In the Beginning: Foundations of Creation Theology

Rating:
Summary: A Thoughtful Book on Creation
Review: I found this book about 1 year ago browsing through a book store at the World Trade Center. I have now ordered three more copies to give to pastors at my church. I found this book a welcome change from the anti-scientific rhetoric which characterizes some of the Creationist discussion. Mr.Bavinck is critical of the geology of his time, however. It amazes me to think that this book was first written in Dutch a hundred years ago.
While geology is not a strongpoint of this book. The theology which it presents is a based on a thoughtful analysis of the teachings of scripture concerning creation and what it means. At the same time Mr. Bavinck shows the implications of a Biblically-based view of creation in relationship to the thoughts of other scholars both Christian and non-Christian. Mr. Bavinck is solidly rooted in the Reformed tradition.
I would not recommend this book to anyone for whom scholarly discussion is of little interest. The book is quite meaty, and I have had to re-read some sections to grasp the meaning. Some Christian theological concepts are referenced via their Latin labels although you don't need to know Latin. For the diligent reader there is much to gain by reading this book.
The writer assumes a broad understanding of Christian theology. Much can be gleaned from this book, however, by anyone who wants to know more about the goal of creation, heaven, angels, earth, the image of God, human origins, human nature, human destiny and God's Fatherly care.
Mr. Bavinck focuses more on what Creation means rather than on how it happened. He, also, shows, however, that the historical facts of the creation out of nothing by a Triune God, the creation of man in the image of God, Adam and Eve and the fall are critical foundation beliefs for a Christian.
I was amazed to realize that the image of God is only realized in man as a community both in creation and redemption. How many times have I read Genesis and missed this point. Understanding more about the image of God will affect how you relate to people and not just how you argue for the truths of Scripture.
With other materials I used "In the Beginning - The Foundations of Creation Theology" to develop a series of Sunday school lessons on Genesis which were very well-received. If you are going to preach or teach on Genesis or Creation get this book.
Finally, the basic point of the book:
"Of him, through, and to him are all things (Rom. 11:36). On this basis Christian theology almost unanimously teaches that the glory of God is the final goal of all God's works" from page 53 of the book.