Where in the Bible does God command to be fruitful and multiply?

The command to "be fruitful and multiply" appears prominently in the Book of Genesis, the first book of the Bible, and it is given on multiple occasions. This phrase encapsulates a divine mandate that holds deep theological significance, reflecting God's intention for humanity and creation. To fully understand this command, we must explore its context within the narrative of Genesis and its implications for humanity's relationship with God and the world.

The first instance of this command occurs in Genesis 1:28, where God addresses the newly created human beings, Adam and Eve:

"God blessed them and said to them, 'Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.'" (Genesis 1:28, NIV)

This verse follows the creation of humanity, described in Genesis 1:26-27, where God declares His intention to make humans in His image and likeness. The command to "be fruitful and multiply" is part of God's blessing, indicating that procreation and the expansion of human life are integral to His design for creation. This mandate is not merely about reproduction; it encompasses the stewardship and care for the earth and its creatures. By filling the earth and exercising dominion, humanity participates in God's creative work, reflecting His order and goodness.

The second occurrence of this command is found in Genesis 9:1, after the flood narrative, where God speaks to Noah and his sons:

"Then God blessed Noah and his sons, saying to them, 'Be fruitful and increase in number and fill the earth.'" (Genesis 9:1, NIV)

This reiteration of the command post-flood signifies a renewal of God's covenant with humanity. The flood had wiped out all but Noah's family, and the earth was in need of repopulation. By repeating the command, God reaffirms His original purpose for humanity, emphasizing continuity despite the judgment that had just occurred. This moment marks a new beginning, a second chance for humanity to fulfill its divine mandate.

In both instances, the command to "be fruitful and multiply" is accompanied by a blessing. This blessing is a divine empowerment, assuring that God is with humanity in this endeavor. It underscores the sacredness of life and the importance of human participation in God's creative and redemptive plan.

Theologically, this command has several layers of significance. First, it highlights the intrinsic value of human life. Every person is made in the image of God (Imago Dei), and the multiplication of human life is an extension of God's creative act. This affirms the dignity and worth of every individual and the family unit as a fundamental building block of society.

Second, the command implies a responsibility towards creation. The mandate to "fill the earth and subdue it" and to "rule over" other creatures is not a license for exploitation but a call to stewardship. Humanity is entrusted with the care of the earth, to cultivate and protect it, reflecting God's own care for His creation. This stewardship is an act of worship, acknowledging God's sovereignty and goodness.

Third, the command has eschatological overtones. The multiplication of humanity and the filling of the earth can be seen as a foreshadowing of the ultimate fulfillment of God's kingdom. In the New Testament, this theme is expanded with the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20), where Jesus commands His disciples to "go and make disciples of all nations." This spiritual multiplication mirrors the physical multiplication commanded in Genesis, pointing towards the spread of God's kingdom and the reconciliation of all creation to Himself.

In addition to these primary occurrences, the theme of fruitfulness and multiplication recurs throughout the Bible. In Genesis 17:2, God promises Abraham that he will be the father of many nations, multiplying his descendants:

"Then I will make my covenant between me and you and will greatly increase your numbers." (Genesis 17:2, NIV)

This promise to Abraham is a continuation of the Genesis mandate, emphasizing God's ongoing plan to bless and multiply His people. Similarly, in Genesis 35:11, God tells Jacob:

"And God said to him, 'I am God Almighty; be fruitful and increase in number. A nation and a community of nations will come from you, and kings will be among your descendants.'" (Genesis 35:11, NIV)

These instances reinforce the idea that fruitfulness and multiplication are central to God's covenantal relationship with His people. They are not merely biological imperatives but are deeply intertwined with God's redemptive purposes.

In Christian thought, this command also has implications for how we view family, community, and mission. The family is seen as a microcosm of the church, a place where faith is nurtured and passed on to the next generation. The multiplication of believers through evangelism and discipleship is a spiritual fulfillment of the Genesis mandate. This perspective is reflected in various Christian writings and teachings. For instance, John Calvin, in his "Commentaries on the First Book of Moses Called Genesis," emphasizes that the blessing of fruitfulness is a sign of God's favor and an invitation to participate in His divine plan.

Moreover, contemporary Christian thinkers like N.T. Wright have explored how the theme of fruitfulness and multiplication relates to the mission of the church. In his book "Surprised by Hope," Wright argues that the church's mission is to bring God's kingdom to earth, reflecting the original mandate to fill and subdue the earth. This mission involves not only evangelism but also social justice, environmental stewardship, and cultural engagement, all of which are ways of participating in God's redemptive work.

In summary, the command to "be fruitful and multiply" found in Genesis 1:28 and Genesis 9:1 is a foundational aspect of God's design for humanity. It signifies the value of human life, the responsibility of stewardship, and the continuity of God's covenantal promises. This command is not just a call to biological reproduction but an invitation to participate in God's creative and redemptive purposes. As Christians, we are called to reflect this mandate in our lives, families, communities, and mission, bearing witness to the goodness and sovereignty of our Creator.