God created all things; ex nihilo creation; universe has beginning
Anglican theology affirms the doctrine of creation ex nihilo (out of nothing) as expressed in Genesis 1:1-2. God is understood as the eternal Creator and sustainer of all things visible and invisible. This doctrine is foundational to Anglican faith and is affirmed in the creeds ('Maker of heaven and earth') and in the theological tradition.
Anglican churches include both those who read Genesis 1-2 literally and those who engage with evolutionary science while maintaining divine creation. The 'via media' approach accepts varied interpretations of the creation account's relationship to modern science, provided that God's role as Creator is affirmed. The theological point is non-negotiable: all creation depends on God's creative will.
Key Distinctions
- Creation ex nihilo:
- ex nihilo; God is eternal Creator
- Spirit role:
- Creation model:
- literal or concordist readings acceptable; divine creation non-negotiable
Scripture References
Sources
- Nicene Creed, as used in Anglican worship
- Thirty-Nine Articles, Article I (1571)