Genesis 1 Parallel Chapters

Genesis 1

Parallel Chapters and Verses, Greek and Hebrew Lexicon, Commentaries, Strong's Bible Dictionary, Concordances and Cross References for Genesis 1
Genesis:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50
Genesis 1:1
New American Standard Bible: In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
God's Word Translation: In the beginning God created heaven and earth.
King James Version: In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.
Bible in Basic English: At the first God made the heaven and the earth.
JPS Old Testament: In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.
World English Bible: In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
Alphabetical: and beginning created earth God heavens In the
GSB: 1:1 In the {a} beginning God created the heaven and the earth.
The Argument - Moses in effect declares three things, which are in this book chiefly to be considered: First, that the world and all things in it were created by God, and to praise his Name for the infinite graces, with which he had endued him, fell willingly from God through disobedience, who yet for his own mercies sake restored him to life, and confirmed him in the same by his promise of Christ to come, by whom he should overcome Satan, death and hell. Secondly, that the wicked, unmindful of God's most excellent benefits, remained still in their wickedness, and so falling most horribly from sin to sin, provoked God (who by his preachers called them continually to repentance) at length to destroy the whole world. Thirdly, he assures us by the examples of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and the rest of the patriarchs, that his mercies never fail those whom he chooses to be his Church, and to profess his Name in earth, but in all their afflictions and persecutions he assists them, sends comfort, and delivers them, so that the beginning, increase, preservation and success of it might be attributed to God only. Moses shows by the examples of Cain, Ishmael, Esau and others, who were noble in man's judgment, that this Church depends not on the estimation and nobility of the world: and also by the fewness of those, who have at all times worshipped him purely according to his word that it stands not in the multitude, but in the poor and despised, in the small flock and little number, that man in his wisdom might be confounded, and the name of God praised forever.
(a) First of all, and before any creature was, God made heaven and earth out of nothing.
WES: 1:1 Observe here.
1. The effect produced, The heaven and the earth - That is, the world, including the whole frame and furniture of the universe. But 'tis only the visible part of the creation that Moses designs to give an account of. Yet even in this there are secrets which cannot be fathomed, nor accounted for. But from what we see of heaven and earth, we may infer the eternal power and godhead of the great Creator. And let our make and place, as men, mind us of our duty, as Christians, which is always to keep heaven in our eye, and the earth under our feet. Observe
2. The author and cause of this great work, God. The Hebrew word is Elohim; which
(1.) seems to mean The Covenant God, being derived from a word that signifies to swear.
(2.) The plurality of persons in the Godhead, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. The plural name of God in Hebrew, which speaks of him as many, tho' he be but one, was to the Gentiles perhaps a favour of death unto death, hardening them in their idolatry; but it is to us a favour of life unto life, confirming our faith in the doctrine of the Trinity, which, tho' but darkly intimated in the Old Testament, is clearly revealed in the New. Observe
3. The manner how this work was effected; God created, that is, made it out of nothing. There was not any pre - existent matter out of which the world was produced. The fish and fowl were indeed produced out of the waters, and the beasts and man out of the earth; but that earth and those waters were made out of nothing. Observe
4. When this work was produced; In the beginning - That is, in the beginning of time. Time began with the production of those beings that are measured by time. Before the beginning of time there was none but that Infinite Being that inhabits eternity. Should we ask why God made the world no sooner, we should but darken counsel by words without knowledge; for how could there be sooner or later in eternity?
MHC: 1:1,2 The first verse of the Bible gives us a satisfying and useful account of the origin of the earth and the heavens. The faith of humble Christians understands this better than the fancy of the most learned men. From what we see of heaven and earth, we learn the power of the great Creator. And let our make and place as men, remind us of our duty as Christians, always to keep heaven in our eye, and the earth under our feet. The Son of God, one with the Father, was with him when he made the world; nay, we are often told that the world was made by him, and nothing was made without him. Oh, what high thoughts should there be in our minds, of that great God whom we worship, and of that great Mediator in whose name we pray! And here, at the beginning of the sacred volume, we read of that Divine Spirit, whose work upon the heart of man is so often mentioned in other parts of the Bible. Observe, that at first there was nothing desirable to be seen, for the world was without form, and void; it was confusion, and emptiness. In like manner the work of grace in the soul is a new creation: and in a graceless soul, one that is not born again, there is disorder, confusion, and every evil work: it is empty of all good, for it is without God; it is dark, it is darkness itself: this is our condition by nature, till Almighty grace works a change in us. Genesis 1:2
New American Standard Bible: The earth was formless and void, and darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was moving over the surface of the waters.
God's Word Translation: The earth was formless and empty, and darkness covered the deep water. The Spirit of God was hovering over the water.
King James Version: And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.
Bible in Basic English: And the earth was waste and without form; and it was dark on the face of the deep: and the Spirit of God was moving on the face of the waters.
JPS Old Testament: Now the earth was unformed and void, and darkness was upon the face of the deep; and the spirit of God hovered over the face of the waters.
World English Bible: Now the earth was formless and empty. Darkness was on the surface of the deep. God's Spirit was hovering over the surface of the waters.
Alphabetical: and darkness deep earth empty formless God hovering moving Now of over Spirit surface the void was waters
GSB: 1:2 And the earth was {b} without form, and void; and {c} darkness [was] upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God {d} moved upon the face of the waters.
(b) As an unformed lump and without any creature in it: for the waters covered everything.
(c) Darkness covered the deep waters, for the waters covered everything.
(d) He maintained this disordered mass by his secret power.
WES: 1:2 Where we have an account of the first matter, and the first Mover.
1. A chaos was the first matter. 'Tis here called the earth, (tho' the earth, properly taken, was not made 'till the third day, Ge 1:10) because it did most resemble that which was afterwards called earth, a heavy unwieldy mass. 'Tis also called the deep, both for its vastness, and because the waters which were afterwards separated from the earth were now mixed with it. This mighty bulk of matter was it, out of which all bodies were afterwards produced. The Creator could have made his work perfect at first, but by this gradual proceeding he would shew what is ordinarily the method of his providence, and grace. This chaos, was without form and void. Tohu and Bohu, confusion and emptiness, so those words are rendered, Isa 34:11. 'Twas shapeless, 'twas useless, 'twas without inhabitants, without ornaments; the shadow or rough draught of things to come. To those who have their hearts in heaven, this lower world, in comparison of the upper, still appears to be confusion and emptiness. And darkness was upon the face of the deep - God did not create this darkness, (as he is said to create the darkness of affliction, Isa 45:7.) for it was only the want of light.
