Chapter IV
A Home for Man
And He built His sanctuary like high places,
like the earth which He has established forever.
Psalms 78:69
As a young boy growing up in Southern California, Daniel Paulson had a wonderful childhood. His mother and father loved him dearly and were never ashamed to express their joy in him. He had an older brother that he once described as being “a tad bit smarter than Einstein, and a lot wittier than Johnny Carson.” This brother once lobbied to have the family dog’s name changed to “Flea” because he was convinced no other dog in the world would have such a cool name. How’s that for witty?
Daniel also had a little sister who was a constant companion. She would follow him around like a shadow, but this never seemed to bother him. He really liked his “sis,” and years later described her as the “sweetest girl in the world.”
The neighborhood where Daniel and his family lived was a magical place. It was always filled with the sounds of children. On any given summer evening there would literally be dozens of kids playing in Daniel’s front yard. Often they would bring sleeping bags and spend the night together under the warm summer sky.
Daniel’s home was a place where he and his family spent thousands of hours around the dining room table sharing their lives with the ones they loved most. He spent his entire youth in that house and it was a source of great comfort to him. Home was a place where he always felt safe. It was warm in the winter, cool in the summer, and constantly filled with hope. What a great place for a young boy to learn and grow.
The value of a strong home cannot be overstated. Character and virtue are shaped in such places. With this in mind, is it any wonder that as a part of His Plan, God would build a home for all mankind?
In the Beginning
The scriptures declare that sometime after revealing His Plan for mankind to the angelic realm, God began to implement one of its most critical stages. He would build a domain in which man could learn and grow. The book of Genesis describes this creative act in words that identify the source of all that exists.
In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. (Gen. 1:1)
It was at this precise moment that everything in the material universe began. The Bible does not indicate when this exact moment occurred other than to say “in the beginning.” However, a strong case can be made that this moment may have taken place billions of years ago, and perhaps even longer. The evidence for this position will be presented in Chapter V of this book.
The scriptures do declare however, that at this very moment something spectacular occurred. Something so immense that the entire angelic world could observe it. It was at this point that all the angels sang praises to the Great God and literally shouted for joy (Job 38:7).
How Did He Do It?
Many have wondered how God went about creating the universe. In other words, what specifically did He do? What materials did He use? Did He simply “blink” like some genie in a lamp, and poof! everything appeared? Or was the universe painstakingly assembled like an intricate model with every piece delicately put in its exact place? Is that what God did? Just how did He create the vast expanse of the heavens and the earth?
As amazing as this might sound, the Bible provides some extraordinary insights into this great scientific puzzle. It actually describes the process that took place when this Master Architect created all that exists.
Things Not Seen
The eleventh chapter of the book of Hebrews is one of the most frequently read passages in all the Bible. This chapter is often called the “faith chapter.” It identifies great champions of faith down through the ages, as well as the challenges they faced throughout their lives. However, this wonderful portion of scripture also addresses the very creation of heaven and earth and in doing so, reveals something extraordinary about this remarkable event.
The author of Hebrews begins this chapter by providing an explanation of what real faith is. Notice what is said.
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. (Heb. 11:1)
The words in this verse are revealing that there are things that exist that cannot be grasped by the empirical senses. In other words “things not seen.” This however, does not mean that such “things” are not real. Notice this verse does not say “things that don’t exist,” but rather “things not seen.” The point here is that there are things that do exist that simply cannot be comprehended by sight, scent, taste, touch, or sound. This is because these “things” are made of something beyond the physical realm.
At this point the author now addressed the literal creation of the material universe – the heavens and the earth, and once again the existence of the “invisible” is presented.
Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were made of things which do not appear. (Heb. 11:3)
With these words, the Bible is proclaiming that the physical universe we see around us was made by the “word of God” out of something that is not seen – something other than physical matter.
Although the scriptures do not specifically state what this “something” was, it is clear that it was not corruptible in nature. This being the case, the ingredient God used when fashioning the universe must have been some form of spiritual material that had the capacity to be converted into a massive energy source. This material was a type of “spiritual essence.” God then used this essence to create a highly concentrated molecular structure. This structure may very well have contained virtually all the elements that exist in the universe today.
Experts in the scientific community have suggested that the molecular structure from which the universe came once possessed a perfect density. In other words, it was perfectly solid. To put this in perspective, imagine God placing the entire universe in His hand and squeezing all the air out of it. It was so concentrated that there was literally no space between the atomic particles of which matter consists.
