Creationology Doctrine of Creation Part 4 Days of Creation:
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Days of Creation: Literal Days or Long Ages?
Days of Creation: Literal Days or Long Ages?
A Brief Summary of Evidence
A Brief Summary of Evidence
Are the days of creation literal days or long ages ("Progressive Creation")?
Are the days of creation literal days or long ages ("Progressive Creation")?
Is the Genesis account of creation literal history and fact, or is it symbol, myth, and legend?
Is the Genesis account of creation literal history and fact, or is it symbol, myth, and legend?
Can the Bible teaching about creation be harmonized with the claims of evolution and many "scientists" that the earth and life developed gradually over billions of years?
Can the Bible teaching about creation be harmonized with the claims of evolution and many "scientists" that the earth and life developed gradually over billions of years?
Does it really matter?
Does it really matter?
Consider the evidence in the Bible itself.
Consider the evidence in the Bible itself.
This is a summary of this subject.
This is a summary of this subject.
The Days of Creation:
The Days of Creation:
Literal Days or Long Ages? (Non-technical)
Literal Days or Long Ages? (Non-technical)
A Detailed Analysis of the Length of the Days of Creation
A Detailed Analysis of the Length of the Days of Creation
Should we view the "days" of Genesis 1 as long periods to harmonize with evolutionary "science," or are they literal, consecutive days?
Should we view the "days" of Genesis 1 as long periods to harmonize with evolutionary "science," or are they literal, consecutive days?
To weaken the doctrine about the days of creation is to weaken the doctrine of creation itself, which in turn undermines faith in God and the Bible as God's word.
To weaken the doctrine about the days of creation is to weaken the doctrine of creation itself, which in turn undermines faith in God and the Bible as God's word.
(Note that "day" must have the same meaning for each of the "days" of creation.)
(Note that "day" must have the same meaning for each of the "days" of creation.)
Here is a brief summary of the evidence in the Bible.
Here is a brief summary of the evidence in the Bible.
(1) Some say "a day is as a thousand years with God."
(1) Some say "a day is as a thousand years with God."
But "science" requires periods of billions of years, not thousands.
But "science" requires periods of billions of years, not thousands.
No Bible verse uses the word "day" for periods that long!
No Bible verse uses the word "day" for periods that long!
(2) Study of context shows that, in about 95% of cases, YOM ("day") refers either to a literal 24-hour day or to the period of daylight (in contrast to night).
(2) Study of context shows that, in about 95% of cases, YOM ("day") refers either to a literal 24-hour day or to the period of daylight (in contrast to night).
So "day" is the normal meaning; and in a historical context, the normal use should be accepted unless context proves otherwise.
So "day" is the normal meaning; and in a historical context, the normal use should be accepted unless context proves otherwise.
(3) Two passages say God created all things in six "days": Exodus 20:11; 31:17.
(3) Two passages say God created all things in six "days": Exodus 20:11; 31:17.
For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.
It is a sign between me and the children of Israel for ever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed.
"Days" (plural) occurs almost 600 times in Bible history, doctrine, and poetry.
"Days" (plural) occurs almost 600 times in Bible history, doctrine, and poetry.
In every case, "days" is literal.
In every case, "days" is literal.
Moses himself uses "days" 191 times.
Moses himself uses "days" 191 times.
All are literal; none refer to long ages.
All are literal; none refer to long ages.
(4) Three passages refer to days of creation using a cardinal number ("one," "two," etc.): Exodus 20:11; 31:17; Genesis 1:5.
(4) Three passages refer to days of creation using a cardinal number ("one," "two," etc.): Exodus 20:11; 31:17; Genesis 1:5.
For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.
It is a sign between me and the children of Israel for ever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed.
And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day.
A total of at least Bible 235 verses of history or doctrine contain "day" with a cardinal number.
A total of at least Bible 235 verses of history or doctrine contain "day" with a cardinal number.
Every one of them refers to literal days.
Every one of them refers to literal days.
Moses uses "day" with a cardinal number over 100 times.
Moses uses "day" with a cardinal number over 100 times.
Always it refers to literal days, never to longer periods!
Always it refers to literal days, never to longer periods!
(5) Ten verses refer to creation using "day" with an ordinal number ("first," "second," etc.): Gen. 1:8,13,19,23,31; 2:2,3; Exo. 20:11; 31:17; Heb. 4:4.
(5) Ten verses refer to creation using "day" with an ordinal number ("first," "second," etc.): Gen. 1:8,13,19,23,31; 2:2,3; Exo. 20:11; 31:17; Heb. 4:4.
And God called the firmament Heaven. And the evening and the morning were the second day.
And the evening and the morning were the third day.
And the evening and the morning were the fourth day.
And the evening and the morning were the fifth day.
And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day.
And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made.
And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made.
For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.
It is a sign between me and the children of Israel for ever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed.
For he spake in a certain place of the seventh day on this wise, And God did rest the seventh day from all his works.
In all, Moses uses "day" with an ordinal number over 100 times.
It always mean literal days, never longer periods!
Further, when "day" is used with an ordinal number, the days are always consecutive, without exception.
(6) The Bible contains thirteen examples in which "day" with an ordinal number refers to two or more days in sequence (a "first day," "second day," etc.).
(6) The Bible contains thirteen examples in which "day" with an ordinal number refers to two or more days in sequence (a "first day," "second day," etc.).
Every one of these cases describes consecutive literal 24-hour days! Genesis 1:8-2:3; Exodus 14:9,10; Numbers 6:9,10; Numbers 7:12-78; Numbers 28:16,17; Numbers 29:17-35; Joshua 6:14,15; Judges 19:5-8; Judges 20:22-30; Esther 9:17; Esther 9:18; Esther 9:21; Ezekiel 45:21-25.
Every one of these cases describes consecutive literal 24-hour days! Genesis 1:8-2:3; Exodus 14:9,10; Numbers 6:9,10; Numbers 7:12-78; Numbers 28:16,17; Numbers 29:17-35; Joshua 6:14,15; Judges 19:5-8; Judges 20:22-30; Esther 9:17; Esther 9:18; Esther 9:21; Ezekiel 45:21-25.
And God called the firmament Heaven. And the evening and the morning were the second day.
And God said, Let the waters under the heaven be gathered together unto one place, and let the dry land appear: and it was so.
And God called the dry land Earth; and the gathering together of the waters called he Seas: and God saw that it was good.
And God said, Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed, and the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seed is in itself, upon the earth: and it was so.
And the earth brought forth grass, and herb yielding seed after his kind, and the tree yielding fruit, whose seed was in itself, after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
And the evening and the morning were the third day.
And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years:
And let them be for lights in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth: and it was so.
And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night: he made the stars also.
And God set them in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth,
And to rule over the day and over the night, and to divide the light from the darkness: and God saw that it was good.
And the evening and the morning were the fourth day.
And God said, Let the waters bring forth abundantly the moving creature that hath life, and fowl that may fly above the earth in the open firmament of heaven.
And God created great whales, and every living creature that moveth, which the waters brought forth abundantly, after their kind, and every winged fowl after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
And God blessed them, saying, Be fruitful, and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let fowl multiply in the earth.
And the evening and the morning were the fifth day.
And God said, Let the earth bring forth the living creature after his kind, cattle, and creeping thing, and beast of the earth after his kind: and it was so.
And God made the beast of the earth after his kind, and cattle after their kind, and every thing that creepeth upon the earth after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
And 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 fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.
And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.
And to every beast of the earth, and to every fowl of the air, and to every thing that creepeth upon the earth, wherein there is life, I have given every green herb for meat: and it was so.
And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day.
Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them.
And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made.
And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made.
But the Egyptians pursued after them, all the horses and chariots of Pharaoh, and his horsemen, and his army, and overtook them encamping by the sea, beside Pi-hahiroth, before Baal-zephon.
And when Pharaoh drew nigh, the children of Israel lifted up their eyes, and, behold, the Egyptians marched after them; and they were sore afraid: and the children of Israel cried out unto the Lord.
And if any man die very suddenly by him, and he hath defiled the head of his consecration; then he shall shave his head in the day of his cleansing, on the seventh day shall he shave it.
And on the eighth day he shall bring two turtles, or two young pigeons, to the priest, to the door of the tabernacle of the congregation:
And he that offered his offering the first day was Nahshon the son of Amminadab, of the tribe of Judah:
And his offering was one silver charger, the weight thereof was an hundred and thirty shekels, one silver bowl of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary; both of them were full of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering:
One spoon of ten shekels of gold, full of incense:
One young bullock, one ram, one lamb of the first year, for a burnt offering:
One kid of the goats for a sin offering:
And for a sacrifice of peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year: this was the offering of Nahshon the son of Amminadab.
On the second day Nethaneel the son of Zuar, prince of Issachar, did offer:
He offered for his offering one silver charger, the weight whereof was an hundred and thirty shekels, one silver bowl of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary; both of them full of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering:
One spoon of gold of ten shekels, full of incense:
One young bullock, one ram, one lamb of the first year, for a burnt offering:
One kid of the goats for a sin offering:
And for a sacrifice of peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year: this was the offering of Nethaneel the son of Zuar.
On the third day Eliab the son of Helon, prince of the children of Zebulun, did offer:
His offering was one silver charger, the weight whereof was an hundred and thirty shekels, one silver bowl of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary; both of them full of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering:
One golden spoon of ten shekels, full of incense:
One young bullock, one ram, one lamb of the first year, for a burnt offering:
One kid of the goats for a sin offering:
And for a sacrifice of peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year: this was the offering of Eliab the son of Helon.
On the fourth day Elizur the son of Shedeur, prince of the children of Reuben, did offer:
His offering was one silver charger of the weight of an hundred and thirty shekels, one silver bowl of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary; both of them full of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering:
One golden spoon of ten shekels, full of incense:
One young bullock, one ram, one lamb of the first year, for a burnt offering:
One kid of the goats for a sin offering:
And for a sacrifice of peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year: this was the offering of Elizur the son of Shedeur.
On the fifth day Shelumiel the son of Zurishaddai, prince of the children of Simeon, did offer:
His offering was one silver charger, the weight whereof was an hundred and thirty shekels, one silver bowl of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary; both of them full of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering:
One golden spoon of ten shekels, full of incense:
One young bullock, one ram, one lamb of the first year, for a burnt offering:
One kid of the goats for a sin offering:
And for a sacrifice of peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year: this was the offering of Shelumiel the son of Zurishaddai.
On the sixth day Eliasaph the son of Deuel, prince of the children of Gad, offered:
His offering was one silver charger of the weight of an hundred and thirty shekels, a silver bowl of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary; both of them full of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering:
One golden spoon of ten shekels, full of incense:
One young bullock, one ram, one lamb of the first year, for a burnt offering:
One kid of the goats for a sin offering:
And for a sacrifice of peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year: this was the offering of Eliasaph the son of Deuel.
On the seventh day Elishama the son of Ammihud, prince of the children of Ephraim, offered:
His offering was one silver charger, the weight whereof was an hundred and thirty shekels, one silver bowl of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary; both of them full of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering:
One golden spoon of ten shekels, full of incense:
One young bullock, one ram, one lamb of the first year, for a burnt offering:
One kid of the goats for a sin offering:
And for a sacrifice of peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year: this was the offering of Elishama the son of Ammihud.
On the eighth day offered Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur, prince of the children of Manasseh:
His offering was one silver charger of the weight of an hundred and thirty shekels, one silver bowl of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary; both of them full of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering:
One golden spoon of ten shekels, full of incense:
One young bullock, one ram, one lamb of the first year, for a burnt offering:
One kid of the goats for a sin offering:
And for a sacrifice of peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year: this was the offering of Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur.
On the ninth day Abidan the son of Gideoni, prince of the children of Benjamin, offered:
His offering was one silver charger, the weight whereof was an hundred and thirty shekels, one silver bowl of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary; both of them full of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering:
One golden spoon of ten shekels, full of incense:
One young bullock, one ram, one lamb of the first year, for a burnt offering:
One kid of the goats for a sin offering:
And for a sacrifice of peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year: this was the offering of Abidan the son of Gideoni.
On the tenth day Ahiezer the son of Ammishaddai, prince of the children of Dan, offered:
His offering was one silver charger, the weight whereof was an hundred and thirty shekels, one silver bowl of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary; both of them full of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering:
One golden spoon of ten shekels, full of incense:
One young bullock, one ram, one lamb of the first year, for a burnt offering:
One kid of the goats for a sin offering:
And for a sacrifice of peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year: this was the offering of Ahiezer the son of Ammishaddai.
On the eleventh day Pagiel the son of Ocran, prince of the children of Asher, offered:
His offering was one silver charger, the weight whereof was an hundred and thirty shekels, one silver bowl of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary; both of them full of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering:
One golden spoon of ten shekels, full of incense:
One young bullock, one ram, one lamb of the first year, for a burnt offering:
One kid of the goats for a sin offering:
And for a sacrifice of peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year: this was the offering of Pagiel the son of Ocran.
On the twelfth day Ahira the son of Enan, prince of the children of Naphtali, offered:
And in the fourteenth day of the first month is the passover of the Lord.
And in the fifteenth day of this month is the feast: seven days shall unleavened bread be eaten.
And on the second day ye shall offer twelve young bullocks, two rams, fourteen lambs of the first year without spot:
And their meat offering and their drink offerings for the bullocks, for the rams, and for the lambs, shall be according to their number, after the manner:
And one kid of the goats for a sin offering; beside the continual burnt offering, and the meat offering thereof, and their drink offerings.
And on the third day eleven bullocks, two rams, fourteen lambs of the first year without blemish;
And their meat offering and their drink offerings for the bullocks, for the rams, and for the lambs, shall be according to their number, after the manner:
And one goat for a sin offering; beside the continual burnt offering, and his meat offering, and his drink offering.
And on the fourth day ten bullocks, two rams, and fourteen lambs of the first year without blemish:
Their meat offering and their drink offerings for the bullocks, for the rams, and for the lambs, shall be according to their number, after the manner:
And one kid of the goats for a sin offering; beside the continual burnt offering, his meat offering, and his drink offering.
And on the fifth day nine bullocks, two rams, and fourteen lambs of the first year without spot:
And their meat offering and their drink offerings for the bullocks, for the rams, and for the lambs, shall be according to their number, after the manner:
And one goat for a sin offering; beside the continual burnt offering, and his meat offering, and his drink offering.
And on the sixth day eight bullocks, two rams, and fourteen lambs of the first year without blemish:
And their meat offering and their drink offerings for the bullocks, for the rams, and for the lambs, shall be according to their number, after the manner:
And one goat for a sin offering; beside the continual burnt offering, his meat offering, and his drink offering.
And on the seventh day seven bullocks, two rams, and fourteen lambs of the first year without blemish:
And their meat offering and their drink offerings for the bullocks, for the rams, and for the lambs, shall be according to their number, after the manner:
And one goat for a sin offering; beside the continual burnt offering, his meat offering, and his drink offering.
On the eighth day ye shall have a solemn assembly: ye shall do no servile work therein:
And the second day they compassed the city once, and returned into the camp: so they did six days.
And it came to pass on the seventh day, that they rose early about the dawning of the day, and compassed the city after the same manner seven times: only on that day they compassed the city seven times.
And it came to pass on the fourth day, when they arose early in the morning, that he rose up to depart: and the damsel’s father said unto his son in law, Comfort thine heart with a morsel of bread, and afterward go your way.
And they sat down, and did eat and drink both of them together: for the damsel’s father had said unto the man, Be content, I pray thee, and tarry all night, and let thine heart be merry.
And when the man rose up to depart, his father in law urged him: therefore he lodged there again.
And he arose early in the morning on the fifth day to depart: and the damsel’s father said, Comfort thine heart, I pray thee. And they tarried until afternoon, and they did eat both of them.
And the people the men of Israel encouraged themselves, and set their battle again in array in the place where they put themselves in array the first day.
(And the children of Israel went up and wept before the Lord until even, and asked counsel of the Lord, saying, Shall I go up again to battle against the children of Benjamin my brother? And the Lord said, Go up against him.)
And the children of Israel came near against the children of Benjamin the second day.
And Benjamin went forth against them out of Gibeah the second day, and destroyed down to the ground of the children of Israel again eighteen thousand men; all these drew the sword.
Then all the children of Israel, and all the people, went up, and came unto the house of God, and wept, and sat there before the Lord, and fasted that day until even, and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings before the Lord.
And the children of Israel inquired of the Lord, (for the ark of the covenant of God was there in those days,
And Phinehas, the son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron, stood before it in those days,) saying, Shall I yet again go out to battle against the children of Benjamin my brother, or shall I cease? And the Lord said, Go up; for to morrow I will deliver them into thine hand.
And Israel set liers in wait round about Gibeah.
And the children of Israel went up against the children of Benjamin on the third day, and put themselves in array against Gibeah, as at other times.
On the thirteenth day of the month Adar; and on the fourteenth day of the same rested they, and made it a day of feasting and gladness.
But the Jews that were at Shushan assembled together on the thirteenth day thereof, and on the fourteenth thereof; and on the fifteenth day of the same they rested, and made it a day of feasting and gladness.
To stablish this among them, that they should keep the fourteenth day of the month Adar, and the fifteenth day of the same, yearly,
In the first month, in the fourteenth day of the month, ye shall have the passover, a feast of seven days; unleavened bread shall be eaten.
And upon that day shall the prince prepare for himself and for all the people of the land a bullock for a sin offering.
And seven days of the feast he shall prepare a burnt offering to the Lord, seven bullocks and seven rams without blemish daily the seven days; and a kid of the goats daily for a sin offering.
And he shall prepare a meat offering of an ephah for a bullock, and an ephah for a ram, and an hin of oil for an ephah.
In the seventh month, in the fifteenth day of the month, shall he do the like in the feast of the seven days, according to the sin offering, according to the burnt offering, and according to the meat offering, and according to the oil.
(7) Two passages state that God made everything "in six days": Exodus 20:11; 31:17.
(7) Two passages state that God made everything "in six days": Exodus 20:11; 31:17.
For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.
It is a sign between me and the children of Israel for ever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed.
The expression "in X days" in the Bible always means literal consecutive, sequential days.
The expression "in X days" in the Bible always means literal consecutive, sequential days.
(8) The "days" of creation are defined to consist of "evening and morning."
(8) The "days" of creation are defined to consist of "evening and morning."
Wherever these words are found together in Bible history, law, or poetry they describe literal days.
Wherever these words are found together in Bible history, law, or poetry they describe literal days.
(9) Genesis 1:5 - Here darkness was called "night" and was separated from the light, which is called "day."
(9) Genesis 1:5 - Here darkness was called "night" and was separated from the light, which is called "day."
Day/light and night/darkness are so closely associated with evening and morning that they appear to define the terms and thereby define a day!
Day/light and night/darkness are so closely associated with evening and morning that they appear to define the terms and thereby define a day!
(10) Genesis 1:14-19 - On the fourth day the heavenly bodies were designated to measure "days," distinguished from "years."
(10) Genesis 1:14-19 - On the fourth day the heavenly bodies were designated to measure "days," distinguished from "years."
And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years:
And let them be for lights in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth: and it was so.
And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night: he made the stars also.
And God set them in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth,
And to rule over the day and over the night, and to divide the light from the darkness: and God saw that it was good.
And the evening and the morning were the fourth day.
It follows that the fourth "day" is the kind of "day" that those heavenly bodies measure.
It follows that the fourth "day" is the kind of "day" that those heavenly bodies measure.
(But remember that all the days of creation must mean the same.)
(But remember that all the days of creation must mean the same.)
(11) The last day of creation was the seventh day on which God rested (Gen. 2:2,3).
(11) The last day of creation was the seventh day on which God rested (Gen. 2:2,3).
And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made.
And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made.
This later became the basis of the Sabbath command ( Exodus 20:9-11; 31:17; Heb. 4:4).
This later became the basis of the Sabbath command ( Exodus 20:9-11; 31:17; Heb. 4:4).
Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work:
But the seventh day is the sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates:
For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.
It is a sign between me and the children of Israel for ever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed.
For he spake in a certain place of the seventh day on this wise, And God did rest the seventh day from all his works.
What God blessed and sanctified was the seventh day on which He rested - Gen. 2:3.
What God blessed and sanctified was the seventh day on which He rested - Gen. 2:3.
And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made.
But what God later blessed and hallowed was the Sabbath day - Ex 20:11.
But what God later blessed and hallowed was the Sabbath day - Ex 20:11.
For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.
But the Sabbath day was a literal 24-hour day.
But the Sabbath day was a literal 24-hour day.
Therefore, the seventh day on which God rested at creation was a literal day!
Therefore, the seventh day on which God rested at creation was a literal day!
Surely this means the six days of work were also literal days!
Surely this means the six days of work were also literal days!
(12) Nature involves highly-integrated interdependence which would have made life impossible if the days were millions of years long.
(12) Nature involves highly-integrated interdependence which would have made life impossible if the days were millions of years long.