2. The Spirit of God was the first Mover; He moved upon the face of the waters - He moved upon the face of the deep, as the hen gathereth her chicken under her wings, and hovers over them, to warm and cherish them, Mt 23:37 as the eagle stirs up her nest, and fluttereth over her young, ('tis the same word that is here used) Deut 32:11.
MHC: Genesis 1:3
New American Standard Bible: Then God said, "Let there be light"; and there was light.
God's Word Translation: Then God said, "Let there be light!" So there was light.
King James Version: And God said, Let there be light: and there was light.
Bible in Basic English: And God said, Let there be light: and there was light.
JPS Old Testament: And God said: 'Let there be light.' And there was light.
World English Bible: God said, "Let there be light," and there was light.
Alphabetical: And be God Let light said Then there was
GSB: 1:3 And God said, Let there be light: and there was {e} light.
(e) The light was made before either Sun or Moon was created: therefore we must not attribute that to the creatures that are God's instruments, which only belong to God.
WES: 1:3-5 We have here a farther account of the first day's work. In which observe,
1. That the first of all visible beings which God created was light, the great beauty and blessing of the universe: like the first - born, it doth, of all visible beings, most resemble its great parent in purity and power, brightness and beneficence.
2. That the light was made by the word of God's power; He said, Let there be light - He willed it, and it was done; there was light - Such a copy as exactly answered the original idea in the eternal mind.
3. That the light which God willed, he approved of. God saw the light, that it was good - 'Twas exactly as he designed it; and it was fit to answer the end for which he designed it.
4. That God divided the light from the darkness - So put them asunder as they could never be joined together: and yet he divided time between them, the day for light, and the night for darkness, in a constant succession. Tho' the darkness was now scattered by the light, yet it has its place, because it has its use; for as the light of the morning befriends the business of the day, so the shadows of the evening befriend the repose of the night. God has thus divided between light and darkness, because he would daily mind us that this is a world of mixtures and changes. In heaven there is perpetual light, and no darkness; in hell utter darkness, and no light: but in this world they are counter - changed, and we pass daily from one to another; that we may learn to expect the like vicissitudes in the providence of God.
5. That God divided them from each other by distinguishing names. He called the light Day, and the darkness he called night - He gave them names as Lord of both. He is the Lord of time, and will be so 'till day and night shall come to an end, and the stream of time be swallowed up in the ocean of eternity.
6. That this was the first day's work, The evening and the morning were the first day - The darkness of the evening was before the light of the morning, that it might set it off, and make it shine the brighter.
MHC: 1:3-5 God said, Let there be light; he willed it, and at once there was light. Oh, the power of the word of God! And in the new creation, the first thing that is wrought in the soul is light: the blessed Spirit works upon the will and affections by enlightening the understanding. Those who by sin were darkness, by grace become light in the Lord. Darkness would have been always upon fallen man, if the Son of God had not come and given us understanding, 1Jo 5:20. The light which God willed, he approved of. God divided the light from the darkness; for what fellowship has light with darkness? In heaven there is perfect light, and no darkness at all; in hell, utter darkness, and no gleam of light. The day and the night are the Lord's; let us use both to his honour, by working for him every day, and resting in him every night, meditating in his law both day and night. Genesis 1:4
New American Standard Bible: God saw that the light was good; and God separated the light from the darkness.
God's Word Translation: God saw the light was good. So God separated the light from the darkness.
King James Version: And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness.
Bible in Basic English: And God, looking on the light, saw that it was good: and God made a division between the light and the dark,
JPS Old Testament: And God saw the light, that it was good; and God divided the light from the darkness.
World English Bible: God saw the light, and saw that it was good. God divided the light from the darkness.
Alphabetical: and darkness from God good he light saw separated that the was
WES:
MHC: Genesis 1:5
New American Standard Bible: God called the light day, and the darkness He called night. And there was evening and there was morning, one day.
God's Word Translation: God named the light day, and the darkness he named night. There was evening, then morning-the first day.
King James Version: And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day.
Bible in Basic English: Naming the light, Day, and the dark, Night. And there was evening and there was morning, the first day.
JPS Old Testament: And God called the light Day, and the darkness He called Night. And there was evening and there was morning, one day.
World English Bible: God called the light "day," and the darkness he called "night." There was evening and there was morning, one day.
Alphabetical: and called darkness day evening first God he light morning night one the there was
WES:
MHC: Genesis 1:6
New American Standard Bible: Then God said, "Let there be an expanse in the midst of the waters, and let it separate the waters from the waters."
God's Word Translation: Then God said, "Let there be a horizon in the middle of the water in order to separate the water."
King James Version: And God said, Let there be a firmament in the midst of the waters, and let it divide the waters from the waters.
Bible in Basic English: And God said, Let there be a solid arch stretching over the waters, parting the waters from the waters.
JPS Old Testament: And God said: 'Let there be a firmament in the midst of the waters, and let it divide the waters from the waters.'
World English Bible: God said, "Let there be an expanse in the middle of the waters, and let it divide the waters from the waters."
Alphabetical: an And be between expanse from God in it Let midst of said separate the Then there to water waters
WES: 1:6-8 We have here an account of the second day's work, the creation of the firmament. In which observe,
1. The command of God; Let there be a firmament - An expansion; so the Hebrew word signifies, like a sheet spread, or a curtain drawn out. This includes all that is visible above the earth, between it and the third heavens, the air, its higher, middle, and lower region, the celestial globe, and all the orbs of light above; it reaches as high as the place where the stars are fixed, for that is called here the firmament of heaven, Ge 1:14,15, and as low as the place where the birds fly for that also is called the firmament of heaven, Ge 1:20.
