God’s Creation and Sovereignty (3)

God's Creation and Sovereignty Genesis 1:1-31

Introduction:

Fallen Tendency: We often fear the unknown—economic crises, pandemics, the end of the world, and future uncertainties. These fears, though realistic, can preoccupy our minds and affect how we view God and worship Him.

Background: Israel’s Lens Just as we fear today, Israel faced similar struggles in the past. During their wilderness journey, they were plagued by doubts and "what ifs." Some even wanted to return to Egypt, believing it was better to survive under oppression than face the uncertainties of the wilderness.

God’s Solution: The creation narrative was not just a correction to Israel’s worldview but also a source of hope. It reminded them that they were not subject to the whims of pagan gods but under the care of their sovereign Creator. This message comforted God’s fearful people by assuring them that He, the Creator of heaven and earth, controls the world’s destiny—and theirs.

Sermon Goal: To comfort God’s fearful people with the knowledge that our God is the sovereign Creator who controls the world’s destiny and ours.

Big Idea: With His powerful word, the King of the universe created the earth as His good kingdom.

Transition:

How did God create the universe we live in?

I. The King of the Universe Created the Earth with His Powerful Word-Genesis 1:1-19

A. The Cosmic Kingdom: “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth”(v. 1).

God is the Creator of everything, establishing His sovereign reign over all creation.

B. The Conflict/Problem: “The earth was formless and void, and darkness was over the surface of the deep” (v. 2a).

The earth began as chaotic and lifeless, shrouded in darkness, but it was not beyond God’s transforming power.

C. The Rays of Hope: “And the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters” (v. 2b-4).

God’s Spirit actively worked to bring order and life from chaos. God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light (vv. 3-5). This marked the first day, as God separated light from darkness. Over the next days, God continued to shape creation:

Day 2: God made an expanse to separate the waters above and below (vv. 6-8). Day 3: God gathered the waters, let dry ground appear, and brought forth vegetation (vv. 9-13). Day 4: God made the sun, moon, and stars to govern day and night (vv. 14-19).

New Testament Connection: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (John 1:1-3). “For by Him all things were created… and in Him all things hold together” (Col. 1:15-17).

Application: When humanity was heading for destruction, God spoke again through Jesus, the Word made flesh, to redeem the world (John 3:16).

II. The King of the Universe Completed His Work in Seven Days- Genesis 1:20-31

Explanation:

Day 5: God created the creatures of the sea and the birds of the air (vv. 20-23). Day 6: God created animals and mankind, male and female, in His image (vv. 24-27).

God blessed humanity, instructing them to fill the earth and subdue it (v. 28). Day 7: God rested, blessing the seventh day and making it holy (Gen. 2:2-3).

Significance of Seven:

The number seven signifies completion and perfection, woven into the structure of Genesis 1. This pattern is reflected in Israel’s Sabbath practice, a weekly reminder of God’s sovereign care and provision.

Application: Do we hear what fearful Israel heard? Our sovereign God created everything. He controls the universe and will care for His people.

III. The King of the Universe Created His Kingdom Good

Genesis 1:31

Explanation:

God’s Creation Is Declared “Very Good”:

In Genesis 1:31, we read: “God saw all that He had made, and it was very good.”

The phrase “very good” signifies the perfection, harmony, and completeness of God’s work. Everything was functioning according to His divine design. The creation reflects God’s character—His wisdom, creativity, and sovereignty are evident in every aspect of the world He made. This declaration stands in stark contrast to the chaos and darkness described in Genesis 1:2. God transformed formlessness into beauty and order, filling the earth with life and purpose. The Seventh Day Is Declared Holy:

After six days of creative work, Genesis 2:2-3 states: “By the seventh day God had finished the work He had been doing; so on the seventh day He rested from all His work. Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy.”

This day is unique—it is set apart and blessed by God. God’s rest does not imply inactivity or weariness but satisfaction and delight in His creation. It’s a model for humanity, inviting us to pause, reflect, and worship the Creator. Creation as a Kingdom for God’s Glory:

God’s creation is not random but intentional, designed as His kingdom where His creatures can thrive under His reign. Humanity, created in God’s image, is tasked with stewarding this kingdom (v. 28). We are meant to reflect His character and extend His purposes on the earth. Foreshadowing Redemption and Restoration:

While Genesis 1 declares creation “very good,” the subsequent fall into sin disrupted this goodness. Yet, the creation story points forward to God’s plan for restoration through Christ. The seventh day, with its rest and holiness, foreshadows the ultimate rest found in Jesus. As the writer of Hebrews says: “There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God” (Heb. 4:9).

Application:

The Goodness of Creation Reflects God’s Care:

God’s declaration of “very good” assures us that He is deeply invested in His creation. He cares for every detail of the world He made, from the vast expanse of the heavens to the smallest living creature. This same God, who intricately designed the universe, cares for each of us personally. “Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God” (Luke 12:6). God’s Power Is Purposeful and Loving:

God’s power is not arbitrary or detached; it serves His purpose of love, goodness, and relationship. His creation is not just functional but beautiful, revealing His desire for us to experience joy and awe in His works. The holiness of the seventh day reminds us to rest in God’s provision and trust in His sovereign plan for our lives. Call to Stewardship and Worship:

Just as God saw His creation as “very good,” we are called to honor and care for the world He has entrusted to us. This includes how we treat the environment, our relationships, and our daily work. Worship is the proper response to God’s goodness. Reflecting on creation should lead us to praise Him as the Creator and Sustainer of all things (Psalm 19:1). Confidence in God’s Redemption Plan:

Despite the brokenness we see in the world, the goodness of creation reminds us that God’s original intent was perfect. His redemptive work through Christ ensures that this goodness will ultimately be restored. Revelation 21:1-5 gives us hope that God’s kingdom will be renewed, where He will dwell with His people, and “there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain.”

Conclusion:

The creation story comforts us by revealing that our sovereign God controls the world’s destiny and ours.

Challenges:

Do you trust the Lord in every season of your life? As you set your goals for this year, do you lay them before the Lord who has already planned your life?

Let us pray.