The God of Creation: A Deep Dive into Divine Origins
In an age where scientific theories, cultural narratives, and philosophical skepticism often challenge the foundations of biblical truth, Richard D. Phillips’ The God of Creation: Truth and Gospel in Genesis 1 stands as a refreshing, deeply theological, and pastorally sensitive exploration of the opening chapter of Scripture. This book is not merely a commentary on Genesis 1—it is a robust defense of the biblical account of creation, a careful exposition of its theological richness, and a compelling invitation to rediscover the wonder of God’s creative power and redemptive purpose.
Published by P&R Publishing, a respected name in Reformed theological literature, The God of Creation is written with clarity, reverence, and intellectual rigor. Phillips, a seasoned pastor, theologian, and author of numerous works on Scripture, brings his pastoral heart and scholarly insight to bear on one of the most debated and misunderstood passages in the Bible. In this comprehensive review and summary, we will unpack the key themes, structure, and arguments of the book, explore the author’s intended message, and evaluate its relevance for believers, skeptics, and seekers alike.
Understanding the Context: Why Genesis 1 Matters Today
Before diving into the specifics of Phillips’ work, it’s important to understand why a book on Genesis 1 is not only timely but necessary. Genesis 1 is more than the first chapter of the Bible—it is the foundational narrative upon which the entire biblical worldview rests. It introduces us to God, His nature, His power, and His purpose for the world and humanity.
Yet in contemporary culture, Genesis 1 faces unprecedented challenges. From evolutionary biology to secular humanism, many voices dismiss the creation account as myth, allegory, or ancient folklore. Even within the church, there are growing debates about the meaning of the “days” of creation, the relationship between science and Scripture, and whether a literal six-day creation is essential to Christian faith.
Richard D. Phillips enters this conversation not as a polemicist, but as a faithful expositor of Scripture. His goal is not to win an argument, but to help readers understand what the Bible actually says, why it matters, and how it shapes our understanding of God, humanity, and salvation.
Overview of the Book: Structure and Purpose
The God of Creation is structured as a verse-by-verse exposition of Genesis 1:1–2:3, the seven-day creation account. Phillips divides the book into nine chapters, each focusing on a specific section of the text. The book is accessible to lay readers but rich enough for pastors and students of theology. It combines careful exegesis with theological reflection, pastoral application, and engagement with contemporary issues.
Each chapter follows a consistent format: Phillips begins with a translation of the passage, then walks through the Hebrew text, explains key terms, addresses interpretive challenges, draws out theological truths, and applies the passage to Christian life and doctrine.
Chapter-by-Chapter Summary and Analysis
Chapter 1: In the Beginning – The God Who Creates (Genesis 1:1)
Phillips opens with a powerful meditation on the opening words of Scripture: “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” He emphasizes that this is not just a chronological statement, but a theological declaration. The universe did not emerge from chaos, chance, or an impersonal force—it was brought into being by a personal, sovereign, and intentional God.
He notes that the Hebrew word bara (to create) is used exclusively for divine action and implies creation ex nihilo—out of nothing. This is crucial because it distinguishes the biblical God from the gods of other ancient religions, who were often depicted as shaping pre-existing matter.
Phillips also addresses the question of the “beginning.” He argues that this is not a reference to a point within time, but the absolute beginning of time, space, and matter. God exists outside of time and is the source of all that exists.
This first chapter sets the tone for the entire book: God is not only the Creator, but the sovereign Lord over all creation. This truth has profound implications for worship, ethics, and our understanding of human dignity.
Chapter 2: The Unseen World – The Spirit and the Deep (Genesis 1:2)
Genesis 1:2 describes the earth as “formless and void,” with darkness over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God hovering over the waters. Phillips carefully unpacks each element.
The “formless and void” (Hebrew: tohu wa-bohu) does not mean chaos or evil, but rather an undeveloped, uninhabitable state—like raw material waiting for a sculptor’s hand. The darkness is not evil, but the absence of light, which God will soon introduce.
Most importantly, Phillips highlights the presence of the Holy Spirit in creation. The Spirit is not a passive force, but an active, personal agent of God’s creative work. This is one of the earliest hints of the Trinity in Scripture—the Father speaks, the Spirit hovers, and the Word (implied in the spoken commands) brings things into being.
This chapter challenges the idea that the Spirit is only involved in redemption. Phillips shows that the Spirit is also central to creation, emphasizing the unity of God’s redemptive and creative purposes.
