Genesis 1:3
Verse
Context
The First Day
2Now the earth was formless and void, and darkness was over the surface of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the surface of the waters. 3And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light.4And God saw that the light was good, and He separated the light from the darkness.
Sermons
Warren Wiersbe
Bakht Singh
T. Austin-Sparks
William MacDonald
Denny KenastonSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
And God said, Let there be light - הי אור ויהי אור Yehi or, vaihi or. Nothing can be conceived more dignified than this form of expression. It argues at once uncontrollable authority, and omnific power; and in human language it is scarcely possible to conceive that God can speak more like himself. This passage, in the Greek translation of the Septuagint, fell in the way of Dionysius Longinus, one of the most judicious Greek critics that ever lived, and who is highly celebrated over the civilized world for a treatise he wrote, entitled Περι Ὑψους, Concerning the Sublime, both in prose and poetry; of this passage, though a heathen, he speaks in the following terms: - Ταυτῃ και ὁ των Ιουδαιων θεσμοθετης(ουχ ὁ τυχων ανηρ,) επειδη την του θειου δυναμιν κατα την αξιαν εχωρησε, καξεφηνεν· ευθυς εν τῃ εισβολη γραψας των νομων, ΕΙΠΕΝ Ὁ ΘΕΟΣ, φησι, τι; ΓΕΝΕΣΘΩ ΦΩΣ· και εγενετο. ΓΕΝΕΣΘΩ ΓΗ· και εγενετο."So likewise the Jewish lawgiver (who was no ordinary man) having conceived a just idea of the Divine power, he expressed it in a dignified manner; for at the beginning of his laws he thus speaks: God Said - What? Let There Be Light! and there was light. Let There Be Earth! and there was earth." - Longinus, sect. ix. edit. Pearce. Many have asked, "How could light be produced on the first day, and the sun, the fountain of it, not created till the fourth day?" With the various and often unphilosophical answers which have been given to this question I will not meddle, but shall observe that the original word אור signifies not only light but fire, see Isa 31:9 Eze 5:2. It is used for the Sun, Job 31:26. And for the electric fluid or Lightning, Job 37:3. And it is worthy of remark that It is used in Isa 44:16, for the heat, derived from אש esh, the fire. He burneth part thereof in the fire (במו אש bemo esh): yea, he warmeth himself, and saith, Aha! I have seen the fire, ראיתי אור raithi ur, which a modern philosopher who understood the language would not scruple to translate, I have received caloric, or an additional portion of the matter of heat. I therefore conclude, that as God has diffused the matter of caloric or latent heat through every part of nature, without which there could be neither vegetation nor animal life, that it is caloric or latent heat which is principally intended by the original word. That there is latent light, which is probably the same with latent heat, may be easily demonstrated: take two pieces of smooth rock crystal, agate, cornelian or flint, and rub them together briskly in the dark, and the latent light or matter of caloric will be immediately produced and become visible. The light or caloric thus disengaged does not operate in the same powerful manner as the heat or fire which is produced by striking with flint and steel, or that produced by electric friction. The existence of this caloric-latent or primitive light, may be ascertained in various other bodies; it can be produced by the flint and steel, by rubbing two hard sticks together, by hammering cold iron, which in a short time becomes red hot, and by the strong and sudden compression of atmospheric air in a tube. Friction in general produces both fire and light. God therefore created this universal agent on the first day, because without It no operation of nature could be carried on or perfected. Light is one of the most astonishing productions of the creative skill and power of God. It is the grand medium by which all his other works are discovered, examined, and understood, so far as they can be known. Its immense diffusion and extreme velocity are alone sufficient to demonstrate the being and wisdom of God. Light has been proved by many experiments to travel at the astonishing rate of 194,188 miles in one second of time! and comes from the sun to the earth in eight minutes 11 43/50 seconds, a distance of 95,513,794 English miles.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
THE FIRST DAY. (Gen 1:3-5) God said--This phrase, which occurs so repeatedly in the account means: willed, decreed, appointed; and the determining will of God was followed in every instance by an immediate result. Whether the sun was created at the same time with, or long before, the earth, the dense accumulation of fogs and vapors which enveloped the chaos had covered the globe with a settled gloom. But by the command of God, light was rendered visible; the thick murky clouds were dispersed, broken, or rarefied, and light diffused over the expanse of waters. The effect is described in the name "day," which in Hebrew signifies "warmth," "heat"; while the name "night" signifies a "rolling up," as night wraps all things in a shady mantle.