Understanding Genesis 1:10

Genesis 1:10 (KJV): "And God called the dry land Earth; and the gathering together of the waters called he Seas: and God saw that it was good."

Summary of Meaning

This verse marks a pivotal moment in the creation narrative, where God distinguishes between land and water, naming the dry land "Earth" and the gathered waters "Seas". It emphasizes God's sovereign authority in creation and His evaluation of its goodness.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry: He highlights the importance of God's naming acts, which signify authority and control. By naming the elements of creation, God declares their purpose and order. Henry notes that this act separates the chaotic waters and establishes the earth as a foundation for human life.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes emphasizes the significance of classification in God's creation. The assignment of names to the land and seas conveys stability and reflect God's wisdom. He stresses that this is part of God's original design, which is not arbitrary but intentional and good.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke draws attention to the term "good" used by God. He explains that it signifies a state of completeness and satisfaction in creation, reinforcing that God's work is flawless. Clarke also notes the harmony in creation, as the land and seas work together in God's plan.

Bible Cross-References

This verse connects to various other scriptures that enhance its understanding and illustrate God's creative authority. Some notable cross-references include:

• Psalm 95:5: "The sea is his, for he made it: and his hands formed the dry land." - This affirms God's role as the creator of both land and sea.
• Isaiah 40:12: "Who hath measured the waters in the hollow of his hand, and meted out heaven with the span..." - This highlights God's power in creating and measuring the waters.
• Proverbs 8:29: "...when he gave to the sea his decree, that the waters should not pass his commandment..." - Reflecting God's authority over the waters He created.
• Job 38:8-11: "Or who shut up the sea with doors, when it brake forth, as if it had issued out of the womb?" - This depicts God's control over the seas.
• Revelation 21:1: "And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away..." - Indicates God's promise of new creation, linking back to the original creation.
• Acts 4:24: "And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said, Lord, thou art God, which hast made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is..." - Recognition of God's creative acts.
• Colossians 1:16: "For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible..." - Acknowledges Christ’s role in creation, linking to themes of creation and authority.

Thematic Connections

The themes presented in Genesis 1:10 resonate throughout the Bible, establishing a framework for understanding God's sovereignty, the goodness of creation, and the order of the universe. This connects to:

• Creation and Order: The distinction made in Genesis emphasizes God's orderly creation, which reappears in various scripture discussing divine order.
• Divine Authority: The act of naming serves as an assertion of authority, reflected in other scriptures where God speaks creation into being.
• Goodness of Creation: The affirmation "it was good" recurs in the narrative of creation and provides a lens for understanding the inherent value of God's creation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Genesis 1:10 encapsulates essential truths about God's creative work, authority, and the inherent goodness of the universe. Through cross-referencing other biblical texts, one can deepen their understanding of the connections between God's creative acts and His ongoing relationship with creation.