Interpreting Genesis 1-11 with Tremper Longman

Dr. Tremper Longman, Old Testament scholar, argues that Genesis 1-11 is “theological history.” The narrative is written about past events but uses highly figurative language. Genesis 1 is not to be understood as saying God created in 6 24-hour days; the author is using an analogy to the 6-day workweek to describe creation. The Flood narrative uses hyperbolic language about a real regional flood event to teach important theological truths about who God is as as a God of judgement and grace, and who we are as sinners.