Furthermore, the density of this structure was so great that its size would be remarkably small. Many leading quantum-physicists have suggested that it was no larger than a small coin. Imagine the entire universe being the size of a dime! Some have even suggested that it was so tiny that it could not even be detected by the most powerful microscope on earth today. Such a fact is just mind-boggling because the universe in its current state is so vast.
This concentrated molecular structure is in all likelihood what God made from incorruptible “spirit essence.” In this process, the incorruptible became corruptible. Spirit became matter. This atomic structure would then be used by the Great Creator to form an architectural wonder that would come to be known as the universe. It was at this point that God spoke the “word” that would “frame the world.” He commanded this massively powerful source of energy to “go forth!” and go forth it did!
This concentrated molecular structure is in all likelihood what God made from incorruptible “spirit essence.” In this process, the incorruptible became corruptible. Spirit became matter. This atomic structure would then be used by the Great Creator to form an architectural wonder that would come to be known as the universe. It was at this point that God spoke the “word” that would “frame the world.” He commanded this massively powerful source of energy to “go forth!” and go forth it did!
This precise moment was nothing short of high drama in the universe. Virtually every angelic being in existence was poised as God was about to activate a power source so massive, its effects are felt throughout the heavens to this very day. The universe today is still in a state of expansion.
It is hard to imagine how spectacular this moment was. Here, at this exact second, organic matter was screaming through a newborn universe at speeds man simply cannot comprehend. The colors and sounds must have been breathtaking.
As this newly created material ripped through the blackness of space, stars were being formed, planets and moons were moving into orbits, honoring laws the Great Creator had already set in motion. Gravitational pulls were molding solar systems, Galaxies were forming their “borders.” Great stars were exploding into bodies of unimaginable light and power. And this all came into being because an infinite God gave the “word.” The Bible says, “God spoke and earth existed.” This truth is affirmed by both science and scripture.
Who Created the Universe?
The Bible states that the universe was created by God. But who is this God? And why would He build such a thing? The answers to these questions have enormous implications, and provide greater clarity when attempting to understand God’s Plan for mankind and the great Destiny that awaits him.
The scriptures declare that the heavens and earth were created by the One who would later become Jesus Christ. In his letter to the Church at Colosse, the apostle Paul leaves no doubt regarding this truth. Notice what he says.
For by Him [Jesus Christ] were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by Him and for Him: And He is before all things, and by Him all things consist. (Col. 1:16-17)
Here Paul is declaring that everything that has a beginning was created by the Messiah. This is true for both the spirit realm as well as the material universe. None other than Jesus Christ is their Maker.
A Grave Misunderstanding
There are some well-intended “believers” who contend that Jesus Himself was also a created being prior to His earthly life. Some have even suggested that He may have been the twin brother of the great archangel Lucifer – the very Lucifer who later became Satan the devil. Those who hold this view believe that God the Father stands alone as the One Being who has eternally existed.
However, the words of Paul just cited reject such a belief. This apostle plainly states that “all things” were made by Him (Jesus Christ). Notice what Paul did not say. He did not say “some things.” He did not say “most things.” He did not say “everything except the Messiah.” Paul declared without hesitation that “all things,” in all places, and in all forms, were the product of Jesus’ creative power. In other words, if they were made, Jesus made them. When they first came into being, Jesus was there. Therefore, if Jesus was a created being, it would have been necessary for Him to create Himself in order for the scriptures to be true.
Paul was not the only servant of God who believed Jesus was the source of all creation. The apostle John also understood that the Messiah was the Great Creator who fashioned everything that exists. Notice what John writes.
All things were made by Him; and without Him was not anything made that was made. (Jn. 1:3)
These words state with great clarity that Jesus Christ can rightfully stake claim to creating all that exists. Jesus was the God who spoke and earth existed. He was the God who fashioned the heavens by His wisdom. He was the God who formed the oceans, fixed the currents, built great mountains, and gave life to all that lives, including the angels.
When Jesus Christ stretched out the heavens and fashioned the earth, He was building something that was absolutely beautiful. The universe was exquisite – like a display of priceless jewelry gently resting on black velvet. Every piece was in its place. This is when the angels shouted for joy. But the joy they expressed was not simply over the great majesty of the heavens and the earth. The joy they were proclaiming reflected a beautiful understanding—for they knew what it all meant.
