“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.”
(Genesis 1:1)
Part One
Creation is usually approached from the logical standpoint that everything that has been or will be created is a primary evidence for its creator. Expressed universally, the Bible first explains that, “…the Word was with God and the Word was God…” (John 1:1) This depth can only be understood in terms of the Godhead. Therefore, infinitely deeper, Scripture teaches that the Godhead was never – created!
This is why the capacity for faith was given to man along with the instructions to faithfully use it. God knew that His revelation of having always been “I AM” could never be comprehended by His finite creation. Faith is therefore an essential aspect of humanity’s wonderful design. Thus, the Bible teaches, “…All things were made through Him and without Him nothing was made that was made.” (John 1:3) This is a specific reference to the creation of everything throughout the universe.
The Bible teaches what all the citizens of the earth need to hear, “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation: for by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones, or dominions, or rulers, or authorities—all things have been created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.” (Colossians 1:15-17)
Part Two
Though it is seldom discussed in the realm of today’s secular society, the less expansive experience of human creativity is a secondary evidence of God’s amazing plan. We were created in His likeness with the desire and ability to create our own lesser things from the unending process of His creation. The Bible says, “By the word of the Lord the heavens were made…let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of Him! For He spoke, and it came to be…” (Psalm 33:6a, 8, 9a)
All of our talents, authored works, musical compositions, and fine art come directly from our minds – which God created. He did this through His eternal Word beginning with Adam and Eve. The Lord Jesus explained, “But from the beginning of creation, God created them male and female.” (Mark 10:6) We were all wonderfully made by God and reflect that reality in endless ways. The psalmist therefore wrote, “I praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” (Psalm 139:14)
Part Three
There is a profound difference between creations derived from man’s own mind and those inspired by the Holy Spirit. As an example, the Old and New Testaments found in our Bibles stand uniquely alone in terms of their age, authenticity, and authorship. However, most importantly they stand alone because of their divine inspiration. They timelessly reflect the holiness, laws, and the grace of our Creator.
Secular art, music, and architecture all relate to their own era and everchanging culture. However, inspired art, music, and architecture like Solomon’s temple, David’s Psalms, and the Ark of the Covenant were all drafted and created with the guidance of the Holy Spirit (see 1 Chronicles 28:11-19).
With this in mind, the myriad of one’s personal decisions can either be sacred or secular depending upon their faith and prayer life. In that awareness, the Lord Jesus graciously said, “If you ask Me anything in My name, I will do it.” (John 14:14)
Expressed simply, if I create anything it is because I was first created with that amazing capacity. This is why those who truly understand God’s living Word are typically very humble and totally sincere when giving God the credit for their perceived accomplishments.
By Billie Hanks Jr.