The Creation Story

Genesis 1-2

How did Creation Happen?• The world exists because God willed it into

existence

Understanding the Context• Written by the Hebrews• Before the story was written – they believed

water resided in 2 places – Below the sky (sea) and above the sky (rainfall)

• A great shell-like dome was thought to hold back the water above

The First Creation Story• God created everything over a period of 6

days and on Day 7 He rests

• Poetic, repetitive style – WHY??– Because this story was passed on orally for

generations therefore it made the story entertaining, easy to remember and repeat

Pattern of Creation Story• Each of the 6 days have the same pattern:

1. Introducing the day: “God commanded…”2. Expressing a command: “Let the water…”3. Obeying the command: “It was done…”4. Rejoicing at the result: “God was pleased…”5. Identifying the day: “The third day…”

Pattern of the Week• Three days of separation:– Light/dark– Water above/water below– Water/land

• Three days of Population:– Sea animals & birds– Land vegetation – humans/animals

• One day of Celebration– rest

4 Truths of the Creation Story

1. There is only one God2. God planned everything– Creation did not

happen by chance3. God created everything good – God was

pleased with everything4. God made the Sabbath holy – God blessed

the day as a day of rest and prayer