2. The creation of it: and God made the firmament.
3. The design of it; to divide the waters from the waters - That is, to distinguish between the waters that are wrapt up in the clouds, and those that cover the sea; the waters in the air, and those in the earth.
4. The naming it; He called the firmament Heaven - 'Tis the visible heaven, the pavement of the holy city. The height of the heavens should mind us of God's supremacy, and the infinite distance that is between us and him; the brightness of the heavens, and their purity, should mind us of his majesty, and perfect holiness; the vastness of the heavens, and their encompassing the earth, and influence upon it, should mind us of his immensity and universal providence.
MHC: 1:6-13 The earth was emptiness, but by a word spoken, it became full of God's riches, and his they are still. Though the use of them is allowed to man, they are from God, and to his service and honour they must be used. The earth, at his command, brings forth grass, herbs, and fruits. God must have the glory of all the benefit we receive from the produce of the earth. If we have, through grace, an interest in Him who is the Fountain, we may rejoice in him when the streams of temporal mercies are dried up. Genesis 1:7
New American Standard Bible: God made the expanse, and separated the waters which were below the expanse from the waters which were above the expanse; and it was so.
God's Word Translation: So God made the horizon and separated the water above and below the horizon. And so it was.
King James Version: And God made the firmament, and divided the waters which were under the firmament from the waters which were above the firmament: and it was so.
Bible in Basic English: And God made the arch for a division between the waters which were under the arch and those which were over it: and it was so.
JPS Old Testament: And God made the firmament, and divided the waters which were under the firmament from the waters which were above the firmament; and it was so.
World English Bible: God made the expanse, and divided the waters which were under the expanse from the waters which were above the expanse; and it was so.
Alphabetical: above and below expanse from God it made separated So the under was water waters were which
GSB: 1:7 And God made the firmament, and divided the waters which [were] {f} under the firmament from the waters which [were] above the firmament: and it was so.
(f) As the sea and rivers, from those waters that are in the clouds, which are upheld by God's power, least they should overwhelm the world.
WES:
MHC: Genesis 1:8
New American Standard Bible: God called the expanse heaven. And there was evening and there was morning, a second day.
God's Word Translation: God named what was above the horizon sky. There was evening, then morning-a second day.
King James Version: And God called the firmament Heaven. And the evening and the morning were the second day.
Bible in Basic English: And God gave the arch the name of Heaven. And there was evening and there was morning, the second day.
JPS Old Testament: And God called the firmament Heaven. And there was evening and there was morning, a second day.
World English Bible: God called the expanse "sky." There was evening and there was morning, a second day.
Alphabetical: a And called day evening expanse God heaven morning second sky the there was
GSB: 1:8 And God called the firmament {g} Heaven. And the evening and the morning were the second day.
(g) That is, the region of the air, and all that is above us.
WES:
MHC: Genesis 1:9
New American Standard Bible: Then God said, "Let the waters below the heavens be gathered into one place, and let the dry land appear"; and it was so.
God's Word Translation: Then God said, "Let the water under the sky come together in one area, and let the dry land appear." And so it was.
King James Version: And God said, Let the waters under the heaven be gathered together unto one place, and let the dry land appear: and it was so.
Bible in Basic English: And God said, Let the waters under the heaven come together in one place, and let the dry land be seen: and it was so.
JPS Old Testament: And God said: 'Let the waters under the heaven be gathered together unto one place, and let the dry land appear.' And it was so.
World English Bible: God said, "Let the waters under the sky be gathered together to one place, and let the dry land appear;" and it was so.
Alphabetical: And appear be below dry gathered God ground heavens into it land Let one place said sky so the Then to under was water waters
WES: 1:9-13 The third day's work is related in these verse s; the forming the sea and the dry land, and making the earth fruitful. Hitherto the power of the Creator had been employed about the upper part of the visible world; now he descends to this lower world, designed for the children of men, both for their habitation, and their maintenance. And here we have an account of the fitting of it for both; the building of their house, and the spreading of their table. Observe,
1. How the earth was prepared to be a habitation for man by the gathering of the waters together, and making the dry land appear. Thus, instead of that confusion which was, when earth and water were mixed in one great mass; now there is order, by such a separation as rendered them both useful.
(1.) The waters which covered the earth were ordered to retire, and to gather into one place, viz. those hollows which were fitted for their reception. The waters thus lodged in their proper place, he called Seas; for though they are many, in distant regions, yet either above ground or under ground, they have communication with each other, and so they are one, and the common receptacle of waters, into which all the rivers run.
(2.) The dry land was made to appear, and emerge out of the waters, and was called Earth. Observe,
2. How the earth was furnished for the support of man, Ge 1:11,12. Present provision was made, by the immediate products of the earth, which, in obedience to God's command, was no sooner made but it became fruitful. Provision was likewise made for time to come, by the perpetuating of the several species of vegetables, every one having its seed in itself after its kind, that during the continuance of man upon the earth, food might be fetched out of the earth, for his use and benefit.
MHC: Genesis 1:10
New American Standard Bible: God called the dry land earth, and the gathering of the waters He called seas; and God saw that it was good.
God's Word Translation: God named the dry land earth. The water which came together he named sea. God saw that it was good.
King James Version: And God called the dry land Earth; and the gathering together of the waters called he Seas: and God saw that it was good.
Bible in Basic English: And God gave the dry land the name of Earth; and the waters together in their place were named Seas: and God saw that it was good.
JPS Old Testament: And God called the dry land Earth, and the gathering together of the waters called He Seas; and God saw that it was good.
World English Bible: God called the dry land "earth," and the gathering together of the waters he called "seas." God saw that it was good.
Alphabetical: and called dry earth gathered gathering God good ground he it land of saw seas that the was waters
WES:
MHC: Genesis 1:11
New American Standard Bible: Then God said, "Let the earth sprout vegetation: plants yielding seed, and fruit trees on the earth bearing fruit after their kind with seed in them"; and it was so.
God's Word Translation: Then God said, "Let the earth produce vegetation: plants bearing seeds, each according to its own type, and fruit trees bearing fruit with seeds, each according to its own type." And so it was.
King James Version: And God said, Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed, and the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seed is in itself, upon the earth: and it was so.