Plants were made the 3rd day, but no animals till the 5th and 6th days.
Plants were made the 3rd day, but no animals till the 5th and 6th days.
How could plants survive millions of years without animals?
How could plants survive millions of years without animals?
How could life survive "evenings" of millions of years of darkness?
How could life survive "evenings" of millions of years of darkness?
(13) There is no way evolution can be harmonized with the Bible or with science, even if we take the view the days were long periods.
(13) There is no way evolution can be harmonized with the Bible or with science, even if we take the view the days were long periods.
So why compromise?
Days of Creation: Literal Days or Long Ages?
Days of Creation: Literal Days or Long Ages?
Genesis Account of Creation: History, Symbol, Myth, or Legend?
Genesis Account of Creation: History, Symbol, Myth, or Legend?
Is the Genesis account of creation literal history and fact, or is it symbol, myth, and legend?
Is the Genesis account of creation literal history and fact, or is it symbol, myth, and legend?
Are the days of creation literal days or long ages ("Progressive Creation")?
Are the days of creation literal days or long ages ("Progressive Creation")?
What effect do such questions have regarding the evidence for our faith in God, Jesus, and the Bible?
What effect do such questions have regarding the evidence for our faith in God, Jesus, and the Bible?
Can the Bible teaching about creation be harmonized with the claims of evolution and many "scientists" that the earth and life developed gradually over billions of years?
Can the Bible teaching about creation be harmonized with the claims of evolution and many "scientists" that the earth and life developed gradually over billions of years?
Does it really matter?
Does it really matter?
Introduction:
Introduction:
Consider the following approach to teaching children about creation: First, the teacher tells a story that sounds like six consecutive days but actually had gaps between the days. Then:
Consider the following approach to teaching children about creation: First, the teacher tells a story that sounds like six consecutive days but actually had gaps between the days. Then:
"Now look at what we do when we study the creation story. Remember, when learning about God, He tells us to use two records: His word and the natural world. We believe them both. So we study to see how they fit together... "But first let's make sure we know what Genesis 1 doesn [sic] NOT say ... What does the Bible say about: ... How long each creation day was? (If child assumes they must be 24 hours see: Gen. 2:4; Dt 10:10; Psalms 90:1-4; and 2 Pet 3:8) ... If the creation days were one right after another? ... "The Bible doesn't tell us the answer to any of these things that we may wonder about creation. Now we see there are many things about creation that the Bible is silent about. If the Bible doesn't say something, we need to be careful not to say it does." - "A Talk with Your Child about Dinosaurs," C. and H. Roberts, 1993.
In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.
And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.
And God said, Let there be light: and there was light.
And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness.
And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day.
And God said, Let there be a firmament in the midst of the waters, and let it divide the waters from the waters.
And God made the firmament, and divided the waters which were under the firmament from the waters which were above the firmament: and it was so.
And God called the firmament Heaven. And the evening and the morning were the second day.
And God said, Let the waters under the heaven be gathered together unto one place, and let the dry land appear: and it was so.
And God called the dry land Earth; and the gathering together of the waters called he Seas: and God saw that it was good.
And God said, Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed, and the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seed is in itself, upon the earth: and it was so.
And the earth brought forth grass, and herb yielding seed after his kind, and the tree yielding fruit, whose seed was in itself, after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
And the evening and the morning were the third day.
And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years:
And let them be for lights in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth: and it was so.
And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night: he made the stars also.
And God set them in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth,
And to rule over the day and over the night, and to divide the light from the darkness: and God saw that it was good.
And the evening and the morning were the fourth day.
And God said, Let the waters bring forth abundantly the moving creature that hath life, and fowl that may fly above the earth in the open firmament of heaven.
And God created great whales, and every living creature that moveth, which the waters brought forth abundantly, after their kind, and every winged fowl after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
And God blessed them, saying, Be fruitful, and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let fowl multiply in the earth.
And the evening and the morning were the fifth day.
And God said, Let the earth bring forth the living creature after his kind, cattle, and creeping thing, and beast of the earth after his kind: and it was so.
And God made the beast of the earth after his kind, and cattle after their kind, and every thing that creepeth upon the earth after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
And 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 fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.
And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.
And to every beast of the earth, and to every fowl of the air, and to every thing that creepeth upon the earth, wherein there is life, I have given every green herb for meat: and it was so.
And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day.
These are the generations of the heavens and of the earth when they were created, in the day that the Lord God made the earth and the heavens,
And I stayed in the mount, according to the first time, forty days and forty nights; and the Lord hearkened unto me at that time also, and the Lord would not destroy thee.
Lord, thou hast been our dwelling place in all generations.
Before the mountains were brought forth, Or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, Even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God.
Thou turnest man to destruction; And sayest, Return, ye children of men.
For a thousand years in thy sight Are but as yesterday when it is past, And as a watch in the night.
But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.
This instruction is given by members of churches of Christ, who travel to churches teaching special studies about creation vs. evolution. They taught children the above without the knowledge or consent of parents.
This instruction is given by members of churches of Christ, who travel to churches teaching special studies about creation vs. evolution. They taught children the above without the knowledge or consent of parents.
The Bible clearly states that God created all things in the universe in six days.
The Bible clearly states that God created all things in the universe in six days.
Exodus 20:11; 31:17 - "In six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them..."
Exodus 20:11; 31:17 - "In six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them..."
For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.
It is a sign between me and the children of Israel for ever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed.
The following verses use the terms "day" or "days" to describe various aspects of the time element of creation: Gen. 1:5,8,13,19,23,31; 2:2,3; 5:1,2; Ex. 20:11; 31:17; Heb. 4:4. These verses would naturally lead us to believe that creation occurred in six literal, consecutive days of essentially 24 hours each.
The following verses use the terms "day" or "days" to describe various aspects of the time element of creation: Gen. 1:5,8,13,19,23,31; 2:2,3; 5:1,2; Ex. 20:11; 31:17; Heb. 4:4. These verses would naturally lead us to believe that creation occurred in six literal, consecutive days of essentially 24 hours each.
And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day.
And God called the firmament Heaven. And the evening and the morning were the second day.
And the evening and the morning were the third day.
And the evening and the morning were the fourth day.
And the evening and the morning were the fifth day.
And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day.
And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made.
And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made.
This is the book of the generations of Adam. In the day that God created man, in the likeness of God made he him;
Male and female created he them; and blessed them, and called their name Adam, in the day when they were created.
For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.
It is a sign between me and the children of Israel for ever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed.
For he spake in a certain place of the seventh day on this wise, And God did rest the seventh day from all his works.
Controversy exists, however, regarding the length of these days.
Controversy exists, however, regarding the length of these days.
Modern "scientific" theory argues that the earth has existed for 4 or 5 billion years.
Modern "scientific" theory argues that the earth has existed for 4 or 5 billion years.
Although this claim is unproved, some attempt to harmonize the Bible with it by denying that creation occurred in six literal, consecutive days.
Although this claim is unproved, some attempt to harmonize the Bible with it by denying that creation occurred in six literal, consecutive days.
Some say the "days" were not literal days but long ages. Others say the "days" were not consecutive, but long ages occurred between the "days."
Some say the "days" were not literal days but long ages. Others say the "days" were not consecutive, but long ages occurred between the "days."
Such views are sometimes called "Progressive Creation."
Such views are sometimes called "Progressive Creation."
Note that, to include the 4 to 5 billion years of "scientific" theory, each creation "day" (or the periods between) must average 700 million years in length!
Note that, to include the 4 to 5 billion years of "scientific" theory, each creation "day" (or the periods between) must average 700 million years in length!
Our purpose is to examine carefully the Bible evidence regarding the days of creation.
Our purpose is to examine carefully the Bible evidence regarding the days of creation.
I. The Importance of the Issue
I. The Importance of the Issue
Some say that the length of the days are unimportant. But the days of creation are an integral part of the doctrine of creation, which is a fundamental proof of God and the Bible.
Some say that the length of the days are unimportant. But the days of creation are an integral part of the doctrine of creation, which is a fundamental proof of God and the Bible.
To weaken the doctrine about the days of creation is to weaken the doctrine of creation itself. And to weaken the doctrine of creation is to weaken faith in God and the Bible as God's word, including the New Testament.
To weaken the doctrine about the days of creation is to weaken the doctrine of creation itself. And to weaken the doctrine of creation is to weaken faith in God and the Bible as God's word, including the New Testament.
Remember that we must not change or teach differently from God's word: Matthew 15:9,13; Galatians 1:8,9; 2 John 9-11; 1 Timothy 1:3; 2 Timothy 1:13 - We should hold fast the pattern of sound words and teach no other doctrine.
Remember that we must not change or teach differently from God's word: Matthew 15:9,13; Galatians 1:8,9; 2 John 9-11; 1 Timothy 1:3; 2 Timothy 1:13 - We should hold fast the pattern of sound words and teach no other doctrine.
But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.
But he answered and said, Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up.
But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.
As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.
Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son.
If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed:
for he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.
As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine,
Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.
[ Colossians 3:17; Jeremiah 10:23; Proverbs 14:12; 3:5,6; Revelation 22:18,19]
[ Colossians 3:17; Jeremiah 10:23; Proverbs 14:12; 3:5,6; Revelation 22:18,19]
And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.
O Lord, I know that the way of man is not in himself: It is not in man that walketh to direct his steps.
There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, But the end thereof are the ways of death.
Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; And lean not unto thine own understanding.
In all thy ways acknowledge him, And he shall direct thy paths.
For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book:
And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.
A. Creation Is Doctrine for Today
A. Creation Is Doctrine for Today
Some imply that the doctrine of creation is just about Genesis 1 or Old Testament doctrine.
Some imply that the doctrine of creation is just about Genesis 1 or Old Testament doctrine.
But consider what the New Testament teaches:
But consider what the New Testament teaches:
Jesus rebuked people who do not believe Moses' writings.
Jesus rebuked people who do not believe Moses' writings.
John 5:46,47 - Moses' teaching leads us to believe Jesus and His word. If we don't believe Moses' writings, we will not believe Jesus' words!
John 5:46,47 - Moses' teaching leads us to believe Jesus and His word. If we don't believe Moses' writings, we will not believe Jesus' words!
For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me.
But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my words?
Luke 24:25-27 - Failure to believe Moses' writings leads to failure to accept the truth of Jesus and His teachings.
Luke 24:25-27 - Failure to believe Moses' writings leads to failure to accept the truth of Jesus and His teachings.
Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken:
Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory?
And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.
God has changed His commandments from the Old Testament to the New, but facts of history do not change.
God has changed His commandments from the Old Testament to the New, but facts of history do not change.
Old Testament prophecy and history - especially miracles such as creation - confirm the New Testament.
Old Testament prophecy and history - especially miracles such as creation - confirm the New Testament.
Rejecting the accuracy of Moses' writings will lead us to reject New Testament truth!
Rejecting the accuracy of Moses' writings will lead us to reject New Testament truth!
The doctrine of creation is part of the gospel, the doctrine of Christ.
The doctrine of creation is part of the gospel, the doctrine of Christ.
John 1:1-3,10 - Jesus Himself was the one through whom all things were made. [Eph. 3:9; Col. 1:16,17; Heb. 1:2]
John 1:1-3,10 - Jesus Himself was the one through whom all things were made. [Eph. 3:9; Col. 1:16,17; Heb. 1:2]
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
The same was in the beginning with God.
All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.
He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not.
And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:
For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:
And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.
Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;
Matthew 19:4 - Jesus taught that God made male and female at the beginning. So the creation was part of Jesus' doctrine! [1 Cor. 11:9,12; 15:45,45; 1 Tim. 2:13; Heb. 1:2; Rev. 3:4]
Matthew 19:4 - Jesus taught that God made male and female at the beginning. So the creation was part of Jesus' doctrine! [1 Cor. 11:9,12; 15:45,45; 1 Tim. 2:13; Heb. 1:2; Rev. 3:4]
And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female,
Neither was the man created for the woman; but the woman for the man.
For as the woman is of the man, even so is the man also by the woman; but all things of God.
And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit.
And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit.
For Adam was first formed, then Eve.
Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;
Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy.
Acts 4:24 - Early disciples worshipped saying God made heaven and earth and the sea, and all that is in them. [1 Tim. 6:13; Heb. 1:10; 3:4; Rev. 4:11; 10:6; 14:7]
Acts 4:24 - Early disciples worshipped saying God made heaven and earth and the sea, and all that is in them. [1 Tim. 6:13; Heb. 1:10; 3:4; Rev. 4:11; 10:6; 14:7]
And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said, Lord, thou art God, which hast made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is:
I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickeneth all things, and before Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession;
And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of thine hands:
For every house is builded by some man; but he that built all things is God.
Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.
And sware by him that liveth for ever and ever, who created heaven, and the things that therein are, and the earth, and the things that therein are, and the sea, and the things which are therein, that there should be time no longer:
Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.
Acts 14:15; 17:24-29 - Preaching the gospel to idol worshipers included creation as fundamental doctrine. So creation is gospel and one of the first doctrines unbelievers need to learn!
Acts 14:15; 17:24-29 - Preaching the gospel to idol worshipers included creation as fundamental doctrine. So creation is gospel and one of the first doctrines unbelievers need to learn!
And saying, Sirs, why do ye these things? We also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein:
God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands;
Neither is worshipped with men’s hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things;
And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;
That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:
For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.
Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man’s device.
Romans 1:20,25 - Creation proves God's power and Deity, so men should worship Him.
Romans 1:20,25 - Creation proves God's power and Deity, so men should worship Him.
For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:
Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.
Creation is a fundamental pare of New Testament doctrine - the doctrine of Christ. So, all the passages forbidding us to change gospel teaching apply to the doctrine of creation!
Creation is a fundamental pare of New Testament doctrine - the doctrine of Christ. So, all the passages forbidding us to change gospel teaching apply to the doctrine of creation!
[James 3:9; Hebrews 11:3; 1 Peter 4:19; Hebrews 4:4]
[James 3:9; Hebrews 11:3; 1 Peter 4:19; Hebrews 4:4]
Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God.
Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.
Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.
For he spake in a certain place of the seventh day on this wise, And God did rest the seventh day from all his works.
B. Creation Confirms Other Major Doctrines
B. Creation Confirms Other Major Doctrines
Creation is also fundamental to other major doctrines that Christians must believe.
Creation demonstrates that man was created in God's image, below angels but above animals
Creation demonstrates that man was created in God's image, below angels but above animals
( Genesis 1:26-28; Psalm 8:3-8)
( Genesis 1:26-28; Psalm 8:3-8)
And 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 fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.
When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, The moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained;
What is man, that thou art mindful of him? And the son of man, that thou visitest him?
For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, And hast crowned him with glory and honour.
Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; Thou hast put all things under his feet:
All sheep and oxen, Yea, and the beasts of the field;
The fowl of the air, and the fish of the sea, And whatsoever passeth through the paths of the seas.
Creation proves the power of God's word because creation was accomplished by God's spoken word,
Creation proves the power of God's word because creation was accomplished by God's spoken word,
So any view that undermines the doctrine of creation likewise undermines faith in the power of God's word, including the Scriptures.
So any view that undermines the doctrine of creation likewise undermines faith in the power of God's word, including the Scriptures.
( Genesis 1:3,6,9,11,14,20,24,26; Psalm 33:6-9; Psalm 148:3-5; Hebrews 11:3; Matthew 8:5-13; 2 Peter 3:5-7. See Psalm 105:31,34; 106:9; John 11:39-44; 5:28,29
( Genesis 1:3,6,9,11,14,20,24,26; Psalm 33:6-9; Psalm 148:3-5; Hebrews 11:3; Matthew 8:5-13; 2 Peter 3:5-7. See Psalm 105:31,34; 106:9; John 11:39-44; 5:28,29
And God said, Let there be light: and there was light.
Genesis 1:6 (KJV 1900)
And God said, Let there be a firmament in the midst of the waters, and let it divide the waters from the waters.
And God said, Let the waters under the heaven be gathered together unto one place, and let the dry land appear: and it was so.
And God said, Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed, and the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seed is in itself, upon the earth: and it was so.
And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years:
And God said, Let the waters bring forth abundantly the moving creature that hath life, and fowl that may fly above the earth in the open firmament of heaven.
And God said, Let the earth bring forth the living creature after his kind, cattle, and creeping thing, and beast of the earth after his kind: and it was so.
And 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 fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.
By the word of the Lord were the heavens made; And all the host of them by the breath of his mouth.
He gathereth the waters of the sea together as an heap: He layeth up the depth in storehouses.
Let all the earth fear the Lord: Let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him.
For he spake, and it was done; He commanded, and it stood fast.
Praise ye him, sun and moon: Praise him, all ye stars of light.
Praise him, ye heavens of heavens, And ye waters that be above the heavens.
Let them praise the name of the Lord: For he commanded, and they were created.
Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.
And when Jesus was entered into Capernaum, there came unto him a centurion, beseeching him,
And saying, Lord, my servant lieth at home sick of the palsy, grievously tormented.
And Jesus saith unto him, I will come and heal him.
The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed.
For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it.
When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.
And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven.
But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
And Jesus said unto the centurion, Go thy way; and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. And his servant was healed in the selfsame hour.
2 Peter 3:5–7 (KJV 1900)
For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water:
Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished:
But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.
Psalm 105:31 (KJV 1900)
He spake, and there came divers sorts of flies, And lice in all their coasts.
He spake, and the locusts came, And caterpillers, and that without number,
He rebuked the Red sea also, and it was dried up: So he led them through the depths, as through the wilderness.
John 11:39–44 (KJV 1900)
Jesus said, Take ye away the stone. Martha, the sister of him that was dead, saith unto him, Lord, by this time he stinketh: for he hath been dead four days.
Jesus saith unto her, Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God?
Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead was laid. And Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, Father, I thank thee that thou hast heard me.
And I knew that thou hearest me always: but because of the people which stand by I said it, that they may believe that thou hast sent me.
And when he thus had spoken, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth.
And he that was dead came forth, bound hand and foot with graveclothes: and his face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go.
Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice,
And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.
Creation proves God is the living God and the Source of all life.
Creation proves God is the living God and the Source of all life.
This proves that God is the source of spiritual and eternal life - John 1:1-4; 14:6; Romans 6:4; John 5:26-29; Romans 6:23; John 6:63,68; Matthew 25:46.
This proves that God is the source of spiritual and eternal life - John 1:1-4; 14:6; Romans 6:4; John 5:26-29; Romans 6:23; John 6:63,68; Matthew 25:46.
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
The same was in the beginning with God.
All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.
In him was life; and the life was the light of men.
Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself;
And hath given him authority to execute judgment also, because he is the Son of man.
Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice,
And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.
For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.
Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life.
Matthew 25:46 (KJV 1900)
And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.
So every view that undermines the Bible doctrine of creation thereby undermines our faith in God as the Giver of life, including spiritual and eternal life.
So every view that undermines the Bible doctrine of creation thereby undermines our faith in God as the Giver of life, including spiritual and eternal life.
( Genesis 1:26,27; Acts 14:15; 17:24-29; Revelation 10:6; Genesis 1:11,12,20,21,24-27; 2:7,21-23; Job 33:4; Isaiah 42:5; 1 Timothy 6:13)
( Genesis 1:26,27; Acts 14:15; 17:24-29; Revelation 10:6; Genesis 1:11,12,20,21,24-27; 2:7,21-23; Job 33:4; Isaiah 42:5; 1 Timothy 6:13)
Genesis 1:26 (KJV 1900)
And 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 fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
And saying, Sirs, why do ye these things? We also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein:
God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands;
Neither is worshipped with men’s hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things;
And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;
That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:
For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.
Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man’s device.
Revelation 10:6 (KJV 1900)
And sware by him that liveth for ever and ever, who created heaven, and the things that therein are, and the earth, and the things that therein are, and the sea, and the things which are therein, that there should be time no longer:
And God said, Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed, and the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seed is in itself, upon the earth: and it was so.
And the earth brought forth grass, and herb yielding seed after his kind, and the tree yielding fruit, whose seed was in itself, after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
And God said, Let the waters bring forth abundantly the moving creature that hath life, and fowl that may fly above the earth in the open firmament of heaven.
And God created great whales, and every living creature that moveth, which the waters brought forth abundantly, after their kind, and every winged fowl after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
And God said, Let the earth bring forth the living creature after his kind, cattle, and creeping thing, and beast of the earth after his kind: and it was so.
And God made the beast of the earth after his kind, and cattle after their kind, and every thing that creepeth upon the earth after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
And 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 fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.
Genesis 2:21–23 (KJV 1900)
And the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof;
And the rib, which the Lord God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.
And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man.
The Spirit of God hath made me, And the breath of the Almighty hath given me life.
Thus saith God the Lord, He that created the heavens, and stretched them out; He that spread forth the earth, and that which cometh out of it; He that giveth breath unto the people upon it, And spirit to them that walk therein:
I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickeneth all things, and before Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession;
Creation proves God's eternal existence, since God must have existed in eternity before the creation.
