When you compare Genesis to other ancient creation stories there are a number of features that make Genesis stand head-and-shoulders above the rest.
PICTURE: Mario Purisic/Unsplash.
In virtually all other accounts humans are created as slaves of the gods; cannon fodder to serve and appease angry deities.
Genesis places humans in a unique place. They are created in the very image of God. They are not slaves.
They are partners with God – God gives them the responsibility to look after His creation.
They are in relationship with God – God comes and speaks to them in the cool of the evening.
Their deaths are a tragedy; their very blood screaming out to the heavens.
The other accounts show the gods made in the image of failed men, but Genesis paints men and women as made in the image of God.
Which account would you prefer?
Paul Clark’s musings can be heard on radio across Australia and at atthetop.org.au.