal and invest in what brings lasting fulfilment and honour to God.
I want to say a big thank you for taking interest in evangelizing the world. This is simply a command from the Lord Jesus and we should take it more seriously seeing the day of the Lord approaching.
This blog will focus on biblical text and insights that help you tell the world about Jesus. Jesus indeed loves everyone in the world but does not love sin. He has already paid for it and if only the world will focus on this love of God, then the world will be a better place. Or better still, the people will be more loving, forgiving, caring and many more things attributes and attitudes that the Lord encouraged us to take on.
As I close this very short first post, I remember the text of Mark 16:15:
And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.
we now have access to the whole world, let’s follow this simple command of the Lord – preach the Gospel! Not self-help, not self-motivation, not 7 steps to greatness or 5 steps to financial prosperity. Just simply the Gospel. The big question is “What is the Gospel?” We will have a look at the Gospel that Paul said he is not ashamed of (Romans 1:16).
May God strengthen your heart and faith to begin to live for Him daily. Amen.