Creation proves God's eternal existence, since God must have existed in eternity before the creation.
Any view that undermines faith in creation likewise undermines faith that God is eternal.
Any view that undermines faith in creation likewise undermines faith that God is eternal.
( John 1:1-3; Colossians 1:16,17; Isaiah 40:28; Psalms 90:2; Revelation 10:6)
( John 1:1-3; Colossians 1:16,17; Isaiah 40:28; Psalms 90:2; Revelation 10:6)
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
The same was in the beginning with God.
All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.
For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:
Colossians 1:17 (KJV 1900)
And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.
Isaiah 40:28 (KJV 1900)
Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, That the everlasting God, the Lord, The Creator of the ends of the earth, Fainteth not, neither is weary? There is no searching of his understanding.
Psalm 90:2 (KJV 1900)
Before the mountains were brought forth, Or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, Even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God.
Revelation 10:6 (KJV 1900)
And sware by him that liveth for ever and ever, who created heaven, and the things that therein are, and the earth, and the things that therein are, and the sea, and the things which are therein, that there should be time no longer:
Creation proves God's unlimited wisdom.
Creation proves God's unlimited wisdom.
So, any view that undermines the doctrine of creation, thereby undermines our faith in the wisdom of God, including God's wisdom as revealed in the Bible.
So, any view that undermines the doctrine of creation, thereby undermines our faith in the wisdom of God, including God's wisdom as revealed in the Bible.
( Psalm 136:5-9; Jeremiah 51:15; Proverbs 3:19; 8:22-31)
( Psalm 136:5-9; Jeremiah 51:15; Proverbs 3:19; 8:22-31)
To him that by wisdom made the heavens: For his mercy endureth for ever.
To him that stretched out the earth above the waters: For his mercy endureth for ever.
To him that made great lights: For his mercy endureth for ever:
The sun to rule by day: For his mercy endureth for ever:
The moon and stars to rule by night: For his mercy endureth for ever.
Jeremiah 51:15 (KJV 1900)
He hath made the earth by his power, He hath established the world by his wisdom, And hath stretched out the heaven by his understanding.
The Lord by wisdom hath founded the earth; By understanding hath he established the heavens.
Proverbs 8:22–31 (KJV 1900)
The Lord possessed me in the beginning of his way, Before his works of old.
I was set up from everlasting, from the beginning, Or ever the earth was.
When there were no depths, I was brought forth; When there were no fountains abounding with water.
Before the mountains were settled, Before the hills was I brought forth:
While as yet he had not made the earth, nor the fields, Nor the highest part of the dust of the world.
When he prepared the heavens, I was there: When he set a compass upon the face of the depth:
When he established the clouds above: When he strengthened the fountains of the deep:
When he gave to the sea his decree, That the waters should not pass his commandment: When he appointed the foundations of the earth:
Then I was by him, as one brought up with him: And I was daily his delight, Rejoicing always before him;
Rejoicing in the habitable part of his earth; And my delights were with the sons of men.
Creation proves God's unlimited power.
Creation proves God's unlimited power.
Any view that undermines the doctrine of creation likewise undermines our faith in the power of God, including God's power to save us and give us eternal life!
Any view that undermines the doctrine of creation likewise undermines our faith in the power of God, including God's power to save us and give us eternal life!
( Psalms 65:6; 86:8-10; 89:11-13; Jeremiah 10:12; Jeremiah 27:5; 32:17; Romans 1:20)
( Psalms 65:6; 86:8-10; 89:11-13; Jeremiah 10:12; Jeremiah 27:5; 32:17; Romans 1:20)
Which by his strength setteth fast the mountains; Being girded with power:
Among the gods there is none like unto thee, O Lord; Neither are there any works like unto thy works.
All nations whom thou hast made shall come And worship before thee, O Lord; And shall glorify thy name.
For thou art great, and doest wondrous things: Thou art God alone.
The heavens are thine, the earth also is thine: As for the world and the fulness thereof, thou hast founded them.
The north and the south thou hast created them: Tabor and Hermon shall rejoice in thy name.
Thou hast a mighty arm: Strong is thy hand, and high is thy right hand.
He hath made the earth by his power, He hath established the world by his wisdom, And hath stretched out the heavens by his discretion.
I have made the earth, the man and the beast that are upon the ground, by my great power and by my outstretched arm, and have given it unto whom it seemed meet unto me.
Ah Lord God! behold, thou hast made the heaven and the earth by thy great power and stretched out arm, and there is nothing too hard for thee:
For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:
Creation proves God's right to control the universe, because He created it.
Creation proves God's right to control the universe, because He created it.
Any view that undermines the doctrine of creation, thereby undermines our understanding of God's right to rule our lives.
Any view that undermines the doctrine of creation, thereby undermines our understanding of God's right to rule our lives.
( Psalm 24:1,2; 89:11,12; 95:5 Deuteronomy 32:5,6; Isaiah 29:16; Acts 17:24; Romans 11:36; Colossians 1:15-17; 1 Peter 4:19; Romans 1:25)
( Psalm 24:1,2; 89:11,12; 95:5 Deuteronomy 32:5,6; Isaiah 29:16; Acts 17:24; Romans 11:36; Colossians 1:15-17; 1 Peter 4:19; Romans 1:25)
The earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof; The world, and they that dwell therein.
For he hath founded it upon the seas, And established it upon the floods.
The heavens are thine, the earth also is thine: As for the world and the fulness thereof, thou hast founded them.
The north and the south thou hast created them: Tabor and Hermon shall rejoice in thy name.
The sea is his, and he made it: And his hands formed the dry land.
They have corrupted themselves, their spot is not the spot of his children: They are a perverse and crooked generation.
Do ye thus requite the Lord, O foolish people and unwise? Is not he thy father that hath bought thee? Hath he not made thee, and established thee?
Surely your turning of things upside down shall be esteemed as the potter’s clay: For shall the work say of him that made it, He made me not? Or shall the thing framed say of him that framed it, He had no understanding?
God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands;
For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen.
Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:
For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:
And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.
Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.
Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.
Creation proves God's right to be worshiped, since only the Creator should be worshiped.
Creation proves God's right to be worshiped, since only the Creator should be worshiped.
So any view that undermines the Bible doctrine of creation, also undermines our very reasons for worshipping God.
So any view that undermines the Bible doctrine of creation, also undermines our very reasons for worshipping God.
( Deuteronomy 32:15-18; Psalm 86:8-10; 139:13,14; 149:1,2; Nehemiah 9:6; Psalm 33:6-9; 95:1-7; 148:1-6; Romans 1:25; 11:36; Revelation 4:11; 14:6,7)
( Deuteronomy 32:15-18; Psalm 86:8-10; 139:13,14; 149:1,2; Nehemiah 9:6; Psalm 33:6-9; 95:1-7; 148:1-6; Romans 1:25; 11:36; Revelation 4:11; 14:6,7)
But Jeshurun waxed fat, and kicked: Thou art waxen fat, thou art grown thick, thou art covered with fatness; Then he forsook God which made him, And lightly esteemed the Rock of his salvation.
They provoked him to jealousy with strange gods, With abominations provoked they him to anger.
They sacrificed unto devils, not to God; To gods whom they knew not, To new gods that came newly up, Whom your fathers feared not.
Of the Rock that begat thee thou art unmindful, And hast forgotten God that formed thee.
Among the gods there is none like unto thee, O Lord; Neither are there any works like unto thy works.
All nations whom thou hast made shall come And worship before thee, O Lord; And shall glorify thy name.
For thou art great, and doest wondrous things: Thou art God alone.
For thou hast possessed my reins: Thou hast covered me in my mother’s womb.
I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: Marvellous are thy works; And that my soul knoweth right well.
Praise ye the Lord. Sing unto the Lord a new song, And his praise in the congregation of saints.
Let Israel rejoice in him that made him: Let the children of Zion be joyful in their King.
Thou, even thou, art Lord alone; thou hast made heaven, the heaven of heavens, with all their host, the earth, and all things that are therein, the seas, and all that is therein, and thou preservest them all; and the host of heaven worshippeth thee.
By the word of the Lord were the heavens made; And all the host of them by the breath of his mouth.
He gathereth the waters of the sea together as an heap: He layeth up the depth in storehouses.
Let all the earth fear the Lord: Let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him.
For he spake, and it was done; He commanded, and it stood fast.
O come, let us sing unto the Lord: Let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation.
Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, And make a joyful noise unto him with psalms.
For the Lord is a great God, And a great King above all gods.
In his hand are the deep places of the earth: The strength of the hills is his also.
The sea is his, and he made it: And his hands formed the dry land.
O come, let us worship and bow down: Let us kneel before the Lord our maker.
For he is our God; And we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. To day if ye will hear his voice,
Praise ye the Lord. Praise ye the Lord from the heavens: Praise him in the heights.
Praise ye him, all his angels: Praise ye him, all his hosts.
Praise ye him, sun and moon: Praise him, all ye stars of light.
Praise him, ye heavens of heavens, And ye waters that be above the heavens.
Let them praise the name of the Lord: For he commanded, and they were created.
He hath also stablished them for ever and ever: He hath made a decree which shall not pass.
Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.
For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen.
Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.
And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people,
Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.
In short, creation proves that God Is God!
In short, creation proves that God Is God!
These conclusions follow from all we have already learned and are specifically taught in many passages.
These conclusions follow from all we have already learned and are specifically taught in many passages.
Any view that undermines the Bible doctrine of creation, thereby undermines our ability to even recognize who God is!
Any view that undermines the Bible doctrine of creation, thereby undermines our ability to even recognize who God is!
( 2 Kings 19:15; Nehemiah 9:6; Psalm 86:8-10; 95:1-7; 100:3; Isaiah 45:18; Jeremiah 10:11,12; 1 Chron. 16:25-35 and Psalm 96:2-10; Acts 4:24; 14:15; 17:24-29; Romans 1:20)
( 2 Kings 19:15; Nehemiah 9:6; Psalm 86:8-10; 95:1-7; 100:3; Isaiah 45:18; Jeremiah 10:11,12; 1 Chron. 16:25-35 and Psalm 96:2-10; Acts 4:24; 14:15; 17:24-29; Romans 1:20)
And Hezekiah prayed before the Lord, and said, O Lord God of Israel, which dwellest between the cherubims, thou art the God, even thou alone, of all the kingdoms of the earth; thou hast made heaven and earth.
Thou, even thou, art Lord alone; thou hast made heaven, the heaven of heavens, with all their host, the earth, and all things that are therein, the seas, and all that is therein, and thou preservest them all; and the host of heaven worshippeth thee.
Among the gods there is none like unto thee, O Lord; Neither are there any works like unto thy works.
All nations whom thou hast made shall come And worship before thee, O Lord; And shall glorify thy name.
For thou art great, and doest wondrous things: Thou art God alone.
O come, let us sing unto the Lord: Let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation.
Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, And make a joyful noise unto him with psalms.
For the Lord is a great God, And a great King above all gods.
In his hand are the deep places of the earth: The strength of the hills is his also.
The sea is his, and he made it: And his hands formed the dry land.
O come, let us worship and bow down: Let us kneel before the Lord our maker.
For he is our God; And we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. To day if ye will hear his voice,
Know ye that the Lord he is God: It is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; We are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
For thus saith the Lord that created the heavens; God himself that formed the earth and made it; he hath established it, He created it not in vain, he formed it to be inhabited: I am the Lord; and there is none else.
Thus shall ye say unto them, The gods that have not made the heavens and the earth, even they shall perish from the earth, and from under these heavens.
He hath made the earth by his power, He hath established the world by his wisdom, And hath stretched out the heavens by his discretion.
For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised: He also is to be feared above all gods.
For all the gods of the people are idols: But the Lord made the heavens.
Glory and honour are in his presence; Strength and gladness are in his place.
Give unto the Lord, ye kindreds of the people, Give unto the Lord glory and strength.
Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name: Bring an offering, and come before him: Worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness.
Fear before him, all the earth: The world also shall be stable, that it be not moved.
Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice: And let men say among the nations, The Lord reigneth.
Let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof: Let the fields rejoice, and all that is therein.
Then shall the trees of the wood sing out at the presence of the Lord, Because he cometh to judge the earth.
O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good; For his mercy endureth for ever.
And say ye, Save us, O God of our salvation, And gather us together, and deliver us from the heathen, That we may give thanks to thy holy name, And glory in thy praise.
Sing unto the Lord, bless his name; Shew forth his salvation from day to day.
Declare his glory among the heathen, His wonders among all people.
For the Lord is great, and greatly to be praised: He is to be feared above all gods.
For all the gods of the nations are idols: But the Lord made the heavens.
Honour and majesty are before him: Strength and beauty are in his sanctuary.
Give unto the Lord, O ye kindreds of the people, Give unto the Lord glory and strength.
Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name: Bring an offering, and come into his courts.
O worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness: Fear before him, all the earth.
Say among the heathen that the Lord reigneth: The world also shall be established that it shall not be moved: He shall judge the people righteously.
And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said, Lord, thou art God, which hast made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is:
And saying, Sirs, why do ye these things? We also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein:
God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands;
Neither is worshipped with men’s hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things;
And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;
That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:
For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.
Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man’s device.
For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:
II. The Meaning of the Word "Day" in Creation Accounts
II. The Meaning of the Word "Day" in Creation Accounts
Consider the evidence that the "days" of creation are literal.
Consider the evidence that the "days" of creation are literal.
They are not long ages consisting of hundreds of millions of years, nor could such long ages have occurred between the days.
They are not long ages consisting of hundreds of millions of years, nor could such long ages have occurred between the days.
Note: We will give many evidences of different kinds.
Note: We will give many evidences of different kinds.
Some people find one kind of evidence more helpful, others find another kind more helpful.
Some people find one kind of evidence more helpful, others find another kind more helpful.
Be patient and we will give many kinds.
Be patient and we will give many kinds.
A. Supernatural Characteristics of Miracles Should Be Viewed as Literal.
A. Supernatural Characteristics of Miracles Should Be Viewed as Literal.
Creation gives the evidence we described because it is miraculous.
Creation gives the evidence we described because it is miraculous.
Note what this means.
Note what this means.
Miracles serve to confirm God and His word.
Miracles serve to confirm God and His word.
Miracles are historical events that are impossible by natural law or human ability, so they could only happen by Divine power.
Miracles are historical events that are impossible by natural law or human ability, so they could only happen by Divine power.
Their occurrence serves as evidence that God exists, that Jesus is God's Son, and that the Bible is God's word.
Their occurrence serves as evidence that God exists, that Jesus is God's Son, and that the Bible is God's word.
We have seen that creation is a miracle that gives powerful evidence for God.
We have seen that creation is a miracle that gives powerful evidence for God.
It follows that we must avoid any doctrine that weakens or undermines the force of that miracle.
It follows that we must avoid any doctrine that weakens or undermines the force of that miracle.
( See previous section and Exodus 7:3-5; 8:10; 14:4,30,31; Deuteronomy 4:32-45; Mark 16:20; John 5:36; 20:30,31; Acts 2:22; 14:3; 2 Corinthians 12:11,12; Hebrews 2:3,4; 1 Kings 18:36-39; Exodus 4:1-9)
( See previous section and Exodus 7:3-5; 8:10; 14:4,30,31; Deuteronomy 4:32-45; Mark 16:20; John 5:36; 20:30,31; Acts 2:22; 14:3; 2 Corinthians 12:11,12; Hebrews 2:3,4; 1 Kings 18:36-39; Exodus 4:1-9)
Exodus 7:3–5 (KJV 1900)
And I will harden Pharaoh’s heart, and multiply my signs and my wonders in the land of Egypt.
But Pharaoh shall not hearken unto you, that I may lay my hand upon Egypt, and bring forth mine armies, and my people the children of Israel, out of the land of Egypt by great judgments.
And the Egyptians shall know that I am the Lord, when I stretch forth mine hand upon Egypt, and bring out the children of Israel from among them.
And he said, To morrow. And he said, Be it according to thy word: that thou mayest know that there is none like unto the Lord our God.
And I will harden Pharaoh’s heart, that he shall follow after them; and I will be honoured upon Pharaoh, and upon all his host; that the Egyptians may know that I am the Lord. And they did so.
Thus the Lord saved Israel that day out of the hand of the Egyptians; and Israel saw the Egyptians dead upon the sea shore.
Exodus 14:31 (KJV 1900)
And Israel saw that great work which the Lord did upon the Egyptians: and the people feared the Lord, and believed the Lord, and his servant Moses.
Deuteronomy 4:32–45 (KJV 1900)
For ask now of the days that are past, which were before thee, since the day that God created man upon the earth, and ask from the one side of heaven unto the other, whether there hath been any such thing as this great thing is, or hath been heard like it?
Did ever people hear the voice of God speaking out of the midst of the fire, as thou hast heard, and live?
Or hath God assayed to go and take him a nation from the midst of another nation, by temptations, by signs, and by wonders, and by war, and by a mighty hand, and by a stretched out arm, and by great terrors, according to all that the Lord your God did for you in Egypt before your eyes?
Unto thee it was shewed, that thou mightest know that the Lord he is God; there is none else beside him.
Out of heaven he made thee to hear his voice, that he might instruct thee: and upon earth he shewed thee his great fire; and thou heardest his words out of the midst of the fire.
And because he loved thy fathers, therefore he chose their seed after them, and brought thee out in his sight with his mighty power out of Egypt;
To drive out nations from before thee greater and mightier than thou art, to bring thee in, to give thee their land for an inheritance, as it is this day.
Know therefore this day, and consider it in thine heart, that the Lord he is God in heaven above, and upon the earth beneath: there is none else.
Thou shalt keep therefore his statutes, and his commandments, which I command thee this day, that it may go well with thee, and with thy children after thee, and that thou mayest prolong thy days upon the earth, which the Lord thy God giveth thee, for ever.
Then Moses severed three cities on this side Jordan toward the sunrising;
That the slayer might flee thither, which should kill his neighbour unawares, and hated him not in times past; and that fleeing unto one of these cities he might live:
Namely, Bezer in the wilderness, in the plain country, of the Reubenites; and Ramoth in Gilead, of the Gadites; and Golan in Bashan, of the Manassites.
And this is the law which Moses set before the children of Israel:
These are the testimonies, and the statutes, and the judgments, which Moses spake unto the children of Israel, after they came forth out of Egypt,
Mark 16:20 (KJV 1900)
And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen.
But I have greater witness than that of John: for the works which the Father hath given me to finish, the same works that I do, bear witness of me, that the Father hath sent me.
And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book:
But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.
Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know:
Long time therefore abode they speaking boldly in the Lord, which gave testimony unto the word of his grace, and granted signs and wonders to be done by their hands.
I am become a fool in glorying; ye have compelled me: for I ought to have been commended of you: for in nothing am I behind the very chiefest apostles, though I be nothing.
2 Corinthians 12:12 (KJV 1900)
Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you in all patience, in signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds.
Hebrews 2:3 (KJV 1900)
How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him;
God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will?
And it came to pass at the time of the offering of the evening sacrifice, that Elijah the prophet came near, and said, Lord God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, let it be known this day that thou art God in Israel, and that I am thy servant, and that I have done all these things at thy word.
Hear me, O Lord, hear me, that this people may know that thou art the Lord God, and that thou hast turned their heart back again.
Then the fire of the Lord fell, and consumed the burnt sacrifice, and the wood, and the stones, and the dust, and licked up the water that was in the trench.
And when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces: and they said, The Lord, he is the God; the Lord, he is the God.
And Moses answered and said, But, behold, they will not believe me, nor hearken unto my voice: for they will say, The Lord hath not appeared unto thee.
And the Lord said unto him, What is that in thine hand? And he said, A rod.
And he said, Cast it on the ground. And he cast it on the ground, and it became a serpent; and Moses fled from before it.
And the Lord said unto Moses, Put forth thine hand, and take it by the tail. And he put forth his hand, and caught it, and it became a rod in his hand:
That they may believe that the Lord God of their fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, hath appeared unto thee.
And the Lord said furthermore unto him, Put now thine hand into thy bosom. And he put his hand into his bosom: and when he took it out, behold, his hand was leprous as snow.
And he said, Put thine hand into thy bosom again. And he put his hand into his bosom again; and plucked it out of his bosom, and, behold, it was turned again as his other flesh.
And it shall come to pass, if they will not believe thee, neither hearken to the voice of the first sign, that they will believe the voice of the latter sign.
And it shall come to pass, if they will not believe also these two signs, neither hearken unto thy voice, that thou shalt take of the water of the river, and pour it upon the dry land: and the water which thou takest out of the river shall become blood upon the dry land.
True believers must accept Bible records of miracles as literal, historic fact.
True believers must accept Bible records of miracles as literal, historic fact.
Miracles prove nothing unless they are impossible by natural law, but nevertheless occurred as historic fact.
Miracles prove nothing unless they are impossible by natural law, but nevertheless occurred as historic fact.
So to claim that some supernatural aspects of miracles are legendary or symbolic, is to deny the accuracy of the Bible and to belittle the force of the miracle.
