Topical Bible: Beasts: Made for the Praise and Glory of God

◄ Beasts: Made for the Praise and Glory of God ►

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Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical narrative, beasts are often depicted as integral parts of God's creation, serving to reflect His majesty, power, and divine order. From the earliest chapters of Genesis to the apocalyptic visions in Revelation, beasts are portrayed as creatures that, in their existence and behavior, contribute to the praise and glory of God.

Creation and Purpose

The account of creation in Genesis establishes the foundational understanding of beasts within the biblical worldview. On the sixth day, God created the beasts of the earth, each according to its kind, and saw that it was good (Genesis 1:24-25). This declaration of goodness underscores the inherent value and purpose of beasts as part of God's orderly and harmonious creation. They are not random or chaotic but are designed with intention and purpose, contributing to the balance and beauty of the world.

Symbolism and Representation

Throughout Scripture, beasts often symbolize various attributes of God's character or serve as metaphors for spiritual truths. For instance, the lion, known for its strength and majesty, is used to represent the power and sovereignty of God (Hosea 11:10). Similarly, the eagle, with its ability to soar high and see from great distances, is a symbol of God's protection and care (Exodus 19:4).

In the prophetic and apocalyptic literature, beasts can also represent nations, kingdoms, or spiritual entities. The visions of Daniel and Revelation include beasts that symbolize empires and their rulers, illustrating the transient nature of human power in contrast to God's eternal dominion (Daniel 7:3-7, Revelation 13:1-2).

Praise and Worship

The Psalms frequently call upon all creation, including beasts, to join in the worship of God. Psalm 148 is a notable example, where the psalmist exhorts all creatures, from the great sea creatures to the cattle and creeping things, to praise the name of the Lord (Psalm 148:7-10). This call to worship highlights the role of beasts as participants in the cosmic chorus that glorifies God.

Divine Provision and Care

God's care for beasts is evident throughout Scripture, reflecting His providence and compassion. In the book of Job, God challenges Job to consider the vast array of creatures He has made, each uniquely provided for and sustained by His hand (Job 38:39-41). This divine provision underscores the interconnectedness of all creation and God's sovereign care over every living thing.

Moral and Ethical Considerations

The biblical mandate for humanity to exercise dominion over the beasts of the earth (Genesis 1:26) carries with it a responsibility for stewardship and care. This dominion is not a license for exploitation but a call to reflect God's character in the way humans interact with and care for the animal kingdom. The righteous man is described as caring for the needs of his animals, reflecting a heart aligned with God's compassion (Proverbs 12:10).

Eschatological Vision

In the eschatological vision of the new creation, the harmony between humans and beasts is restored. Isaiah's prophecy of the peaceable kingdom envisions a time when the wolf will dwell with the lamb, and the lion will eat straw like the ox (Isaiah 11:6-7). This vision points to the ultimate reconciliation and renewal of all creation, where beasts once again fully participate in the peace and glory of God's kingdom.

In summary, beasts in the Bible are more than mere animals; they are integral to the tapestry of creation, reflecting God's glory, participating in His praise, and pointing to His ultimate plan for redemption and restoration.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Psalm 148:10
Beasts, and all cattle; creeping things, and flying fowl:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Psalm 104. The Glory of God in Creation and Providence.
... 17 Then man to daily labour goes; The night was made for his ... breathe on dust again,
And fill the world with beasts and men ... The Lord is dreadful in his praise. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/watts/the psalms of david/psalm 104 the glory of.htm

Psalm 104 the Glory of God in Creation and Providence.
... Then man to daily labor goes; The night was made for his repose; ... And fill the
world with beasts and men; ... The Lord is dreadful in his praise. ...
/.../watts/the psalms and hymns of isaac watts/psalm 104 the glory of.htm

The Sovereignty of God in Reprobation
... unto destruction; that they are like brute beasts, made to be ... Scripture says, "God
hath made man upright: but they have ... of His mere love, for the praise of His ...
/.../pink/the sovereignty of god/chapter five the sovereignty of.htm

God's Glory the Chief End of Man's Being
... of God's praises are written; and man is made a creature ... It is as proper to us to
praise God, as for a ... All beasts have their own sounds and voices peculiar to ...
/.../binning/the works of the rev hugh binning/lecture i gods glory the.htm

The Glory of the Trinity
... generation of them, since the world was made, the ever ... from suns and stars, clouds
and showers, beasts and birds ... of the Lord, bless ye the Lord; praise Him and ...
/.../kingsley/all saints day and other sermons/sermon xvi the glory of.htm

The Likeness of God
... he is indeed most miserable of all the beasts of the ... that, therefore, is the likeness
of God who made heaven and ... Praise the Lord, O my soul, for the Lord is ...
/.../kingsley/the gospel of the pentateuch/sermon ii the likeness of.htm

God's World
... For these psalms of which I speak praise and honour ... He, God Almighty, appeared
visibly"God who made heaven and ... have liked to be singing about beasts and birds ...
/.../kingsley/twenty-five village sermons/sermon i gods world.htm

"If So be that the Spirit of God Dwell in You. Now if any Man have ...
... their praise of God and if God praise them now, they shall be made to praise him
for ... soul acted only in a brutal way, when driven out among beasts, so the ...
/.../binning/the works of the rev hugh binning/sermon xxiv if so be.htm

The Creation
... his wisdom and goodness, and give him the praise due to him. ... God has made everything
for man's service; the corn for nourishment, the beasts for usefulness ...
//christianbookshelf.org/watson/a body of divinity/13 the creation.htm

The Song of the Three Children
... alone, to thee, as well as to all which He has made. ... And better it is to praise him
truly by works without ... thou art not even as righteous as the beasts of the ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/kingsley/the good news of god/sermon iv the song of.htm