"The Peak of Creation"
Preacher Keneth Chris Namoc
Genesis 1:24-31
Word of God:
Gen 1:24 And God said, Let the earth bring forth the living creature after his kind, cattle, and creeping thing,
and beast of the earth after his kind: and it was so.
Gen 1:25 And God made the beast of the earth after his kind, and cattle after their kind, and every thing that
creepeth upon the earth after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
Gen 1:26 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over
the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every
creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.
Gen 1:27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created
he them.
Gen 1:28 And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth,
and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living
thing that moveth upon the earth.
Gen 1:29 And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the
earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.
Gen 1:30 And to every beast of the earth, and to every fowl of the air, and to every thing that creepeth upon
the earth, wherein there is life, I have given every green herb for meat: and it was so.
Gen 1:31 And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the
morning were the sixth day.
Introduction:
Genesis 1:24-31 captures the final acts of God's creation, highlighting the creation of land animals and
humanity. For the Oldline Primitive Baptist tradition, these verses hold profound theological significance,
underscoring the intentionality, wisdom, and sovereignty of God in His creative work. Primitive Baptists
adhere to a literal interpretation of the Bible, viewing these verses as a historical account of God's purposeful
and orderly creation.
This passage marks the culmination/peak of the creation narrative, emphasizing the unique role and dignity of
humanity, created in the image of God. The creation of land animals and the bestowal of dominion upon
mankind reflect God's intricate design and the harmonious interdependence of all living beings. God's blessing
and provision for sustenance further illustrate His benevolence and care for His creation.
In studying Genesis 1:24-31, we gain a deeper understanding of humanity's place within the created order, our
responsibilities as stewards of the earth, and the inherent goodness of God's creation. This passage invites
believers to reflect on the grandeur of God's creative work, to honor the Creator, and to live in accordance
with His divine purpose and plan.
Detailed Explanation:
Genesis 1:24-25 - Creation of Land Animals
Text: "And God said, Let the earth bring forth the living creature after his kind, cattle, and creeping thing, and
beast of the earth after his kind: and it was so. And God made the beast of the earth after his kind, and cattle
after their kind, and every thing that creepeth upon the earth after his kind: and God saw that it was good."
(KJV)
Explanation:
1. God's Command and Creation:
o God's command results in the creation of various land animals, including cattle, creeping things,
and beasts. This creation is described as "after his kind," emphasizing the principle of
reproduction according to kind, ensuring the stability and continuity of each species. The
phrase "let the earth bring forth" indicates that the land itself is the source from which these
creatures emerge, showcasing the interconnectedness of creation.
2. God's Approval:
o The declaration that it was good reflects God's satisfaction with His creation, highlighting its
inherent goodness and purpose. Each creature is intentionally designed and has a specific role
within the ecosystem, contributing to the overall harmony and balance of the natural world.
Supporting Verses:
Psalm 104:24:
o "O LORD, how manifold are thy works! in wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of
thy riches."
o This verse celebrates the diversity and abundance of God's creation, acknowledging His wisdom
in making all living creatures.
Job 12:10:
o "In whose hand is the soul of every living thing, and the breath of all mankind."
o This verse underscores God's sovereignty over all life, emphasizing that every living creature is
sustained by Him.
These supporting verses complement the Genesis account by highlighting God's wisdom, sovereignty, and the
richness of His creation. They encourage believers to marvel at the diversity of life and recognize the
intentionality behind each creature's existence.
Genesis 1:26-27 - Creation of Mankind
Text: "And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the
fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping
thing that creepeth upon the earth. So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he
him; male and female created he them." (KJV)
Explanation:
1. Divine Council:
o The use of "us" and "our" suggests a divine council, reflecting the relational nature of the
Godhead. This phrase is often interpreted as an indication of the Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy
Spirit—involved in the creation of mankind.
2. Image of God:
o Humans are created in the image and likeness of God, signifying their unique relationship with
the Creator and their inherent value and dignity. The "image of God" (Imago Dei) implies that
humans possess spiritual, moral, intellectual, and relational capacities that reflect God's own
nature.
3. Dominion:
o Mankind is given dominion over all living creatures, indicating a role of stewardship and
responsibility in caring for God's creation. This dominion is not a license for exploitation but a
mandate for responsible and loving management of the natural world.
4. Creation of Male and Female:
o The creation of male and female emphasizes the complementarity and partnership inherent in
humanity's design. Both genders equally bear the image of God and are called to work together
in fulfilling God's mandate.
Supporting Verses:
Psalm 8:4-8:
o "What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him? For
thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour.
Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; thou hast put all things under
his feet: All sheep and oxen, yea, and the beasts of the field; The fowl of the air, and the fish of
the sea, and whatsoever passeth through the paths of the seas."
o This passage reflects on the unique status of humanity and their dominion over creation,
echoing themes from Genesis 1:26-28.
Ephesians 4:24:
o "And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true
holiness."
o This verse highlights the spiritual renewal and the restoration of the image of God in believers,
emphasizing righteousness and holiness.
Genesis 5:1-2:
o "This is the book of the generations of Adam. In the day that God created man, in the likeness
of God made he him; Male and female created he them; and blessed them, and called their
name Adam, in the day when they were created."
o This passage reiterates the creation of humanity in God's likeness and the blessing bestowed
upon them.
Matthew 19:4:
o "And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the
beginning made them male and female."
o Jesus affirms the creation of male and female, highlighting the complementarity and intended
partnership in marriage.
These supporting verses enhance the understanding of Genesis 1:26-27 by highlighting humanity's unique
status, the nature of the divine image, and the responsibilities that come with dominion over creation.
Genesis 1:28 - Blessing and Commission
Text: "And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and
subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing
that moveth upon the earth." (KJV)
Explanation:
1. Blessing:
o The verse begins with "And God blessed them," indicating a divine favor and empowerment
bestowed upon humanity. This blessing signifies God's benevolence and His intention for
humans to thrive and prosper.
2. Command to Be Fruitful and Multiply:
o God's command to "be fruitful, and multiply" instructs humanity to reproduce and increase in
number. This command ensures the continuation and expansion of human life on earth,
highlighting the importance of growth and proliferation.
3. Replenish and Subdue the Earth:
o The command to "replenish the earth" involves filling and populating the earth. To "subdue it"
signifies humanity's role in managing and harnessing the earth's resources responsibly. This
subjugation is not meant to be exploitative but rather a mandate for stewardship and care.
4. Dominion over Living Creatures:
o Humanity is given dominion over all living creatures, reflecting a position of authority and
responsibility. This dominion entails overseeing and tending to the well-being of the animals
and the environment.
Supporting Verses:
Genesis 9:1:
o "And God blessed Noah and his sons, and said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and
replenish the earth."
o This verse reiterates the blessing and command given to humanity after the flood, emphasizing
the continuity of God's intention for human multiplication and stewardship.
Psalm 127:3:
o "Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward."
o This verse highlights the blessing of fruitfulness and the value of children as a heritage from
God, aligning with the command to be fruitful and multiply.
Psalm 8:6-8:
o "Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; thou hast put all things under
his feet: All sheep and oxen, yea, and the beasts of the field; The fowl of the air, and the fish of
the sea, and whatsoever passeth through the paths of the seas."
o This passage emphasizes humanity's dominion over creation, reflecting the mandate given in
Genesis 1:28.
These supporting verses enhance the understanding of Genesis 1:28 by highlighting the themes of blessing,
fruitfulness, multiplication, and responsible stewardship. They affirm God's intention for humanity to thrive,
manage creation wisely, and recognize the value of life.
Genesis 1:29-30 - Provision for Sustenance
Text: "And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth,
and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat. And to every beast
of the earth, and to every fowl of the air, and to every thing that creepeth upon the earth, wherein there is
life, I have given every green herb for meat: and it was so." (KJV)
Explanation:
1. Provision for Humanity:
o God provides herbs and fruit-bearing trees as food for humanity, ensuring their sustenance and
well-being. The phrase "every herb bearing seed" and "every tree, in the which is the fruit of a
tree yielding seed" indicates the abundant and diverse provision that God has made for human
nourishment.
2. Provision for Animals:
o God also provides green herbs as food for animals, reflecting His care for all living creatures.
This provision ensures that all creatures have the necessary sustenance to thrive, highlighting
the interconnectedness and balance within creation.
3. Interconnectedness of Creation:
o The shared provision for both humans and animals underscores the interconnectedness of all
living beings within the created order. This interconnectedness reflects God's design for a
harmonious and interdependent ecosystem.
Supporting Verses:
Psalm 104:14:
o "He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of man: that he may bring
forth food out of the earth;"
o This verse underscores God's provision for both animals and humans, aligning with Genesis
1:29-30.
Psalm 145:15:
o "The eyes of all wait upon thee; and thou givest them their meat in due season."
o This verse emphasizes God's role as the provider for all living beings, ensuring that they receive
their sustenance at the appropriate time.
Genesis 9:3:
o "Every moving thing that liveth shall be meat for you; even as the green herb have I given you
all things."
o This verse reaffirms God's provision for human sustenance, expanding it to include animals
after the flood.