So to claim that some supernatural aspects of miracles are legendary or symbolic, is to deny the accuracy of the Bible and to belittle the force of the miracle.
Consider the virgin birth ( Luke 1:34,35) and the resurrection of Jesus (Romans 1:4).
Consider the virgin birth ( Luke 1:34,35) and the resurrection of Jesus (Romans 1:4).
As with creation, the Bible uses these to validate God's existence, Jesus' authority, and God's word.
As with creation, the Bible uses these to validate God's existence, Jesus' authority, and God's word.
But all are impossible according to the laws of science, so some folks try to "reconcile" the Bible to science by saying that the Bible accounts are not literal, historic fact.
But all are impossible according to the laws of science, so some folks try to "reconcile" the Bible to science by saying that the Bible accounts are not literal, historic fact.
But that eliminates the power of the miracles as evidence to substantiate Divine claims! Such views constitute modernism or liberalism.
But that eliminates the power of the miracles as evidence to substantiate Divine claims! Such views constitute modernism or liberalism.
Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?
And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.
And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead:
Satan undermines the power of miracles by weakening or denying the supernatural elements of miracles.
Satan undermines the power of miracles by weakening or denying the supernatural elements of miracles.
To avoid the power of the miracles of the Bible, Satan does two things:
To avoid the power of the miracles of the Bible, Satan does two things:
Satan offers "false miracles" that lack the characteristics of true miracles.
Satan offers "false miracles" that lack the characteristics of true miracles.
By convincing people that these events are "miracles," Satan dilutes or weakens the power of real miracles as evidence.
By convincing people that these events are "miracles," Satan dilutes or weakens the power of real miracles as evidence.
( 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12; Acts 8:5-13; Exodus 7:10-13; 1 Kings 18:20-40; Acts 19:11-17)
( 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12; Acts 8:5-13; Exodus 7:10-13; 1 Kings 18:20-40; Acts 19:11-17)
Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders,
And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.
And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie:
That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.
Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them.
And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did.
For unclean spirits, crying with loud voice, came out of many that were possessed with them: and many taken with palsies, and that were lame, were healed.
And there was great joy in that city.
But there was a certain man, called Simon, which beforetime in the same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great one:
To whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, This man is the great power of God.
And to him they had regard, because that of long time he had bewitched them with sorceries.
But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.
Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.
Exodus 7:10–13 (KJV 1900)
And Moses and Aaron went in unto Pharaoh, and they did so as the Lord had commanded: and Aaron cast down his rod before Pharaoh, and before his servants, and it became a serpent.
Then Pharaoh also called the wise men and the sorcerers: now the magicians of Egypt, they also did in like manner with their enchantments.
For they cast down every man his rod, and they became serpents: but Aaron’s rod swallowed up their rods.
And he hardened Pharaoh’s heart, that he hearkened not unto them; as the Lord had said.
So Ahab sent unto all the children of Israel, and gathered the prophets together unto mount Carmel.
And Elijah came unto all the people, and said, How long halt ye between two opinions? if the Lord be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow him. And the people answered him not a word.
Then said Elijah unto the people, I, even I only, remain a prophet of the Lord; but Baal’s prophets are four hundred and fifty men.
Let them therefore give us two bullocks; and let them choose one bullock for themselves, and cut it in pieces, and lay it on wood, and put no fire under: and I will dress the other bullock, and lay it on wood, and put no fire under:
And call ye on the name of your gods, and I will call on the name of the Lord: and the God that answereth by fire, let him be God. And all the people answered and said, It is well spoken.
And Elijah said unto the prophets of Baal, Choose you one bullock for yourselves, and dress it first; for ye are many; and call on the name of your gods, but put no fire under.
And they took the bullock which was given them, and they dressed it, and called on the name of Baal from morning even until noon, saying, O Baal, hear us. But there was no voice, nor any that answered. And they leaped upon the altar which was made.
And it came to pass at noon, that Elijah mocked them, and said, Cry aloud: for he is a god; either he is talking, or he is pursuing, or he is in a journey, or peradventure he sleepeth, and must be awaked.
And they cried aloud, and cut themselves after their manner with knives and lancets, till the blood gushed out upon them.
And it came to pass, when midday was past, and they prophesied until the time of the offering of the evening sacrifice, that there was neither voice, nor any to answer, nor any that regarded.
And Elijah said unto all the people, Come near unto me. And all the people came near unto him. And he repaired the altar of the Lord that was broken down.
And Elijah took twelve stones, according to the number of the tribes of the sons of Jacob, unto whom the word of the Lord came, saying, Israel shall be thy name:
And with the stones he built an altar in the name of the Lord: and he made a trench about the altar, as great as would contain two measures of seed.
And he put the wood in order, and cut the bullock in pieces, and laid him on the wood, and said, Fill four barrels with water, and pour it on the burnt sacrifice, and on the wood.
And he said, Do it the second time. And they did it the second time. And he said, Do it the third time. And they did it the third time.
And the water ran round about the altar; and he filled the trench also with water.
And it came to pass at the time of the offering of the evening sacrifice, that Elijah the prophet came near, and said, Lord God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, let it be known this day that thou art God in Israel, and that I am thy servant, and that I have done all these things at thy word.
Hear me, O Lord, hear me, that this people may know that thou art the Lord God, and that thou hast turned their heart back again.
Then the fire of the Lord fell, and consumed the burnt sacrifice, and the wood, and the stones, and the dust, and licked up the water that was in the trench.
And when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces: and they said, The Lord, he is the God; the Lord, he is the God.
And Elijah said unto them, Take the prophets of Baal; let not one of them escape. And they took them: and Elijah brought them down to the brook Kishon, and slew them there.
And God wrought special miracles by the hands of Paul:
So that from his body were brought unto the sick handkerchiefs or aprons, and the diseases departed from them, and the evil spirits went out of them.
Then certain of the vagabond Jews, exorcists, took upon them to call over them which had evil spirits the name of the Lord Jesus, saying, We adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preacheth.
And there were seven sons of one Sceva, a Jew, and chief of the priests, which did so.
And the evil spirit answered and said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye?
And the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, and overcame them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded.
And this was known to all the Jews and Greeks also dwelling at Ephesus; and fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified.
Satan then belittles the supernatural characteristics of God's miracles.
Satan then belittles the supernatural characteristics of God's miracles.
An event is a miracle because it involves certain specific characteristics that only Divine power could accomplish.
An event is a miracle because it involves certain specific characteristics that only Divine power could accomplish.
So, Satan attacks those supernatural aspects by trying to convince people that they could occur by natural means other than by God's power.
So, Satan attacks those supernatural aspects by trying to convince people that they could occur by natural means other than by God's power.
That is why believers must never accept natural explanations for the supernatural elements of Biblical miracles.
That is why believers must never accept natural explanations for the supernatural elements of Biblical miracles.
( Matthew 28:11-15; 12:24; Ex. 7:10-13; John 9:18-21).
( Matthew 28:11-15; 12:24; Ex. 7:10-13; John 9:18-21).
Now when they were going, behold, some of the watch came into the city, and shewed unto the chief priests all the things that were done.
And when they were assembled with the elders, and had taken counsel, they gave large money unto the soldiers,
Saying, Say ye, His disciples came by night, and stole him away while we slept.
And if this come to the governor’s ears, we will persuade him, and secure you.
So they took the money, and did as they were taught: and this saying is commonly reported among the Jews until this day.
But when the Pharisees heard it, they said, This fellow doth not cast out devils, but by Beelzebub the prince of the devils.
And Moses and Aaron went in unto Pharaoh, and they did so as the Lord had commanded: and Aaron cast down his rod before Pharaoh, and before his servants, and it became a serpent.
Then Pharaoh also called the wise men and the sorcerers: now the magicians of Egypt, they also did in like manner with their enchantments.
For they cast down every man his rod, and they became serpents: but Aaron’s rod swallowed up their rods.
And he hardened Pharaoh’s heart, that he hearkened not unto them; as the Lord had said.
But the Jews did not believe concerning him, that he had been blind, and received his sight, until they called the parents of him that had received his sight.
And they asked them, saying, Is this your son, who ye say was born blind? how then doth he now see?
His parents answered them and said, We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind:
But by what means he now seeth, we know not; or who hath opened his eyes, we know not: he is of age; ask him: he shall speak for himself.
In particular, one supernatural element of miracles is the time element.
In particular, one supernatural element of miracles is the time element.
Many Bible accounts of miracles specify that they happened suddenly.
Many Bible accounts of miracles specify that they happened suddenly.
Given a much longer time, one might suspect that they could have occurred by nature.
Given a much longer time, one might suspect that they could have occurred by nature.
But the shortness of the time demonstrates that God must have done it.
But the shortness of the time demonstrates that God must have done it.
For example, one reason we know miraculous healings were supernatural is that they occurred immediately or instantaneously.
For example, one reason we know miraculous healings were supernatural is that they occurred immediately or instantaneously.
By contrast, fake modern so-called miraculous healings may take days, weeks, or months.
By contrast, fake modern so-called miraculous healings may take days, weeks, or months.
The time element proves they are not really miraculous but could occur by natural processes.
The time element proves they are not really miraculous but could occur by natural processes.
So when God states a specific time element in a miracle, we must accept the time as literal history.
So when God states a specific time element in a miracle, we must accept the time as literal history.
To treat it as figurative or symbolic is to defeat the power of the miracle as evidence.
To treat it as figurative or symbolic is to defeat the power of the miracle as evidence.
( Acts 3:7; Luke 13:11-13; Mark 2:10-12; 5:25-29; 5:35-42; Acts 13:11; 14:8-11; John 9:1,6,7; Mark 1:42; Luke 7:14,15)
( Acts 3:7; Luke 13:11-13; Mark 2:10-12; 5:25-29; 5:35-42; Acts 13:11; 14:8-11; John 9:1,6,7; Mark 1:42; Luke 7:14,15)
And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ancle bones received strength.
And, behold, there was a woman which had a spirit of infirmity eighteen years, and was bowed together, and could in no wise lift up herself.
And when Jesus saw her, he called her to him, and said unto her, Woman, thou art loosed from thine infirmity.
And he laid his hands on her: and immediately she was made straight, and glorified God.
But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (he saith to the sick of the palsy,)
I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, and go thy way into thine house.
And immediately he arose, took up the bed, and went forth before them all; insomuch that they were all amazed, and glorified God, saying, We never saw it on this fashion.
Mark 5:25–29 (KJV 1900)
And a certain woman, which had an issue of blood twelve years,
And had suffered many things of many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was nothing bettered, but rather grew worse,
When she had heard of Jesus, came in the press behind, and touched his garment.
For she said, If I may touch but his clothes, I shall be whole.
And straightway the fountain of her blood was dried up; and she felt in her body that she was healed of that plague.
While he yet spake, there came from the ruler of the synagogue’s house certain which said, Thy daughter is dead: why troublest thou the Master any further?
As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, he saith unto the ruler of the synagogue, Be not afraid, only believe.
And he suffered no man to follow him, save Peter, and James, and John the brother of James.
And he cometh to the house of the ruler of the synagogue, and seeth the tumult, and them that wept and wailed greatly.
And when he was come in, he saith unto them, Why make ye this ado, and weep? the damsel is not dead, but sleepeth.
And they laughed him to scorn. But when he had put them all out, he taketh the father and the mother of the damsel, and them that were with him, and entereth in where the damsel was lying.
And he took the damsel by the hand, and said unto her, Talitha cumi; which is, being interpreted, Damsel, I say unto thee, arise.
And straightway the damsel arose, and walked; for she was of the age of twelve years. And they were astonished with a great astonishment.
And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind, not seeing the sun for a season. And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness; and he went about seeking some to lead him by the hand.
And there sat a certain man at Lystra, impotent in his feet, being a cripple from his mother’s womb, who never had walked:
The same heard Paul speak: who stedfastly beholding him, and perceiving that he had faith to be healed,
Said with a loud voice, Stand upright on thy feet. And he leaped and walked.
And when the people saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in the speech of Lycaonia, The gods are come down to us in the likeness of men.
And as Jesus passed by, he saw a man which was blind from his birth.
John 9:6 (KJV 1900)
When he had thus spoken, he spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and he anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay,
And said unto him, Go, wash in the pool of Siloam, (which is by interpretation, Sent.) He went his way therefore, and washed, and came seeing.
And as soon as he had spoken, immediately the leprosy departed from him, and he was cleansed.
And he came and touched the bier: and they that bare him stood still. And he said, Young man, I say unto thee, Arise.
And he that was dead sat up, and began to speak. And he delivered him to his mother.
The Bible repeatedly views the creation account as literal history of a miracle.
The Bible repeatedly views the creation account as literal history of a miracle.
The book of Genesis is clearly presented as history.
The book of Genesis is clearly presented as history.
It describes the lives of real people in historical settings naming individuals, places, rulers, genealogies, etc.: Adam, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, etc.
It describes the lives of real people in historical settings naming individuals, places, rulers, genealogies, etc.: Adam, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, etc.
Genesis and the rest of the Bible repeatedly treat these as real people and their lives as real history.
Genesis and the rest of the Bible repeatedly treat these as real people and their lives as real history.
Interestingly, the NKJV in Genesis 2:4 describes the creation account as "history."
Interestingly, the NKJV in Genesis 2:4 describes the creation account as "history."
(Other accounts use "genealogy," but nothing is more historical than a genealogy.)
(Other accounts use "genealogy," but nothing is more historical than a genealogy.)
The rest of the Bible treats creation as a literal historical miracle.
The rest of the Bible treats creation as a literal historical miracle.
We have confirmed this already by many Scriptures.
We have confirmed this already by many Scriptures.
Creation is never viewed as allegory, legend, myth, figure of speech, or parable.
Creation is never viewed as allegory, legend, myth, figure of speech, or parable.
To view the account as figurative or allegorical is to deny or belittle the integrity of Genesis and of all Scripture!
To view the account as figurative or allegorical is to deny or belittle the integrity of Genesis and of all Scripture!
Since creation is presented as a historical miracle, it follows that we must accept the supernatural characteristics of that miracle to be real history.
Since creation is presented as a historical miracle, it follows that we must accept the supernatural characteristics of that miracle to be real history.
Specifically, the time element of creation must be accepted as literal history.
Specifically, the time element of creation must be accepted as literal history.
The Bible repeatedly states that creation occurred in six days.
The Bible repeatedly states that creation occurred in six days.
The time element is referenced nine times in the Genesis account itself -- Genesis 1:5,8,13,19,23,31; 2:2 (two references); 2:3.
The time element is referenced nine times in the Genesis account itself -- Genesis 1:5,8,13,19,23,31; 2:2 (two references); 2:3.
And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day.
Genesis 1:8 (KJV 1900)
And God called the firmament Heaven. And the evening and the morning were the second day.
And the evening and the morning were the third day.
Genesis 1:19 (KJV 1900)
And the evening and the morning were the fourth day.
Genesis 1:23 (KJV 1900)
And the evening and the morning were the fifth day.
Genesis 1:31 (KJV 1900)
And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day.
Genesis 2:2 (KJV 1900)
And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made.
It is directly referenced elsewhere eight times - Gen. 5:1,2; Ex. 20:11 (twice); 31:17 (twice); and Heb. 4:4 (twice). That makes 17 direct references to the time element in creation.
It is directly referenced elsewhere eight times - Gen. 5:1,2; Ex. 20:11 (twice); 31:17 (twice); and Heb. 4:4 (twice). That makes 17 direct references to the time element in creation.
This is the book of the generations of Adam. In the day that God created man, in the likeness of God made he him;
Male and female created he them; and blessed them, and called their name Adam, in the day when they were created.
Exodus 20:11 (KJV 1900)
For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.
For he spake in a certain place of the seventh day on this wise, And God did rest the seventh day from all his works.
So, for all the reasons we have studied, true believers must accept the time element as literal, historic fact: six literal, consecutive days, followed by a literal day of rest.
So, for all the reasons we have studied, true believers must accept the time element as literal, historic fact: six literal, consecutive days, followed by a literal day of rest.
To claim long ages in creation is to compromise a basic supernatural element of a major miracle.
To claim long ages in creation is to compromise a basic supernatural element of a major miracle.
But when we recognize the time element to be literal, then no one can possibly believe in evolution or in "creation" by natural processes.
But when we recognize the time element to be literal, then no one can possibly believe in evolution or in "creation" by natural processes.
Since the Bible presents creation as a major historical miracle, true believers must defend every supernatural characteristic of the account as literal, historical fact, including the days.
Since the Bible presents creation as a major historical miracle, true believers must defend every supernatural characteristic of the account as literal, historical fact, including the days.
To compromise is to undermine faith in the Bible and faith in God.
To compromise is to undermine faith in the Bible and faith in God.
B. "Days" Plural Are Always Literal in Moses, History, and Doctrine.
B. "Days" Plural Are Always Literal in Moses, History, and Doctrine.
Some point out that "day" may refer to periods longer than a day.
Some point out that "day" may refer to periods longer than a day.
In fact, nearly 2000 verses use the Hebrew word for "day" (YOM).
In fact, nearly 2000 verses use the Hebrew word for "day" (YOM).
Context shows that about 95% of cases refer either to a literal 24-hour day or to the period of daylight (in contrast to night).
Context shows that about 95% of cases refer either to a literal 24-hour day or to the period of daylight (in contrast to night).
So "day" is clearly the fundamental meaning, and the "days" of creation are highly unlikely to be long periods.
So "day" is clearly the fundamental meaning, and the "days" of creation are highly unlikely to be long periods.
And I know of no instance where a Bible "day" includes many thousands of years, let alone 700 million years.
And I know of no instance where a Bible "day" includes many thousands of years, let alone 700 million years.
Two passages say that God created all things in six "days": Exodus 20:11; 31:17.
Two passages say that God created all things in six "days": Exodus 20:11; 31:17.
For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.
It is a sign between me and the children of Israel for ever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed.
To make sure we get the point, God gives much more information about the word "day."
To make sure we get the point, God gives much more information about the word "day."
He uses it in ways that leave no doubt about the meaning in creation.
He uses it in ways that leave no doubt about the meaning in creation.
As He gives more information, the meaning becomes more precisely defined.
As He gives more information, the meaning becomes more precisely defined.
The best way to understand a Bible word is to study how it is used in the context of Bible passages. Let us do this for the word "days" (plural).
The best way to understand a Bible word is to study how it is used in the context of Bible passages. Let us do this for the word "days" (plural).
Consider every verse where the NKJV translation uses "days" (plural).
Consider every verse where the NKJV translation uses "days" (plural).
The chart below categorizes all such verses (Old and New Testaments) according to the nature of the books (law, history or prophecy, etc.) and the meaning (literal days or long periods).
The chart below categorizes all such verses (Old and New Testaments) according to the nature of the books (law, history or prophecy, etc.) and the meaning (literal days or long periods).
Type of context Total verses Literal days Long ages??
Type of context Total verses Literal days Long ages??
Millions of years Moses' writings
Millions of years Moses' writings
191 allnonen one Other history, doctrine, poetry
191 allnonen one Other history, doctrine, poetry
40 6allnonenone Prophecy 17716611 (??)
40 6allnonenone Prophecy 17716611 (??)
none Total 77476311 (??)none
none Total 77476311 (??)none
This may seem technical (though "scientific" types will find it helpful). The lesson is:
This may seem technical (though "scientific" types will find it helpful). The lesson is:
In the writings of Moses and in history and doctrine, "days" (plural) always refers to literal days, never to longer periods.
In the writings of Moses and in history and doctrine, "days" (plural) always refers to literal days, never to longer periods.
"Days" that are longer periods are found only in prophecy, but no one believes that Genesis 1 is prophecy.
"Days" that are longer periods are found only in prophecy, but no one believes that Genesis 1 is prophecy.
In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.
And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.
And God said, Let there be light: and there was light.
And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness.
And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day.
And God said, Let there be a firmament in the midst of the waters, and let it divide the waters from the waters.
And God made the firmament, and divided the waters which were under the firmament from the waters which were above the firmament: and it was so.
And God called the firmament Heaven. And the evening and the morning were the second day.
And God said, Let the waters under the heaven be gathered together unto one place, and let the dry land appear: and it was so.
And God called the dry land Earth; and the gathering together of the waters called he Seas: and God saw that it was good.
And God said, Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed, and the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seed is in itself, upon the earth: and it was so.
And the earth brought forth grass, and herb yielding seed after his kind, and the tree yielding fruit, whose seed was in itself, after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
And the evening and the morning were the third day.
And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years:
And let them be for lights in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth: and it was so.
And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night: he made the stars also.
And God set them in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth,
And to rule over the day and over the night, and to divide the light from the darkness: and God saw that it was good.
And the evening and the morning were the fourth day.
And God said, Let the waters bring forth abundantly the moving creature that hath life, and fowl that may fly above the earth in the open firmament of heaven.
And God created great whales, and every living creature that moveth, which the waters brought forth abundantly, after their kind, and every winged fowl after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
And God blessed them, saying, Be fruitful, and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let fowl multiply in the earth.
