Christian Creation Theories Rooted in the Genesis Account and Their Underlying Assumptions

Abstract

The objective of this study is to provide the reader with a holistic theological understanding of the current popular Christian creation theories. This was done through identifying, analysing, and comparing the key teachings of these theoriesagainst a biblical exegesisof Genesis 1:1 –2:3.Thisstudy reveals how each theory operatesfrom a defensive and subjective historical context in which the various proponents find justification for their specific perspectives. It further illustrates how specific theological principles form part of the meta-theoretical frameworks that support the different theories. From discussingthese frameworks it becomes clear how different opinions aboutthetheological principles of general-versus special revelation and physical-versus spiritual death result in tension between the various theories.Furthermore, this study argues that the creation account formed part of a literal-historical worldview in ancient Israelite society, but conservatively concludes that the current debate regarding the author intended historical timeframe and literary genre of the creation account in Genesis 1:1 –2:3 is inconclusive. Despite this conclusion, it indicates that modern day Christians can have a degree of certainty as to the theological intended meaning of the text.The study concludes with a discussion on some of the main assumptions of the different theories, illustrating how all of the theories face theological difficulties.