A. Overall Lesson Objective

B. Learning Competencies

C. Lesson

Lessons in Unit 1 covered the creation of earth and mentioned some of its attributes. These things bear repeating, because they illustrate the richness of earth which we understand with respect to soils for plants, substances of beauty (minerals and gems), sources of energy (oils, coal, radioactive substances), sources for making things, sources of food (for mankind or animals) and locations of topographic beauty. Whether earth’s dry land before the Genesis Flood or the present-day continents are considered, the wealth of earth with respect to appearance or its substances is obvious but often taken for granted. They are also quite often abused, fought over, or improperly used. Nevertheless, dry land is our home. How we manage earth is overseen and watched by the Creator. The sheer size and placement of dry land, as arranged by God, is quite notable when one considers that the average depth of the seas would be 2.7 km if the surface of the earth were flat. God’s economy for dry land had us in mind, both before and after the Genesis Flood, because it is essential for life.

Job 28. This portion of the Bible is poetic but an entirely accurate depiction of some of earth’s valuable attributes. It does something more important by placing these things in the context of the source of Wisdom, who is God, the Creator. In the process of the unfolding of the verses, many of the more valuable things of earth are mentioned.

🦕 CT? List the substances and list the activities mentioned in the reference that are attributed to earth. Then, in your own words list the purpose and conclusion of the chapter.

🦕 CT? The teacher will list the soils and related substances from the assignment for the class. After reviewing them, make a definition of arable land on the earth and describe its value.

There is a mistaken notion that ancient people had not developed technologies or any sophistication. The study of Genesis 4:21-22 states otherwise, and so does Job 28:1-11, where details of mining for minerals and valuable substances are repeatedly referenced. The context for the Job portion of Scripture, even in the midst of Job’s suffering, is that wisdom cannot be found with man’s effort; only God knows the way to it (verse 23). As valuable as the earth’s substances can be or how well we use or develop them (which mankind knew about near the beginning) depends on our relationship to the Creator. It is the Creator who makes them available to us. There is an unwritten statement in these verses that the earth holds substances of value that can only be fully appreciated if we hold the Creator in high esteem. The attributes mentioned are not accidents of geology; many were created. Many others were formed at the time of the Flood, when the earth’s crust was overturned. The combination of earth and sea forces during and following the Flood caused many geologic wonders to be made in a short time, yet they still play an important part of the wonder of earth and point to the One who made them.

Isaiah 45:18-19. Several portions of Isaiah are notable with respect to creation. This one speaks of the earth, but its general context means everything on the earth (including the water that is so important to us). The sentiment is familiar: God not only says He did it, He did not do it in secret.

🦕 CT? So, what does the Lord mean? How did He ensure that what He created was not done in secret? Discuss the answer.

The earth is specially designed. Using the scriptures above and the admonitions of God in Job, it should be plain that God wants us to observe the earth. It is a created thing, so it is not to be worshipped or given special status relative to God or even human life. It is certainly meant to be studied, understood, overseen with wisdom, and appreciated. Even with the effects of the Fall, its attributes are amazing. The more we discover the characteristics of other planets, the more we appreciate God’s truth of the matter: this planet was made to be inhabited from the beginning.

It is true that sinful actions by people have changed some things on the earth. For the gain of wealth or power, many resources of the earth (and seas) have been and are being wasted or destroyed. This is part of the effects of the Fall and points directly to man. However, it means we can observe, discover and understand what has happened, and perhaps solve some of these issues. Children and adults are meant to observe the earth, even if the details show that something is wrong or broken.

Children are born discoverers. Many adults are the same and enjoy discovery. There are a multitude of things on earth awaiting us. There are many professions that deal with the earth, but each part of creation also has issues and problems that need to be addressed. There is a need for people to step up and go further. However, anyone can begin to discover what is nearest to him or her. Parents can remember to show children things on the earth. Young people around the world love rocks, soil, seas, streams, and exploration of things they have not seen before. God knows what we are like; we are curious to discover things. If we appreciate the Creator, it can make a difference in our attitude of observing things around us on the earth. With a biblical view in mind, disciplined observation of our habitation place is warranted.

D. Assignment

Using any available textbook, describe earth’s atmosphere in 3 paragraphs. Include the mention of at least five atmospheric characteristics.

E. Learning Activity

With a listing of 10 substances in the earth or produced on the earth, put them in columns on a board. Underneath each one, list 2 major ways each one has been properly as well as improperly used or exploited. Discuss the fundamental reason why things are improperly used or exploited.

F. Concluding Assessment