And the evening and the morning were the fifth day.
And God said, Let the earth bring forth the living creature after his kind, cattle, and creeping thing, and beast of the earth after his kind: and it was so.
And God made the beast of the earth after his kind, and cattle after their kind, and every thing that creepeth upon the earth after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
And 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 fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.
And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.
And to every beast of the earth, and to every fowl of the air, and to every thing that creepeth upon the earth, wherein there is life, I have given every green herb for meat: and it was so.
And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day.
And remember that, no Bible passage - not even prophecy - uses "days" to refer to ages lasting many hundreds of millions of years each.
And remember that, no Bible passage - not even prophecy - uses "days" to refer to ages lasting many hundreds of millions of years each.
C. "Day" with a Number Is Always Literal in Moses, History, and Doctrine
C. "Day" with a Number Is Always Literal in Moses, History, and Doctrine
Several passages use "day" with a number in describing creation.
Several passages use "day" with a number in describing creation.
Three passages refer to days of creation using a cardinal number: Exodus 20:11; 31:17; Genesis 1:5.
Three passages refer to days of creation using a cardinal number: Exodus 20:11; 31:17; Genesis 1:5.
A "cardinal" number simply indicates how many items are being described ("one," "two," "three," etc.).
A "cardinal" number simply indicates how many items are being described ("one," "two," "three," etc.).
For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.
It is a sign between me and the children of Israel for ever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed.
And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day.
Ten passages refer to creation using "day" with an ordinal number: Genesis 1:8,13,19,23,31; 2:2,3; Exodus 20:11; 31:17; Hebrews 4:4.
Ten passages refer to creation using "day" with an ordinal number: Genesis 1:8,13,19,23,31; 2:2,3; Exodus 20:11; 31:17; Hebrews 4:4.
An "ordinal" number indicates the order of the items ("first," "second," "third," etc.).
An "ordinal" number indicates the order of the items ("first," "second," "third," etc.).
[Some versions translate Genesis 1:5 as an ordinal number ("first day"), but the original text has a cardinal number ("one day").]
[Some versions translate Genesis 1:5 as an ordinal number ("first day"), but the original text has a cardinal number ("one day").]
And God called the firmament Heaven. And the evening and the morning were the second day.
And the evening and the morning were the third day.
And the evening and the morning were the fourth day.
And the evening and the morning were the fifth day.
And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day.
And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made.
And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made.
For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.
It is a sign between me and the children of Israel for ever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed.
For he spake in a certain place of the seventh day on this wise, And God did rest the seventh day from all his works.
And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day.
Counting a specific number of days implies a more precise or exact meaning than simply saying "day" or "days."
Counting a specific number of days implies a more precise or exact meaning than simply saying "day" or "days."
Placing them in order becomes even more specific.
Placing them in order becomes even more specific.
Consider every Bible passage using a number with the word for "day."
Consider every Bible passage using a number with the word for "day."
The chart below categorizes the verses according to the nature of the books (law, history or prophecy, etc.).
The chart below categorizes the verses according to the nature of the books (law, history or prophecy, etc.).
Then it shows whether the days are literal or could be longer periods or could refer to hundreds of millions of years.
Then it shows whether the days are literal or could be longer periods or could refer to hundreds of millions of years.
Type of context Total verses Literal days Long ages??
Type of context Total verses Literal days Long ages??
Millions of years Moses' writings 227allnonen one Other history, doctrine, poetry 202 allnonen one Prophecy 543420 (??) none Total 48346320 (??)none
Millions of years Moses' writings 227allnonen one Other history, doctrine, poetry 202 allnonen one Prophecy 543420 (??) none Total 48346320 (??)none
Again, the lesson is simple:
Again, the lesson is simple:
In the writings of Moses and in history and doctrine, "day" with a number always refers to a literal day, never to longer periods.
In the writings of Moses and in history and doctrine, "day" with a number always refers to a literal day, never to longer periods.
Uses that mean longer periods are found only in prophecy, but no one believes that Genesis 1 is prophecy
Uses that mean longer periods are found only in prophecy, but no one believes that Genesis 1 is prophecy
In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.
And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.
And God said, Let there be light: and there was light.
And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness.
And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day.
And God said, Let there be a firmament in the midst of the waters, and let it divide the waters from the waters.
And God made the firmament, and divided the waters which were under the firmament from the waters which were above the firmament: and it was so.
And God called the firmament Heaven. And the evening and the morning were the second day.
And God said, Let the waters under the heaven be gathered together unto one place, and let the dry land appear: and it was so.
And God called the dry land Earth; and the gathering together of the waters called he Seas: and God saw that it was good.
And God said, Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed, and the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seed is in itself, upon the earth: and it was so.
And the earth brought forth grass, and herb yielding seed after his kind, and the tree yielding fruit, whose seed was in itself, after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
And the evening and the morning were the third day.
And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years:
And let them be for lights in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth: and it was so.
And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night: he made the stars also.
And God set them in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth,
And to rule over the day and over the night, and to divide the light from the darkness: and God saw that it was good.
And the evening and the morning were the fourth day.
And God said, Let the waters bring forth abundantly the moving creature that hath life, and fowl that may fly above the earth in the open firmament of heaven.
And God created great whales, and every living creature that moveth, which the waters brought forth abundantly, after their kind, and every winged fowl after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
And God blessed them, saying, Be fruitful, and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let fowl multiply in the earth.
And the evening and the morning were the fifth day.
And God said, Let the earth bring forth the living creature after his kind, cattle, and creeping thing, and beast of the earth after his kind: and it was so.
And God made the beast of the earth after his kind, and cattle after their kind, and every thing that creepeth upon the earth after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
And 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 fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.
And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.
And to every beast of the earth, and to every fowl of the air, and to every thing that creepeth upon the earth, wherein there is life, I have given every green herb for meat: and it was so.
And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day.
And further, whenever "day" is used with a number to describe an event (such as creation in "six days"), the days are always consecutive, sequential days.
And further, whenever "day" is used with a number to describe an event (such as creation in "six days"), the days are always consecutive, sequential days.
So, the creation references to "day" with a number prove that the days are literal and that no long ages occurred between the days.
So, the creation references to "day" with a number prove that the days are literal and that no long ages occurred between the days.
And remember that, no Bible passage - not even prophecy - uses "days" to refer to ages lasting many hundreds of millions of years each.
And remember that, no Bible passage - not even prophecy - uses "days" to refer to ages lasting many hundreds of millions of years each.
D. Sequences of Days with Ordinal Numbers Are Always Literal Consecutive Days
D. Sequences of Days with Ordinal Numbers Are Always Literal Consecutive Days
13 times "day" is used with an ordinal number for two or more days in sequence.
13 times "day" is used with an ordinal number for two or more days in sequence.
They describe a "first day," "second day," etc., as in Genesis 1: Genesis 1:8-2:3; Exodus 14:9,10; Numbers 6:9,10; 7:12-78; 28:16,17; 29:17-35; Joshua 6:14,15; Judges 19:5-8; 20:22-30; Esther 9:17,18,21 (3 instances); Ezekiel 45:21-25.
They describe a "first day," "second day," etc., as in Genesis 1: Genesis 1:8-2:3; Exodus 14:9,10; Numbers 6:9,10; 7:12-78; 28:16,17; 29:17-35; Joshua 6:14,15; Judges 19:5-8; 20:22-30; Esther 9:17,18,21 (3 instances); Ezekiel 45:21-25.
In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.
And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.
And God said, Let there be light: and there was light.
And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness.
And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day.
And God said, Let there be a firmament in the midst of the waters, and let it divide the waters from the waters.
And God made the firmament, and divided the waters which were under the firmament from the waters which were above the firmament: and it was so.
And God called the firmament Heaven. And the evening and the morning were the second day.
And God said, Let the waters under the heaven be gathered together unto one place, and let the dry land appear: and it was so.
And God called the dry land Earth; and the gathering together of the waters called he Seas: and God saw that it was good.
And God said, Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed, and the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seed is in itself, upon the earth: and it was so.
And the earth brought forth grass, and herb yielding seed after his kind, and the tree yielding fruit, whose seed was in itself, after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
And the evening and the morning were the third day.
And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years:
And let them be for lights in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth: and it was so.
And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night: he made the stars also.
And God set them in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth,
And to rule over the day and over the night, and to divide the light from the darkness: and God saw that it was good.
And the evening and the morning were the fourth day.
And God said, Let the waters bring forth abundantly the moving creature that hath life, and fowl that may fly above the earth in the open firmament of heaven.
And God created great whales, and every living creature that moveth, which the waters brought forth abundantly, after their kind, and every winged fowl after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
And God blessed them, saying, Be fruitful, and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let fowl multiply in the earth.
And the evening and the morning were the fifth day.
And God said, Let the earth bring forth the living creature after his kind, cattle, and creeping thing, and beast of the earth after his kind: and it was so.
And God made the beast of the earth after his kind, and cattle after their kind, and every thing that creepeth upon the earth after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
And 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 fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.
And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.
And to every beast of the earth, and to every fowl of the air, and to every thing that creepeth upon the earth, wherein there is life, I have given every green herb for meat: and it was so.
And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day.
And God called the firmament Heaven. And the evening and the morning were the second day.
And God said, Let the waters under the heaven be gathered together unto one place, and let the dry land appear: and it was so.
And God called the dry land Earth; and the gathering together of the waters called he Seas: and God saw that it was good.
And God said, Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed, and the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seed is in itself, upon the earth: and it was so.
And the earth brought forth grass, and herb yielding seed after his kind, and the tree yielding fruit, whose seed was in itself, after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
And the evening and the morning were the third day.
And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years:
And let them be for lights in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth: and it was so.
And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night: he made the stars also.
And God set them in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth,
And to rule over the day and over the night, and to divide the light from the darkness: and God saw that it was good.
And the evening and the morning were the fourth day.
And God said, Let the waters bring forth abundantly the moving creature that hath life, and fowl that may fly above the earth in the open firmament of heaven.
And God created great whales, and every living creature that moveth, which the waters brought forth abundantly, after their kind, and every winged fowl after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
And God blessed them, saying, Be fruitful, and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let fowl multiply in the earth.
And the evening and the morning were the fifth day.
And God said, Let the earth bring forth the living creature after his kind, cattle, and creeping thing, and beast of the earth after his kind: and it was so.
And God made the beast of the earth after his kind, and cattle after their kind, and every thing that creepeth upon the earth after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
And 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 fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.
And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.
And to every beast of the earth, and to every fowl of the air, and to every thing that creepeth upon the earth, wherein there is life, I have given every green herb for meat: and it was so.
And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day.
Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them.
And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made.
And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made.
But the Egyptians pursued after them, all the horses and chariots of Pharaoh, and his horsemen, and his army, and overtook them encamping by the sea, beside Pi-hahiroth, before Baal-zephon.
And when Pharaoh drew nigh, the children of Israel lifted up their eyes, and, behold, the Egyptians marched after them; and they were sore afraid: and the children of Israel cried out unto the Lord.
Numbers 6:9 (KJV 1900)
And if any man die very suddenly by him, and he hath defiled the head of his consecration; then he shall shave his head in the day of his cleansing, on the seventh day shall he shave it.
Numbers 6:10 (KJV 1900)
And on the eighth day he shall bring two turtles, or two young pigeons, to the priest, to the door of the tabernacle of the congregation:
And he that offered his offering the first day was Nahshon the son of Amminadab, of the tribe of Judah:
And his offering was one silver charger, the weight thereof was an hundred and thirty shekels, one silver bowl of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary; both of them were full of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering:
One spoon of ten shekels of gold, full of incense:
One young bullock, one ram, one lamb of the first year, for a burnt offering:
One kid of the goats for a sin offering:
And for a sacrifice of peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year: this was the offering of Nahshon the son of Amminadab.
On the second day Nethaneel the son of Zuar, prince of Issachar, did offer:
He offered for his offering one silver charger, the weight whereof was an hundred and thirty shekels, one silver bowl of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary; both of them full of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering:
One spoon of gold of ten shekels, full of incense:
One young bullock, one ram, one lamb of the first year, for a burnt offering:
One kid of the goats for a sin offering:
And for a sacrifice of peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year: this was the offering of Nethaneel the son of Zuar.
On the third day Eliab the son of Helon, prince of the children of Zebulun, did offer:
His offering was one silver charger, the weight whereof was an hundred and thirty shekels, one silver bowl of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary; both of them full of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering:
One golden spoon of ten shekels, full of incense:
One young bullock, one ram, one lamb of the first year, for a burnt offering:
One kid of the goats for a sin offering:
And for a sacrifice of peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year: this was the offering of Eliab the son of Helon.
On the fourth day Elizur the son of Shedeur, prince of the children of Reuben, did offer:
His offering was one silver charger of the weight of an hundred and thirty shekels, one silver bowl of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary; both of them full of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering:
One golden spoon of ten shekels, full of incense:
One young bullock, one ram, one lamb of the first year, for a burnt offering:
One kid of the goats for a sin offering:
And for a sacrifice of peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year: this was the offering of Elizur the son of Shedeur.
On the fifth day Shelumiel the son of Zurishaddai, prince of the children of Simeon, did offer:
His offering was one silver charger, the weight whereof was an hundred and thirty shekels, one silver bowl of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary; both of them full of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering:
One golden spoon of ten shekels, full of incense:
One young bullock, one ram, one lamb of the first year, for a burnt offering:
One kid of the goats for a sin offering:
And for a sacrifice of peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year: this was the offering of Shelumiel the son of Zurishaddai.
On the sixth day Eliasaph the son of Deuel, prince of the children of Gad, offered:
His offering was one silver charger of the weight of an hundred and thirty shekels, a silver bowl of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary; both of them full of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering:
One golden spoon of ten shekels, full of incense:
One young bullock, one ram, one lamb of the first year, for a burnt offering:
One kid of the goats for a sin offering:
And for a sacrifice of peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year: this was the offering of Eliasaph the son of Deuel.
On the seventh day Elishama the son of Ammihud, prince of the children of Ephraim, offered:
His offering was one silver charger, the weight whereof was an hundred and thirty shekels, one silver bowl of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary; both of them full of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering:
One golden spoon of ten shekels, full of incense:
One young bullock, one ram, one lamb of the first year, for a burnt offering:
One kid of the goats for a sin offering:
And for a sacrifice of peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year: this was the offering of Elishama the son of Ammihud.
On the eighth day offered Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur, prince of the children of Manasseh:
His offering was one silver charger of the weight of an hundred and thirty shekels, one silver bowl of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary; both of them full of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering:
One golden spoon of ten shekels, full of incense:
One young bullock, one ram, one lamb of the first year, for a burnt offering:
One kid of the goats for a sin offering:
And for a sacrifice of peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year: this was the offering of Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur.
On the ninth day Abidan the son of Gideoni, prince of the children of Benjamin, offered:
His offering was one silver charger, the weight whereof was an hundred and thirty shekels, one silver bowl of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary; both of them full of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering:
One golden spoon of ten shekels, full of incense:
One young bullock, one ram, one lamb of the first year, for a burnt offering:
One kid of the goats for a sin offering:
And for a sacrifice of peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year: this was the offering of Abidan the son of Gideoni.
On the tenth day Ahiezer the son of Ammishaddai, prince of the children of Dan, offered:
His offering was one silver charger, the weight whereof was an hundred and thirty shekels, one silver bowl of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary; both of them full of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering:
One golden spoon of ten shekels, full of incense:
One young bullock, one ram, one lamb of the first year, for a burnt offering:
One kid of the goats for a sin offering:
And for a sacrifice of peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year: this was the offering of Ahiezer the son of Ammishaddai.
On the eleventh day Pagiel the son of Ocran, prince of the children of Asher, offered:
His offering was one silver charger, the weight whereof was an hundred and thirty shekels, one silver bowl of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary; both of them full of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering:
One golden spoon of ten shekels, full of incense:
One young bullock, one ram, one lamb of the first year, for a burnt offering:
One kid of the goats for a sin offering:
And for a sacrifice of peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year: this was the offering of Pagiel the son of Ocran.
On the twelfth day Ahira the son of Enan, prince of the children of Naphtali, offered:
And in the fourteenth day of the first month is the passover of the Lord.
And in the fifteenth day of this month is the feast: seven days shall unleavened bread be eaten.
And on the second day ye shall offer twelve young bullocks, two rams, fourteen lambs of the first year without spot:
And their meat offering and their drink offerings for the bullocks, for the rams, and for the lambs, shall be according to their number, after the manner:
And one kid of the goats for a sin offering; beside the continual burnt offering, and the meat offering thereof, and their drink offerings.
And on the third day eleven bullocks, two rams, fourteen lambs of the first year without blemish;
And their meat offering and their drink offerings for the bullocks, for the rams, and for the lambs, shall be according to their number, after the manner:
And one goat for a sin offering; beside the continual burnt offering, and his meat offering, and his drink offering.
And on the fourth day ten bullocks, two rams, and fourteen lambs of the first year without blemish:
Their meat offering and their drink offerings for the bullocks, for the rams, and for the lambs, shall be according to their number, after the manner:
And one kid of the goats for a sin offering; beside the continual burnt offering, his meat offering, and his drink offering.
And on the fifth day nine bullocks, two rams, and fourteen lambs of the first year without spot:
And their meat offering and their drink offerings for the bullocks, for the rams, and for the lambs, shall be according to their number, after the manner:
And one goat for a sin offering; beside the continual burnt offering, and his meat offering, and his drink offering.
And on the sixth day eight bullocks, two rams, and fourteen lambs of the first year without blemish:
And their meat offering and their drink offerings for the bullocks, for the rams, and for the lambs, shall be according to their number, after the manner:
And one goat for a sin offering; beside the continual burnt offering, his meat offering, and his drink offering.
And on the seventh day seven bullocks, two rams, and fourteen lambs of the first year without blemish:
And their meat offering and their drink offerings for the bullocks, for the rams, and for the lambs, shall be according to their number, after the manner:
And one goat for a sin offering; beside the continual burnt offering, his meat offering, and his drink offering.
On the eighth day ye shall have a solemn assembly: ye shall do no servile work therein:
And the second day they compassed the city once, and returned into the camp: so they did six days.
Joshua 6:15 (KJV 1900)
And it came to pass on the seventh day, that they rose early about the dawning of the day, and compassed the city after the same manner seven times: only on that day they compassed the city seven times.
And it came to pass on the fourth day, when they arose early in the morning, that he rose up to depart: and the damsel’s father said unto his son in law, Comfort thine heart with a morsel of bread, and afterward go your way.
And they sat down, and did eat and drink both of them together: for the damsel’s father had said unto the man, Be content, I pray thee, and tarry all night, and let thine heart be merry.
And when the man rose up to depart, his father in law urged him: therefore he lodged there again.
And he arose early in the morning on the fifth day to depart: and the damsel’s father said, Comfort thine heart, I pray thee. And they tarried until afternoon, and they did eat both of them.
And the people the men of Israel encouraged themselves, and set their battle again in array in the place where they put themselves in array the first day.
(And the children of Israel went up and wept before the Lord until even, and asked counsel of the Lord, saying, Shall I go up again to battle against the children of Benjamin my brother? And the Lord said, Go up against him.)
And the children of Israel came near against the children of Benjamin the second day.
And Benjamin went forth against them out of Gibeah the second day, and destroyed down to the ground of the children of Israel again eighteen thousand men; all these drew the sword.
Then all the children of Israel, and all the people, went up, and came unto the house of God, and wept, and sat there before the Lord, and fasted that day until even, and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings before the Lord.
And the children of Israel inquired of the Lord, (for the ark of the covenant of God was there in those days,
And Phinehas, the son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron, stood before it in those days,) saying, Shall I yet again go out to battle against the children of Benjamin my brother, or shall I cease? And the Lord said, Go up; for to morrow I will deliver them into thine hand.
And Israel set liers in wait round about Gibeah.
And the children of Israel went up against the children of Benjamin on the third day, and put themselves in array against Gibeah, as at other times.
Esther 9:17 (KJV 1900)
On the thirteenth day of the month Adar; and on the fourteenth day of the same rested they, and made it a day of feasting and gladness.
But the Jews that were at Shushan assembled together on the thirteenth day thereof, and on the fourteenth thereof; and on the fifteenth day of the same they rested, and made it a day of feasting and gladness.
To stablish this among them, that they should keep the fourteenth day of the month Adar, and the fifteenth day of the same, yearly,
Ezekiel 45:21–25 (KJV 1900)
In the first month, in the fourteenth day of the month, ye shall have the passover, a feast of seven days; unleavened bread shall be eaten.
And upon that day shall the prince prepare for himself and for all the people of the land a bullock for a sin offering.
And seven days of the feast he shall prepare a burnt offering to the Lord, seven bullocks and seven rams without blemish daily the seven days; and a kid of the goats daily for a sin offering.
And he shall prepare a meat offering of an ephah for a bullock, and an ephah for a ram, and an hin of oil for an ephah.