Chapter 3: Let There Be Light – The First Day (Genesis 1:3–5)
The creation of light on the first day is one of the most astonishing moments in Scripture. Phillips notes that light is created before the sun, moon, and stars (which appear on Day 4). This order is intentional and theologically significant.
He argues that the light on Day 1 is not merely physical light, but a supernatural light that reflects God’s glory. This anticipates the New Testament imagery of Christ as the “light of the world” (John 8:12) and the future heavenly city where “there will be no need for the sun or moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light” (Revelation 21:23).
Phillips also addresses the meaning of the “day.” He defends the traditional understanding of a literal 24-hour day, based on the Hebrew word yom used with “evening and morning,” and the pattern repeated six times. While acknowledging other views (like the day-age theory), he argues that the text clearly intends a sequential, literal six-day creation.
This chapter underscores God’s power: He speaks, and light comes into being. It also introduces the rhythm of creation—work and rest—that will culminate in the Sabbath.
Chapter 4: The Expanse and the Waters – The Second Day (Genesis 1:6–8)
On the second day, God creates the “expanse” (Hebrew: raqia), often translated as “firmament” or “sky,” to separate the waters above from the waters below. Phillips carefully explains that this is not a primitive, dome-like structure as some critics claim, but a functional division of the atmosphere and hydrological system.
He notes that the ancient Near Eastern context had myths about a solid dome holding back cosmic waters, but the biblical account demythologizes this idea. The “expanse” is not a physical barrier, but a space God creates to organize the world for life.
Phillips also points out that the second day is the only day on which God does not declare His work “good.” This may suggest that the separation of waters was a preparatory act, not a completed creation. It also highlights the progressive nature of creation—each day builds on the previous one.
Chapter 5: Dry Ground and Living Things – The Third Day (Genesis 1:9–13)
The third day is a pivotal moment: God gathers the waters to form seas and causes dry land to appear. Phillips emphasizes the significance of land emerging from water—a theme that echoes throughout Scripture (e.g., Noah’s flood, the Red Sea crossing, the new earth in Revelation).
God then commands the earth to “bring forth” vegetation. Phillips notes the language of fruitfulness and reproduction “according to their kinds,” which affirms the stability of species and counters evolutionary theories of common descent.
He also highlights the beauty and abundance of plant life, showing God’s provision for all living creatures. The mention of “seed-bearing plants” points forward to human agriculture and stewardship.
This day ends with God declaring His work “good”—a sign that the earth is now habitable and ready for more complex life.
Chapter 6: Lights in the Firmament – The Fourth Day (Genesis 1:14–19)
On the fourth day, God creates the sun, moon, and stars. Phillips addresses a common objection: how could there be light on Day 1 without the sun on Day 4? He responds that God created light supernaturally on Day 1, and on Day 4, He established the celestial bodies as permanent sources of light and as markers of time.
He explains that the “lights” are for “signs and seasons, and for days and years”—a reference to their role in agriculture, worship (e.g., biblical feasts), and navigation. The sun and moon are not deities, as in pagan religions, but servants of the one true God.
Phillips also notes that the text avoids naming the sun and moon (calling them “the greater light” and “the lesser light”) to prevent idolatry. This subtle linguistic choice underscores the Bible’s rejection of sun worship and other pagan practices.
Chapter 7: Birds and Fish – The Fifth Day (Genesis 1:20–23)
The fifth day marks the beginning of animal life. God commands the waters to “swarm” with living creatures and the skies to be filled with birds. Phillips emphasizes the abundance and diversity of life, as well as the blessing God gives to these creatures to “be fruitful and multiply.”
He notes that the Hebrew word for “living creature” (nephesh) is used here, indicating sentient life. This sets the stage for the creation of humans, who are also nephesh but uniquely made in God’s image.
The blessing on animals is significant—it shows God’s care for all creation, not just humanity. Phillips connects this to Psalm 104 and other biblical passages that celebrate God’s provision for animals.
Chapter 8: Land Animals and Man – The Sixth Day (Genesis 1:24–31)
The sixth day is the climax of creation. God creates land animals and then, in a dramatic shift, says, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness.” Phillips spends considerable time on this phrase, explaining that it points to the Trinity and the unique dignity of humanity.
Being made in God’s image means humans are rational, moral, relational, and creative. It also implies a role: to rule over creation as God’s representatives. Phillips stresses that this dominion is not exploitation, but stewardship—a sacred trust.
