Lutheran Lens Commentary: Genesis 1

Lutheran Lens Reading of Genesis 1

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

In Genesis 1, we read this passage as the foundational narrative of God's creative work, emphasizing both the Law and the Gospel. The Law reveals human dependence on God's creative and sustaining power, highlighting our inability to generate life and order apart from Him. The Gospel is present as we see the goodness of creation as a gift from God, prefiguring the ultimate restoration and reconciliation through Christ. This creation account points to Christ as the Word through whom all things were made, aligning with the Christological reading central to our tradition.

Key Language Decisions

In the Hebrew text, the word 'bara' (create) is significant, emphasizing God's sole initiative and power in creation ex nihilo. This supports our understanding of God's sovereignty and our dependence. The repetition of 'And God said' underscores the power of God's Word, which aligns with our emphasis on the efficacy of Scripture and the means of grace. The phrase 'very good' (tov meod) highlights the goodness of creation as a divine gift, pointing to the Gospel's promise of restoration.

Where Traditions Diverge

Unlike Reformed traditions that may emphasize covenant theology in creation, we focus on the Law and Gospel distinction, seeing creation as both an act of God's Law (showing our dependency) and Gospel (God's good gift). Roman Catholic tradition often views creation more in terms of natural law and human cooperation with grace, whereas we emphasize the totality of God's action and human passivity in receiving grace.

Pastoral Application

A Lutheran Lens pastor should emphasize that Genesis 1 reveals both our dependency on God (Law) and the goodness of His creation as a gift (Gospel). Preach the assurance that, just as God ordered creation, He orders our lives in Christ, bringing about new creation through Word and Sacrament. Highlight Christ as the Word made flesh, through whom the new creation is being restored. Encourage the congregation to live in their baptismal identity, as new creations in Christ, trusting in God's promises rather than their own efforts.

Cross-References: John 1:1-3; Colossians 1:16-17; Hebrews 11:3; Psalm 33:6; Isaiah 45:12; Romans 8:19-22

Doctrinal Connections: theology of the cross; justification by faith alone; means of grace; simul justus et peccator; two kingdoms doctrine