Now that we have the gap theory sufficiently discussed, let’s get on with the final thoughts of verse 2.
In this second verse: “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 earth.” We see the appearance of the third member of the Trinity: The Holy Spirit, who was “hovering over the face of the waters.” This indicates a preserving, sustaining, governing function.
Once God created the heavens and the earth, His next step was to start the process that makes the universe function. He did this through the Holy Spirit. The Spirit of God enveloped it, surrounded it, and guarded over it. He was the creative agent who would oversee formation out of the formlessness and filling the void.
This Hebrew word used for “hovering” is an interesting word that evokes the image of a hen brooding over her chicks. This word indicates superintending, divine care, and supervision. The same Hebrew word appears twice more in the Old Testament – Deut. 32:11, where the imagery is that of an eagle hovering over its nest; and once in Jer. 23:9 where it is translated “shake” – describing the prophet’s bones quacking with shock at the Word of the Lord.
This imagery also denotes a particular focus on this planet. From this point on, the entire creation account is told from the perspective of an observer on earth. It is the Holy Spirit’s own perspective.
This planet is the nucleus of God’s creative purpose. It is the paradise He created as a habitat for creatures whom H would make in His own image – the very pinnacle of His creative work! God was involved directly in all aspects of creation. He didn’t create a mechanism for evolution and leave the universe to develop on its own. He was directly and personally involved in every aspect of Creation! Every bit of it – from the tiniest subatomic particle to the grandest galaxy – shows of His handiwork! It is the work of His fingers (Psalm 8:3).
God, the Source of all energy, powered up the world and began to create a beautiful world in which He would place His special creation. Can you, just for a minute, try to comprehend and visualize this spectacular creation process just within these first 2 verses!!! God: Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit bringing into existence matter, time and energy with nothing but words… the Holy Spirit hovering over it… Oh the Power and Majesty of our great God!!
I believe in the big bang theory! God said it, and BANG, it happened!!
So, let’s ask ourselves a couple question dealing with what we have covered so far. Do we, as Christians understand the importance of defending and standing up against heresies like the ‘gap-theory?” Does it change our attitude at all knowing that the very same Holy Spirit which lives in us was also personally involved in the creation process? Now that we have gotten through the first 2 verses of Genesis, are we excited to get into His story?
Next week we begin with Genesis 1, verses 2-5. Blessings to you all.
Last Update: Jul 16, 2018 9:06 am CDT
