Daily Question 1/14

In Gen 1:1, it says specifically that God created all of the heavens and the earth. This word choice is important as it signifies that God created the heavens and earth out of the “formless void” that existed before; therefore, he did not just form them out of material that already existed in the universe. Besides himself, God created everything: light, the sky, the earth, the seas, and all the creatures, both on land and in the sea, that inhabit it. He does this in steps as he is not content with his first version of the universe. Therefore, he continues to create new parts such as separating dry land from the seas and putting lights in his dome to shed light on the earth. He continues to create until he is complete on the sixth day. By saying the words “let there be,” he is showing that he is allowing for things to be created and exist in his heavens and earth. He created humankind in his image and gives them power in the earth that he created. This shows that God has given humans special honor that he did not give any other creature on earth. Therefore, humans must act as God would want them to act. Despite creating an entire universe, he gives over his power on earth to the things he created. He entrusts freewill to humans and blesses them, hoping they will stay in the light of God. This allows God to rest on the seventh day. God is all powerful, as shown by Gen 1:1-2:4 through his ability to create everything out of nothing. So in this verse, resting does not mean that God is tired, but instead signifies that he has finished his creation and is satisfied with the universe he created.