One of the most intricate aspects of God’s design for the world is that of complementary pairs. Notice how many pairs are mentioned in Genesis 1:3-25. In Hebrew poetry the use of pairings or opposite ends of the spectrum juxtaposed in this way is called merism. It is a literary device used by the author to show the fullness and completeness of a system. What does that mean? And why would God insert so many pairs in the creation account in Genesis? Because complementary pairs are essential to God’s good design. Whether it is day and night, light and darkness, heaven and earth, man and woman, or Christ and his church, God has designed the world to function properly through the harmony (or consummation) of these pairs. Until, that is, the day when heaven becomes one with earth, Christ receives his bride (the church), and the dwelling place of God is with humanity!

Beautiful By Design | Echoes | Genesis 1:3-25