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The concept of Whole creation in Christianity

Whole creation, in Christianity, encompasses everything that exists within the universe, highlighting the unity and interconnectedness of all beings created by God. It signifies the totality of existence, portraying a state of suffering while awaiting liberation and the fulfillment of God's purpose. This concept is integral to various Christian denominations, affirming the comprehensive nature of God's creative actions and the inherent order and harmony within creation. Ultimately, Whole creation serves as a testament to God's providential care over all living things.

Synonyms: Entire creation, All existence, Universe, Cosmos, Entirety, Totality, All being, Universal creation, Everything, All.

In Dutch: Hele schepping; In Finnish: Koko luomus; In Spanish: Toda la creación; In German: Ganze Schöpfung; In Malay: Seluruh ciptaan; In Swedish: Hela skapelsen; In French: Toute la création

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Christian concept of 'Whole creation'

Christianity Books

Significance in Early Christian church and writers:
Early Christianity Books

From: Ante-nicene Fathers

(1) The entirety of existence, encompassing all things, and is filled with the splendor and magnificence of a higher power, according to the text.[1] (2) This refers to the completed act of making everything, which included the creation of man, and this is when the Divine Being was designated as Lord.[2] (3) Everything that was made by the Maker of heaven and earth, who came down to dwell on earth, as mentioned in the text.[3] (4) This describes the extent of the impact of the teachings of Christ, as the text indicates that the whole world has been influenced by them.[4] (5) This term indicates that Power formative is responsible for the formation of the whole creation, implying a creative force responsible for the formation of all things.[5]

Early Christianity (also known as Early Church) refers to the period starting roughly in the 6th century BC up until 325 A.D. during which year the first council of Nicaea was convened. Popular literature includes the writings by the early Church Fathers which forms the basis of later Christian theology.

Significance in Christianity (general):

From: Expositions of Holy Scripture

(1) It speaks of the harmony and order of the whole Creation.[6] (2) The totality of existence, which will be united by obedience to one will, when all beings cooperate with God and one another.[7] (3) Refers to the entirety of existence that is described as in a state of suffering, awaiting liberation and glory alongside the children of God.[8]

From: Hymns for Christian Devotion

(1) The entirety of the universe and all living beings, under God's providential care.[9] (2) Refers to everything that exists in the universe, highlighting the completeness and unity of all created things.[10]

Significance in Protestantism (Christian movement emphasizing faith and scripture):
Protestantism Books

From: The Existence and Attributes of God

(1) It is the object of God’s goodness, not a devil in hell, but as a creature, is a mark of his goodness, but not of his patience, and it is not the object of his patience.[11] (2) Emphasizes the unity and interconnectedness of all things created by God, specifically with respect to their purpose in relation to mankind.[12] (3) The collective result of God's creative actions, signifying the comprehensive nature of His work in producing all things through a single command rather than distinct acts.[13]

From: The Second Helvetic Confession

(1) For he that illuminates inwardly by giving men the Holy Spirit, the same one, by way of commandment, said unto his disciples, "Go into all the world, and preach the gospel to this" (Mark 16:15).[14]

Protestantism (or simply the protestant church) is a major branch of Christianity originating from the Reformation in the 16th century, led by figures like Martin Luther. It emphasizes salvation by faith alone and the Bible as the ultimate authority. Variants of Protestantism include Lutheranism, Calvinism, Anglicanism, Methodism and Presbyterianism, each with unique practices but generally united by these core principles.

Significance in Global Christian community:
Catholic Church Books

From: Works of St. Anselm

(1) The totality of God’s work, encompassing everything that has been created.[15]

The Catholic Church is a global Christian community with over a billion members, rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ. It is led by the Pope and emphasizes the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist. Catholicism is a denomination centered on the teachings thereof. It has a rich theological and cultural heritage.