Calculating Creation: A Matter of Faith and Fidelity

We are often told to seek knowledge diligently, to ask questions and seek answers, and to learn of a surety. Yet, frequently, the answers we seek aren’t neatly packaged and handed to us. They require wrestling with complexity, interpreting language, and – crucially – applying faith. The discourse surrounding the age of the earth exemplifies this principle. The world clamors for definitive, scientifically-proven ages for everything, yet the scriptures offer a different path: a path of reasoned calculation based on revealed truth.

Genesis and the Literal Day

The foundational difficulty lies in how we interpret Genesis. Is it a poetic allegory, or a historical record of creation taking place over six literal days? The latter interpretation is vital for understanding the chronology woven throughout the scriptures. Rejecting the literal day opens the door to subjective interpretation and ultimately, a rejection of the prophetic witness embedded within the text. As President Brigham Young taught, “We must begin with the word of God; that is the first step.” (Journal History, September 28, 1832).

This isn't a new debate. The prophets have consistently affirmed the truthfulness of the Book of Genesis. To dismiss the days of creation as symbolic is to cast doubt upon the very foundation of our faith. It’s a slippery slope that can lead to questioning other aspects of the Restoration.

Calculating Chronology

The podcast episode, Creation—It’s Young!, highlights a crucial point: while the scriptures don't explicitly state the earth's age in years, they provide the data necessary to calculate it. This isn’t about forcing the scriptures to fit a pre-determined scientific model; it’s about using the information *within* the scriptures to arrive at a reasonable understanding of time. It’s a testament to the power of revelation and diligent scriptural study.

Listen to the full episode to hear the specifics of the calculation. The process isn't simple; it requires careful consideration of genealogies, lifespans, and the timelines presented in various biblical accounts. But the effort is worthwhile. It demonstrates that the scriptures are not in conflict with truth, but rather contain the keys to unlocking it.

Faith and the Spirit

We must acknowledge that these calculations are, to a degree, dependent on assumptions and interpretations. There will always be room for scholarly debate. However, the crucial element is the underlying faith – the conviction that the scriptures are the word of God and that they contain the truth. The Spirit will bear witness of this truth to those who seek it with a sincere heart.

Furthermore, engaging in this type of scriptural analysis strengthens our testimony. It reinforces the principle that the Restoration is not merely about receiving new revelations, but also about recovering lost truths—truths that have been obscured by time and misinterpretation. It echoes the teachings of the Brethren regarding the importance of seeking knowledge and understanding through diligent study and prayer.

The pursuit of knowledge, even regarding seemingly esoteric topics like the age of the earth, is a sacred calling. It demands humility, diligence, and a deep reliance on the Spirit. Let us strive to approach these matters with the same earnestness and faith that the prophets have exemplified.

What insights have you gained from studying the chronology of creation? Share your thoughts and observations in the comments below.