These supporting verses enhance the understanding of Genesis 1:29-30 by highlighting God's provision and
care for all living creatures. They affirm the abundance and generosity of God's provision and the
interconnectedness of life within the created order.
Genesis 1:31 - Conclusion of Creation
Text: "And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the
morning were the sixth day." (KJV)
Explanation:
1. Divine Approval:
o God's declaration that everything was "very good" signifies His complete satisfaction with the
entirety of creation. This affirmation highlights the perfection, harmony, and intentionality of
God's creative work.
2. Completion of the Sixth Day:
o The sixth day concludes with a comprehensive affirmation of the goodness and intentionality of
God's creative work. The phrase "the evening and the morning were the sixth day" marks the
end of the final day of creation, signifying the completion of God's creative acts.
Supporting Verses:
Psalm 104:24:
o "O LORD, how manifold are thy works! in wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of
thy riches."
o This verse celebrates the diversity and wisdom of God's creation, acknowledging the richness of
His works.
1 Timothy 4:4:
o "For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with
thanksgiving."
o This verse affirms the inherent goodness of all God's creations, encouraging gratitude for His
provisions.
Psalm 136:1:
o "O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever."
o This verse highlights the enduring goodness and mercy of God, reflecting His satisfaction with
creation.
Practical Applications of Genesis 1:24-31
1. Recognizing Human Dignity:
o Understanding the Image of God: Knowing that humanity is created in the image of God
(Imago Dei) calls believers to recognize and honor the inherent dignity and value of every
person. This understanding should inspire respect, love, and compassion for others, regardless
of their background or circumstances.
o Supporting Verses: Genesis 1:27, Ephesians 4:24
2. Embracing Stewardship:
o Dominion with Responsibility: The concept of dominion in Genesis 1:26-28 calls believers to
exercise responsible stewardship over the environment. This includes caring for the earth,
protecting natural resources, and preserving the habitats of all living creatures. It is a call to
sustainable living and environmental conservation.
o Supporting Verses: Genesis 1:28, Psalm 8:6-8
3. Trusting in God's Provision:
o Reliance on God's Sustenance: God's provision of herbs and fruit-bearing trees for food
(Genesis 1:29-30) reminds believers to trust in His care and provision for their needs. This trust
fosters a sense of gratitude and reliance on God's faithfulness, encouraging believers to
approach life with confidence and thankfulness.
o Supporting Verses: Psalm 104:14, Psalm 145:15, Genesis 9:3
4. Pursuing Fruitfulness:
o Growth and Productivity: The blessing to be fruitful and multiply (Genesis 1:28) inspires
believers to pursue growth and productivity in their spiritual lives, relationships, and endeavors.
This involves nurturing and multiplying the blessings they have received, contributing to the
flourishing of their communities and the world.
o Supporting Verses: Genesis 9:1, Psalm 127:3
5. Acknowledging Interconnectedness:
o Living in Harmony with Nature: Recognizing the interconnectedness of all living beings within
creation encourages believers to live in harmony with nature. This awareness fosters a sense of
responsibility towards the environment and promotes actions that protect and sustain the
balance and diversity of life.
o Supporting Verses: Psalm 104:24, 1 Timothy 4:4
6. Reflecting God's Goodness:
o Emulating Divine Goodness: Understanding that God saw His creation as "very good" (Genesis
1:31) inspires believers to reflect God's goodness in their lives. This involves embodying
kindness, righteousness, and love in interactions with others and in their care for the world
around them.
o Supporting Verses: Psalm 136:1, 1 Timothy 4:4
Conclusion
Genesis 1:24-31 highlights the final acts of God's creation, focusing on the creation of land animals and
humanity. From the Oldline Primitive Baptist perspective, these verses emphasize the intentionality, wisdom,
and sovereignty of God. The passage reveals the unique role of humanity, created in the image of God, and
entrusted with the responsibility of dominion and stewardship over the earth.
The creation of land animals and humans, along with the divine blessing and provision for sustenance,
underscores God's care for all living beings and the interconnectedness of creation. God's declaration that
everything was "very good" signifies His complete satisfaction with His creative work, reflecting the harmony
and perfection of the natural world.
For believers, these verses serve as a reminder of the inherent dignity and value of every person, the
importance of responsible stewardship, and the need to trust in God's provision. By embracing the principles
of fruitfulness, harmony with nature, and reflecting God's goodness, believers can live out their God-given
purpose and contribute to the flourishing of creation.
As we reflect on Genesis 1:24-31, may we be inspired to honor the Creator, fulfill our responsibilities as
stewards of the earth, and live in accordance with God's divine plan and purpose. Let us recognize the beauty
and intentionality of God's creation and strive to reflect His goodness in all that we do.
