How did Old Testament authors understand Genesis? (Part 2)

by | Sep 29, 2014 | EFL Blog | 0 comments


Friday, December 13, 2013

Old Testament Authors and Their Use of Genesis

“Did Bible Authors Believe in a Literal Genesis?” pt. 2, by Dr. Terry Mortenson

When we turn to other Old Testament authors, there are only a few references to Genesis 1–11. But they all treat those chapters as literal history.

The Jews were very careful about genealogies. For example, in Nehemiah 7:61–64 the people who wanted to serve in the rebuilt temple needed to prove that they were descended from the priestly line of Aaron. Those who could not prove this could not serve as priests. First Chronicles 1–8 gives a long series of genealogies all the way back to Adam. Chapter 1 (verses 1–28) has no missing or added names in the genealogical links from Adam to Abraham, compared to Genesis 5 and Genesis 11. The author(s) of 1 Chronicles obviously took these genealogies as historically accurate.

Outside of Genesis 6–11, Psalm 29:10 contains the only other use of the Hebrew word mabbul (translated “flood”). God literally sat as King at the global Flood of Noah. If that event was not historical, the statement in this verse would have no real force and the promise of verse 11 will give little comfort to God’s people.

Read the rest of this article on AnswersInGenesis.org!

0 Comments

Submit a Comment

Recent posts:

Dinosaurs and the Bible

Dinosaurs and the Bible

Introduction: The Fascination and the Questions Dinosaurs fascinate people of all ages. From towering Tyrannosaurus rexes to long-necked Brachiosauruses, these incredible creatures have captured our imaginations, our museums, and our movies. But for many Christians, a...

How Did Judas Die?

How Did Judas Die?

Introduction Have you ever read a Bible story that keeps replaying in your mind long after you close the pages? For many of us, Judas Iscariot’s end is exactly that kind of story—haunting, heartbreaking, and deeply thought-provoking. One moment he’s sharing bread with...

Where Is the Garden of Eden?

Where Is the Garden of Eden?

Introduction: A Timeless Mystery That Still Captivates Ever find yourself reading through Genesis and pausing on the story of Adam and Eve, wondering, Where exactly was this garden paradise? You're not alone. For centuries, people—curious minds, explorers, and...

Subscribe To Our Podcast

Join our mailing list to receive the latest podcast and updates from our team.

Radio Shows

You have Successfully Subscribed!