GAP THEORY

This is the erroneous theory that a vast span of time (billions of years) transpired between Genesis 1:1 and 1:2. During this time period, huge creatures roamed the earth (e.g., dinosaurs), and there was a satanic rebellion among a pre-adam race of men. This revolt precipitated a massive destruction, evidence of which, supposedly, is found in the fossil record. This is a fantasy theory with no factual basis. It clearly contradicts other biblical passages (see Ex. 20:11; 1 Cor. 15:45; Gen. 1:31; 3:20; Rom. 5:12). This notion became popular in the early 1800's in an attempt to bring the Genesis narrative into harmony with evolutionary theories (requiring enormous periods of time), which asserted that our planet is billions of years in age. This view is a compromise ploy unworthy of serious consideration. It is at variance with both Scripture and science.

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Adapted from the book "Bible Words and Theological Terms Made Easy" by Wayne Jackson