The Doctrine Of Creation
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The Doctrine of Creation
Introduction
Today, the doctrine of creation is often seen as essential in many churches, a belief required before becoming a member. However, this was not always the case. This relatively recent doctrine was popularized by 20th-century young-earth proponents. Let’s explore the history, relevance, and necessity of this doctrine.
Understanding Doctrine
A doctrine is a fundamental truth or set of beliefs held by a group. In the church, doctrines are key teachings that members are expected to believe. For example, the Thirty-Nine Articles of Religion define the Anglican system of belief but make no mention of creation. Early church creeds, such as the Nicene and Apostles' Creeds, affirm God as the creator without specifying the age of the earth.
Historical Perspective
Early church doctrines did not focus on the duration of creation. In fact, many church fathers interpreted biblical texts to mean that each day of creation could be 1,000 years long. The Nicene Creed mentions God as the creator but doesn't specify the length of creation, allowing for different interpretations.
Similarly, the Apostles’ Creed, rooted in the 1st and 2nd centuries, affirms belief in God the Creator without detailing the creation timeline. The Athanasian Creed, dating to the 4th century, doesn’t mention creation at all.
Denominations and Beliefs
Many denominations today are open to old-earth beliefs. Out of 50 major denominations, only two major ones are hostile to old-earth views: independent Baptist churches and the Assemblies of God. The Southern Baptists and Seventh-Day Adventists, although occasionally supporting young-earth creationism, do not universally mandate it.
The young-earth movement began with George McCready Price, a Seventh-Day Adventist in the early 1900s. It gained momentum through organizations like Answers in Genesis and the Institute for Creation Research, mainly supported by some Baptist communities.
The Emergence of Creation Doctrine
The creation doctrine, as it stands today, emerged in the 20th century. Henry Morris and others promoted young-earth creationism, which was not a significant focus for early fundamentalists who opposed evolution rather than an old earth.
Conclusion
For nearly 1,900 years, the doctrine of a young earth was unnecessary. Prompted by a vision from Seventh-Day Adventists, the modern young-earth movement persists, despite not being a part of early church beliefs. A young-earth doctrine continues to divide, turning many away from the gospel. Acknowledging an old earth does not conflict with biblical inerrancy, and we should not alienate people by insisting on young-earth beliefs. The focus should be on faith, allowing room for diverse views on creation within the framework of Christianity.
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