Genesis 1:23

Passage

23 And there was evening, and there was morning—the fifth day.

In the creation narrative of Genesis 1:23, we find the completion of another significant phase of God’s creative work. ‘And there was evening, and there was morning—the fifth day.’ This structured phrasing underscores the orderliness inherent in creation. Each successive day reflects a divinely ordered process, reminding us that God is sovereign over time and creation. The repetition of ‘evening and morning’ marks a deliberate development in the creation story, inviting us to appreciate God’s methodical work in both the world and in our own lives.

As we reflect on this passage, we are prompted to recognise the divine order present in creation, reminding us that God’s involvement in the world is both precise and purposeful. We also observe a rhythm that can inspire our daily spiritual practices, encouraging trust in the unfolding of His plans, just as His creation unfolded day by day.

Cross references like 2 Corinthians 4:6 connect to this theme by illustrating how God brings light and order from darkness. This structured revelation of creation finds a parallel in God’s broader redemptive plan, culminating in the work of Christ. As such, believers are called to reflect on how this divine order manifests in their lives, fostering trust and hope in the continuity of God’s sovereign design.

By meditating on this passage, let us consider how the blend of evening and morning might influence our approach to trust and perseverance in God’s unfolding work.

Study

Context

Genesis recounts the creation narrative, detailing the days in which God created the world. The phrase 'evening and morning' marks the passage of each day, reflecting a structured and orderly process of creation. This narrative comes from a text composed in Hebrew, where understanding of days and time can differ from contemporary conceptions.

Verse-by-Verse

“

And there was evening, and there was morning

This phrase highlights the orderly sequence of time, marking the end of one day and the preparation for the next in the biblical creation account.
“

—the fifth day.

Indicates the completion of another phase in the creation process, emphasising progress and divine control over time.

Cross References

  • 2 Corinthians 4:6: Reflects the theme of God's creation of light shining into darkness, symbolising order and divine purpose.
  • Matthew 19:4: Cited in the context of creation, affirming the foundational nature of the creation narrative.

Highlights

  • The repeated phrase 'evening and morning' signifies the completion of a day, reinforcing the rhythm and structure inherent in creation.
  • 'The fifth day' marks a pivotal point of completion, transitioning to the next stages of creation.

Insights (Christ-Centred)

  • The structured unfolding of creation echoes the progressive revelation of God's redemption plan through Christ, moving from promise to fulfillment.

Key Themes

  • Order in Creation: The passage emphasises the structured timeline of creation, reinforcing the idea of divine order.
  • Completion of Creation Phases: The statement encapsulates the end of a specific creative act, highlighting the progression through creation.

Takeaways

Personal Applications

  • Recognising Divine Order: This passage invites believers to appreciate the orderliness and intentions of God's plan, reminding them of the structure God brings to chaos.
  • Trust in Progressive Revelation: As God unfolds His creation day by day, recognise that His plans and purposes for our lives unfold over time.

Reflections

  • What does the structured progression of days teach us about God's nature?
  • How can the rhythm of 'evening and morning' shape our daily worship and spiritual practice?