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And God said,.... This phrase is used, nine times in this account of the creation; it is admired by Longinus the Heathen in his treatise "of the Sublime", as a noble instance of it; and it is most beautifully paraphrased and explained in Psa 33:6 as expressive of the will, power, authority, and efficacy of the divine Being; whose word is clothed with power, and who can do, and does whatever he will, and as soon as he pleases; his orders are always obeyed. Perhaps the divine Person speaking here is the Logos or Word of God, which was in the beginning with God, and was God, and who himself is the light that lightens every creature. The words spoke were, let there be light, and there was light: it at once appeared; "God commanded light to shine out of darkness"; as the apostle says, Co2 4:6 this was the first thing made out of the dark chaos; as in the new creation, or work of grace in the heart, light is the first thing produced there: what this light was is not easy to say. Some of the Jewish Rabbins, and also some Christian writers, think the angels are designed by it, which is not at all probable, as the ends and use of this light show: others of them are of opinion, that it is the same with the sun, of which a repetition is made on the fourth day, because of its use and efficacy to the earth, and its plants; but others more rightly take it to be different from the sun, and a more glimmering light, which afterwards was gathered into and perfected in the body of the sun (f). It is the opinion of Zanchius (g), and which is approved of by our countryman, Mr. Fuller (h), that it was a lucid body, or a small lucid cloud, which by its circular motion from east to west made day and night (i); perhaps somewhat like the cloudy pillar of fire that guided the Israelites in the wilderness, and had no doubt heat as well as light; and which two indeed, more or less, go together; and of such fiery particles this body may well be thought to consist. The word "Ur" signifies both fire and light. (f) Vid. Menasseh ben Israel conciliator in Gen. qu. 2. (g) De Operibus Dei, par. 3. l. 1. c. 2. col. 239. and l. 2. c. 1. (h) Miscell. Sacr. l. 1. c. 12. (i) Milton seems to be of the same mind:----- -----and forthwith light. Ethereal, first of things, quintessence pure, Sprung from the deep, and from her native east To journey thro' the airy gloom began, Sphered in a radiant cloud, for yet the sun Was not; she in a cloudy tabernacle Sojourned the while.----- Paradise Lost, B. 7. l. 243, &c.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
We have here a further account of the first day's work, in which observe, 1. That the first of all visible beings which God created was light; not that by it he himself might see to work (for the darkness and light are both alike to him), but that by it we might see his works and his glory in them, and might work our works while it is day. The works of Satan and his servants are works of darkness; but he that doeth truth, and doeth good, cometh to the light, and coveteth it, that his deeds may be made manifest, Joh 3:21. Light is the great beauty and blessing of the universe. Like the first-born, it does, of all visible beings, most resemble its great Parent in purity and power, brightness and beneficence; it is of great affinity with a spirit, and is next to it; though by it we see other things, and are sure that it is, yet we know not its nature, nor can describe what it is, or by what way the light is parted, Job 38:19, Job 38:24. By the sight of it let us be led to, and assisted in, the believing contemplation of him who is light, infinite and eternal light (Jo1 1:5), and the Father of lights (Jam 1:17), and who dwells in inaccessible light, Ti1 6:16. In the new creation, the first thing wrought in the soul is light: the blessed Spirit captives the will and affections by enlightening the understanding, so coming into the heart by the door, like the good shepherd whose own the sheep are, while sin and Satan, like thieves and robbers, climb up some other way. Those that by sin were darkness by grace become light in the world. 2. That the light was made by the word of God's power. He said, Let there be light; he willed and appointed it, and it was done immediately: there was light, such a copy as exactly answered the original idea in the Eternal Mind. O the power of the word of God! He spoke, and it was done, done really, effectually, and for perpetuity, not in show only, and to serve a present turn, for he commanded, and it stood fast: with him it was dictum, factum - a word, and a world. The world of God (that is, his will and the good pleasure of it) is quick and powerful. Christ is the Word, the essential eternal Word, and by him the light was produced, for in him was light, and he is the true light, the light of the world, Joh 1:9; Joh 9:5. The divine light which shines in sanctified souls is wrought by the power of God, the power of his word and of the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, opening the understanding, scattering the mists of ignorance and mistake, and giving the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ, as at first, God commanded the light to shine out of darkness, Co2 4:6. Darkness would have been perpetually upon the face of fallen man if the Son of God had not come, and given us an understanding, Jo1 5:20. 3. That the light which God willed, when it was produced, he approved of: God saw the light that it was good. It was exactly as he designed it, and it was fit to answer the end for which he designed it. It was useful and profitable; the world, which now is a palace, would have been a dungeon without it. It was amiable and pleasant. Truly the light is sweet (Ecc 11:7); it rejoiceth the heart, Pro 15:30. What God commands he will approve and graciously accept; he will be well pleased with the work of his own hands. That is good indeed which is so in the sight of God, for he sees not as man sees. If the light is good, how good is he that is the fountain of light, from whom we receive it, and to whom we owe all praise for it and all the services we do by it! 4. That God divided the light from the darkness, so put them asunder as that they could never be joined together, or reconciled; for what fellowship has light with darkness? Co2 6:14. And yet he divided time between them, the day for light and the night for darkness, in a constant