Genesis 1:1-2 describes God's creation; LDS theology: creation from pre-existing matter
The LDS church interprets Genesis 1:1-2 differently from orthodox creatio ex nihilo theology. LDS doctrine teaches that creation is not from absolute nothingness but from pre-existing matter. The Lord 'organized' the heavens and earth from pre-existing matter, according to Joseph Smith's revelations.
LDS theology distinguishes between ex nihilo (from nothing) and organization of pre-existing materials. This is based on the revelation in Doctrine and Covenants 93:29, which states, 'All truth is independent in that sphere in which God has placed it, to act for itself, as all truth also is independent — hence the saying, by their fruits ye shall know them.' Intelligence and matter are eternal and uncreated. God organizes these eternal elements into worlds and life forms. This provides a different theological framework than traditional Christian creation doctrine.
Key Distinctions
- Creation ex nihilo:
- creation is organization of pre-existing matter
- Spirit role:
- Creation model:
Scripture References
- Doctrine and Covenants 93:29
- Doctrine and Covenants 131:7
Sources
- Doctrine and Covenants 93:29
- LDS Gospel Principles