Why Did God Make a Physical Universe?
In the prior chapter, we learned that when God created the universe, all the angels rejoiced with songs of praise and shouts of sheer delight (Job 38:7). Based on this reaction, it is reasonable to conclude that the angels must have known God’s Plan for man and the role the earth would play in it. But some may ask if there is any scriptural evidence that provides absolute, incontrovertible proof that the earth was specifically created for man. The answer is Yes! And this proof offers an incredible glimpse into the Destiny of the physical realm as well.
When writing to the Church at Rome, the apostle Paul presented a powerful lesson regarding the physical dimension in which man currently resides. In the eighth chapter of this epistle, Paul explains that the entire physical creation will one day go through a phenomenal transformation. At that time, the heavens and the earth will no longer be made of corruptible matter, but rather of incorruptible spirit. Additionally, Paul even revealed what specifically must take place in order for this transformation to occur. He begins this lesson by explaining that nature itself is longing for a dramatic change to take place in God’s children.
For the earnest expectation of the creature waits for the manifestation of the sons of God. (Ro. 8:19)
The Greek word for “creature” in this verse is ktisis. This word refers to all that was created, not simply living creatures as some think. This being the case, Paul was explaining that the entire physical realm is anxiously waiting for the manifestation of God’s children.
Although this transformation occurs in phases, the last phase will take place at the conclusion of God’s final judgment on all mankind (Rev. 20:11-15). Once this judgment is dispensed, all who enter into His eternal Kingdom will be born into it as literal children of God Almighty. At that time, man will no longer be made of flesh, but rather of incorruptible spirit.
As Paul expands on this wonderful truth, he explains that the earth was never created to eternally exist in its corruptible state. It was actually created to be transitory – in other words, subject to corruption (death).
For the creature (creation) was made subject to vanity (corruption), not willingly, but by reason of Him Who hath subjected the same in hope (Ro. 8:20)
Today we live in a world that is truly in a state of decay. Some try to put a pleasant face on this fact by referring to it as “the circle of life.” In this circle, all living things are born, move through an existence, then die, etc., etc., etc. Although this is the natural order of things in this corruptible realm, the universe will not always be this way. The twenty-first chapter of Revelation describes a time when there will be a “New Heaven” and a “New Earth.” At that time, the old heaven and the old earth will “pass away.” Once this new universe is “born,” death will also be destroyed and life will fill the entirety of time and space (1Cor. 15:26). Paul goes on to explain that the creation also has a Destiny. Like man, it, too, shall be delivered from the grips of death.
Because the creature (creation) itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. (Ro. 8:21)
That “glorious liberty” will come when man is born into God’s Family as literal sons and daughters. At that time, they will be made of incorruptible spirit and fashioned with God’s perfect righteous character. They will be “just like Him (1Jn. 3:2). This is not to suggest that the entire creation will possess God’s character and wisdom. However, it will be changed into that which cannot die. It, too, will be incorruptible.
Paul concludes this lesson by acknowledging that God’s people share a great hope that will come to pass when their change comes. And like God’s children, the entire creation is destined to become incorruptible and also enter into eternity.
For we know that the whole creation groans and travails in pain together until now. And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body. (Ro. 8:22-23)
Throughout history, God’s children have longed for the day when His desire for them will be accomplished. At that time they will no longer suffer pain or even death (Rev. 21:4). The time is coming when mankind will enter into an incorruptible state. This is his Destiny. This is also the Destiny God fashioned for the entire creation. The point here is that the Great Creator and Sustainer of all that exists is eventually going to breathe incorruptible life into the entire universe. Man may not be aware of this truth, but the heavens and the earth are in for a spectacular change. The author of Hebrews put it this way.
And, you, Lord, in the beginning have laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of your hand: They shall perish; but you remain; and they shall wax old as a garment; And as a vesture shall you fold them up. And they shall be changed... (Heb. 1:10-12)
Clearly, the physical realm of which we are a part is going to change. It will one day be incorruptible. With this in mind, why did God make it physical in the first place? Why didn’t He make it a “glorified” universe at the very beginning?
The answer to this question is actually revealed in what lies ahead for the entire physical realm. In other words, its Destiny. Now consider this great truth. If the physical creation will become incorruptible when man becomes spirit (Ro. 8:21), then the only reason for its corruptible existence in the first place was to accommodate man in his physical state. In other words, God built the physical universe to be inhabited by physical beings. The prophet Isaiah put it best.
