Exegesis of Genesis 1 & 2

Abstract

In Exegesis of Genesis One and Two, Dr. Siegbert W. Becker defends a literal interpretation of the biblical creation account against evolutionary theory and mythological readings. Presented in 1966, the essay argues that the six days of creation are ordinary, calendar days, and that attempts to reinterpret them as long epochs undermine the clarity and authority of Scripture. Becker critiques evolutionary anthropology, showing its incompatibility with biblical doctrines of man, original sin, the Fall, actual sin, divine law, death, and the vicarious atonement. He warns against theological trends that treat Genesis as myth and calls for a return to the plain meaning of the biblical text. Drawing on Luther’s exegetical principles, Becker affirms the historical reliability of Genesis and its foundational role in Christian theology. The essay is a robust defense of confessional Lutheran hermeneutics and biblical creationism. Abstract generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4).