The debate surrounding the interpretation of the six days of creation can be contentious, especially when confronted with scientific theories supporting an old Earth scenario.
Author of the best-selling book 23 Minutes In Hell, Bill Wiese lays out six biblical reasons that the Earth was created in six literal days, and is not quite as old as secular scientists believe it to be.
The Scriptural Clarity
Wiese highlights the unambiguous language used in the Bible regarding the creation account. In Genesis 1:5, it explicitly states, “And the evening and the morning were the first day,” reinforcing the notion of a literal 24-hour period. This description is reiterated seven times throughout the creation narrative, emphasizing the consistency of the language used.
God’s Comparison to Man’s Work Week
In Exodus 20:11, God establishes a parallel between His own work during the six days of creation and the way humans are to work and rest. This comparison between the pattern of God’s creative work and the work week of humanity further solidifies the notion of literal days. By working for six days and resting on the seventh, we follow and honor God’s perfect work of creation.
The Linguistic Evidence
Dr. John D. Morris provides evidence to support the literal interpretation of the days. When the plural form of “yam” (day) is used in the Old Testament, it consistently refers to a literal solar day. This usage is evident in Exodus 20:11 and over 700 other instances in the Old Testament.
The Consistency of Scripture
Whether it is “six days” or “the third day,” outside of Genesis 1, it always refers to a literal day. This linguistic consistency further reinforces the interpretation of the creation days as 24-hour periods.
Explicit Biblical Statements
The universe’s creation in six days, followed by God’s rest on the seventh day, are stated in the first chapter of Genesis and in the fourth of God’s Ten Commandments in Exodus 20:8-11. The plainness of these statements leaves no room for alternative interpretations.
Literal Interpretation as a Priority
Departing from a literal interpretation requires compelling reasons based on the context of the passage. Therefore, unless there is a clear justification for figurative interpretation, it is essential to uphold the literal understanding of Scripture.
James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.
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