Course 1, Chapter 4: Knowledge of God — God considered in his works. First day of the creation

1. What were the first words God spoke in creating the world?

The first words God spoke in creating the world were these: " Let there be light" These words so simple and so immediately followed by their effect, " and there wax light" show us the all-powerfulness of God. He who is all powerful does what he wishes simply by speaking.

2. Could not God have created the world in a single instant?

God could have created the world in a single instant; but in employing six days to make the earth out of nothing and to arrange it in order, he wished tc teach us that he is free to do as he pleases.

3. What was the state of the earth when God had created it?

AVhen God had created the earth, it was completely bare, without ornament, without inhabitants, and entirely surrounded with deep waters, and these waters were enveloped in a thick mist.

4. What is light?

It is impossible to know what light is. We know very well that it exists, but we cannot comprehend it. It is one of those mysteries of nature which teach us to believe with docility the mysteries of faith.

5. Why has God created light?

God has created light to enable ns to enjoy the glorious spectacle of the universe, to admire its beauties, and to labor in our respective avocations.

6. Does light come to us with great velocity?

Light travels with incomprehensible velocity;

46 CATECHISM OF PERSEVERANCE.

in seven or eight minutes a ray of light travels through many millions of miles.

7. Why does God make light travel with such velocity, and in every direction?

God makes light travel with such velocity and in every direction, in order that an infinity of objects may be seen at the same instant by a great number of persons, and that the night may be promptly dis pelled.

8. What are the blessings conferred by light?

The blessings conferred by light are: 1st. To color objects, in order to distinguish them. 2d. To contribute to our use and pleasure; for colors embellish our dress and furniture; they are employed in the various situations of life: some environ us with modesty, others with brilliancy, whilst others serve us for mourn ing. 3d. Light secures our health and life. Thus God has made all thinsrs for us.