Christ rose from the dead on the third day, according to the Scriptures. But according to the Scriptures, what happened on the “fourth day”?

On Sunday, we are going to take up that question and look at Genesis 1:14–19, which tells us that the lights in the heavens were made on the fourth day. And taking our cues from the rest of the Bible, we are going to see what this day of creation tells us about the world and the One who made the world.

Indeed, as the world shakes around us, we need to see that God rules over all things. On Day 4, he created the greater and lesser lights to rule the day and the night. And we need to see how the Creator of light is also the Ruler of rulers. Indeed, this is evident in Genesis 1, but in the fulness of time it is even more apparent as we behold Christ seated at God’s right hand. Indeed, as I will argue, the fourth day leads us to see Christ’s ascension and rule over all creation.

Yet, to understand how that works, we will need to look carefully at Genesis 1, as well as the books of Isaiah, Joel, Luke and Acts. To prepare for Sunday, take time to pray for God to shine his light on us. Read Genesis 1and if you have time, read Genesis 37, Isaiah 13, and Joel 2. Keep an eye out for the sun, moon, and stars, and ask––how does Genesis 1 inform the rest of redemptive history? This Sunday we will consider that very point.

As the Lord allows, I look forward to worshiping God with you on Sunday. It was a joy to bring greetings to Arlington Baptist Church last week, but it will be better to be home again. I hope to see you at OBC on Sunday.

For His Glory and your joy in Jesus,

Pastor David

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Discussion & Response Questions: Genesis 1:14–19

How does Day 4 (Gen. 1:14–19) fit with the rest of Genesis 1?

What is the relationship between God’s light, the light in the heavens, and the lights created on Day 4?

What are the lights on Day 4 for?

Have you noticed their purpose before? How many things do we overlook in Scripture?

Is there any significance to the fact that the sun, moon, and stars are not mentioned in Genesis 1:14–19? How might this reinforce our understanding of the world before the Flood?

Where do we see the lights of heaven mentioned in Scripture? Think: Genesis 15:5; 37:5–11.

How do the Prophets speak of the sun, moon, and stars? (See Isaiah 13:9–13; Ezekiel 32:7–8; Joel 2:28–32). How does Genesis 1 help us understand those passages?

What is the connection between Day 4 and Jesus? (See Malachi 4:2; Mark 13:24–25; Luke 21:24–26; Hebrews 12:26).

If Day 3 is tied to the resurrection, and Day 4 is related to Christ's ascension (see Acts 2), what comes next for Christ? What comes next for the new creation? (Lord willing, we will see this next week).

How does knowing that Christ is ruling over all powers and principalities cause you to stand? How does his Lordship over the nations encourage you today?

What is the hope for the Christian? (See Daniel 12:1-3; Philippians 2:15).