Bible in Basic English: And God said, Let grass come up on the earth, and plants producing seed, and fruit-trees giving fruit, in which is their seed, after their sort: and it was so.
JPS Old Testament: And God said: 'Let the earth put forth grass, herb yielding seed, and fruit-tree bearing fruit after its kind, wherein is the seed thereof, upon the earth.' And it was so.
World English Bible: God said, "Let the earth put forth grass, herbs yielding seed, and fruit trees bearing fruit after their kind, with its seed in it, on the earth;" and it was so.
Alphabetical: according after and bear bearing earth fruit God in it kind kinds land Let on plants produce said seed seed-bearing so sprout that the their them Then to trees various vegetation was with yielding
GSB: 1:11 And God said, {h} Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed, [and] the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seed [is] in itself, upon the earth: and it was so.
(h) So that we see it is the only the power of God's word that makes the earth fruitful, which naturally is barren.
WES:
MHC: Genesis 1:12
New American Standard Bible: The earth brought forth vegetation, plants yielding seed after their kind, and trees bearing fruit with seed in them, after their kind; and God saw that it was good.
God's Word Translation: The earth produced vegetation: plants bearing seeds, each according to its own type, and trees bearing fruit with seeds, each according to its own type. God saw that they were good.
King James Version: And the earth brought forth grass, and herb yielding seed after his kind, and the tree yielding fruit, whose seed was in itself, after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
Bible in Basic English: And grass came up on the earth, and every plant producing seed of its sort, and every tree producing fruit, in which is its seed, of its sort: and God saw that it was good.
JPS Old Testament: And the earth brought forth grass, herb yielding seed after its kind, and tree bearing fruit, wherein is the seed thereof, after its kind; and God saw that it was good.
World English Bible: The earth brought forth grass, herbs yielding seed after their kind, and trees bearing fruit, with its seed in it, after their kind; and God saw that it was good.
Alphabetical: according after and bearing brought earth forth fruit God good in it kind kinds land plants produced saw seed that The their them to trees vegetation was with yielding
GSB: 1:12 And the earth brought forth grass, [and] herb yielding seed after his kind, and the tree yielding fruit, whose seed [was] in itself, after his kind: and God {i} saw that [it was] good.
(i) This sentence is often repeated, to signify that God made all his creatures to serve for his glory and for the profit of man: but because of sin they were cursed, yet the elect, by Christ are restored, and serve to their wealth.
WES:
MHC: Genesis 1:13
New American Standard Bible: There was evening and there was morning, a third day.
God's Word Translation: There was evening, then morning-a third day.
King James Version: And the evening and the morning were the third day.
Bible in Basic English: And there was evening and there was morning, the third day.
JPS Old Testament: And there was evening and there was morning, a third day.
World English Bible: There was evening and there was morning, a third day.
Alphabetical: a And day evening morning the there third was
WES:
MHC: Genesis 1:14
New American Standard Bible: Then God said, "Let there be lights in the expanse of the heavens to separate the day from the night, and let them be for signs and for seasons and for days and years;
God's Word Translation: Then God said, "Let there be lights in the sky to separate the day from the night. They will be signs and will mark religious festivals, days, and years.
King James Version: And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years:
Bible in Basic English: And God said, Let there be lights in the arch of heaven, for a division between the day and the night, and let them be for signs, and for marking the changes of the year, and for days and for years:
JPS Old Testament: And God said: 'Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days and years;
World English Bible: God said, "Let there be lights in the expanse of sky to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days and years;
Alphabetical: And as be day days expanse for from God heavens in Let lights mark night of said seasons separate serve signs sky the them Then there to years
GSB: 1:14 And God said, Let there be {k} lights in the firmament of the heaven to {l} divide the day from the night; and let them be for {m} signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years:
(k) By the lights be means the sun, the moon, and the stars.
(l) Which is the artificial day, from the sun rising, to the going down.
(m) Of things belonging to natural and political orders and seasons.
WES: 1:14-19 This is the history of the fourth day's work, the creating the sun, moon and stars. Of this we have an account, In general, verse 14, 15. where we have, The command given concerning them. Let there be lights in the firmament of heaven - God had said, Ge 1:3 Let there be light, and there was light; but that was, as it were, a chaos of light, scattered and confused; now it was collected and made into several luminaries, and so rendered both more glorious and more serviceable. The use they were intended to be of to this earth. They must be for the distinction of times, of day and night, summer and winter. They must be for the direction of actions: they are for signs of the change of weather, that the husbandman may order his affairs with discretion. They do also give light upon the earth - That we may walk John 11:9 and work John 9:4 according as the duty of every day requires. The lights of heaven do not shine for themselves, nor for the world of spirits above, they need them not; but they shine for us, and for our pleasure and advantage. Lord, what is man that he should be thus regarded, Ps 8:3,4. In particular, Ge 1:16,17,18, The lights of heaven are the sun, moon and stars, and these all are the work of God's hands. The sun is the greatest light of all, and the most glorious and useful of all the lamps of heaven; a noble instance of the Creator's wisdom, power and goodness, and an invaluable blessing to the creatures of this lower world. The moon is a lesser light, and yet is here reckoned one of the greater lights, because, though in regard of its magnitude, it is inferior to many of the stars, yet in respect of its usefulness to the earth, it is more excellent than they. He made the stars also - Which are here spoken of only in general; for the scriptures were written not to gratify our curiosity, but to lead us to God. Now, these lights are said to rule, Ge 1:16,18; not that they have a supreme dominion as God has, but they are rulers under him. Here the lesser light, the moon, is said to rule the night; but Ps 136:9 the stars are mentioned as sharers in that government, the moon and stars to rule by night. No more is meant, but that they give light, Jer 31:35. The best and most honourable way of ruling is, by giving light, and doing good.
MHC: 1:14-19 In the fourth day's work, the creation of the sun, moon, and stars is accounted for. All these are the works of God. The stars are spoken of as they appear to our eyes, without telling their number, nature, place, size, or motions; for the Scriptures were written, not to gratify curiosity, or make us astronomers, but to lead us to God, and make us saints. The lights of heaven are made to serve him; they do it faithfully, and shine in their season without fail. We are set as lights in this world to serve God; but do we in like manner answer the end of our creation? We do not: our light does not shine before God, as his lights shine before us. We burn our Master's candles, but do not mind our Master's work. Genesis 1:15
New American Standard Bible: and let them be for lights in the expanse of the heavens to give light on the earth"; and it was so.