and regular succession to each other. Though the darkness was now scattered by the light, yet it was not condemned to a perpetual banishment, but takes its turn with the light, and has its place, because it has its use; for, as the light of the morning befriends the business of the day, so the shadows of the evening befriend the repose of the night, and draw the curtains about us, that we may sleep the better. See Job 7:2. God has thus divided time between light and darkness, because he would daily remind us that this is a world of mixtures and changes. In heaven there is perfect and perpetual light, and no darkness at all; in hell, utter darkness, and no gleam of light. In that world between these two there is a great gulf fixed; but, in this world, they are counterchanged, and we pass daily from one to another, that we may learn to expect the like vicissitudes in the providence of God, peace and trouble, joy and sorrow, and may set the one over-against the other, accommodating ourselves to both as we do to the light and darkness, bidding both welcome, and making the best of both. 5. That God divided them from each other by distinguishing names: He called the light day, and the darkness he called night. He gave them names, as the Lord of both; for the day is his, the night also is his, Psa 74:16. He is the Lord of time, and will be so, till day and night shall come to an end, and the stream of time be swallowed up in the ocean of eternity. Let us acknowledge God in the constant succession of day and night, and consecrate both to his honour, by working for him every day and resting in him every night, and meditating in his law day and night. 6. That this was the first day's work, and a good day's work it was. The evening and the morning were the first day. The darkness of the evening was before the light of the morning, that it might serve for a foil to it, to set it off, and make it shine the brighter. This was not only the first day of the world, but the first day of the week. I observe it to the honour of that day, because the new world began on the first day of the week likewise, in the resurrection of Christ, as the light of the world, early in the morning. In him the day-spring from on high has visited the world; and happy are we, for ever happy, if that day-star arise in our hearts.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:3-13 In the first three days, God formed the chaos into a habitable world. 1:3 Then God said: Nothing in ch 1 is created apart from God’s powerful word (cp. Ps 33:6, 9). • “Let there be . . .” and there was: God’s command enacted his will to create the world. God is not a part of creation or limited by it; he is the supreme ruler over everything (cp. Neh 9:6).
Genesis 1:3
The First Day
2Now the earth was formless and void, and darkness was over the surface of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the surface of the waters. 3And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light.4And God saw that the light was good, and He separated the light from the darkness.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Heavenly Vision) 1 - the Necessity of Heavenly Vision
By Stephen Kaung8.1K1:18:31GEN 1:3PRO 29:18ACT 9:32CO 4:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that every person has a master, and that master is God. He explains that we are born into this world with a purpose, which is to serve God's will. However, many people fail to understand this and live their lives for their own satisfaction, forgetting about God. The preacher highlights the importance of having a heavenly vision and being united in purpose as children of God. He also mentions the transformative power of God's grace, comparing it to a heavenly light that illuminates our lives and guides us out of darkness.
The Autobiography of Greatness
By Warren Wiersbe4.0K34:54GEN 1:3ACT 9:3In this sermon, Paul stands before Agrippa and his wife, as well as the governor, and shares his testimony of what Jesus Christ has done for him. He emphasizes that his witness is not a defense of himself, but rather a defense of the Lord Jesus Christ. Paul recounts how he saw a light and heard a voice on the Damascus road, and how he was obedient to the heavenly vision. He emphasizes that he has continued in his calling to witness to both small and great, and encourages others to do the same.
(The Power of the Holy Spirit - 1) the Breath of God
By Zac Poonen3.4K56:58GEN 1:3GEN 1:61KI 19:12JOB 38:1LUK 16:29JHN 3:8JHN 8:32In this sermon, the speaker begins a series of messages on the power of the Holy Spirit. He focuses on the use of word pictures by Jesus to illustrate spiritual truths. The first picture discussed is the comparison of the Holy Spirit to wind or breath. The speaker emphasizes the importance of speaking God's word and the transformative power it has, using the example of Ezekiel prophesying to dry bones. He highlights the need for the breath of God, the Holy Spirit, to bring life and make believers soldiers in the army of the Lord.
On Baptism
By Bakht Singh3.3K08:01BaptismGEN 1:1GEN 1:3EXO 20:2MAT 3:16MAT 28:19JHN 3:5In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal testimony of how he came to understand the value and importance of the episode mentioned in Matthew's Gospel chapter 3. He recounts a moment when God spoke to him and challenged him to consider if he was any better than his Savior. This encounter led him to realize his need for salvation and he obediently got baptized. The speaker also emphasizes the significance of spending time in the Bible and highlights the phrase "God said" occurring 558 times in the first five books of the Bible. Additionally, he shares how his father, after witnessing his transformation, also accepted Jesus as his Savior and was baptized.
