Creation: Exploring Genesis 1:1-3 and God's Work

The Most Important Verse in the Bible: A Reflection on Genesis 1:1-3

Introduction

When visiting a church or listening to a pastor introduce the scripture for the day, the Old Testament can sometimes feel like a challenge to locate. However, today, it’s made easy. We begin with the very first book of the Bible—Genesis. This morning, we will focus on Genesis 1:1-3, which I believe holds the most important verse in the entire Bible. This passage not only sets the stage for the Book of Genesis but also shapes our understanding of God and His creation.

Genesis 1:1-3: The Foundation of Our Faith

Let us open our Bibles to Genesis 1:1-3:

“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the Earth. The Earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters. And God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light.”

These verses introduce us to the eternal God—referred to here as Elohim, the most common Old Testament term for deity. The simplicity of these words carries profound implications, offering insights into God’s nature and the very foundation of our faith.

The Eternal Nature of God

“In the beginning, God.” The Bible does not argue for God’s existence; it simply declares it. This phrase introduces us to the concept of God’s eternality—His existence beyond time, with no beginning and no end. Deuteronomy 33:27 reminds us that “The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms,” while Psalm 90:2 proclaims, “Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the Earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.”

Understanding God’s eternality assures us that He is unchanging, faithful, and trustworthy. He transcends time, is fully aware of the past, present, and future, and is not constrained by time’s limitations. This truth brings comfort, especially when we face life’s uncertainties. God is never late; He is always in control, existing outside the bounds of time.

God as Creator

Genesis 1:1 states, “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the Earth.” This declaration is profound, asserting that God is the ultimate Creator of all things. The term “created” is significant in scripture, appearing 48 times in the Old Testament, always with God as the subject. Unlike humans, who can build or make, only God can truly create—bringing something out of nothing.

This act of creation underscores God’s ownership and authority over everything. Psalm 33:9 affirms, “For he spoke, and it came to be; he commanded, and it stood firm.” Everything belongs to Him, and as His stewards, we are called to live in obedience and submission to His will.

The Power of God’s Word

The passage in Genesis continues with God’s spoken word bringing creation into existence: “And God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light.” This pattern repeats throughout the creation account, highlighting the power and authority of God’s word. When God speaks, things happen. His word is powerful, effective, and creative.

This truth not only affirms the reliability of Scripture but also calls us to a deep reverence for God’s word. Hebrews 11:3 echoes this by saying, “By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible.” Our faith rests in the power of God’s word, both in creation and in His ongoing work in our lives.

Implications for Our Lives

The truths revealed in Genesis 1:1-3 have profound implications for how we live. First, they call us to trust in God’s promises, knowing that He is eternal, faithful, and powerful. We can be confident that what He has spoken will come to pass.

Second, these truths challenge us to live with an eternal perspective. Our lives on Earth are but a moment in the grand scope of God’s eternal plan. This perspective should influence our decisions, our relationships, and how we prioritize our time and resources.

Finally, these verses call us to worship. As we reflect on God’s power, creativity, and sovereignty, our natural response should be one of awe and reverence. We are reminded that everything we have and everything we are is because of Him.

Humility and Worship: Our Proper Response

Understanding that God is eternal, the Creator, and all-powerful should lead us to two key responses: humility and worship. Like Job, when we face life’s challenges and mysteries, we should remember God’s wisdom and sovereignty. In Job 38:4-11, God reminds Job of His role as Creator, asking, “Where were you when I laid the foundation of the Earth?” This calls us to trust in God’s wisdom, even when we don’t fully understand His ways.

Our response should also be one of worship. Nehemiah 9:6 declares, “You are the Lord, you alone. You have made heaven, the heaven of heavens, with all their host, the Earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them; and you preserve all of them; and the host of heaven worships you.” As we recognize God’s sovereignty over all creation, our hearts should be filled with praise.

The Relevance of Genesis Today

Despite the clarity of Genesis 1:1-3, this passage has been the subject of much debate, even among believers. Questions about the length of the creation days, the age of the Earth, and the relationship between creation and evolution have divided opinions. Yet, at the core, the message remains clear: God is the Creator, and His word is true.

Francis Schaefer once said that the battle for a Christian understanding of the world begins with how we read the opening chapters of Genesis. If we trust God’s word about creation, we can trust it in all matters of faith, including salvation and the promises of Scripture.

Conclusion

The opening verses of Genesis are foundational to our faith. They introduce us to the eternal, all-powerful Creator, who spoke the universe into existence. As we continue to study these verses in the coming weeks, may our understanding deepen, and may our hearts be drawn closer to God in worship and obedience.

Let us respond to these truths with humility, trust, and worship, recognizing that in the beginning, God created—and He continues to reign sovereign over all.

FAQ

How does Genesis 1:1-3 lay the foundation for the entire Bible?

Genesis 1:1-3 sets the stage for the biblical narrative by introducing God as the Creator and establishing His authority over all creation. It lays the groundwork for understanding God’s nature, His relationship with the world, and His plan for humanity.

What does it mean that God is eternal?

God’s eternality means that He exists outside of time, with no beginning and no end. This attribute assures us that God is unchanging, faithful, and sovereign, providing a foundation for our trust in Him.

Why is it important to believe that God created the world?

Believing in God as the Creator affirms His ownership and authority over all things. It shapes our understanding of our purpose, our relationship with God, and our role as stewards of His creation.

How does the doctrine of creation impact our faith?

The doctrine of creation is central to our faith, influencing our worldview, our understanding of God’s nature, and how we live our lives in relation to Him and His creation.

What is the significance of God’s spoken word in creation?

God’s spoken word in creation demonstrates His power and authority. It is through His word that the universe was brought into existence, highlighting the importance of Scripture as the authoritative word of God.

How should we respond to the truths in Genesis 1:1-3?

Our response to Genesis 1:1-3 should be one of humility and worship. We should trust in God’s wisdom and sovereignty, live with an eternal perspective, and praise Him for His power and majesty as our Creator.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank you for the profound truths revealed in Genesis 1:1-3. We acknowledge You as our eternal, all-powerful Creator, and we worship You for Your sovereignty and majesty. As we continue to study Your Word, draw us closer to You, and help us live in obedience and trust. In Jesus’ name, we pray, amen.