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Genesis 1:31
“God saw everything that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. There was evening and there was morning, the sixth day.”
This verse concludes the biblical account of creation in Genesis chapter 1, following God's work over six 'days' (periods). It comes immediately after the creation of humanity, described as being made in God's image, and before the seventh day of rest.
What responsibilities does humanity bear if creation is inherently 'very good' before any human action?
Then — the setting
Genesis 1 was likely composed or compiled during or after the Babylonian exile (6th-5th century BCE), offering a theological response to Israel's crisis of identity and faith. It provides a foundational worldview, asserting a single, good God as the sole creator, in contrast to the polytheistic myths of surrounding cultures where creation often arose from conflict or divine struggle. The declaration 'very good' establishes the inherent value of the material world and humanity's place within it, before any notion of human failing or 'fall.'
Across the Testaments
The Old Testament, through texts like Psalms (e.g., Psalm 19, 104), consistently celebrates the goodness and wisdom evident in creation, often pointing to it as a witness to God's power and faithfulness. The New Testament, while focusing heavily on redemption, does not negate creation's original goodness. Rather, it grounds the need for redemption in the subsequent brokenness of that good creation (e.g., Romans 8:19-22). It also portrays Jesus as intimately involved in creation (John 1:3, Colossians 1:16), affirming its intrinsic value and ultimate purpose within God's redemptive plan.
Keep thinking
Read alongside it
This psalm marvels at God's creation and humanity's place within it, echoing themes of divine artistry and human responsibility.
Paul speaks of creation groaning, awaiting redemption, suggesting that while originally good, it now experiences suffering alongside humanity.
This passage affirms that all creation finds its origin and coherence in Christ, reinforcing its fundamental purpose and value.
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