The New Creation - Part 1
By T. Austin-Sparks3.1K19:36New CreationGEN 1:3GEN 2:24ROM 5:121CO 15:221CO 15:452CO 4:6EPH 5:31In this sermon, the speaker tells a story about a man who was captured by a Roman general. Initially, the man was rebellious, but as he observed the general's way of life, he began to admire him. Eventually, the general offered the man his freedom, but the man chose to stay with the general because he had come to realize that the general was more powerful and admirable than he had initially thought. The speaker uses this story to illustrate the concept of surrendering to Jesus Christ and how it leads to a joyful and fulfilling life. The sermon also references passages from the Bible, such as 2 Corinthians 4 and Romans 5, to support the idea of the old and new creations in Christ.
Amazing Love Profile of the Hymn
By William MacDonald2.9K34:20HymnologyGEN 1:3MAT 6:33JHN 8:12ACT 26:182CO 4:6EPH 5:141PE 2:9In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the state of a soul without Jesus Christ, describing it as being imprisoned, in bondage, and in shame. He emphasizes that being unsaved is actually a form of slavery to sin, Satan, and self. The preacher then highlights the transformative power of the gospel, using the example of Charles Wesley's experience. Wesley's spiritual awakening is likened to a dungeon being flooded with light, and his chains of sin falling off, resulting in a heart set free to please God. The sermon concludes by emphasizing the importance of responding to the gospel invitation and following Jesus.
(Divine Attributes) 02 a High and Lofty View of God
By Denny Kenaston2.5K51:35Character Of GodGEN 1:3MAT 5:82CO 4:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a high and lofty view of God. He mentions that he has been influenced by A.W. Tozer's book, "The Knowledge of the Holy," and sermons on the attributes of God. The preacher highlights the consequences of losing a lofty view of God, using the example of people in the Bible who rejected God's truth and lived in wickedness. He warns that America is also surrendering its view of God and predicts a future of debauchery if the nation continues on this path. The sermon concludes with an invitation to seek God's will and make copies of the message to share with others.
Nature and Purpose of the Church Now and in the After Ages
By T. Austin-Sparks2.4K1:17:22Eternal PurposeGEN 1:3MAT 6:33JHN 1:4ACT 26:182CO 4:6EPH 5:81PE 2:9In this sermon, T. Austin Sparks discusses the great transition from one humanity to another in the divine economy. He emphasizes the importance of having a heavenly vision, as Apostle Paul did, which reveals the place and destiny of man, the nature and dynamic of ministry, the nature and purpose of the Church, and the significance of Christ's crucifixion, resurrection, and exaltation. Sparks emphasizes that true ministry is centered on Christ and that people should encounter Christ when they meet a minister. He also highlights the importance of personally seeing Jesus in order to truly understand the Church.
Revelation of Jesus Christ - Part 8 of 10
By T. Austin-Sparks2.3K59:15Jesus ChristGEN 1:3MAT 6:33JHN 1:1JHN 14:62CO 4:6GAL 1:15COL 1:15In this sermon, the speaker discusses the fall of man and the earth after Adam disobeyed God. The consequences of this fall were immense and far-reaching. However, God did not abandon humanity but reacted with new energy and application towards His Son. The speaker emphasizes the cosmic conflict between God and the serpent, and how God's power and energy are focused on bringing about the victory of His Son.
The Rapture of the Saints
By John Hunter2.2K33:12RaptureGEN 1:3MAT 24:31JHN 5:81CO 15:511TH 4:16REV 19:15In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Lazarus being raised from the dead by Jesus. He emphasizes that resurrection is the work of Christ and that the same power that raised Lazarus can raise millions of people. The preacher also highlights the importance of speaking as a means of releasing divine energy, citing examples from the Bible such as God speaking to create light in Genesis and Jesus speaking to heal a paralyzed man in John. The sermon concludes with the anticipation of Christ's return and the transformation of the dead and living believers through his spoken word.
Winning God's Approval - Part 7
By Zac Poonen2.1K52:54ApprovalGEN 1:3JHN 2:3JHN 12:31CO 4:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of serving the Lord sacrificially and unselfishly. He highlights the need for believers to listen to God and do what He tells them to do, rather than just doing what they feel like doing. The speaker shares his personal experience of God constantly telling him to listen. He also discusses the significance of expressing gratitude to God through a life of service and sacrifice, rather than just seeking personal gain or comfort. The sermon references various biblical examples, including Mary's devotion to finding the body of Jesus and her willingness to serve Him.
Covenant Consciousness
By Art Katz2.1K53:47Covenant Of GodGEN 1:3JER 31:7MAT 6:33ACT 9:3ROM 8:22EPH 1:9HEB 9:15In this sermon, the preacher quotes from Karl Barth, a Swiss German theologian, who emphasizes the inseparable connection between creation and covenant. According to Barth, God's act of creation is a gift and an expression of His love, with the purpose of establishing a covenant with His people. The preacher highlights that Israel is the first nation chosen by God and that the terms of the covenant are stated by Him. The sermon also emphasizes the significance of light in creation, as it represents God's will and the declaration of life.
