Is the Universe Expanding?

Andrew (age 13) asked,

“Some scientists believe that the universe is expanding. What does that mean and is it true?”

Thanks for the great question, Andrew.

Most astronomers today believe the universe is expanding. In the 1920s, scientists discovered that galaxies were getting farther apart from each other, meaning that the universe must be expanding.

The Bible mentions in a couple of places that the universe has been stretched out or expanded. One example is found in Isaiah:

“It is he who sits above the circle of the earth . . . who stretches out the heavens like a curtain, and spreads them like a tent to dwell in” (Isaiah 40:22).

About 6,000 years ago, God created the universe and everything in it. This verse in Isaiah indicates that since the creation of the universe, God has been stretching it out and causing it to expand.

Do you have a question about God’s Word or his world that you want us to answer? Is there a topic you want to learn more about? Ask your parents to help you submit your question today. Watch for our answer here on the blog or in Kids Answers magazine. We’d love to hear from you!