The Issues       When considering our "roots" as individuals, we often focus on the immediate.  We think of our genetic heritage from parents, genealogy, nationality or race.  We might consider the sub-culture or nation in which we were raised.  The question of origin, however, goes far deeper than these immediate ties.  It seeks the roots of our life sustaining environment and of all humanity.   The question of origin boils down to three areas:   First Cause - how did something come from nothing? Design - where did all the order of the natural world come from? Personality - where did personality (mind, will and emotions) come from? There are volumes written on these areas and the scientific and philosophical discussion becomes quite technical.  Most are unaware that both science and reason have distinct limitations in resolving the question of origin.   The Genesis Account   These limitations, of course, should not lead to a "god of the gaps," a god who fills in the gaps of science and philosophy.  But the merits of the Biblical text should be given equal consideration.  The Genesis text does address the issues of origin category by category.  While limited in detail, the Bible points to God as the ultimate originator.   Many would argue that the Genesis text does not fit with current scientific models of origin.  But since God is the author of both creation and revelation, their ultimate agreement will be found.  The "old earth data" and "young earth data" will finally be seen together in the same model.  An example which shows much promise in this area is the recent discovery of the decrease in the speed of light.   Conclusion   The Bible addresses the question of origin category by category.  God's work of creation and revelation will ultimately be seen in agreement.  Psalm 139:13-16 states that God is also responsible for our personal existence.  The God of the universe determined our time in history and individual makeup.  The life sustaining world around us and our very existence we owe to God.   More detail