What is biblical cosmology?

Biblical cosmology uses Scripture to account for the universe’s origin and development. Genesis 1:1 explains how the universe came into existence: “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth” (ESV). God existed before space, time, and matter. He is uncreated, eternal, and self-existent: “I AM WHO I AM” (Exodus 3:14, ESV). God created everything that exists.

God’s creation of the universe is profoundly unique. Unlike human creativity, which manipulates existing materials, God created the universe ex nihilo, or “out of nothing.” Hebrews 11:3 declares, “By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible” (ESV). Likewise, Psalm 33:6 declares, “By the word of the Lord the heavens were made, and by the breath of his mouth all their host” (ESV). According to biblical cosmology, God did not use pre-existing materials to create the universe; He merely spoke it into existence.

The universe comprises the heavens, the earth, and the seas (Genesis 1:1; Exodus 20:11). The heavens include the sky, celestial bodies, and the place where God resides. The earth is the habitation of humanity, which is stable and secure: “[God] set the earth on its foundations, so that it should never be moved” (Psalm 104:5, ESV). The seas are the large bodies of water on the planet.

God created the universe and called it “good” (Genesis 1:4, 10, 13, 18, 21, 25). After He created humanity, He called it “very good” (Genesis 1:31). Creation reflects God’s goodness. He delighted in the work of His hands.

Biblical cosmology is not dualistic. In other words, good and evil are not equally opposing forces. Biblical cosmology sees evil as a perversion of God’s goodness. God’s goodness and glory permeate the universe: “The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork” (Psalm 19:1, ESV).

Humans are made in God’s image (Genesis 1:27–28). This means we are rational and relational beings. It also means that we should steward God’s creation: “The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it” (Genesis 2:15, ESV). We must ensure the welfare of all creation instead of exploiting or abusing it.

Biblical cosmology notes that the triune God was active at creation. God the Father and God the Spirit are seen in Genesis 1:1–2. And John 1:2–3 says all things were made “through” the Word (God the Son).

Since God is the creator of the universe, we are accountable to Him. “Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account” (Hebrews 4:13). “‘Who can hide in secret places so that I cannot see them?’ declares the Lord. ‘Do not I fill heaven and earth?’ declares the Lord” (Jeremiah 23:24).

Biblical cosmology is a testimony of God’s character, purpose, and redemptive plan. We are called to worship the Creator and steward the work of His hands. In Psalm 8:3–4, the psalmist marvels at God’s creation: “When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, and the son of man that you care for him?” (ESV). Believers should live with gratitude and recognize their place within God’s magnificent universe.