In the seventh month, in the fifteenth day of the month, shall he do the like in the feast of the seven days, according to the sin offering, according to the burnt offering, and according to the meat offering, and according to the oil.
Every one of these cases describes consecutive literal 24-hour days!
Every one of these cases describes consecutive literal 24-hour days!
These are the closest possible parallels to Gen. 1, and all refer to consecutive, sequential literal days. Surely Genesis 1 & 2 must carry this same meaning.
These are the closest possible parallels to Gen. 1, and all refer to consecutive, sequential literal days. Surely Genesis 1 & 2 must carry this same meaning.
In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.
And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.
And God said, Let there be light: and there was light.
And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness.
And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day.
And God said, Let there be a firmament in the midst of the waters, and let it divide the waters from the waters.
And God made the firmament, and divided the waters which were under the firmament from the waters which were above the firmament: and it was so.
And God called the firmament Heaven. And the evening and the morning were the second day.
And God said, Let the waters under the heaven be gathered together unto one place, and let the dry land appear: and it was so.
And God called the dry land Earth; and the gathering together of the waters called he Seas: and God saw that it was good.
And God said, Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed, and the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seed is in itself, upon the earth: and it was so.
And the earth brought forth grass, and herb yielding seed after his kind, and the tree yielding fruit, whose seed was in itself, after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
And the evening and the morning were the third day.
And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years:
And let them be for lights in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth: and it was so.
And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night: he made the stars also.
And God set them in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth,
And to rule over the day and over the night, and to divide the light from the darkness: and God saw that it was good.
And the evening and the morning were the fourth day.
And God said, Let the waters bring forth abundantly the moving creature that hath life, and fowl that may fly above the earth in the open firmament of heaven.
And God created great whales, and every living creature that moveth, which the waters brought forth abundantly, after their kind, and every winged fowl after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
And God blessed them, saying, Be fruitful, and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let fowl multiply in the earth.
And the evening and the morning were the fifth day.
And God said, Let the earth bring forth the living creature after his kind, cattle, and creeping thing, and beast of the earth after his kind: and it was so.
And God made the beast of the earth after his kind, and cattle after their kind, and every thing that creepeth upon the earth after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
And 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 fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.
And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.
And to every beast of the earth, and to every fowl of the air, and to every thing that creepeth upon the earth, wherein there is life, I have given every green herb for meat: and it was so.
And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day.
The language of Scripture confirms that the inspired writer intended to state that creation occurred in six consecutive, literal days.
The language of Scripture confirms that the inspired writer intended to state that creation occurred in six consecutive, literal days.
E. "In X Days" Always Refers to Literal Consecutive Days
E. "In X Days" Always Refers to Literal Consecutive Days
Two passages state that God made everything "in six days": Exodus 20:11; 31:17.
Two passages state that God made everything "in six days": Exodus 20:11; 31:17.
["In" is added by the translators, because the context clearly implies it.]
["In" is added by the translators, because the context clearly implies it.]
Just as adding a specific number gives more information than just "day," so adding the word "in" tells that the entire event under consideration was completed within the time described: "in six days."
Just as adding a specific number gives more information than just "day," so adding the word "in" tells that the entire event under consideration was completed within the time described: "in six days."
For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.
It is a sign between me and the children of Israel for ever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed.
The Bible uses an expression such as "in X days" ten times.
The Bible uses an expression such as "in X days" ten times.
Exodus 20:11; 31:17 - ...in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth ...
Exodus 20:11; 31:17 - ...in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth ...
For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.
It is a sign between me and the children of Israel for ever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed.
2 Chronicles 29:17 -- ... on the eighth day of the month they came to the vestibule of the Lord.
2 Chronicles 29:17 -- ... on the eighth day of the month they came to the vestibule of the Lord.
Then they sanctified the house of the Lord in eight days, and on the sixteenth day of the first month they finished.
Then they sanctified the house of the Lord in eight days, and on the sixteenth day of the first month they finished.
Now they began on the first day of the first month to sanctify, and on the eighth day of the month came they to the porch of the Lord: so they sanctified the house of the Lord in eight days; and in the sixteenth day of the first month they made an end.
Nehemiah 6:15 -- So the wall was finished ... in fifty-two days.
Nehemiah 6:15 -- So the wall was finished ... in fifty-two days.
Nehemiah 6:15 (KJV 1900)
So the wall was finished in the twenty and fifth day of the month Elul, in fifty and two days.
Matthew 26:61; 27:40; Mark 15:29; John 2:19,20 - Jesus would be raised in three days after His death.
Matthew 26:61; 27:40; Mark 15:29; John 2:19,20 - Jesus would be raised in three days after His death.
Matthew 26:61 (KJV 1900)
And said, This fellow said, I am able to destroy the temple of God, and to build it in three days.
And saying, Thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days, save thyself. If thou be the Son of God, come down from the cross.
Mark 15:29 (KJV 1900)
And they that passed by railed on him, wagging their heads, and saying, Ah, thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days,
Jesus answered and said unto them, Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.
Then said the Jews, Forty and six years was this temple in building, and wilt thou rear it up in three days?
Acts 20:6 -- But we sailed away from Philippi ... and in five days joined them at Troas
Acts 20:6 -- But we sailed away from Philippi ... and in five days joined them at Troas
And we sailed away from Philippi after the days of unleavened bread, and came unto them to Troas in five days; where we abode seven days.
[Consider also different but related expressions in Lev. 12:2; Num. 14:34; Luke 4:2.]
[Consider also different but related expressions in Lev. 12:2; Num. 14:34; Luke 4:2.]
Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, If a woman have conceived seed, and born a man child: then she shall be unclean seven days; according to the days of the separation for her infirmity shall she be unclean.
After the number of the days in which ye searched the land, even forty days, each day for a year, shall ye bear your iniquities, even forty years, and ye shall know my breach of promise.
Being forty days tempted of the devil. And in those days he did eat nothing: and when they were ended, he afterward hungered.
Observations about the examples:
Observations about the examples:
In every case, without exception, this expression means, not just literal days, but literal consecutive, sequential days.
In every case, without exception, this expression means, not just literal days, but literal consecutive, sequential days.
The entire point is to state the limits of a literal time span within which an event or task was completed.
The entire point is to state the limits of a literal time span within which an event or task was completed.
This proves, not just that creation days were literal days, but also that no long ages occurred between the days.
This proves, not just that creation days were literal days, but also that no long ages occurred between the days.
So, "in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them" affirms that all of creation was completely formed in six literal, consecutive days.
So, "in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them" affirms that all of creation was completely formed in six literal, consecutive days.
To deny it is to flatly deny Scripture!
To deny it is to flatly deny Scripture!
For comparison, note the verses that state Jesus arose "in three days" after His death.
For comparison, note the verses that state Jesus arose "in three days" after His death.
This means Jesus' resurrection was completed within a time span of three literal, consecutive days after His death.
This means Jesus' resurrection was completed within a time span of three literal, consecutive days after His death.
[The language may include partial days, but still they are days, not years, centuries, or millennia!]
[The language may include partial days, but still they are days, not years, centuries, or millennia!]
To deny this would be to deny the truthfulness of Scripture regarding a foundational miracle on which our faith is based.
To deny this would be to deny the truthfulness of Scripture regarding a foundational miracle on which our faith is based.
How would we react if someone claimed Jesus was raised after three long periods of millions of years?
How would we react if someone claimed Jesus was raised after three long periods of millions of years?
The attempt to include long ages in creation flatly denies the truthfulness of Scripture about a miracle that is foundational to our faith!
The attempt to include long ages in creation flatly denies the truthfulness of Scripture about a miracle that is foundational to our faith!
F. Creation Days Are Defined to Be "Evening and Morning"
F. Creation Days Are Defined to Be "Evening and Morning"
Each day in Genesis 1 is defined to consist of "evening and morning."
Each day in Genesis 1 is defined to consist of "evening and morning."
In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.
And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.
And God said, Let there be light: and there was light.
And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness.
And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day.
And God said, Let there be a firmament in the midst of the waters, and let it divide the waters from the waters.
And God made the firmament, and divided the waters which were under the firmament from the waters which were above the firmament: and it was so.
And God called the firmament Heaven. And the evening and the morning were the second day.
And God said, Let the waters under the heaven be gathered together unto one place, and let the dry land appear: and it was so.
And God called the dry land Earth; and the gathering together of the waters called he Seas: and God saw that it was good.
And God said, Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed, and the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seed is in itself, upon the earth: and it was so.
And the earth brought forth grass, and herb yielding seed after his kind, and the tree yielding fruit, whose seed was in itself, after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
And the evening and the morning were the third day.
And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years:
And let them be for lights in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth: and it was so.
And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night: he made the stars also.
And God set them in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth,
And to rule over the day and over the night, and to divide the light from the darkness: and God saw that it was good.
And the evening and the morning were the fourth day.
And God said, Let the waters bring forth abundantly the moving creature that hath life, and fowl that may fly above the earth in the open firmament of heaven.
And God created great whales, and every living creature that moveth, which the waters brought forth abundantly, after their kind, and every winged fowl after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
And God blessed them, saying, Be fruitful, and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let fowl multiply in the earth.
And the evening and the morning were the fifth day.
And God said, Let the earth bring forth the living creature after his kind, cattle, and creeping thing, and beast of the earth after his kind: and it was so.
And God made the beast of the earth after his kind, and cattle after their kind, and every thing that creepeth upon the earth after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
And 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 fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.
And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.
And to every beast of the earth, and to every fowl of the air, and to every thing that creepeth upon the earth, wherein there is life, I have given every green herb for meat: and it was so.
And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day.
The evening and the morning were the first day (v5), the second day (v8), third day (v13), the fourth day (v19), the fifth day (v23), the sixth day (v31)
The evening and the morning were the first day (v5), the second day (v8), third day (v13), the fourth day (v19), the fifth day (v23), the sixth day (v31)
God not only numbered each day, but to be even more specific He repeatedly emphasized that each day consisted of evening and morning.
God not only numbered each day, but to be even more specific He repeatedly emphasized that each day consisted of evening and morning.
Consider Bible passages using Hebrew words "evening" and "morning" together.
Consider Bible passages using Hebrew words "evening" and "morning" together.
The chart below categorizes the verses according to the nature of the books (law, history or prophecy, etc.).
The chart below categorizes the verses according to the nature of the books (law, history or prophecy, etc.).
Then it shows whether the days are literal or could be longer periods or could refer to hundreds of millions of years.
Then it shows whether the days are literal or could be longer periods or could refer to hundreds of millions of years.
Type of context Total verses Literal days Long ages??Millions of years Moses' writings 20 allnonen one Other history, doctrine, poetry 13 allnonen one Prophecy 2??2 (??) none Total 3533+2 (??)none
Type of context Total verses Literal days Long ages??Millions of years Moses' writings 20 allnonen one Other history, doctrine, poetry 13 allnonen one Prophecy 2??2 (??) none Total 3533+2 (??)none
For examples note Exodus 18:13; Ezra 3:3,4 [See also Ex. 27:21; Lev. 24:3; Num. 9:21; I Chron. 16:40; 2 Chron. 2:4; 13:11; 31:3; Job 4:20; Psa. 55:17; 65:8; Dan. 8:26]
For examples note Exodus 18:13; Ezra 3:3,4 [See also Ex. 27:21; Lev. 24:3; Num. 9:21; I Chron. 16:40; 2 Chron. 2:4; 13:11; 31:3; Job 4:20; Psa. 55:17; 65:8; Dan. 8:26]
Exodus 18:13 (KJV 1900)
And it came to pass on the morrow, that Moses sat to judge the people: and the people stood by Moses from the morning unto the evening.
Ezra 3:3 (KJV 1900)
And they set the altar upon his bases; for fear was upon them because of the people of those countries: and they offered burnt offerings thereon unto the Lord, even burnt offerings morning and evening.
They kept also the feast of tabernacles, as it is written, and offered the daily burnt offerings by number, according to the custom, as the duty of every day required;
In the tabernacle of the congregation without the vail, which is before the testimony, Aaron and his sons shall order it from evening to morning before the Lord: it shall be a statute for ever unto their generations on the behalf of the children of Israel.
Leviticus 24:3 (KJV 1900)
Without the vail of the testimony, in the tabernacle of the congregation, shall Aaron order it from the evening unto the morning before the Lord continually: it shall be a statute for ever in your generations.
Numbers 9:21 (KJV 1900)
And so it was, when the cloud abode from even unto the morning, and that the cloud was taken up in the morning, then they journeyed: whether it was by day or by night that the cloud was taken up, they journeyed.
To offer burnt offerings unto the Lord upon the altar of the burnt offering continually morning and evening, and to do according to all that is written in the law of the Lord, which he commanded Israel;
2 Chronicles 2:4 (KJV 1900)
Behold, I build an house to the name of the Lord my God, to dedicate it to him, and to burn before him sweet incense, and for the continual shewbread, and for the burnt offerings morning and evening, on the sabbaths, and on the new moons, and on the solemn feasts of the Lord our God. This is an ordinance for ever to Israel.
2 Chronicles 13:11 (KJV 1900)
And they burn unto the Lord every morning and every evening burnt sacrifices and sweet incense: the shewbread also set they in order upon the pure table; and the candlestick of gold with the lamps thereof, to burn every evening: for we keep the charge of the Lord our God; but ye have forsaken him.
He appointed also the king’s portion of his substance for the burnt offerings, to wit, for the morning and evening burnt offerings, and the burnt offerings for the sabbaths, and for the new moons, and for the set feasts, as it is written in the law of the Lord.
Job 4:20 (KJV 1900)
They are destroyed from morning to evening: They perish for ever without any regarding it.
Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: And he shall hear my voice.
Psalm 65:8 (KJV 1900)
They also that dwell in the uttermost parts are afraid at thy tokens: Thou makest the outgoings of the morning and evening to rejoice.
Daniel 8:26 (KJV 1900)
And the vision of the evening and the morning which was told is true: wherefore shut thou up the vision; for it shall be for many days.
Observations about the results:
Observations about the results:
This expression is used primarily by Moses.
This expression is used primarily by Moses.
In the writings of Moses and all history, the expression always refers to literal days, never to longer periods! It could refer to longer periods only in prophecy, but no one believes Genesis 1 is prophecy.
In the writings of Moses and all history, the expression always refers to literal days, never to longer periods! It could refer to longer periods only in prophecy, but no one believes Genesis 1 is prophecy.
Genesis 1 (KJV 1900)
In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.
And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.
And God said, Let there be light: and there was light.
And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness.
And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day.
And God said, Let there be a firmament in the midst of the waters, and let it divide the waters from the waters.
And God made the firmament, and divided the waters which were under the firmament from the waters which were above the firmament: and it was so.
And God called the firmament Heaven. And the evening and the morning were the second day.
And God said, Let the waters under the heaven be gathered together unto one place, and let the dry land appear: and it was so.
And God called the dry land Earth; and the gathering together of the waters called he Seas: and God saw that it was good.
And God said, Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed, and the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seed is in itself, upon the earth: and it was so.
And the earth brought forth grass, and herb yielding seed after his kind, and the tree yielding fruit, whose seed was in itself, after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
And the evening and the morning were the third day.
And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years:
And let them be for lights in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth: and it was so.
And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night: he made the stars also.
And God set them in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth,
And to rule over the day and over the night, and to divide the light from the darkness: and God saw that it was good.
And the evening and the morning were the fourth day.
And God said, Let the waters bring forth abundantly the moving creature that hath life, and fowl that may fly above the earth in the open firmament of heaven.
And God created great whales, and every living creature that moveth, which the waters brought forth abundantly, after their kind, and every winged fowl after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
And God blessed them, saying, Be fruitful, and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let fowl multiply in the earth.
And the evening and the morning were the fifth day.
And God said, Let the earth bring forth the living creature after his kind, cattle, and creeping thing, and beast of the earth after his kind: and it was so.
And God made the beast of the earth after his kind, and cattle after their kind, and every thing that creepeth upon the earth after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
And 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 fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.
And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.
And to every beast of the earth, and to every fowl of the air, and to every thing that creepeth upon the earth, wherein there is life, I have given every green herb for meat: and it was so.
And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day.
And, no Bible passage - not even prophecy - uses the expression to refer to ages lasting hundreds of millions of years.
And, no Bible passage - not even prophecy - uses the expression to refer to ages lasting hundreds of millions of years.
There simply is no Bible authority whatever for such a conclusion.
There simply is no Bible authority whatever for such a conclusion.
Genesis 1:5,14-19 - Darkness was called "night" and was separated from light, which is called "day."
Genesis 1:5,14-19 - Darkness was called "night" and was separated from light, which is called "day."
So the first day and the fourth day are defined to consist of "evening and morning," which is defined to men darkness and light.
So the first day and the fourth day are defined to consist of "evening and morning," which is defined to men darkness and light.
Since all the days consisted of evening and morning, it follows that each creation day was a literal 24-hour day, as contrasted to the "years."
Since all the days consisted of evening and morning, it follows that each creation day was a literal 24-hour day, as contrasted to the "years."
And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day.
And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years:
And let them be for lights in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth: and it was so.
And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night: he made the stars also.
And God set them in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth,
And to rule over the day and over the night, and to divide the light from the darkness: and God saw that it was good.
And the evening and the morning were the fourth day.
The clear intent of Scripture is violated by all attempts to find long ages in creation.
The clear intent of Scripture is violated by all attempts to find long ages in creation.
G. The Seventh-Day Sabbath Defines the Days of Creation to Be Literal.
G. The Seventh-Day Sabbath Defines the Days of Creation to Be Literal.
Note the parallel in the "seventh-day" passages
Note the parallel in the "seventh-day" passages
Genesis 2:2,3 - On the seventh day God ended His work and rested on the seventh day from all His work.
Genesis 2:2,3 - On the seventh day God ended His work and rested on the seventh day from all His work.
Then God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because in it He rested from all His work. Note the references to "it."
Then God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because in it He rested from all His work. Note the references to "it."
Genesis 2:2 (KJV 1900)
And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made.
And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made.
Exodus 20:11 - In six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, etc., and rested the seventh day.
Exodus 20:11 - In six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, etc., and rested the seventh day.
Therefore, the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it.
Therefore, the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it.
For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.
Exodus 20:9,10 - For this reason the people were to work six days then rest on the Sabbath, which was the seventh day.
Exodus 20:9,10 - For this reason the people were to work six days then rest on the Sabbath, which was the seventh day.
Exodus 20:9 (KJV 1900)
Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work:
Exodus 20:10 (KJV 1900)
But the seventh day is the sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates:
Note the conclusions that follow:
Note the conclusions that follow:
* What God blessed and sanctified was the seventh day on which He rested - Gen. 2:3.
* What God blessed and sanctified was the seventh day on which He rested - Gen. 2:3.
Genesis 2:3 (KJV 1900)
And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made.
* But what God blessed and hallowed was the Sabbath day (7th day) - Exodus 20:11.
* But what God blessed and hallowed was the Sabbath day (7th day) - Exodus 20:11.
For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.
* The people were to work six days, then rest on the seventh day - the Sabbath - like God did at Creation.
* The people were to work six days, then rest on the seventh day - the Sabbath - like God did at Creation.
* So the Sabbath day was the seventh day, the day on which God rested.
* So the Sabbath day was the seventh day, the day on which God rested.
But the Sabbath day was a literal 24-hour day of rest following six literal days of work.
But the Sabbath day was a literal 24-hour day of rest following six literal days of work.
So, the seventh day on which God rested at creation was a literal day following the literal six days on which He worked!
So, the seventh day on which God rested at creation was a literal day following the literal six days on which He worked!
Summary and Conclusion about the Definition of "Day"
Summary and Conclusion about the Definition of "Day"
God identifies the days of creation in the following ways, all of which consistently mean literal days in historic/doctrinal contexts:
God identifies the days of creation in the following ways, all of which consistently mean literal days in historic/doctrinal contexts:
(1) "Days" (plural)
(1) "Days" (plural)
(2) "Day" with a cardinal number ("six days") and ordinal numbers ("second day," "third")
(2) "Day" with a cardinal number ("six days") and ordinal numbers ("second day," "third")
(3) A sequence of consecutive ordinal numbers: "second" then "third," etc.
(3) A sequence of consecutive ordinal numbers: "second" then "third," etc.
(4) Duration of time: "in six days"
(4) Duration of time: "in six days"
(5) Evening and morning, day and night, darkness and light
(5) Evening and morning, day and night, darkness and light
(6) The seventh-day Sabbath
(6) The seventh-day Sabbath
The clear intent of these expressions is to define the days of creation to be a sequence of six literal, consecutive days followed by a seventh day of rest.
The clear intent of these expressions is to define the days of creation to be a sequence of six literal, consecutive days followed by a seventh day of rest.
Question: If God meant to inform us that He created everything in six literal, consecutive days, what more could He have said that He did not say?
Question: If God meant to inform us that He created everything in six literal, consecutive days, what more could He have said that He did not say?
Miracles prove God's Deity and confirm His word.
