Genesis 1:16

greater light

The "greater light" is a type of Christ, the "Sun of righteousness" (Malachi 4:2). He will take this character at His second advent. Morally the world is now in the state between; (Genesis 1:3); (Ephesians 6:12); (Acts 26:18); (1 Peter 2:9). The sun is not seen, but there is light. Christ is that light (John 1:4); (John 1:5) but "shineth in darkness," comprehended only by faith. As "Son of righteousness" He will dispel all darkness. Dispensationally the Church is in place as the "lesser light," the moon, reflecting the light of the unseen sun. The stars (Genesis 1:16) are individual believers who are "lights"; (Philippians 2:15); (John 1:5).

A type is a divinely purposed illustration of some truth. It may be:

(1) a person (Romans 5:14)

(2) an event (1 Corinthians 10:11)

(3) a thing (Hebrews 10:20)

(4) an institution (Hebrews 9:11)

(5) a ceremonial (1 Corinthians 5:7).

Types occur most frequently in the Pentateuch, but are found, more sparingly, elsewhere. The antitype, or fulfillment of the type, is found, usually, in the New Testament .

made

The word does not imply a creative act; (Genesis 1:14) are declarative of function merely.