Genesis 1:1-2 — "In the Beginning"

Branhamism interprets Genesis 1:1-2 with an emphasis on God's creative Word and the Spirit's role in restoration and order. Some Branhamist teachers propose a 'Gap Theory' variation, suggesting that Genesis 1:2 may refer to a restoration of earth following a previous judgment, with the Holy Spirit moving to restore order and beauty. However, this is not universally held in the movement, and standard creation theology is also affirmed.

The central Branhamist emphasis is that God created through his Word (the logos, which is Jesus) and that the Spirit's moving over the waters demonstrates God's purposeful activity in bringing forth creation. This connects to Branham's broader theology where God's Word is the ultimate creative and redemptive force, and faith in and alignment with God's revealed Word (through Branham's prophetic message) enables participation in God's ongoing creative purposes. Genesis 1:1-2 establishes the pattern of God's authority and the Spirit's work that continues throughout Scripture.