I remember being a surprised in a Genesis/Exodus class I had at Bethany College when our prof challenged our ideas of the perfection of creation. I know that this initially sounds heretical; and I also know that our prof was mostly challenging us just to get us thinking critically.
But the fact is that the Bible doesn't claim the perfection of creation... at least in so many words.
The first time "perfect" is used in the Bible is in Leviticus 22:21 (NASB). I also know that a lot of the ideas of Pre-fall Eden are a reflection of the Post-apocalyptic "New Eden" in Revelation (ie. heaven). But the fact is that the word "perfect" is not used anywhere in the book of Revelation either.
Obviously this raises a lot of questions (primarily: is "Pastor" Tim being blasphemous?).
I hope not. It is certainly not my intent. I'm trying to be a good post-modern Christian: a full plate of good intentions with a side order of scepticism.
Think of it this way: Does a "perfect" world allow the option of sin?
Eden did.
Heaven will not.
What is our definition of "perfect"?
Is Heaven simply a return to what Eden was or is Heaven something even greater? IE. if Heaven is greater then it must be "better" or "more perfect" hence Eden was "less perfect"/ not actually "perfect".
OK. I'll stop now and let you all set me straight.