God's Word Translation: They will be lights in the sky to shine on the earth." And so it was.
King James Version: And let them be for lights in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth: and it was so.
Bible in Basic English: And let them be for lights in the arch of heaven to give light on the earth: and it was so.
JPS Old Testament: and let them be for lights in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth.' And it was so.
World English Bible: and let them be for lights in the expanse of sky to give light on the earth;" and it was so.
Alphabetical: and be earth expanse for give heavens in it let light lights of on sky so the them to was
WES:
MHC: Genesis 1:16
New American Standard Bible: God made the two great lights, the greater light to govern the day, and the lesser light to govern the night; He made the stars also.
God's Word Translation: God made the two bright lights: the larger light to rule the day and the smaller light to rule the night. He also made the stars.
King James Version: And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night: he made the stars also.
Bible in Basic English: And God made the two great lights: the greater light to be the ruler of the day, and the smaller light to be the ruler of the night: and he made the stars.
JPS Old Testament: And God made the two great lights: the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night; and the stars.
World English Bible: God made the two great lights: the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night. He also made the stars.
Alphabetical: also and day God govern great greater He lesser light lights made night stars the to two
GSB: 1:16 And God made two great {n} lights; the greater light to {o} rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night: [he made] the stars also.
(n) That is, the sun and the moon, and here he speaks as man judges by his eye: for else the moon is less than the planet Saturn.
(o) To give it sufficient light, as instruments appointed for the same, to serve man's purposes.
WES:
MHC: Genesis 1:17
New American Standard Bible: God placed them in the expanse of the heavens to give light on the earth,
God's Word Translation: God put them in the sky to give light to the earth,
King James Version: And God set them in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth,
Bible in Basic English: And God put them in the arch of heaven, to give light on the earth;
JPS Old Testament: And God set them in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth,
World English Bible: God set them in the expanse of sky to give light to the earth,
Alphabetical: earth expanse give God heavens in light of on placed set sky the them to
WES:
MHC: Genesis 1:18
New American Standard Bible: and to govern the day and the night, and to separate the light from the darkness; and God saw that it was good.
God's Word Translation: to dominate the day and the night, and to separate the light from the darkness. God saw that it was good.
King James Version: And to rule over the day and over the night, and to divide the light from the darkness: and God saw that it was good.
Bible in Basic English: To have rule over the day and the night, and for a division between the light and the dark: and God saw that it was good.
JPS Old Testament: and to rule over the day and over the night, and to divide the light from the darkness; and God saw that it was good.
World English Bible: and to rule over the day and over the night, and to divide the light from the darkness. God saw that it was good.
Alphabetical: and darkness day from God good govern it light night saw separate that the to was
WES:
MHC: Genesis 1:19
New American Standard Bible: There was evening and there was morning, a fourth day.
God's Word Translation: There was evening, then morning-a fourth day.
King James Version: And the evening and the morning were the fourth day.
Bible in Basic English: And there was evening and there was morning, the fourth day.
JPS Old Testament: And there was evening and there was morning, a fourth day.
World English Bible: There was evening and there was morning, a fourth day.
Alphabetical: a And day evening fourth morning the there was
WES:
MHC: Genesis 1:20
New American Standard Bible: Then God said, "Let the waters teem with swarms of living creatures, and let birds fly above the earth in the open expanse of the heavens."
God's Word Translation: Then God said, "Let the water swarm with swimming creatures, and let birds fly through the sky over the earth."
King James Version: And God said, Let the waters bring forth abundantly the moving creature that hath life, and fowl that may fly above the earth in the open firmament of heaven.
Bible in Basic English: And God said, Let the waters be full of living things, and let birds be in flight over the earth under the arch of heaven.
JPS Old Testament: And God said: 'Let the waters swarm with swarms of living creatures, and let fowl fly above the earth in the open firmament of heaven.'
World English Bible: God said, "Let the waters swarm with swarms of living creatures, and let birds fly above the earth in the open expanse of sky."
Alphabetical: above across And birds creatures earth expanse fly God heavens in Let living of open said sky swarms teem the Then water waters with
GSB: 1:20 And God said, Let the waters bring forth abundantly the {p} moving creature that hath life, and fowl [that] may fly above the earth in the open firmament of heaven.
(p) As fish and worms which slide, swim or creep.
WES: 1:20-23 Each day hitherto hath produced very excellent beings, but we do not read of the creation of any living creature till the fifth day. The work of creation not only proceeded gradually from one thing to another, but advanced gradually from that which was less excellent, to that which was more so. 'Twas on the fifth day that the fish and fowl were created, and both out of the waters. Observe,
1. The making of the fish and fowl at first. Ge 1:20,21 God commanded them to be produced, he said, Let the waters bring forth abundantly - The fish in the waters, and the fowl out of them. This command he himself executed, God created great whales, and c. - Insects which are as various as any species of animals, and their structure as curious, were part of this day's work, some of them being allied to the fish, and others to the fowl. Notice is here taken of the various species of fish and fowl, each after their kind; and of the great numbers of both that were produced, for the waters brought forth abundantly; and in particular of great whales the largest of fishes, whose bulk and strength, are remarkable proofs of the power and greatness of the Creator. Observe, 2, The blessing of them in order to their continuance. Life is a wasting thing, its strength is not the strength of stones; therefore the wise Creator not only made the individuals, but provided for the propagating of the several species, Ge 1:22. God blessed them, saying, Be fruitful, and multiply - Fruitfullness is the effect of God's blessing, and must be ascribed to it; the multiplying of the fish and fowl from year to year, is still the fruit of this blessing here.
