Notes on Creation

(Originally written February 15, 2006)

1) What famous 4th century theologian likened the Trinity to "the lover, the loved and love"?
- Augustine

2) The notion that creation consisted of God's giving form to pre-existent matter was taught by the great third century theologian?
- Origen

3) Which Catholic saint of the Middle Ages wrote the hymn that included "Brother sun" and "Sister moon"?
- Francis of Assisi

4) True or False: The Bible teaches that "virtue is its own reward"

The Doctrine of Creation

Biblical view of creation

creation "ex nihilo" (out of nothing)

First article of Apostles and Nicene creeds
(counters Marcion's notion of two gods: Jewish (Old Testament) and Christian (New Testament)

God of Creation is the God of redemption

Ancient views of creation

Greek Philosophy - ex nihilo, nihil fit (out of nothing cometh nothing)
Creation: god gave form to eternal matter
Dualism - Spirit & Matter
Bible - only God is eternal

Pantheism (Hinduism, etc.)
All is God - monism
Monism - only spirit truly exists
god is to the world as the soul is to the body
Bible: God transcends the world

Dialectical materialism (Marx) vs. Bible
Universe: no beginning; material ends
Bible: Matter created for spiritual ends