Genesis 1:1

Commentary

Text: “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” (Genesis 1:1, NKJV)

1. Exegetical Commentary

The Text in Context

• Genesis 1:1 is the foundational verse of Scripture. It declares that God is the eternal Creator, the One who brought all things into existence.
• The phrase “In the beginning” points to the commencement of time, space, and matter. It does not describe God’s beginning, for He is eternal (Psalm 90:2).
• “God created” (Hebrew: bara) is a verb used exclusively of divine activity. It signifies creation out of nothing (ex nihilo), underscoring God’s sovereign power.
• “The heavens and the earth” is a merism, a Hebrew literary device meaning “the totality of all things.” It encompasses everything that exists.

Theological Insights

• God’s Sovereignty: Genesis 1:1 establishes God as the supreme authority over creation. Nothing exists apart from His will.
• God’s Eternity: Before time began, God was. This affirms His independence from creation.
• God’s Power: Creation is not the result of chance or necessity but of divine command. Psalm 33:6 reminds us, “By the word of the LORD the heavens were made.”
• God’s Purpose: Creation is intentional, ordered, and good. Genesis 1 unfolds a structured account of God’s creative work, culminating in humanity made in His image (Genesis 1:26–27).

2. Meditation Guide

Reflective Questions

1. What does it mean for my life that God is the Creator of all things?
2. How does recognising God’s sovereignty over creation shape my trust in Him?
3. In what ways does the goodness of creation call me to gratitude and stewardship?

Prayer Focus

• Adoration: Praise God for His eternal power and wisdom revealed in creation.
• Confession: Acknowledge where you have failed to honour God as Creator, perhaps through neglect of His Word or misuse of His creation.
• Thanksgiving: Thank God for the beauty and order of creation, and for making humanity in His image.
• Supplication: Ask for grace to live faithfully under God’s sovereign rule, reflecting His image in daily life.

Practical Application

• Trust: In a world marked by uncertainty, Genesis 1:1 reminds believers that God is in control. This truth steadies faith.
• Stewardship: Christians are called to care for creation responsibly, not exploit it. This includes sustainable living and respect for the environment.
• Identity: Humanity’s dignity flows from being created by God. This challenges modern views that reduce human worth to productivity or utility.
• Witness: In a secular culture that often denies God’s existence, affirming Genesis 1:1 is a bold testimony to the Creator.