MHC: 1:20-25 God commanded the fish and fowl to be produced. This command he himself executed. Insects, which are more numerous than the birds and beasts, and as curious, seem to have been part of this day's work. The Creator's wisdom and power are to be admired as much in an ant as in an elephant. The power of God's providence preserves all things, and fruitfulness is the effect of his blessing. Genesis 1:21
New American Standard Bible: God created the great sea monsters and every living creature that moves, with which the waters swarmed after their kind, and every winged bird after its kind; and God saw that it was good.
God's Word Translation: So God created the large sea creatures, every type of creature that swims around in the water and every type of flying bird. God saw that they were good.
King James Version: And God created great whales, and every living creature that moveth, which the waters brought forth abundantly, after their kind, and every winged fowl after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
Bible in Basic English: And God made great sea-beasts, and every sort of living and moving thing with which the waters were full, and every sort of winged bird: and God saw that it was good.
JPS Old Testament: And God created the great sea-monsters, and every living creature that creepeth, wherewith the waters swarmed, after its kind, and every winged fowl after its kind; and God saw that it was good.
World English Bible: God created the large sea creatures, and every living creature that moves, with which the waters swarmed, after their kind, and every winged bird after its kind. God saw that it was good.
Alphabetical: according after and bird created creature creatures every God good great it its kind kinds living monsters moves moving of saw sea So swarmed teems that the their thing to was water waters which winged with
GSB: 1:21 And God created great whales, and every living creature that moveth, which the {q} waters brought forth abundantly, after their kind, and every winged fowl after his kind: and God saw that [it was] good.
(q) The fish and fowls had both one beginning, in which we see that nature gives place to God's will, in that the one sort is made to fly about in the air, and the other to swim beneath in the water.
WES:
MHC: Genesis 1:22
New American Standard Bible: God blessed them, saying, "Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let birds multiply on the earth."
God's Word Translation: God blessed them and said, "Be fertile, increase in number, fill the sea, and let there be many birds on the earth."
King James Version: And God blessed them, saying, Be fruitful, and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let fowl multiply in the earth.
Bible in Basic English: And God gave them his blessing, saying, Be fertile and have increase, making all the waters of the seas full, and let the birds be increased in the earth.
JPS Old Testament: And God blessed them, saying: 'Be fruitful, and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let fowl multiply in the earth.'
World English Bible: God blessed them, saying, "Be fruitful, and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let birds multiply on the earth."
Alphabetical: and Be birds blessed earth fill fruitful God in increase let multiply number on said saying seas the them water waters
GSB: 1:22 And God {r} blessed them, saying, Be fruitful, and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let fowl multiply in the earth.
(r) That is, by the virtue of his word he gave power to his creatures to reproduce.
WES:
MHC: Genesis 1:23
New American Standard Bible: There was evening and there was morning, a fifth day.
God's Word Translation: There was evening, then morning-a fifth day.
King James Version: And the evening and the morning were the fifth day.
Bible in Basic English: And there was evening and there was morning, the fifth day.
JPS Old Testament: And there was evening and there was morning, a fifth day.
World English Bible: There was evening and there was morning, a fifth day.
Alphabetical: a And day evening fifth morning the there was
WES:
MHC: Genesis 1:24
New American Standard Bible: Then God said, "Let the earth bring forth living creatures after their kind: cattle and creeping things and beasts of the earth after their kind"; and it was so.
God's Word Translation: Then God said, "Let the earth produce every type of living creature: every type of domestic animal, crawling animal, and wild animal." And so it was.
King James Version: And God said, Let the earth bring forth the living creature after his kind, cattle, and creeping thing, and beast of the earth after his kind: and it was so.
Bible in Basic English: And God said, Let the earth give birth to all sorts of living things, cattle and all things moving on the earth, and beasts of the earth after their sort: and it was so.
JPS Old Testament: And God said: 'Let the earth bring forth the living creature after its kind, cattle, and creeping thing, and beast of the earth after its kind.' And it was so.
World English Bible: God said, "Let the earth bring forth living creatures after their kind, livestock, creeping things, and animals of the earth after their kind;" and it was so.
Alphabetical: according after along And animals beasts bring cattle creatures creeping each earth forth God ground it its kind kinds land Let livestock living move of produce said so that the their Then things to was wild
WES: 1:24-25 We have here the first part of the sixth day's work. The sea was the day before replenished with fish, and the air with fowl; and this day are made the beasts of the earth, cattle, and the creeping things that pertain to the earth. Here, as before,
(1.) The Lord gave the word: he said, Let The earth bring forth - Let these creatures come into being upon the earth, and out of it, in their respective kinds.
2. He also did the work; he made them all after their kind - Not only of divers shapes, but of divers natures, manners, food, and fashions: In all which appears the manifold wisdom of the Creator.
MHC: Genesis 1:25
New American Standard Bible: God made the beasts of the earth after their kind, and the cattle after their kind, and everything that creeps on the ground after its kind; and God saw that it was good.
God's Word Translation: God made every type of wild animal, every type of domestic animal, and every type of creature that crawls on the ground. God saw that they were good.
King James Version: And God made the beast of the earth after his kind, and cattle after their kind, and every thing that creepeth upon the earth after his kind: and God saw that it was good.
Bible in Basic English: And God made the beast of the earth after its sort, and the cattle after their sort, and everything moving on the face of the earth after its sort: and God saw that it was good.
JPS Old Testament: And God made the beast of the earth after its kind, and the cattle after their kind, and every thing that creepeth upon the ground after its kind; and God saw that it was good.
World English Bible: God made the animals of the earth after their kind, and the livestock after their kind, and everything that creeps on the ground after its kind. God saw that it was good.
Alphabetical: according after all along and animals beasts cattle creatures creeps earth everything God good ground it its kind kinds livestock made move of on saw that the their to was wild
WES:
MHC: Genesis 1:26
New American Standard Bible: Then God said, "Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; and let them rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over the cattle and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth."
God's Word Translation: Then God said, "Let us make humans in our image, in our likeness. Let them rule the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, the domestic animals all over the earth, and all the animals that crawl on the earth."
King James Version: And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.
Bible in Basic English: And God said, Let us make man in our image, like us: and let him have rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the air and over the cattle and over all the earth and over every living thing which goes flat on the earth.
JPS Old Testament: And God said: 'Let us make man in our image, after our likeness; and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.'