Miracles prove God's Deity and confirm His word.
Creation is one of the most fundamental of all miracles.
Creation is one of the most fundamental of all miracles.
To deny the literal days of creation is to undermine the force of creation as evidence for God's existence and power, making evolution easier to believe.
To deny the literal days of creation is to undermine the force of creation as evidence for God's existence and power, making evolution easier to believe.
Furthermore, it undermines the integrity of the Bible as history and thereby undermines faith in all Bible miracles.
Furthermore, it undermines the integrity of the Bible as history and thereby undermines faith in all Bible miracles.
One who advocates such views has taken the first step that, if followed logically, will lead him or those who hear him into liberalism and modernism.
One who advocates such views has taken the first step that, if followed logically, will lead him or those who hear him into liberalism and modernism.
III. Other Biblical Evidence Regarding the Length of the Days
III. Other Biblical Evidence Regarding the Length of the Days
A. Bible Language Is Adequate to Describe Long Time Periods.
A. Bible Language Is Adequate to Describe Long Time Periods.
If creation lasted billions of years, why did God not say so?
If creation lasted billions of years, why did God not say so?
Some claim that He spoke allegorically or accommodatingly, because ancient people would not understand long ages.
Some claim that He spoke allegorically or accommodatingly, because ancient people would not understand long ages.
This very idea is based on evolution!
This very idea is based on evolution!
It implies that early people were not intelligent and developed enough to understand the concept of long ages.
It implies that early people were not intelligent and developed enough to understand the concept of long ages.
The Bible denies this whole concept.
The Bible denies this whole concept.
But remember, Genesis and Exodus were written by Moses, 2500 years after Creation.
But remember, Genesis and Exodus were written by Moses, 2500 years after Creation.
Let us consider whether or not the language was available for God to express long ages.
Let us consider whether or not the language was available for God to express long ages.
Old Testament words could adequately describe long ages and large numbers.
Old Testament words could adequately describe long ages and large numbers.
"Generation" is used as a thousand generations ( Deut. 7:9; 1 Chron. 16:15; Psalms 105:8) or many generations (Deut. 32:7; Isaiah 58:12; 60:15; 61:4). [Cf. "age" -Job 8:8.]
"Generation" is used as a thousand generations ( Deut. 7:9; 1 Chron. 16:15; Psalms 105:8) or many generations (Deut. 32:7; Isaiah 58:12; 60:15; 61:4). [Cf. "age" -Job 8:8.]
Know therefore that the Lord thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations;
Be ye mindful always of his covenant; The word which he commanded to a thousand generations;
Psalm 105:8 (KJV 1900)
He hath remembered his covenant for ever, The word which he commanded to a thousand generations.
Remember the days of old, Consider the years of many generations: Ask thy father, and he will shew thee; Thy elders, and they will tell thee.
And they that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places: Thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; And thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in.
Whereas thou hast been forsaken and hated, So that no man went through thee, I will make thee an eternal excellency, A joy of many generations.
And they shall build the old wastes, They shall raise up the former desolations, And they shall repair the waste cities, The desolations of many generations.
For inquire, I pray thee, of the former age, And prepare thyself to the search of their fathers:
"Year" may be used in the plural ("years") to express long time periods as a thousand years (Ecc. 6:6) or many years ( Ezra 5:11; Neh. 9:30).
"Year" may be used in the plural ("years") to express long time periods as a thousand years (Ecc. 6:6) or many years ( Ezra 5:11; Neh. 9:30).
Ecclesiastes 6:6 (KJV 1900)
Yea, though he live a thousand years twice told, yet hath he seen no good: do not all go to one place?
Ezra 5:11 (KJV 1900)
And thus they returned us answer, saying, We are the servants of the God of heaven and earth, and build the house that was builded these many years ago, which a great king of Israel builded and set up.
Nehemiah 9:30 (KJV 1900)
Yet many years didst thou forbear them, and testifiedst against them by thy spirit in thy prophets: yet would they not give ear: therefore gavest thou them into the hand of the people of the lands.
Large number are expressed as "thousands of thousands" (Psalms 68:17) and "ten thousand times ten thousand" ( Dan. 7:10). In Genesis 24:60 Moses himself speaks of "thousands of ten thousands."
Large number are expressed as "thousands of thousands" (Psalms 68:17) and "ten thousand times ten thousand" ( Dan. 7:10). In Genesis 24:60 Moses himself speaks of "thousands of ten thousands."
The chariots of God are twenty thousand, even thousands of angels: The Lord is among them, as in Sinai, in the holy place.
A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him: thousand thousands ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him: the judgment was set, and the books were opened.
Genesis 24:60 (KJV 1900)
And they blessed Rebekah, and said unto her, Thou art our sister, be thou the mother of thousands of millions, and let thy seed possess the gate of those which hate them.
Why couldn't God have simply said that each period of creation required many thousands of thousands of years?
Why couldn't God have simply said that each period of creation required many thousands of thousands of years?
New Testament words for large numbers
New Testament words for large numbers
Revelation 9:16 - An army contained two hundred million horsemen.
Revelation 9:16 - An army contained two hundred million horsemen.
And the number of the army of the horsemen were two hundred thousand thousand: and I heard the number of them.
Revelation 5:11 refers to ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands.
Revelation 5:11 refers to ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands.
And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands;
Yet the New Testament still says God rested from creation on "the seventh day" ( Heb. 4:4).
Yet the New Testament still says God rested from creation on "the seventh day" ( Heb. 4:4).
For he spake in a certain place of the seventh day on this wise, And God did rest the seventh day from all his works.
The Bible could easily have said that creation took long ages or thousands of thousands of years, and the people could have understood.
The Bible could easily have said that creation took long ages or thousands of thousands of years, and the people could have understood.
It does not say it simply because such ages never occurred! God spoke instead of "six days" of creation, because that is how long it took!
It does not say it simply because such ages never occurred! God spoke instead of "six days" of creation, because that is how long it took!
B. Life Cannot Survive "Evenings" Millions of Years Long
B. Life Cannot Survive "Evenings" Millions of Years Long
Evening = night = darkness
Evening = night = darkness
As discussed earlier, each day of creation consisted of "evening and morning."
As discussed earlier, each day of creation consisted of "evening and morning."
Genesis 1:3-5,14-16 show "evening" means "night" and "darkness," and "morning" means "light" or "day."
Genesis 1:3-5,14-16 show "evening" means "night" and "darkness," and "morning" means "light" or "day."
Genesis 1:3–5 (KJV 1900)
And God said, Let there be light: and there was light.
And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness.
And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day.
Genesis 1:14–16 (KJV 1900)
And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years:
And let them be for lights in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth: and it was so.
And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night: he made the stars also.
But if the days of creation were many millions of years long, then the darkness must have lasted millions of years and the daylight must have lasted millions of years.
But if the days of creation were many millions of years long, then the darkness must have lasted millions of years and the daylight must have lasted millions of years.
How could living things survive such periods of darkness?
How could living things survive such periods of darkness?
Plants and animals both need sunlight for growth and health.
Plants and animals both need sunlight for growth and health.
"Evenings" of millions of years of darkness would destroy both plants and animals.
"Evenings" of millions of years of darkness would destroy both plants and animals.
C. Plants Cannot Survive Millions of Years Without Animals
C. Plants Cannot Survive Millions of Years Without Animals
Plants were made the third day, but fish, birds, and animals on the fifth and sixth days.
Plants were made the third day, but fish, birds, and animals on the fifth and sixth days.
This means the plants must have survived all the fourth day without any animals.
This means the plants must have survived all the fourth day without any animals.
If each day was hundreds of millions of years long, how could plants survive that long without animals?
If each day was hundreds of millions of years long, how could plants survive that long without animals?
Many plants cannot reproduce without bees, insects, or birds to pollinate them.
Many plants cannot reproduce without bees, insects, or birds to pollinate them.
Long ages during or between the "days" would destroy plants before animals were created.
Long ages during or between the "days" would destroy plants before animals were created.
D. Creation Was "So" and Was "Good" During the Creation Days
D. Creation Was "So" and Was "Good" During the Creation Days
Some claim that creation days were literal days, but on each day God simply decreed what would be made.
Some claim that creation days were literal days, but on each day God simply decreed what would be made.
Then following each creation day was a long period of millions of years in which the creation decree was carried out.
Then following each creation day was a long period of millions of years in which the creation decree was carried out.
Then another day of creation would occur, etc. So, the "days" would be literal but not consecutive, and the whole process took billions of years.
Then another day of creation would occur, etc. So, the "days" would be literal but not consecutive, and the whole process took billions of years.
But we have proved that the days were consecutive and that long ages were not possible.
But we have proved that the days were consecutive and that long ages were not possible.
Note further:
Note further:
God's creation decrees were "so" during the creation days.
God's creation decrees were "so" during the creation days.
Note the "it was so" expressions on the following days: Second day - v7, third day - vv 9,11, fourth day - v15, sixth day - vv 24,30.
Note the "it was so" expressions on the following days: Second day - v7, third day - vv 9,11, fourth day - v15, sixth day - vv 24,30.
"It was so" clearly means that God's decree was fulfilled or came to pass.
"It was so" clearly means that God's decree was fulfilled or came to pass.
But each "it was so" statement occurs before the completion of the creation day.
But each "it was so" statement occurs before the completion of the creation day.
The pattern is: "... and it was so ... and the evening and the morning were the second day," etc.
The pattern is: "... and it was so ... and the evening and the morning were the second day," etc.
So God's creative decrees were actually fulfilled on the day named, not millions of years later.
So God's creative decrees were actually fulfilled on the day named, not millions of years later.
What God created was declared to be "good" during the creation days.
What God created was declared to be "good" during the creation days.
Note the following days: Third day - vv 10,12,13, fourth day - vv 18,19, fifth day - v21, sixth day - vv 25,31.
Note the following days: Third day - vv 10,12,13, fourth day - vv 18,19, fifth day - v21, sixth day - vv 25,31.
Note that God first "saw" what He had made, then He declared it to be "good." But "it was good" statements occurred during the days of creation! Note the following:
Note that God first "saw" what He had made, then He declared it to be "good." But "it was good" statements occurred during the days of creation! Note the following:
"And God saw that it was good.
"And God saw that it was good.
So the evening and the morning were the third day" - vv 12,13. (See vv18,19 for the fourth day.)
So the evening and the morning were the third day" - vv 12,13. (See vv18,19 for the fourth day.)
"Then God saw everything that He had made, and indeed it was very good.
"Then God saw everything that He had made, and indeed it was very good.
So the evening and the morning were the sixth day" - v31.
So the evening and the morning were the sixth day" - v31.
So before each creation day ended, God saw what He had made and declared it to be good.
So before each creation day ended, God saw what He had made and declared it to be good.
By the end of the sixth day He saw everything He had made and declared it all to be very good.
By the end of the sixth day He saw everything He had made and declared it all to be very good.
Arguments for long ages in creation, no matter how ingeniously and artificially contrived, invariably end up flatly contradicting the Bible text.
Arguments for long ages in creation, no matter how ingeniously and artificially contrived, invariably end up flatly contradicting the Bible text.
The fact remains that God created everything "in six days," just as the Bible says.
The fact remains that God created everything "in six days," just as the Bible says.
E. By Man Came Death
E. By Man Came Death
Evolution claims that animals experienced death for thousands of generations before man existed as an inherently part of man's evolution.
Evolution claims that animals experienced death for thousands of generations before man existed as an inherently part of man's evolution.
Proponents of long ages in creation generally agree that death existed long before man's existence (as proved by the fossils in the "Geologic column.")
Proponents of long ages in creation generally agree that death existed long before man's existence (as proved by the fossils in the "Geologic column.")
They say the consequence of sin was spiritual death only, not physical death.
They say the consequence of sin was spiritual death only, not physical death.
Consider the teaching of the Bible:
Consider the teaching of the Bible:
The consequence of sin did include physical death.
The consequence of sin did include physical death.
Genesis 2:16,17; 3:17-19 - The punishment for sin included that man would return to the dust (cf. Psa. 104:29; Ecc. 12:7). He was cut off from the tree of life so he could not live forever (3:22-24).
Genesis 2:16,17; 3:17-19 - The punishment for sin included that man would return to the dust (cf. Psa. 104:29; Ecc. 12:7). He was cut off from the tree of life so he could not live forever (3:22-24).
And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat:
Genesis 2:17 (KJV 1900)
But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.
And unto Adam he said, Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of the tree, of which I commanded thee, saying, Thou shalt not eat of it: cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life;
Thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee; and thou shalt eat the herb of the field;
In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return.
Thou hidest thy face, they are troubled: Thou takest away their breath, they die, And return to their dust.
Ecclesiastes 12:7 (KJV 1900)
Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it.
Genesis 3:21 - After the sin, God clothed people with animal skins. This is the first indication of animal death.
Genesis 3:21 - After the sin, God clothed people with animal skins. This is the first indication of animal death.
Unto Adam also and to his wife did the Lord God make coats of skins, and clothed them.
1 Corinthians 15:21,22 - All men die because of what Adam did, but Jesus will overcome this death by raising all men from the dead (vv 25,26). Clearly this is physical death.
1 Corinthians 15:21,22 - All men die because of what Adam did, but Jesus will overcome this death by raising all men from the dead (vv 25,26). Clearly this is physical death.
1 Corinthians 15:21 (KJV 1900)
For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead.
1 Corinthians 15:22 (KJV 1900)
For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.
Revelation 21:4; 22:3 - In heaven will be no death or other problems caused by sin.
Revelation 21:4; 22:3 - In heaven will be no death or other problems caused by sin.
Revelation 21:4 (KJV 1900)
And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.
Revelation 22:3 (KJV 1900)
And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him:
So physical death is one consequence of sin.
So physical death is one consequence of sin.
To deny this is to flatly deny Scripture.
To deny this is to flatly deny Scripture.
So how could death have been part of the natural order for millions of years before Adam and Eve?
So how could death have been part of the natural order for millions of years before Adam and Eve?
[Hebrews 2:14,15]
[Hebrews 2:14,15]
Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil;
And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.
Everything about creation was very good - Gen 1:31.
Everything about creation was very good - Gen 1:31.
And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day.
The Bible views death as an enemy, a curse, and the power of the devil ( Gen. 2:16,17: 3:17-19; 1 Cor. 15:26,54-57; Heb. 2:14,15; Rev. 21:4; 22:3).
The Bible views death as an enemy, a curse, and the power of the devil ( Gen. 2:16,17: 3:17-19; 1 Cor. 15:26,54-57; Heb. 2:14,15; Rev. 21:4; 22:3).
Death involves pain, suffering, shedding of blood, disease, accidents, and violence.
Death involves pain, suffering, shedding of blood, disease, accidents, and violence.
How can this be part of God's "very good" creation?
How can this be part of God's "very good" creation?
Genesis 2:16 (KJV 1900)
And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat:
Genesis 2:17 (KJV 1900)
But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.
1 Corinthians 15:26 (KJV 1900)
The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death.
So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.
O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?
The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.
But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil;
And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.
And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.
Revelation 22:3 (KJV 1900)
And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him:
But long-age proponents claim that God created death as part of the "very good" creation.
But long-age proponents claim that God created death as part of the "very good" creation.
The effect is to blame God for that which the Bible says is the enemy of man, the power of Satan, and the curse of sin!
The effect is to blame God for that which the Bible says is the enemy of man, the power of Satan, and the curse of sin!
God says: "by man came death" ( 1 Cor. 15:21) and "in Adam all die" (v22).
God says: "by man came death" ( 1 Cor. 15:21) and "in Adam all die" (v22).
So how could death exist before Adam lived and committed sin?
So how could death exist before Adam lived and committed sin?
1 Corinthians 15:21 (KJV 1900)
For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead.
Once again long-age proponents have accepted another major tenet of evolution and contradicted another major truth of creation.
Once again long-age proponents have accepted another major tenet of evolution and contradicted another major truth of creation.
F. Miracles Do Not Fit Natural Aging Processes ("Apparent Age")
F. Miracles Do Not Fit Natural Aging Processes ("Apparent Age")
Progressive creationists cite "scientific" evidence implying the earth is billions of years old.
Progressive creationists cite "scientific" evidence implying the earth is billions of years old.
They say God would be deceitful if He made everything in six days and then left these apparent indications that creation is older.
They say God would be deceitful if He made everything in six days and then left these apparent indications that creation is older.
But the whole point of miracles is that they don't fit scientific patterns, including normal patterns of aging.
But the whole point of miracles is that they don't fit scientific patterns, including normal patterns of aging.
As we have discussed, one supernatural characteristic of miracles is that they often very quickly produce results that nature requires long periods to produce.
As we have discussed, one supernatural characteristic of miracles is that they often very quickly produce results that nature requires long periods to produce.
If someone tried to explain the effect of the miracle by natural processes, he would be misled about how long it took.
If someone tried to explain the effect of the miracle by natural processes, he would be misled about how long it took.
This is called "apparent age."
This is called "apparent age."
But the mistake is in assuming the effect occurred by nature rather than by miracle.
But the mistake is in assuming the effect occurred by nature rather than by miracle.
Consider some examples:
Consider some examples:
John 2:1-11 - Jesus turned water to wine miraculously and instantaneously.
John 2:1-11 - Jesus turned water to wine miraculously and instantaneously.
But if one assumed the wine developed by natural processes, he would mistakenly assume that it required months to develop (apparent age).
But if one assumed the wine developed by natural processes, he would mistakenly assume that it required months to develop (apparent age).
John 2:1–11 (KJV 1900)
And the third day there was a marriage in Cana of Galilee; and the mother of Jesus was there:
And both Jesus was called, and his disciples, to the marriage.
And when they wanted wine, the mother of Jesus saith unto him, They have no wine.
Jesus saith unto her, Woman, what have I to do with thee? mine hour is not yet come.
His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it.
And there were set there six waterpots of stone, after the manner of the purifying of the Jews, containing two or three firkins apiece.
Jesus saith unto them, Fill the waterpots with water. And they filled them up to the brim.
And he saith unto them, Draw out now, and bear unto the governor of the feast. And they bare it.
When the ruler of the feast had tasted the water that was made wine, and knew not whence it was: (but the servants which drew the water knew;) the governor of the feast called the bridegroom,
And saith unto him, Every man at the beginning doth set forth good wine; and when men have well drunk, then that which is worse: but thou hast kept the good wine until now.
This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him.
Matthew 14:13-21; 15:32-39 - From a few loaves and fishes, Jesus instantaneously produced food to feed thousands.
Matthew 14:13-21; 15:32-39 - From a few loaves and fishes, Jesus instantaneously produced food to feed thousands.
Seeing the food, one might mistakenly have assumed it resulted from months of natural growth of grain and fish (apparent age).
Seeing the food, one might mistakenly have assumed it resulted from months of natural growth of grain and fish (apparent age).
When Jesus heard of it, he departed thence by ship into a desert place apart: and when the people had heard thereof, they followed him on foot out of the cities.
And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick.
And when it was evening, his disciples came to him, saying, This is a desert place, and the time is now past; send the multitude away, that they may go into the villages, and buy themselves victuals.
But Jesus said unto them, They need not depart; give ye them to eat.
And they say unto him, We have here but five loaves, and two fishes.
He said, Bring them hither to me.
And he commanded the multitude to sit down on the grass, and took the five loaves, and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he blessed, and brake, and gave the loaves to his disciples, and the disciples to the multitude.
And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the fragments that remained twelve baskets full.
And they that had eaten were about five thousand men, beside women and children.
Matthew 15:32–39 (KJV 1900)
Then Jesus called his disciples unto him, and said, I have compassion on the multitude, because they continue with me now three days, and have nothing to eat: and I will not send them away fasting, lest they faint in the way.
And his disciples say unto him, Whence should we have so much bread in the wilderness, as to fill so great a multitude?
And Jesus saith unto them, How many loaves have ye? And they said, Seven, and a few little fishes.
And he commanded the multitude to sit down on the ground.
And he took the seven loaves and the fishes, and gave thanks, and brake them, and gave to his disciples, and the disciples to the multitude.
And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the broken meat that was left seven baskets full.
And they that did eat were four thousand men, beside women and children.
And he sent away the multitude, and took ship, and came into the coasts of Magdala.
The same point can be made regarding many other miracles, such as miraculous healings.
The same point can be made regarding many other miracles, such as miraculous healings.
Observing the result after the fact, one might assume these events occurred naturally over a long time.
Observing the result after the fact, one might assume these events occurred naturally over a long time.
His error would be in ignoring the fact that miracles can produce the same effect quickly.
His error would be in ignoring the fact that miracles can produce the same effect quickly.
This again is why we emphasize the miraculous time element.
This again is why we emphasize the miraculous time element.
If one assumes long periods of time, he removes a major supernatural aspect of the miracle and is led to accept natural explanations.
If one assumes long periods of time, he removes a major supernatural aspect of the miracle and is led to accept natural explanations.
But if he recognizes an event to be a miracle, he learns not to expect natural explanations regarding apparent age.
