Religious Studies - 5 - Christianity - Beliefs & Teachings - 176,177 - Creation - Interpretations Of The Genesis Creation Story

Question 1

What do some fundamentalist Christians believe about the Genesis creation story?

Answer 1

They believe the story to be absolutely true in every detail.

This is referred to as a literal interpretation of the creation story.

Question 2

How do other Christians interpret the Genesis creation story?

Answer 2

They believe the story is more symbolic or metaphorical and requires interpretation.

They do not believe every detail of the story to be literally accurate or true.

Question 3

What are the two main views on how the Bible is interpreted among Christians?

Answer 3

Literally or non-literally.

This leads to diverse understandings of biblical accounts.

Question 4

How might a literal Christian interpret the term ‘day’ in the Genesis creation story?

Answer 4

As a literal 24-hour period.

This interpretation leads to the rejection of scientific theories suggesting an older universe.

Question 5

How might other Christians interpret the term ‘day’ in the Genesis creation story?

Answer 5

As representing a longer period of time, possibly millions of years.

This allows them to reconcile the creation story with scientific theories like the Big Bang.

Question 6

What is a common belief all Christians share regarding the creation of the universe?

Answer 6

God was the ultimate creator of the universe.

This belief stands regardless of their views on the Big Bang theory.

Question 7

Fill in the blank: Some Christians interpret the Genesis creation story as _______.

Answer 7

[symbolic or metaphorical]

Question 8

True or False: All Christians interpret the Genesis creation story literally.

Answer 8

False.

There is a significant diversity in interpretations among Christians.