World English Bible: God said, "Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the birds of the sky, and over the livestock, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth."
Alphabetical: according air all along and birds cattle creatures creeping creeps earth every fish God ground image in Let likeness livestock make man move of on our over rule said sea sky that the them Then thing to us
GSB: 1:26 And God said, {s} Let us make man in our {t} image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.
(s) God commanded the water and the earth to bring forth other creatures: but of man he says, Let us make... signifying that God takes counsel with his wisdom and virtue purposing to make an excellent work above all the rest of his creation.
(t) This image and likeness of God in man is expounded in Eph 4:24 where it is written that man was created after God in righteousness and true holiness meaning by these two words, all perfection, as wisdom, truth, innocency, power, etc.
WES: 1:26-28 We have here the second part of the sixth day's work, the creation of man, which we are in a special manner concerned to take notice of. Observe, That man was made last of all the creatures, which was both an honour and a favour to him: an honour, for the creation was to advance from that which was less perfect, to that which was more so and a favour, for it was not fit he should be lodged in the palace designed for him, till it was completely fitted and furnished for his reception. Man, as soon as he was made, had the whole visible creation before him, both to contemplate, and to take the comfort of. That man's creation was a mere signal act of divine wisdom and power, than that of the other creatures. The narrative of it is introduced with solemnity, and a manifest distinction from the rest. Hitherto it had been said, Let there be light, and Let there be a firmament: but now the word of command is turned into a word of consultation, Let us make man - For whose sake the rest of the creatures were made. Man was to be a creature different from all that had been hitherto made. Flesh and spirit, heaven and earth must be put together in him, and he must be allied to both worlds. And therefore God himself not only undertakes to make, but is pleased so to express himself, as if he called a council to consider of the making of him; Let us make man - The three persons of the Trinity, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, consult about it, and concur in it; because man, when he was made, was to be dedicated and devoted to Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. That man was made in God's image, and after his likeness; two words to express the same thing. God's image upon man, consists, In his nature, not that of his body, for God has not a body, but that of his soul. The soul is a spirit, an intelligent, immortal spirit, an active spirit, herein resembling God, the Father of spirits, and the soul of the world. In his place and authority. Let us make man in our image, and let him have dominion. As he has the government of the inferior creatures, he is as it were God's representative on earth. Yet his government of himself by the freedom of his will, has in it more of God's image, than his government of the creatures. And chiefly in his purity and rectitude. God's image upon man consists in knowledge, righteousness, and true holiness, Eph 4:24; Col 3:10. He was upright, Ec 7:29. He had an habitual conformity of all his natural powers to the whole will of God. His understanding saw divine things clearly, and there were no errors in his knowledge: his will complied readily and universally with the will of God; without reluctancy: his affections were all regular, and he had no inordinate appetites or passions: his thoughts were easily fixed to the best subjects, and there was no vanity or ungovernableness in them. And all the inferior powers were subject to the dictates of the superior. Thus holy, thus happy, were our first parents, in having the image of God upon them. But how art thou fallen, O son of the morning? How is this image of God upon man defaced! How small are the remains of it, and how great the ruins of it! The Lord renew it upon our souls by his sanctifying grace! That man was made male and female, and blessed with fruitfulness. He created him male and female, Adam and Eve: Adam first out of earth, and Eve out of his side. God made but one male and one female, that all the nations of men might know themselves to be made of one blood, descendants, from one common stock, and might thereby be induced to love one another. God having made them capable of transmitting the nature they had received, said to them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth - Here he gave them, A large inheritance; replenish the earth, in which God has set man to be the servant of his providence, in the government of the inferior creatures, and as it were the intelligence of this orb; to be likewise the collector of his praises in this lower world, and lastly, to be a probationer for a better state. A numerous lasting family to enjoy this inheritance; pronouncing a blessing upon them, in the virtue of which, their posterity should extend to the utmost corners of the earth, and continue to the utmost period of time. That God gave to man a dominion over the inferior creatures, over fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air - Though man provides for neither, he has power over both, much more over every living thing that moveth upon the earth - God designed hereby to put an honour upon man, that he might find himself the more strongly obliged to bring honour to his Maker.
MHC: 1:26-28 Man was made last of all the creatures: this was both an honour and a favour to him. Yet man was made the same day that the beasts were; his body was made of the same earth with theirs; and while he is in the body, he inhabits the same earth with them. God forbid that by indulging the body, and the desires of it, we should make ourselves like the beasts that perish! Man was to be a creature different from all that had been hitherto made. Flesh and spirit, heaven and earth, must be put together in him. God said, Let us make man. Man, when he was made, was to glorify the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Into that great name we are baptized, for to that great name we owe our being. It is the soul of man that especially bears God's image. Man was made upright, Ec 7:29. His understanding saw Divine things clearly and truly; there were no errors or mistakes in his knowledge; his will consented at once, and in all things, to the will of God. His affections were all regular, and he had no bad appetites or passions. His thoughts were easily brought and fixed to the best subjects. Thus holy, thus happy, were our first parents in having the image of God upon them. But how is this image of God upon man defaced! May the Lord renew it upon our souls by his grace! Genesis 1:27
New American Standard Bible: God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.
God's Word Translation: So God created humans in his image. In the image of God he created them. He created them male and female.
King James Version: So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
Bible in Basic English: And God made man in his image, in the image of God he made him: male and female he made them.
JPS Old Testament: And God created man in His own image, in the image of God created He him; male and female created He them.
World English Bible: God created man in his own image. In God's image he created him; male and female he created them.
Alphabetical: and created female God he him his image in male man of own So the them
WES:
MHC: Genesis 1:28
New American Standard Bible: God blessed them; and God said to them, "Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth, and subdue it; and rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over every living thing that moves on the earth."
God's Word Translation: God blessed them and said, "Be fertile, increase in number, fill the earth, and be its master. Rule the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, and all the animals that crawl on the earth."
King James Version: And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.
Bible in Basic English: And God gave them his blessing and said to them, Be fertile and have increase, and make the earth full and be masters of it; be rulers over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the air and over every living thing moving on the earth.
JPS Old Testament: And God blessed them; and God said unto them: 'Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it; and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that creepeth upon the earth.'
