The Demiurge – What is it?

The term "Demiurge" comes from a Greek word and has been applied to several different unbiblical creators of the universe.

Originally the word referred to a specialized craftsman or artisan with skills that benefited society. Later, some, including Plato, began to attribute the word to describe a sort of junior god involved in the creation. This creator was given the title of Great Artificer or the Grand Architect of the Universe. Plato said the Demiurge was good, but because he had inferior material to create the universe, the world was flawed.

Later, others gave the Demiurge less favorable characteristics. The Gnostics described this creator as so proud he was foolish and bungled the creation against the instructions of a Supreme God. Gnostics therefore considered all material things flawed or evil because everything physical was the product of the Demiurge. In contrast, all spiritual things were considered good.

Some Gnostics identified the God of the Old Testament as the Demiurge and pit him against the God of the New Testament. Even other Gnostics, called Valentinians, describe the Demiurge as a good hearted but ignorant spirit who is tormented over the corruption of the world. This rendition has the Demiurge as a part of the redemption of humanity.

Biblically, the God of the Old and New testaments is the same God. He created heaven and earth (Genesis 1) and there are no secondary or lesser gods who answer to Him or who take orders from Him. God, though triune, is one God. The corruption of the world is due to sin (Romans 5:12; 1 Corinthians 15:22). God Himself is the central character in the redemption of sinful men and women as He sent His Son to save those who believe in Him (John 3:16–18).



Related Truth:

What was God doing before creation?

If God knew the Fall was going to happen – that Satan would rebel and Adam and Eve would sin – why did He create them?

Did God create the universe?

Why did God create humanity?

Is salvation about more than just the afterlife?


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