Fossils: Evidence of Earth's Past and God's Creation
Fossils are the preserved remains or traces of plants, animals, and other organisms from the remote past. The totality of fossils, both discovered and undiscovered, and their placement in fossiliferous (fossil-containing) rock formations and sedimentary layers (strata) is known as the fossil record
Formation and dating
Over time and with geological processes, sediment turns to sedimentary rock, encapsulating the dead organism. This process requires rapid burial to prevent scavenging and decay, suggesting catastrophic conditions rather than gradual accumulation over millions of years.
It is considered highly likely that the fossils came about during the global flood of Noah's time (Gen 7:21-23). The flood was a violent
geologic upheaval with enormous destructive power that not only destroyed all land-dwelling, air-breathing life but also changed the global
landscape.
Dinosaurs and many other creatures are no longer in existence, although we don't know when this happened as numerous plant and animal
species each year become extinct due to habitat or other environmental effects.
However, the age of various fossils is questionable as carbon dating has been proved to be vastly inaccurate. The world, according to Bible records, is considered to be only some 7,000 years old, thus the fossils are possibly only some 6,000 years old.
Their enduring significance
Fossils are preserved relics of the past. What once had life and vitality is now dead and little remains. Hence, the term fossil can be used in a metaphorical way, referring to an old thing or old-fashioned person – what is out of touch with reality and the current situation.
In Christian context, fossils serve as a tangible reminder of the consequences of sin and the global judgment that came upon the earth. They also point to the power of God in both judgment and preservation.
Reflection and Application:
- Fossils remind us of the reality of God's judgment on sin (2 Pet 3:6).
- They testify to the power and authority of God over creation.
- The fossil record points to a global catastrophe consistent with biblical history.
- They challenge us to consider our own spiritual state before God.
See also: creation, time/timing.