For thus saith the LORD that created the heavens; God himself that formed the earth and made it; he hath established it, He created it not in vain, He formed it to be inhabited... (Isa. 45:18)
Here, God clearly reveals that the earth was created because He already had a tenant in mind. God created a physical realm because man needed a home in which to learn and grow. Therefore, God must have planned for man to exist before the universe was fashioned. Therefore, by creating the universe, God was building a home for His future sons and daughters – His family.
"A Home for Man"
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Preparing the Earth for Man
When God fashioned the heavens and the earth, He did not create it as some kind of resort where guests could be waited on and pampered. It is better to think of the universe as a great academy of learning. It was designed to be a place where virtue and character could be built and skills developed. For this reason, the Great Master Architect created the universe incomplete. It was designed to allow others to put their creative signature on it. To assist in this process, God provided great natural resources that could be used to beautify the universe--and by all indications, He chose to begin with the earth. Additionally, God first extended this creative opportunity to the angelic realm.
There are many reasons why God would have enlisted the angels to participate in this phase of His Plan. First, it would help develop their own creative talents. Secondly, it would enable them to assist in preparing the world for God’s Family. But who would God use in this critical phase of His Plan? What angelic being possessed the talent to manage such an immense project?
Because of the tremendous importance of this enterprise, God recruited the finest team of spirit beings in the angelic realm to prepare the planet for its future tenants. The manager of this project would have direct access to God Himself and would be intimately familiar with His law and Government.
Furthermore, no resource would be left untapped. God would give the director of this project unlimited access to all the manpower – or should we say spirit power – he would deem necessary. At this point, God assigns the great archangel Lucifer and a contingent of angels to oversee the beautification of the planet and prepare it for man.
Lucifer was a logical choice for this responsibility. His credentials were impeccable. He was an exquisite creature, beautiful beyond belief. The Bible says he was “perfect from the day he was created” (Ezk. 28:15). Furthermore, Lucifer served in the very Throne Room of the Great Creator. God Himself called him “the anointed cherub that covers” (Ezk. 28:14). This title was given because Lucifer’s wings actually provided a covering for God’s throne.
Lucifer was brilliant, eloquent, and charismatic. Everything about him was compelling. He was an achiever of the highest order, and in all likelihood, he must have relished the assignment.
The scriptures do not indicate what specifically Lucifer and his subordinates would do to prepare the earth for man, but it is possible they may have been involved in creating vegetation, forming bodies of water, developing sources of food, and even designing living creatures that would roam the earth. The point here is that Lucifer and these majestic angelic beings were given an opportunity to have a hands-on part in God’s Plan for mankind. Imagine being included in such a wonderful project. Now imagine being appointed by God Himself to preside over one of His Plan’s most critical stages. This great honor was bestowed on a magnificent archangel who served at the pleasure of the King of the universe.
In a very real sense, God was giving Lucifer the greatest job – the most important job ever given to a created being. Lucifer was commissioned by the Great God of Eternity to prepare the earth for His future family.
The Scope of the Project
God’s Plan of creating a home for man may have been simple in form but it was extremely complex in execution. It required strategic planning as well as organization and administration. There were also personnel considerations and the appropriate allocation of these resources. It is even possible that the angelic team assigned to the project may have included a division in charge of research and development. In short, preparing the earth for man was not going to be an easy job. It would require the total commitment of all the players. For this reason, it is very likely that every angel in existence played some role in this magnificent project. But clearly the lead in this phase of God’s Plan was bestowed on His trusted servant Lucifer, and God was committed to placing him there until His entire Plan for mankind was finished.
A Brief Review
Let’s recap what we’ve learned so far. First, God has a magnificent Plan for mankind that will result in man being born into His Family as literal sons and daughters. We also know that this Plan came into existence before the heavens and the earth were created, even before the existence of physical matter. Additionally, we learned that at some point in time, God shared this Plan with the angelic kingdom, causing a great sense of excitement and a buzz that may have filled eternity itself. God then began the execution of this Plan by first building a physical dimension in which man could learn and grow.
Once God fashioned the heavens and the earth, He selected a team under the leadership of the great archangel Lucifer to prepare earth for man. However, at some point...
THE UNTHINKABLE HAPPENS.