World English Bible: God blessed them. God said to them, "Be fruitful, multiply, fill the earth, and subdue it. Have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the sky, and over every living thing that moves on the earth."
Alphabetical: air and Be birds blessed creature earth every fill fish fruitful God ground in increase it living moves multiply number of on over Rule said sea sky subdue that the them thing to
GSB: 1:28 And God {u} blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.
(u) The propagation.
WES:
MHC: Genesis 1:29
New American Standard Bible: Then God said, "Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the surface of all the earth, and every tree which has fruit yielding seed; it shall be food for you;
God's Word Translation: God said, "I have given you every plant with seeds on the face of the earth and every tree that has fruit with seeds. This will be your food.
King James Version: And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.
Bible in Basic English: And God said, See, I have given you every plant producing seed, on the face of all the earth, and every tree which has fruit producing seed: they will be for your food:
JPS Old Testament: And God said: 'Behold, I have given you every herb yielding seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed--to you it shall be for food;
World English Bible: God said, "Behold, I have given you every herb yielding seed, which is on the surface of all the earth, and every tree, which bears fruit yielding seed. It will be your food.
Alphabetical: all and be Behold earth every face food for fruit give given God has have I in is it of on plant said seed seed-bearing shall surface that the Then They tree which whole will with yielding you yours
GSB: 1:29 And God said, Behold, I have given you {x} every herb bearing seed, which [is] upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which [is] the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.
(x) God's great.
WES: 1:29-30 We have here the third part of the sixth day's work, which was not any new creation, but a gracious provision of food for all flesh, Psa 136:25. - Here is,
1. Food provided for man, Ge 1:29. herbs and fruits must be his meat, including corn, and all the products of the earth. And before the earth was deluged, much more before it was cursed for man's sake, its fruits no doubt, were more pleasing to the taste, and more strengthening and nourishing to the body.
2. Food provided for the beasts, Ge 1:30. Doth God take care of oxen? Yes, certainly, he provides food convenient for them; and not for oxen only that were used in his sacrifices, and man's service, but even the young lions and the young ravens are the care of his providence, they ask and have their meat from God.
MHC: 1:29,30 Herbs and fruits must be man's food, including corn, and all the products of the earth. Let God's people cast their care upon him, and not be troubled about what they shall eat, and what they shall drink. He that feeds his birds will not starve his babes. Genesis 1:30
New American Standard Bible: and to every beast of the earth and to every bird of the sky and to every thing that moves on the earth which has life, I have given every green plant for food"; and it was so.
God's Word Translation: I have given all green plants as food to every land animal, every bird in the sky, and every animal that crawls on the earth-every living, breathing animal." And so it was.
King James Version: And to every beast of the earth, and to every fowl of the air, and to every thing that creepeth upon the earth, wherein there is life, I have given every green herb for meat: and it was so.
Bible in Basic English: And to every beast of the earth and to every bird of the air and every living thing moving on the face of the earth I have given every green plant for food: and it was so.
JPS Old Testament: and to every beast of the earth, and to every fowl of the air, and to every thing that creepeth upon the earth, wherein there is a living soul, I have given every green herb for food.' And it was so.
World English Bible: To every animal of the earth, and to every bird of the sky, and to everything that creeps on the earth, in which there is life, I have given every green herb for food;" and it was so.
Alphabetical: air all And beast beasts bird birds breath creatures earth every everything food for give given green ground has have I in it life move moves of on plant sky so that the thing to was which
WES:
MHC: Genesis 1:31
New American Standard Bible: God saw all that He had made, and behold, it was very good. And there was evening and there was morning, the sixth day.
God's Word Translation: And God saw everything that he had made and that it was very good. There was evening, then morning-the sixth day.
King James Version: And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day.
Bible in Basic English: And God saw everything which he had made and it was very good. And there was evening and there was morning, the sixth day.
JPS Old Testament: And God saw every thing that He had made, and, behold, it was very good. And there was evening and there was morning, the sixth day.
World English Bible: God saw everything that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. There was evening and there was morning, a sixth day.
Alphabetical: all and behold day evening God good had he it made morning saw sixth that the there very was
WES: 1:31 We have here the approbation and conclusion of the whole work of creation. Observe, The review God took of his work, he saw every thing that he had made - So he doth still; all the works of his hands are under his eye; he that made all sees all. The complacency God took in his work. When we come to review our works we find to our shame, that much has been very bad; but when God reviewed his, all was very good.
1. It was good. Good, for it is all agreeable to the mind of the creator. Good, for it answers the end of its creation. Good, for it is serviceable to man, whom God had appointed lord of the visible creation. Good, for it is all for God's glory; there is that in the whole visible creation which is a demonstration of God's being and perfections, and which tends to beget in the soul of man a religious regard to him.
2. It was very good - Of each day's work (except the second) it was said that it was good, but now it is very good. For,
1. Now man was made, who was the chief of the ways of God, the visible image of the Creator's glory,
2. Now All was made, every part was good, but all together very good. The glory and goodness, the beauty and harmony of God's works both of providence and grace, as this of creation, will best appear when they are perfected. The time when this work was concluded. The evening and the morning were the sixth day - So that in six days God made the world. We are not to think but that God could have made the world in an instant: but he did it in six days, that he might shew himself a free agent, doing his own work, both in his own way, and in his own time; that his wisdom, power and goodness, might appear to us, and be meditated upon by us, the more distinctly; and that he might set us an example of working six days, and resting the seventh. And now as God reviewed his work, let us review our meditations upon it; let us stir up ourselves, and all that is within us, to worship him that made the, heaven, earth, and sea, and the fountains of waters. All his works in all places of his dominion bless him, and therefore bless thou the Lord, O my soul.
MHC: 1:31 When we come to think about our works, we find, to our shame, that much has been very bad; but when God saw his work, all was very good. Good, for it was all just as the Creator would have it to be. All his works, in all places of his dominion, bless him; and therefore, bless thou the Lord, O my soul. Let us bless God for the gospel of Christ, and when we consider his almighty power, let us sinners flee from the wrath to come. If new-created unto the image of God in holiness, we shall at length enter the new heavens and new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.
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