How old is the earth? This question seems to be straight forward, but your worldview impacts how you answer it. An evolutionary worldview states the earth is 4.54 giga-annum (billion years old). On the other hand, the Biblical record indicates it is roughly 6,000 years old. These two dates are, as you can see, diametrically opposed to each other. However, only one can be correct. Let’s look at this conundrum.

The traditional evolutionary date for the earth is 4.54 Ga and is basically derived from presuppositional ages for each layer of rock. The supposed ages of the rocks give a date range for the fossils in each layer, and then the fossils are used as a cross-reference to determine the age of the layers. Yes, that is a circular pattern for the age of the geological column (rock layers). Most people who ride on this dating belief will refer to radiometric dating as the end-all method to affirm said dates. Yet, as has been observed numerous times, this dating method is fraught with problems and potential errors. Thus the entire evolutionary dating system is worldview (belief) driven and not empirically scientific.

On the other hand, the Bible indicates an age of about 6,000 years old. Based on the genealogies and history in the Genesis text, we can arrive at this reasonably accurate age. The immediate opposition to this age comes from the appearance of the fossil record. Each of us have a worldview of how old we think the fossil record appears. However, none of the fossils have tags to state how old they are and thus how old the earth is. Genesis 7-8 records a judgement against sin that affected the earth globally during the flood. This flood event would have impacted every square inch of our planet and, based on the text, would have been very geologic. In reading the account, we understand large scale volcanism, earthquaking, and of course hydrological devastation would have been involved. This event can and does explain the layers of rock around the world on every continent with the presence of now dead life (fossils), and without the need for long periods of time.

            The earth’s history or appearance of old age must be viewed in light of Genesis’ record. Then and only then will we have a sufficient foundation to start an empirical study of the rock record, not of great ages but of a great judgement that stands as a testimony for a future judgement.

Blessings to you and your family as you seek the Lord through His Word. When we start there, the world around us will testify to the truth in the Bible. Then the promises from the Word about our eternal destiny will empower our faith with hope. Thank the Lord Jesus Christ today for the record of earth history contained in both the Bible and the earth!