But if he recognizes an event to be a miracle, he learns not to expect natural explanations regarding apparent age.
This points out the whole problem of trying to use science to explain miracles.
This points out the whole problem of trying to use science to explain miracles.
Miracles do not follow the laws of science!
Miracles do not follow the laws of science!
So why be surprised when "scientific" studies appear to contradict the results of a miracle?
So why be surprised when "scientific" studies appear to contradict the results of a miracle?
Similarly, God miraculously created a mature, functioning universe.
Similarly, God miraculously created a mature, functioning universe.
God created all things mature and fully functioning on the very day they were created.
God created all things mature and fully functioning on the very day they were created.
Plants were mature enough to reproduce (Gen 1:11,12), so their fruit could be eaten (Gen 1:29; 3:2).
Plants were mature enough to reproduce (Gen 1:11,12), so their fruit could be eaten (Gen 1:29; 3:2).
And God said, Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed, and the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seed is in itself, upon the earth: and it was so.
Genesis 1:12 (KJV 1900)
And the earth brought forth grass, and herb yielding seed after his kind, and the tree yielding fruit, whose seed was in itself, after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
Genesis 1:29 (KJV 1900)
And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.
And the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden:
Heavenly bodies were created capable of immediately giving light on earth (1:14-18).
Heavenly bodies were created capable of immediately giving light on earth (1:14-18).
Though they are "light years" away, God created them so their light that could be seen on earth from the day they were made.
Though they are "light years" away, God created them so their light that could be seen on earth from the day they were made.
Birds were created mature enough to fly; birds and fish were able to reproduce (Gen 1:20-22).
Birds were created mature enough to fly; birds and fish were able to reproduce (Gen 1:20-22).
And God said, Let the waters bring forth abundantly the moving creature that hath life, and fowl that may fly above the earth in the open firmament of heaven.
And God created great whales, and every living creature that moveth, which the waters brought forth abundantly, after their kind, and every winged fowl after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
And God blessed them, saying, Be fruitful, and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let fowl multiply in the earth.
People were capable of marrying and reproducing from the beginning (Gen 1:28; 2:24).
People were capable of marrying and reproducing from the beginning (Gen 1:28; 2:24).
And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.
Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.
So all aspects of creation were formed mature and functioning.
So all aspects of creation were formed mature and functioning.
This is not deception; it is creation of a mature universe capable of accomplishing God's purpose.
This is not deception; it is creation of a mature universe capable of accomplishing God's purpose.
But as with other miracles, the result would have apparent age.
But as with other miracles, the result would have apparent age.
Had someone observed each thing immediately after it was made, he might mistakenly assume it was many years old, but his error would come from assuming that it resulted from natural processes rather than miracle!
Had someone observed each thing immediately after it was made, he might mistakenly assume it was many years old, but his error would come from assuming that it resulted from natural processes rather than miracle!
This is exactly the error of those who use "scientific" evidence to argue for an old earth.
This is exactly the error of those who use "scientific" evidence to argue for an old earth.
Such evidence invariably assumes that the effects came from natural processes, ignoring the fact God miraculously created all things mature and functioning.
Such evidence invariably assumes that the effects came from natural processes, ignoring the fact God miraculously created all things mature and functioning.
God cannot be accused of deceit when He plainly told us how long creation took.
God cannot be accused of deceit when He plainly told us how long creation took.
Seventeen times God's word states the time element of creation.
Seventeen times God's word states the time element of creation.
If God plainly and directly states the length of time, but people refuse to believe what He plainly said, what right have they to complain about deceit?
If God plainly and directly states the length of time, but people refuse to believe what He plainly said, what right have they to complain about deceit?
So, the real problem is that people believe human wisdom, ignore Divine revelation, and then criticize those who prefer to believe God!
So, the real problem is that people believe human wisdom, ignore Divine revelation, and then criticize those who prefer to believe God!
And once again progressive creationists have accepted an evolutionary argument and rejected Bible teaching.
And once again progressive creationists have accepted an evolutionary argument and rejected Bible teaching.
G. Historical Fact Is Established by the Testimony of Witnesses
G. Historical Fact Is Established by the Testimony of Witnesses
Science has only a limited role in studying events of history.
Science has only a limited role in studying events of history.
Romans 1:20 - Observing the universe tells us, not the events of creation, but the effect of those events in nature ( Psalms 19:1).
Romans 1:20 - Observing the universe tells us, not the events of creation, but the effect of those events in nature ( Psalms 19:1).
So by observation, science can tell us how the universe works now.
So by observation, science can tell us how the universe works now.
Such observations can also tell us that no current law or power of nature is sufficient to cause the universe.
Such observations can also tell us that no current law or power of nature is sufficient to cause the universe.
This compels us to accept the only logical alternative, which is the existence of a supreme, living, intelligent Creator.
This compels us to accept the only logical alternative, which is the existence of a supreme, living, intelligent Creator.
For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:
Psalm 19:1 (KJV 1900)
The heavens declare the glory of God; And the firmament sheweth his handywork.
But science cannot tell us specifically what happened at creation.
But science cannot tell us specifically what happened at creation.
Can "science" design some experiment to tell us details about the life of George Washington?
Can "science" design some experiment to tell us details about the life of George Washington?
No, that is a matter of history.
No, that is a matter of history.
Natural science proves little about the details of past events, because past events cannot be studied by repeatable experiments.
Natural science proves little about the details of past events, because past events cannot be studied by repeatable experiments.
Likewise, science cannot tell us details of creation, such as how long it took.
Likewise, science cannot tell us details of creation, such as how long it took.
If God did it, then it was a supernatural act beyond the power of natural law, and it is a fact of history.
If God did it, then it was a supernatural act beyond the power of natural law, and it is a fact of history.
It follows that we cannot use natural law to determine how it happened or how long it took.
It follows that we cannot use natural law to determine how it happened or how long it took.
How then can we determine what did happen at creation?
How then can we determine what did happen at creation?
Matters of history are established by the testimony of witnesses.
Matters of history are established by the testimony of witnesses.
Deuteronomy 17:6; 19:15 - Plural witnesses were required to convict one of a capital crime under the law. [Hebrews 10:28]
Deuteronomy 17:6; 19:15 - Plural witnesses were required to convict one of a capital crime under the law. [Hebrews 10:28]
Deuteronomy 17:6 (KJV 1900)
At the mouth of two witnesses, or three witnesses, shall he that is worthy of death be put to death; but at the mouth of one witness he shall not be put to death.
Deuteronomy 19:15 (KJV 1900)
One witness shall not rise up against a man for any iniquity, or for any sin, in any sin that he sinneth: at the mouth of two witnesses, or at the mouth of three witnesses, shall the matter be established.
He that despised Moses’ law died without mercy under two or three witnesses:
Matthew 18:16 - The gospel requires the same procedure to convict a Christian of sin. [2 Corinthians 13:1; 1 Timothy 5:19]
Matthew 18:16 - The gospel requires the same procedure to convict a Christian of sin. [2 Corinthians 13:1; 1 Timothy 5:19]
Matthew 18:16 (KJV 1900)
But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.
2 Corinthians 13:1 (KJV 1900)
This is the third time I am coming to you. In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established.
1 Timothy 5:19 (KJV 1900)
Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses.
John 8:17 - Jesus endorsed this principle as evidence for His claims: the testimony of two men is true.
John 8:17 - Jesus endorsed this principle as evidence for His claims: the testimony of two men is true.
It is also written in your law, that the testimony of two men is true.
This is the same basis used in our courts today to establish the truth regarding past events.
This is the same basis used in our courts today to establish the truth regarding past events.
This is how the Bible establishes the validity of miracles.
This is how the Bible establishes the validity of miracles.
All miracles are matters of history, not "science."
All miracles are matters of history, not "science."
No experiment can repeat them, because they do not follow the principles of natural law.
No experiment can repeat them, because they do not follow the principles of natural law.
Yet we have conclusive evidence they happened.
Yet we have conclusive evidence they happened.
John 20:29-31; 21:24 - We believe in miracles because of the testimony of witnesses. [2 Peter 1:13-18; 1 John 1:1-4]
John 20:29-31; 21:24 - We believe in miracles because of the testimony of witnesses. [2 Peter 1:13-18; 1 John 1:1-4]
Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.
And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book:
But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.
John 21:24 (KJV 1900)
This is the disciple which testifieth of these things, and wrote these things: and we know that his testimony is true.
Yea, I think it meet, as long as I am in this tabernacle, to stir you up by putting you in remembrance;
Knowing that shortly I must put off this my tabernacle, even as our Lord Jesus Christ hath shewed me.
Moreover I will endeavour that ye may be able after my decease to have these things always in remembrance.
For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty.
For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount.
That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life;
(For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;)
That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.
And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full.
Specifically, the miracle of Jesus' resurrection is established by witnesses - Acts 2:32; 3:15; 4:20; 5:30-32; 10:40-42; 1 Cor. 15:1-8.
Specifically, the miracle of Jesus' resurrection is established by witnesses - Acts 2:32; 3:15; 4:20; 5:30-32; 10:40-42; 1 Cor. 15:1-8.
Acts 2:32 (KJV 1900)
This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses.
Acts 3:15 (KJV 1900)
And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses.
Acts 4:20 (KJV 1900)
For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.
The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree.
Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.
And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.
Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly;
Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead.
And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead.
1 Corinthians 15:1–8 (KJV 1900)
Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand;
By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain.
For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;
And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:
And that he was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve:
After that, he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain unto this present, but some are fallen asleep.
After that, he was seen of James; then of all the apostles.
And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time.
We believe in miracles, not because they can be proved scientifically, but because we have valid historical evidence that they occurred: the testimony of witnesses.
We believe in miracles, not because they can be proved scientifically, but because we have valid historical evidence that they occurred: the testimony of witnesses.
What witnesses were present at creation?
What witnesses were present at creation?
Job 38:4 - "Were you there?" Who was present to witness the historical facts of creation?
Job 38:4 - "Were you there?" Who was present to witness the historical facts of creation?
Only God was present, so only Deity can testify to the facts about what happened.
Only God was present, so only Deity can testify to the facts about what happened.
Job 38:4 (KJV 1900)
Where wast thou when I laid the foundations of the earth? Declare, if thou hast understanding.
Genesis 1:1,2,26,27; John 1:1-3,14 - The Bible records the testimony of the only witnesses present at creation: the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Genesis 1:1,2,26,27; John 1:1-3,14 - The Bible records the testimony of the only witnesses present at creation: the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
The witnesses say it happened "in six days," meaning six literal, consecutive days.
The witnesses say it happened "in six days," meaning six literal, consecutive days.
The testimony of these witnesses is found in the Bible, and we know it is their message because of the miracles it records, including fulfilled prophecy and the resurrection.
The testimony of these witnesses is found in the Bible, and we know it is their message because of the miracles it records, including fulfilled prophecy and the resurrection.
In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.
Genesis 1:2 (KJV 1900)
And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.
And 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 fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
John 1:1–3 (KJV 1900)
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
The same was in the beginning with God.
All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.
John 1:14 (KJV 1900)
And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
When people today contradict the Bible record about creation, they fly in the face of historic fact.
When people today contradict the Bible record about creation, they fly in the face of historic fact.
They appeal to "science," which can prove nothing about miracles or history, then they deny or contradict the only real historical records we have.
They appeal to "science," which can prove nothing about miracles or history, then they deny or contradict the only real historical records we have.
In so doing, they impugn the testimony of God, and they throw doubt on the Bible record of all miracles.
In so doing, they impugn the testimony of God, and they throw doubt on the Bible record of all miracles.
All attempts to place long ages into creation simply contradict the Bible record.
All attempts to place long ages into creation simply contradict the Bible record.
Conclusion
Conclusion
Some claim that God reveals Himself in two books: nature and the Bible.
Some claim that God reveals Himself in two books: nature and the Bible.
Then they proceed to accept human reasoning about nature in direct contradiction to what the Bible says.
Then they proceed to accept human reasoning about nature in direct contradiction to what the Bible says.
In so doing they make the serious error of placing man's wisdom above Divine revelation.
In so doing they make the serious error of placing man's wisdom above Divine revelation.
The information learned from nature is limited.
The information learned from nature is limited.
The Bible says only that nature can show us God's existence, power, and glory (Rom. 1:20; Psalms 19:1).
The Bible says only that nature can show us God's existence, power, and glory (Rom. 1:20; Psalms 19:1).
But it cannot reveal God's will for our lives, nor can it prove events of creation.
But it cannot reveal God's will for our lives, nor can it prove events of creation.
For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:
The heavens declare the glory of God; And the firmament sheweth his handywork.
Modern science is not nature.
Modern science is not nature.
The Bible says we can learn some lessons from the things of Divine origin (the heavens, etc.).
The Bible says we can learn some lessons from the things of Divine origin (the heavens, etc.).
But science is human wisdom.
But science is human wisdom.
It is conclusions man has reached from his observations about nature.
It is conclusions man has reached from his observations about nature.
Natural science deals with current natural processes, not with history and surely not with miracles.
Natural science deals with current natural processes, not with history and surely not with miracles.
The scientific method involves repeatable experiments about current processes.
The scientific method involves repeatable experiments about current processes.
But as already discussed, the events of creation are history.
But as already discussed, the events of creation are history.
They cannot be repeated.
They cannot be repeated.
Specifically, science can never directly investigate any miracle, because by definition a miracle does not follow natural law!
Specifically, science can never directly investigate any miracle, because by definition a miracle does not follow natural law!
History can testify that miracles occurred, but to use science to examine miraculous events is to miss the whole point!
History can testify that miracles occurred, but to use science to examine miraculous events is to miss the whole point!
(Note further that physical evidence about the distant past would be greatly altered by the flood.
(Note further that physical evidence about the distant past would be greatly altered by the flood.
Forty days of rains - accompanied by underground flooding and probably volcanic action followed by standing water worldwide for a year - would cause incredible changes.
Forty days of rains - accompanied by underground flooding and probably volcanic action followed by standing water worldwide for a year - would cause incredible changes.
This would also make it impossible for modern science to know for sure what happened before the flood.)
This would also make it impossible for modern science to know for sure what happened before the flood.)
Science is fallible and changing; Scripture is infallible and unchanging.
Science is fallible and changing; Scripture is infallible and unchanging.
The Bible claims to be the very word of God Himself -- 2 Timothy 3:16,17; 1 Corinthians 14:37; 2:10-13; Ephesians 3:3-5; John 16:13; Matthew 10:19,20; Galatians 1:8-12; 2 Peter 1:20,21; 1 Thessalonians 2:13; Luke 10:16.
The Bible claims to be the very word of God Himself -- 2 Timothy 3:16,17; 1 Corinthians 14:37; 2:10-13; Ephesians 3:3-5; John 16:13; Matthew 10:19,20; Galatians 1:8-12; 2 Peter 1:20,21; 1 Thessalonians 2:13; Luke 10:16.
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord.
But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.
For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.
Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.
Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.
How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words,
Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)
Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;
Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.
But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak.
For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you.
Galatians 1:8–12 (KJV 1900)
But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.
As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.
For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.
But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man.
For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.
Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.
For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.
For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.
He that heareth you heareth me; and he that despiseth you despiseth me; and he that despiseth me despiseth him that sent me.
As such, the Bible cannot be wrong, because God is never wrong. The Bible never changes, because it never needs correction - Psalm 119:128; Titus 1:2; John 17:17; Psalm 33:4; 19:8; 147:4,5; Rom. 3:4; Job 37:16; Num. 23:19; Heb. 6:18; Deut. 18:20-22.
As such, the Bible cannot be wrong, because God is never wrong. The Bible never changes, because it never needs correction - Psalm 119:128; Titus 1:2; John 17:17; Psalm 33:4; 19:8; 147:4,5; Rom. 3:4; Job 37:16; Num. 23:19; Heb. 6:18; Deut. 18:20-22.
Therefore I esteem all thy precepts concerning all things to be right; And I hate every false way.
In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;
Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.
For the word of the Lord is right; And all his works are done in truth.
The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: The commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes.
He telleth the number of the stars; He calleth them all by their names.
Great is our Lord, and of great power: His understanding is infinite.
God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged.
Dost thou know the balancings of the clouds, The wondrous works of him which is perfect in knowledge?
God is not a man, that he should lie; Neither the son of man, that he should repent: Hath he said, and shall he not do it? Or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?
That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:
Deuteronomy 18:20–22 (KJV 1900)
But the prophet, which shall presume to speak a word in my name, which I have not commanded him to speak, or that shall speak in the name of other gods, even that prophet shall die.
And if thou say in thine heart, How shall we know the word which the Lord hath not spoken?
When a prophet speaketh in the name of the Lord, if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the Lord hath not spoken, but the prophet hath spoken it presumptuously: thou shalt not be afraid of him.
Scientists freely admit that science has often been wrong. Its views are continually revised.
Scientists freely admit that science has often been wrong. Its views are continually revised.
So why should science be viewed as authoritative as the teaching of Scripture?
So why should science be viewed as authoritative as the teaching of Scripture?
The Bible warns about the dangers of human wisdom and false science.
The Bible warns about the dangers of human wisdom and false science.
Remember, science is human learning, human wisdom.
Remember, science is human learning, human wisdom.
1 Timothy 6:20 - Paul warned to avoid "science falsely so called" (KJV).
1 Timothy 6:20 - Paul warned to avoid "science falsely so called" (KJV).
O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called:
Romans 3:4 - Let God be true but every man a liar.
Romans 3:4 - Let God be true but every man a liar.
God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged.
1 Corinthians 1:18-29 - Human wisdom often leads people to reject the gospel.
1 Corinthians 1:18-29 - Human wisdom often leads people to reject the gospel.
For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.
For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent.
Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world?
For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.
For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom:
But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness;
But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.
Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men.
For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called:
But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;
And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are:
That no flesh should glory in his presence.
True Bible believers must reject human wisdom whenever it disagrees with Scripture -- Matthew 15:9,13; Galatians 1:8,9; 2 John 9-11; Colossians 3:17; Jeremiah 10:23; Proverbs 14:12; 3:5,6; Revelation 22:18,19; 1 Timothy 1:3; 2 Timothy 1:13.
True Bible believers must reject human wisdom whenever it disagrees with Scripture -- Matthew 15:9,13; Galatians 1:8,9; 2 John 9-11; Colossians 3:17; Jeremiah 10:23; Proverbs 14:12; 3:5,6; Revelation 22:18,19; 1 Timothy 1:3; 2 Timothy 1:13.
But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.
But he answered and said, Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up.
But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.
As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.
Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son.
If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed:
for he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.
And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.
O Lord, I know that the way of man is not in himself: It is not in man that walketh to direct his steps.
Proverbs 14:12 (KJV 1900)
There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, But the end thereof are the ways of death.
Proverbs 3:5 (KJV 1900)
Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; And lean not unto thine own understanding.
In all thy ways acknowledge him, And he shall direct thy paths.
For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book:
And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.
As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine,
Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.
Of course, we must take care to properly understand Scripture.
Of course, we must take care to properly understand Scripture.
And when true science has reached real facts, they will never contradict the Bible.
And when true science has reached real facts, they will never contradict the Bible.
Nevertheless, the primary issue must always be what Scripture says.
Nevertheless, the primary issue must always be what Scripture says.
If Scripture clearly teaches a viewpoint, then we must defend it regardless of "science."
If Scripture clearly teaches a viewpoint, then we must defend it regardless of "science."
Every compromise weakens our defense of truth and evidence for God, etc.
Every compromise weakens our defense of truth and evidence for God, etc.
Those who argue for long ages in creation have rejected the teaching of Scripture in order to accommodate human wisdom.
Those who argue for long ages in creation have rejected the teaching of Scripture in order to accommodate human wisdom.
A simple study of Scripture alone would never lead anyone to conclude that creation lasted long ages, let alone millions of years.
A simple study of Scripture alone would never lead anyone to conclude that creation lasted long ages, let alone millions of years.
But people have made human wisdom a higher authority than Scripture.
But people have made human wisdom a higher authority than Scripture.
This again demonstrates why we find this issue so troubling.
This again demonstrates why we find this issue so troubling.
Some long-age proponents already claim Noah's flood may have been local instead of worldwide.
Some long-age proponents already claim Noah's flood may have been local instead of worldwide.
What's next and how far do we go?
What's next and how far do we go?
Will they accept theistic evolution?
Will they accept theistic evolution?
Will they compromise the virgin birth or the resurrection?
Will they compromise the virgin birth or the resurrection?
Where does it stop?
Where does it stop?
Biblical creation is at war with naturalistic evolution.
Biblical creation is at war with naturalistic evolution.
As in every such war, compromise of principle weakens the side of truth.
As in every such war, compromise of principle weakens the side of truth.
As with most such compromises, neither side is satisfied.
As with most such compromises, neither side is satisfied.
People of real conviction on both sides recognize long ages for what they are: a compromise of the obvious intent of the Genesis account.
People of real conviction on both sides recognize long ages for what they are: a compromise of the obvious intent of the Genesis account.