Understanding Spiritual Authority (Part 3): The Greatest Faith in Israel
By Carter Conlon2.0K48:23Spiritual AuthorityGEN 1:3PRO 31:28JON 2:8MAT 6:33MAT 22:29JHN 1:112PE 1:4In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of the Passover in Egypt and draws parallels to the present generation. He emphasizes the importance of obeying God's instructions and coming under the authority of His word. By applying the blood of the lamb to their doorposts and having family devotions centered around God's truth, the children of Israel were saved from the spirit of death. The preacher also highlights the significance of recognizing Jesus' presence and power among His people, and the need to yield to His authority and the authority of the scriptures.
Treasure in Earthen Vessels
By Gayle Erwin2.0K44:39Christ In YouGEN 1:3MAT 6:33JHN 1:52CO 3:172CO 4:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the contrast between the flesh and the mercy of God. He highlights the importance of knowing oneself and exposing it to God in order to receive His mercy and forgiveness. The preacher also warns against the deceptive mindset that we can achieve success and salvation through our own efforts, emphasizing that only the mercy of God can truly save us. He shares examples of false teachings and methods used by some individuals to manipulate and deceive people, emphasizing the need to preach Christ Jesus as the true source of salvation.
What Is Spiritual Warfare
By Stephen Kaung2.0K1:10:26WarfareGEN 1:3MAT 6:332CO 10:3EPH 6:10In this sermon, the preacher begins by discussing the spiritual warfare that believers face. He emphasizes that our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces. The preacher highlights the power of God's weapons in this warfare, which can overthrow strongholds and bring every thought into obedience to Christ. He then moves on to discuss the creation of the earth and the restoration that God brought about after it was covered in darkness and water. The preacher emphasizes that everything physical is controlled by the spiritual, and that the unseen reality is more important than what is visible. He concludes by urging believers to be watchful and to recognize that the real battle is fought in the heavenly realms.
(2 Corinthians) ch.4:3-4:11
By Zac Poonen2.0K44:29GEN 1:3JHN 12:242CO 3:52CO 4:52CO 4:10In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the ministry of the New Covenant and the importance of being adequate for this ministry. He emphasizes that it is God who makes us adequate, not our knowledge or gifts. The speaker highlights the need for preachers and Christians to go beyond imparting knowledge and instead bring people into a life of godliness, humility, and purity. He explains that the key to New Covenant ministry is dying to oneself, as Jesus said in John 12:24, and allowing the life of Jesus to flow through us. The speaker also discusses the veil that is over the gospel, which is veiled to those who are lost and blinded by the god of this world. He emphasizes that it is the life behind the knowledge and gifts that enables one to be a minister of the New Covenant.
(The Man God Blesses) Psalm 23
By Zac Poonen1.9K53:34GEN 1:3PSA 23:1MAT 10:16JAS 4:13In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of following God and listening to His word. The speaker highlights the promise that if we faithfully follow God, we will never lack anything we need in life. The concept of the "valley of the shadow of death" is discussed, with the speaker suggesting that the world is a valley of suffering and trial. The speaker also draws a parallel between believers and sheep, emphasizing the need to look up to God and take time to hear His voice amidst the busyness of life.
God Speaks and Watches Over Us
By Zac Poonen1.9K58:42SovereigntyGEN 1:3MAT 6:332CO 4:6In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the concept of daily renewal and transformation. He refers to Genesis 1, where God progressively improved the earth each day, as a metaphor for the renovation of our lives. The speaker encourages listeners to not lose heart, even as our outward selves may decay, because our inner selves are being renewed day by day. He emphasizes that this process of renewal will ultimately lead to us becoming like Jesus Christ. The speaker also highlights the goodness of God's word and how it is meant to bring about positive change in our lives.
Holy Spirit and the Crisis of Pentecost - Part 6
By T. Austin-Sparks1.7K53:51PentecostGEN 1:3MAT 28:19ACT 8:29ACT 8:35ACT 8:37In this sermon, the speaker discusses the encounter between Jesus and Nicodemus, a highly educated and influential religious leader. Jesus emphasizes the need for being born again as the starting point for understanding heavenly things. The speaker highlights the clash between the forces of evil and the church, but reassures believers that God ultimately has control over the situation. The sermon also touches on the separation of heaven and earth and the expansion of God's work throughout the world.
New Beginnings - Gideon's Army I
By George Warnock1.7K1:19:45BeginningsGEN 1:3PSA 78:2ISA 55:10JHN 5:461CO 2:102CO 4:6HEB 10:5In this sermon, the preacher discusses the book of Judges and how God allowed areas of resistance to remain in the land so that the younger generation could learn war. The preacher emphasizes that God's principles of truth must be established within us so that we are ready for any challenges that come our way. The sermon also mentions the story of the Israelites receiving manna from heaven and how they gorged themselves on quail sent by God in anger. The preacher highlights the importance of relying on God for our daily bread and not accumulating wealth for selfish purposes. Additionally, the sermon touches on the topic of discipline and the consequences of not correcting children, leading to rebellion and societal issues.
