What happened on each of the six days of creation?

TL;DR:

In six literal days, God created the world and everything in it, culminating with humans on the sixth day, as detailed in Genesis 1 and 2.

The Bible describes the creation of the world in six days in Genesis 1 and 2. On the first day, God created light, separating it from darkness. On the second day, He made the sky, dividing the waters above and below it. The third day saw the creation of dry land and vegetation. On the fourth day, God made the sun, moon, and stars. On the fifth day, He created sea creatures and birds. Finally, on the sixth day, God created land animals and humans. Humans were made differently than everything else—God created them in His image, and He gave them a charge to "be fruitful and multiply" and to "subdue" the earth and "have dominion" over animals (Genesis 1:27–28).

from the old testament

On the first day, God created light, calling it "day," and the darkness "night" (Genesis 1:3–5). This established the cycle of day and night.
The second day involved the creation of the sky, separating the "waters from the waters" (Genesis 1:6–8). This is often understood as the creation of the atmosphere.
On the third day, God gathered the "waters under the heavens" to reveal dry land and called the dry ground "Earth" and the gathered waters "Seas." He also created vegetation, including seed-bearing plants and trees (Genesis 1:9–13).
The fourth day saw the creation of the sun, moon, and stars to provide light to the earth, mark seasons, and distinguish day from night (Genesis 1:14–19).
On the fifth day, God created sea creatures and birds, blessing them to be fruitful and multiply (Genesis 1:20–23).
The sixth day included the creation of land animals and, finally, humans. Man and woman were created in God’s image and given dominion over the earth and all its creatures (Genesis 1:24–31).

from the new testament

The New Testament does not directly recount the days of creation but refers to God's creative power and the foundational nature of creation. John 1:1–3 acknowledges Jesus (the Word) as present and active in creation.
Colossians 1:16–17 reiterates this by stating that all things were created by and for Christ, which emphasizes His preeminence and sustaining power over creation.
Hebrews 11:3 notes that the universe was formed at God’s command.

implications for today

The six-day creation account shows God's sovereignty and intentionality. Understanding that God created the world in six literal days reinforces the idea of a purposeful Creator who brings order out of chaos. This sets the stage for understanding our place in the world. Humans, created in God's image, have inherent dignity and purpose. This should shape our identity and our interactions with others. It should encourage us to treat every person with respect and love. God also created animals and plants, which we are to care for and steward well.

The creation account also shows us the importance of rest and work. God rested after creating for six days. This rhythm of work and rest is essential for our well-being. While the Sabbath is not commanded of New Testament believers, observing a day of rest especially in our fast-paced world can rejuvenate us and refocus our priorities on our relationship with God and others.

The six days of creation also emphasize God’s power and faithfulness. Believers are assured that the same God who spoke the world into existence is in control of our lives. This strengthens our faith, especially in times of uncertainty, and reminds us that God’s plans are purposeful and good.

Finally, the creation account lays the groundwork for the gospel. The perfection of the original creation contrasts with the brokenness brought by sin, pointing to the need for redemption. Jesus Christ, through His death and resurrection, offers new creation and restores our relationship with God.

understand

On the first day, God created light, separating it from darkness and establishing day and night.
On the second and third days, God created the sky, separated the waters to reveal dry land, and produced vegetation.
On the fourth, fifth, and sixth days, God created the sun, moon, and stars; sea creatures and birds; and finally land animals and humans. Humans were made in God's image and were given dominion over all creatures.

reflect

How does recognizing God's intentional creation impact your view of life's challenges?
How does being created in God's image affect your view of yourself and how you view and treat others?
How can you incorporate a balance of work and rest into your life, following God's example?

engage

How does the orderly creation process reflect God's nature, and how does this influence our lives?
What are practical ways we can responsibly care for the earth and each other?
How does the creation account connect to the gospel message of redemption through Christ?