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NASB | Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God (Elohim) created [by forming from nothing] the heavens and the earth. [Heb 11:3] |
Bible Question: According to sriptural reference, how old is the earth? |
Bible Answer: There have been a number of responses to this question that seem to me to be stating that anyone who does not recognize the 6 days of creation to be 24-hour periods is refusing to honor the Scripture. There is clearly room for a view that the 6 days were 24-hour periods. However, there is ample room (and significant Biblical and extra-Biblical evidence, I believe) for an understanding of the creation days to be unspecified periods of time that took place in sequence, each one ending (evening) and the next beginning (morning) -- with us now living in the seventh day. This is simply another readily defensible view, not some radical abdication of Scriptural authority in order to pursue peace with the pagan world (as it seems to be sometimes painted). Dr. Hugh Ross is probably one of the more prolific, solidly reasoned and Scriptural modern authors who presents this point of view in his books and essays. I would recommend the writings of Ross and his "Old Earth Creationist" associates from "Reasons to Believe" -- alongside those of the "Young Earth Creastionists" at CRI supported elsewhere in these responses -- for a more balanced opportunity to examine both of these views. Reasons to Believe can be found at http:\\www.reasons.org\, which has links to their materials. Ross has appeared on "The Bible Answer Man," and in other well-respected forums on Biblical truth. |