Religion: Form or Force?
By J. Glyn Owen1.5K46:26ReligionGEN 1:3MAT 6:33JHN 15:7ROM 4:17COL 3:162TI 3:5REV 3:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the power that comes from having the almighty God dwell within our hearts. The Bible portrays this concept in various ways, such as God dwelling in us through His word. The consequences of having a form of religion without the power of God are tragic, as it misrepresents the gospel. The gospel is not just a moral philosophy, but good news that provides both the standard of God and the power to live according to it. The speaker encourages Christians to avoid those who have a form of godliness but deny its power.
(Genesis) 2 - the Light of the World
By S. Lewis Johnson1.4K48:02Jesus ChristGEN 1:3In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the creation of light as described in the book of Genesis. He highlights the parallel between the creation of light and the coming of Jesus Christ as the light of the world. The preacher also emphasizes the role of ministers of the word of God in bringing the light of the gospel to people. The sermon begins with an overview of the first two verses of Genesis and ends with a scripture reading from Genesis 1:3-5 and 2 Corinthians 4.
Something Out of Nothing
By Jim Cymbala1.4K19:17FaithGEN 1:3MAT 6:33MAT 19:26LUK 1:37ACT 4:29HEB 11:1In this sermon, the speaker shares his experience of being with Ravi Zacharias and witnessing his powerful preaching. Despite the language barrier, the audience was moved by Zacharias' message. The speaker reflects on the awe-inspiring power of God, who can create something out of nothing with just a word. He encourages the listeners to have faith in God's ability to make a way where there seems to be no way, even in difficult situations. The sermon emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's power and recognizing that everything we see was created by the unseen word of God.
The Battle Cry of the Early Church
By Rolfe Barnard1.4K50:45Early ChurchGEN 1:3MAT 6:332CO 4:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power of God to bring light into darkness. He references the biblical verse in 2 Corinthians 4:6, which states that God commanded the light to shine out of darkness. The preacher highlights the importance of recognizing that salvation comes from God and not from ourselves. He warns against resorting to dishonesty or watering down the gospel message in desperate times, urging believers to remain steadfast in their faith and trust in God's mercy. The sermon concludes with a call to open our eyes to the truth of the world and our need for God's intervention.
Our Word - His Word, 1977
By Norman Grubb1.3K1:30:28ScripturesGEN 1:32KI 4:4PSA 16:10PSA 33:6ACT 2:271CO 10:16EPH 2:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the presence and power of God in our lives. He references Ephesians 2:2 and 2 Kings 4:4-5 to highlight how the Spirit of Error and the God of this world can blind our minds. The speaker explains that as vessels of God, we need to undergo a change of place and a change of God's nature. He emphasizes that God is always awake and working in love to perfect and save everything. The sermon concludes by reminding listeners to operate on earth in preparation for their eternal purpose.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
And God said, Let there be light - הי אור ויהי אור Yehi or, vaihi or. Nothing can be conceived more dignified than this form of expression. It argues at once uncontrollable authority, and omnific power; and in human language it is scarcely possible to conceive that God can speak more like himself. This passage, in the Greek translation of the Septuagint, fell in the way of Dionysius Longinus, one of the most judicious Greek critics that ever lived, and who is highly celebrated over the civilized world for a treatise he wrote, entitled Περι Ὑψους, Concerning the Sublime, both in prose and poetry; of this passage, though a heathen, he speaks in the following terms: - Ταυτῃ και ὁ των Ιουδαιων θεσμοθετης(ουχ ὁ τυχων ανηρ,) επειδη την του θειου δυναμιν κατα την αξιαν εχωρησε, καξεφηνεν· ευθυς εν τῃ εισβολη γραψας των νομων, ΕΙΠΕΝ Ὁ ΘΕΟΣ, φησι, τι; ΓΕΝΕΣΘΩ ΦΩΣ· και εγενετο. ΓΕΝΕΣΘΩ ΓΗ· και εγενετο."So likewise the Jewish lawgiver (who was no ordinary man) having conceived a just idea of the Divine power, he expressed it in a dignified manner; for at the beginning of his laws he thus speaks: God Said - What? Let There Be Light! and there was light. Let There Be Earth! and there was earth." - Longinus, sect. ix. edit. Pearce. Many have asked, "How could light be produced on the first day, and the sun, the fountain of it, not created till the fourth day?" With the various and often unphilosophical answers which have been given to this question I will not meddle, but shall observe that the original word אור signifies not only light but fire, see Isa 31:9 Eze 5:2. It is used for the Sun, Job 31:26. And for the electric fluid or Lightning, Job 37:3. And it is worthy of remark that It is used in Isa 44:16, for the heat, derived from אש esh, the fire. He burneth part thereof in the fire (במו אש bemo esh): yea, he warmeth himself, and saith, Aha! I have seen the fire, ראיתי אור raithi ur, which a modern philosopher who understood the language would not scruple to translate, I have received caloric, or an additional portion of the matter of heat. I therefore conclude, that as God has diffused the matter of caloric or latent heat through every part of nature, without which there could be neither vegetation nor animal life, that it is caloric or latent heat which is principally intended by the original word. That there is latent light, which is probably the same with