What is the meaning of creation 'ex nihilo'?

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

The phrase "ex nihilo" is Latin for "from nothing," and it describes how God created the universe. The Bible opens with, "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth" (Genesis 1:1), indicating that God brought all things into existence without using pre-existing materials. John 1:3 reinforces this, stating, "All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made." This concept challenges our understanding of the natural world, which operates under the law that matter cannot be created or destroyed, highlighting the supernatural power of God.

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

• The Bible starts with God creating the heavens and the earth from nothing, showcasing His supreme power and sovereignty over all creation (Genesis 1:1–2).
• The Psalms praise God for His creative work, stating that the heavens were made by the word of the Lord and all their host by the breath of His mouth. It emphasizes that creation was a result of God's command (Psalm 33:6, 9).
• God declares that He created the heavens, formed the earth, and made it to be inhabited, asserting His unique role as the Creator (Isaiah 45:18).

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

• All things were made through Christ, and nothing came into being without Him, affirming the doctrine of creation ex nihilo (John 1:3).
• All things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, were created by and for Christ, which highlights Christ's preeminence in creation (Colossians 1:16–17).
• By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so what is seen was not made out of what was visible, directly supporting the concept of creation ex nihilo (Hebrews 11:3).

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

The doctrine of creation "ex nihilo" shapes our understanding of God and the universe. It shows that God has the power to create and sustain everything from nothing, and reveals the dependence of all creation on God. The supernatural aspect of creation challenges the limits of human understanding and scientific explanation, and it prompts us to acknowledge the existence of realities beyond our empirical observations.

The laws of physics state that matter cannot be created or destroyed, but God operates beyond these natural laws. We must approach science with humility, recognizing our limited knowledge and the possibility of God’s mysteries that are beyond our comprehension.

Creation "ex nihilo" shows God’s sovereignty and purposeful design. It assures believers that the universe is not a result of random chance but a deliberate act of a loving Creator. Our existence is intentional and meaningful.

Understanding that everything comes from God fosters a sense of stewardship and gratitude. We see our lives and the world around us as gifts from God. This should inspire us to care for creation responsibly and live in a manner that honors the Creator. It also encourages us to trust in God's provision and plan, even when we face uncertainties.

Creation "ex nihilo" calls us to worship and reverence. It shows God's unparalleled power and glory, and reminds us that our faith is rooted in the reality of a God who can do the impossible. We deepen our trust in Him and His promises through this understanding.

UNDERSTAND

• God created everything out of nothing, which is impossible for everyone but God.
• Creation ex nihilo highlights the supernatural nature of God's creative work.
• Genesis 1:1 and John 1:3 affirm God's role as the sole Creator without pre-existing materials.

REFLECT

• How does the concept of creation ex nihilo shape your understanding of God's power and sovereignty?
• Reflect on a time when recognizing God as the Creator of all things from nothing deepened your faith or perspective on life.
• In what ways does understanding creation ex nihilo impact your daily gratitude and stewardship of God's creation?

ENGAGE

• How does creation ex nihilo shape our understanding of God's relationship with His creation? How does it affect our view of the natural world?
• How can you bridge the gap in speaking the truth in love about creation ex nihilo to those with different perspectives of the origin of the universe?
• What can we do to deepen our appreciation for God's creative power and to reflect His intentionality in our lives and communities?