The Biblical Metanarrative- Unveiling the Tapestry of Creation, Fall, Redemption, and New Creation
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The Biblical Metanarrative: Unveiling the Tapestry of Creation, Fall, Redemption, and
New Creation
Abraham J. Avila
Liberty University
THEO 104: Introduction to Theology Survey
Dr. Jeffery Brown
January 29, 2024
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Introduction
The Bible, a collection of diverse writings, is often seen as more than just a compilation of stories; it is a grand narrative that unfolds in a way that reveals God's overarching purpose and plan for humanity. This meta-narrative, consisting of four major movements - Creation, Fall, Redemption, and New Creation - serves as the foundational framework for understanding the theological landscape of the Bible. By delving into each of these movements and exploring their implications, this essay aims to shed light on how the biblical metanarrative fosters a comprehensive biblical worldview, addressing the fundamental questions of origin, identity, meaning, morality, and destiny.
Major Movements of the Biblical Metanarrative
1. Creation
The biblical metanarrative commences with the account of Creation, where God brings forth the universe and all that is in it in His infinite wisdom and power. In Genesis 1:1, the opening verse of the Bible, we read, "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth" (English Standard Version Bible, 2016). This foundational passage emphasizes the sovereignty and creative prowess of God. Theologians such as Karl Barth and Thomas Aquinas provide insights into Creation's theological significance, emphasizing its divine intentionality. Barth asserts that Creation is an act of God's love, an overflow of His goodness (Starkenburg, 2020). Aquinas
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elucidates on the idea of God as the primary cause, bringing everything into existence with purpose and order (Silva, 2014).
2. Fall
The second movement of the biblical metanarrative is the Fall, a tragic event that disrupted the harmony of God's Creation. Genesis 3 narrates Adam and Eve's disobedience, leading to the introduction of sin into the world. The consequences of the Fall are profound, affecting not only the relationship between humanity and God but also the entire created order. Theological references, such as Augustine's concept of original sin and Calvin's understanding of human depravity, shed light on the gravity of the Fall. Augustine argues that sin has corrupted human nature, passed down through generations (Ferro, 2019). Calvin emphasizes the pervasive impact of sin on every aspect of human life, known as total depravity (Relearn.org, 2023).
3. Redemption
The third movement, Redemption, unfolds as God initiates a plan to restore the broken relationship between Himself and humanity. This plan is revealed progressively throughout the biblical narrative, culminating in the person and work of Jesus Christ. One key passage illustrating this redemptive movement is John 3:16, which states, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life" (English Standard Version Bible, 2016). The concept of atonement by Anselm and the Christus Victor model provides insights into the various facets of Redemption. Anselm's satisfaction
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theory explores how Christ's death satisfies divine justice (Peterson, 2016), while the Christus Victor model emphasizes Christ's triumph over sin, death, and the powers of evil (What Is the Meaning of Christus Victor?, n.d.).
4. New Creation
The final movement of the biblical metanarrative is the promise of New Creation, where God will bring about a renewed and perfected existence. Revelation 21:1-5 paints a vivid picture of this future reality, proclaiming, "Behold, I am making all things new" (English Standard Version Bible, 2016)—theological references, such as N.T. Wright's concept of inaugurated eschatology and Moltmann's theology of hope provide perspectives on the theological significance of the New Creation. Wright emphasizes that the resurrection of Jesus inaugurates God's new Creation (Wright, 2024), and Moltmann underscores the eschatological hope that shapes the Christian understanding of the future (Williams, 2019).
Understanding the Biblical Metanarrative and Worldview
Understanding the biblical metanarrative is crucial for shaping a comprehensive biblical worldview. By addressing the five worldview questions, we can see how the metanarrative provides a cohesive framework for making sense of the world.
a. Origin – The biblical metanarrative answers the question of origin by affirming that life began with the intentional act of God's Creation. Humans are not mere products of chance but are intentionally crafted beings with a purpose.
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b. Identity – The metanarrative defines human identity as being created in the image of God, endowed with inherent dignity and value. This understanding transcends a utilitarian view of humanity, emphasizing the unique significance of human life.
c. Meaning – The metanarrative provides meaning by revealing that humans exist for a purpose –
to love and worship God, to steward creation, and to participate in the unfolding drama of Redemption.
d. Morality – The metanarrative establishes the foundation for morality by delineating the difference between right and wrong based on God's character and revealed commands. Moral guidelines are not arbitrary but are grounded like God.
e. Destiny – The metanarrative assures believers of life after death, presenting a vision of a New Creation where God's ultimate purposes for humanity and the cosmos are fulfilled.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the biblical metanarrative, comprised of the major movements of Creation, Fall, Redemption, and New Creation, offers a comprehensive framework for understanding God's overarching purpose and plan. By delving into the theological depths of each movement and exploring their implications, we gain insight into the foundations of Christian belief. Furthermore, understanding the biblical metanarrative fosters a biblical worldview, answering the fundamental questions of origin, identity, meaning, morality, and destiny. As believers grasp the grand narrative woven throughout Scripture, they are equipped to navigate the complexities of life with a firm foundation grounded in God's redemptive plan for humanity.
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References
English Standard Version Bible. (2001). ESV Online. https://esv.literalword.com/
Ferro, V. a. P. B. L. (2019, June 15).
Augustine on human nature
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The Doctrine of Total Depravity—is it Biblical? - Relearn.org
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Silva, I. (2014). Revisiting Aquinas on providence and rising to the challenge of divine action in nature.
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Starkenburg, K. (2021, April 20).
No cowering down: Glory, Election and Worship in Karl Barth’s Doctrine of God - Keith Starkenburg
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What is the meaning of Christus Victor?
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Williams, V. (2019, May 15).
Jürgen Moltmann on the relationship between hope and reality — Curating theology
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Theology.
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Wright, N. (2024, January 7).
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