latent heat, may be easily demonstrated: take two pieces of smooth rock crystal, agate, cornelian or flint, and rub them together briskly in the dark, and the latent light or matter of caloric will be immediately produced and become visible. The light or caloric thus disengaged does not operate in the same powerful manner as the heat or fire which is produced by striking with flint and steel, or that produced by electric friction. The existence of this caloric-latent or primitive light, may be ascertained in various other bodies; it can be produced by the flint and steel, by rubbing two hard sticks together, by hammering cold iron, which in a short time becomes red hot, and by the strong and sudden compression of atmospheric air in a tube. Friction in general produces both fire and light. God therefore created this universal agent on the first day, because without It no operation of nature could be carried on or perfected. Light is one of the most astonishing productions of the creative skill and power of God. It is the grand medium by which all his other works are discovered, examined, and understood, so far as they can be known. Its immense diffusion and extreme velocity are alone sufficient to demonstrate the being and wisdom of God. Light has been proved by many experiments to travel at the astonishing rate of 194,188 miles in one second of time! and comes from the sun to the earth in eight minutes 11 43/50 seconds, a distance of 95,513,794 English miles.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
THE FIRST DAY. (Gen 1:3-5) God said--This phrase, which occurs so repeatedly in the account means: willed, decreed, appointed; and the determining will of God was followed in every instance by an immediate result. Whether the sun was created at the same time with, or long before, the earth, the dense accumulation of fogs and vapors which enveloped the chaos had covered the globe with a settled gloom. But by the command of God, light was rendered visible; the thick murky clouds were dispersed, broken, or rarefied, and light diffused over the expanse of waters. The effect is described in the name "day," which in Hebrew signifies "warmth," "heat"; while the name "night" signifies a "rolling up," as night wraps all things in a shady mantle.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And God said,.... This phrase is used, nine times in this account of the creation; it is admired by Longinus the Heathen in his treatise "of the Sublime", as a noble instance of it; and it is most beautifully paraphrased and explained in Psa 33:6 as expressive of the will, power, authority, and efficacy of the divine Being; whose word is clothed with power, and who can do, and does whatever he will, and as soon as he pleases; his orders are always obeyed. Perhaps the divine Person speaking here is the Logos or Word of God, which was in the beginning with God, and was God, and who himself is the light that lightens every creature. The words spoke were, let there be light, and there was light: it at once appeared; "God commanded light to shine out of darkness"; as the apostle says, Co2 4:6 this was the first thing made out of the dark chaos; as in the new creation, or work of grace in the heart, light is the first thing produced there: what this light was is not easy to say. Some of the Jewish Rabbins, and also some Christian writers, think the angels are designed by it, which is not at all probable, as the ends and use of this light show: others of them are of opinion, that it is the same with the sun, of which a repetition is made on the fourth day, because of its use and efficacy to the earth, and its plants; but others more rightly take it to be different from the sun, and a more glimmering light, which afterwards was gathered into and perfected in the body of the sun (f). It is the opinion of Zanchius (g), and which is approved of by our countryman, Mr. Fuller (h), that it was a lucid body, or a small lucid cloud, which by its circular motion from east to west made day and night (i); perhaps somewhat like the cloudy pillar of fire that guided the Israelites in the wilderness, and had no doubt heat as well as light; and which two indeed, more or less, go together; and of such fiery particles this body may well be thought to consist. The word "Ur" signifies both fire and light. (f) Vid. Menasseh ben Israel conciliator in Gen. qu. 2. (g) De Operibus Dei, par. 3. l. 1. c. 2. col. 239. and l. 2. c. 1. (h) Miscell. Sacr. l. 1. c. 12. (i) Milton seems to be of the same mind:----- -----and forthwith light. Ethereal, first of things, quintessence pure, Sprung from the deep, and from her native east To journey thro' the airy gloom began, Sphered in a radiant cloud, for yet the sun Was not; she in a cloudy tabernacle Sojourned the while.----- Paradise Lost, B. 7. l. 243, &c.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