He also highlights the creation of both male and female, emphasizing equality in value and distinction in role. The command to “be fruitful and multiply” is part of God’s blessing, showing that family and procreation are good and holy.
The chapter ends with God’s declaration that “it was very good”—a statement of perfection and completeness. Phillips argues that this rules out the idea of death or suffering before the Fall, a key point in the debate over evolution and the historicity of Adam.
Chapter 9: The Sabbath Rest – The Seventh Day (Genesis 2:1–3)
The book concludes with the Sabbath. After six days of work, God rests. Phillips explains that God’s rest is not due to fatigue, but a cessation of creative activity and the inauguration of a holy rhythm.
The Sabbath is instituted as a gift for humanity—a day of worship, rest, and delight in God. Phillips connects this to the Fourth Commandment and to Christ, who is “Lord of the Sabbath” (Mark 2:28) and offers eternal rest (Hebrews 4).
He also notes that the seventh day has no “evening and morning,” suggesting its ongoing significance. The Sabbath points forward to the eternal rest believers will enjoy in the new creation.
The Author’s Message: What Phillips Wants to Convey
At its heart, The God of Creation is a call to worship, wonder, and faithfulness. Richard D. Phillips wants readers to see Genesis 1 not as a scientific textbook or a myth, but as a divinely inspired revelation of who God is and what He has done.
His central message can be summarized in several key points:
- God is the Sovereign Creator
Everything exists because God spoke it into being. He is not a distant watchmaker, but an active, personal God who sustains and governs His creation. - Creation Reveals God’s Character
The order, beauty, and goodness of creation reflect God’s wisdom, power, and holiness. Creation is not random or meaningless—it has purpose and design. - Humanity is Unique and Valuable
Made in God’s image, humans are not accidents of evolution, but the crown of creation. This truth underpins human dignity, ethics, and our responsibility to care for the earth. - The Gospel is Rooted in Creation
Phillips shows that the gospel of redemption makes sense only in light of creation and the Fall. Jesus is not just the Savior from sin, but the Creator who became flesh (John 1:3, 14). The new creation in Christ fulfills the original purpose of the first creation. - Scripture is Trustworthy
Phillips defends the historical and literal truth of Genesis 1 against skepticism and allegorical interpretations. He believes the Bible’s authority begins at the beginning. - Rest is a Gift, Not a Burden
The Sabbath teaches us to trust God, cease from our labors, and find joy in Him. It is a foretaste of eternal rest in the presence of God.
Strengths of the Book
- Clear and Accessible Writing: Phillips avoids technical jargon and writes in a warm, engaging style suitable for both new believers and seasoned Christians.
- Faithful Exegesis: He carefully examines the Hebrew text and interacts with scholarly debates without losing clarity.
- Pastoral Sensitivity: The book is not just informative—it’s devotional. Each chapter ends with reflection questions and applications.
- Engagement with Modern Issues: Phillips respectfully addresses evolution, the age of the earth, and science without compromising biblical truth.
- Christ-Centered Focus: He consistently connects creation to the person and work of Christ, showing the unity of Scripture.
Potential Criticisms
While the book is excellent, some readers may wish for:
- More engagement with scientific data (e.g., geology, cosmology).
- A fuller discussion of alternative interpretations (e.g., framework hypothesis).
- A broader exploration of how Genesis 1 impacts environmental ethics.
However, these are minor omissions in a book that achieves its primary goal: to help readers see and savor the glory of God in creation.
Final Thoughts: Embracing Creation’s Truth and Gospel
Richard D. Phillips’ The God of Creation: Truth and Gospel in Genesis 1 is a masterful study that blends scholarly rigor with pastoral sensitivity. It invites readers to see Genesis 1 as a living word, shaping theology, faith, and life.
For anyone seeking to understand the Bible’s creation account clearly and reverently, this book is an invaluable resource that inspires awe of God—our Creator, Sustainer, and Redeemer.
FAQs
Q1: What is the main message of the book?
The book emphasizes God as Creator, humanity’s dignity in His image, and the gospel truths found in Genesis 1.
Q2: Is this book good for beginners?
Yes, it is written in an accessible style while still offering deep insights.
Q3: Does it address science vs faith?
Yes, though not a science book, it provides apologetic arguments to defend Genesis.
Q4: What makes it different from other Genesis commentaries?
Its Christ-centered focus and gospel connections set it apart.
Q5: Who should read this book?
Christians seeking to deepen their faith, pastors, Bible study groups, and anyone curious about Genesis 1.