We have here a further account of the first day's work, in which observe, 1. That the first of all visible beings which God created was light; not that by it he himself might see to work (for the darkness and light are both alike to him), but that by it we might see his works and his glory in them, and might work our works while it is day. The works of Satan and his servants are works of darkness; but he that doeth truth, and doeth good, cometh to the light, and coveteth it, that his deeds may be made manifest, Joh 3:21. Light is the great beauty and blessing of the universe. Like the first-born, it does, of all visible beings, most resemble its great Parent in purity and power, brightness and beneficence; it is of great affinity with a spirit, and is next to it; though by it we see other things, and are sure that it is, yet we know not its nature, nor can describe what it is, or by what way the light is parted, Job 38:19, Job 38:24. By the sight of it let us be led to, and assisted in, the believing contemplation of him who is light, infinite and eternal light (Jo1 1:5), and the Father of lights (Jam 1:17), and who dwells in inaccessible light, Ti1 6:16. In the new creation, the first thing wrought in the soul is light: the blessed Spirit captives the will and affections by enlightening the understanding, so coming into the heart by the door, like the good shepherd whose own the sheep are, while sin and Satan, like thieves and robbers, climb up some other way. Those that by sin were darkness by grace become light in the world. 2. That the light was made by the word of God's power. He said, Let there be light; he willed and appointed it, and it was done immediately: there was light, such a copy as exactly answered the original idea in the Eternal Mind. O the power of the word of God! He spoke, and it was done, done really, effectually, and for perpetuity, not in show only, and to serve a present turn, for he commanded, and it stood fast: with him it was dictum, factum - a word, and a world. The world of God (that is, his will and the good pleasure of it) is quick and powerful. Christ is the Word, the essential eternal Word, and by him the light was produced, for in him was light, and he is the true light, the light of the world, Joh 1:9; Joh 9:5. The divine light which shines in sanctified souls is wrought by the power of God, the power of his word and of the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, opening the understanding, scattering the mists of ignorance and mistake, and giving the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ, as at first, God commanded the light to shine out of darkness, Co2 4:6. Darkness would have been perpetually upon the face of fallen man if the Son of God had not come, and given us an understanding, Jo1 5:20. 3. That the light which God willed, when it was produced, he approved of: God saw the light that it was good. It was exactly as he designed it, and it was fit to answer the end for which he designed it. It was useful and profitable; the world, which now is a palace, would have been a dungeon without it. It was amiable and pleasant. Truly the light is sweet (Ecc 11:7); it rejoiceth the heart, Pro 15:30. What God commands he will approve and graciously accept; he will be well pleased with the work of his own hands. That is good indeed which is so in the sight of God, for he sees not as man sees. If the light is good, how good is he that is the fountain of light, from whom we receive it, and to whom we owe all praise for it and all the services we do by it! 4. That God divided the light from the darkness, so put them asunder as that they could never be joined together, or reconciled; for what fellowship has light with darkness? Co2 6:14. And yet he divided time between them, the day for light and the night for darkness, in a constant and regular succession to each other. Though the darkness was now scattered by the light, yet it was not condemned to a perpetual banishment, but takes its turn with the light, and has its place, because it has its use; for, as the light of the morning befriends the business of the day, so the shadows of the evening befriend the repose of the night, and draw the curtains about us, that we may sleep the better. See Job 7:2. God has thus divided time between light and darkness, because he would daily remind us that this is a world of mixtures and changes. In heaven there is perfect and perpetual light, and no darkness at all; in hell, utter darkness, and no gleam of light. In that world between these two there is a great gulf fixed; but, in this world, they are counterchanged, and we pass daily from one to another, that we may learn to expect the like vicissitudes in the providence of God, peace and trouble, joy and sorrow, and may set the one over-against the other, accommodating ourselves to both as we do to the light and darkness, bidding both welcome, and making the best of both. 5. That God divided them from each other by distinguishing names: He called the light day, and the darkness he called night. He gave them names, as the Lord of both; for the day is his, the night also is his, Psa 74:16. He is the Lord of time, and will be so, till day and night shall come to an end, and the stream of time be swallowed up in the ocean of eternity. Let us acknowledge God in the constant succession of day and night, and consecrate both to his honour, by working for him every day and resting in him every night, and meditating in his law day and night. 6. That this was the first day's work, and a good day's work it was. The evening and the morning were the first day. The darkness of the evening was before the light of the morning, that it might serve for a foil to it, to set it off, and make it shine the brighter. This was not only the first day of the world, but the first day of the week. I observe it to the honour of that day, because the new world began on the first day of the week likewise, in the resurrection of Christ, as the light of the world, early in the morning. In him the day-spring from on high has visited the world; and happy are we, for ever happy, if that day-star arise in our hearts.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:3-13 In the first three days, God formed the chaos into a habitable world. 1:3 Then God said: Nothing in ch 1 is created apart from God’s powerful word (cp. Ps 33:6, 9). • “Let there be . . .” and there was: God’s command enacted his will to create the world. God is not a part of creation or limited by it; he is the supreme ruler over everything (cp. Neh 9:6).