Folded Turbidites: Evidence of Deep Time at Porthtowan Beach, Cornwall

This image showcases a striking fold within turbidite sedimentary rocks of the Devonian-aged Porthtowan Formation, exposed in the cliffs of Porthtowan Beach, Cornwall, England, UK. Turbidites are clastic sedimentary rocks formed from the deposits of turbidity currents – dense, sediment-laden underwater flows, often likened to underwater avalanches. These currents are typically triggered by seismic activity, storms, or other events that destabilize seafloor sediments on a slope. As these currents travel downslope, they deposit their suspended material in a characteristic graded bedding sequence, where coarser sediments settle first, followed by progressively finer grains.

The presence of the fold indicates subsequent tectonic activity that deformed these once horizontally deposited layers. The Devonian age of these rocks places their formation approximately between 419 and 359 million years ago. This immense timescale is crucial for understanding the geological processes involved, from the initial deposition of the turbidites by countless individual turbidity currents over long periods to the subsequent slow and powerful forces that compressed and folded these ancient sediments deep within the Earth's crust. The image thus provides a visual testament to the vastness of geological time and the dynamic nature of Earth's crust.

How Old-Earth Creationism Accommodates This:

Old-Earth Creationism (OEC) readily accommodates the existence of folded Devonian turbidites. OEC accepts the scientific consensus regarding the Earth's age (billions of years) and the geological timescale. From an OEC perspective, the formation of these turbidites over millions of years through recurring turbidity currents and their subsequent folding by slow, powerful tectonic forces aligns perfectly with God's sustained and naturalistic work within His creation. The vast stretches of time are seen as part of God's design, allowing for the intricate geological processes that have shaped the Earth's features over eons, rather than instantaneous events.

How a Global Flood Cannot Cause This:

A global flood cannot explain the folded Devonian turbidites. Such an event, lasting a relatively short period (e.g., one year), would primarily produce widespread, unlithified sedimentary layers. The immense time required for the accumulation of successive turbidite deposits over millions of years, followed by deep burial, lithification (turning to rock), and the slow, sustained tectonic forces necessary to fold massive rock layers, is incompatible with a single catastrophic flood event. The geological evidence points to processes operating over vast timescales, not rapid, singular occurrences.

How OEC Believes in Long Genesis Days 

Old-Earth Creationism interprets the "days" of Genesis 1 as long, indefinite periods of time, rather than literal 24-hour days. This "day-age" interpretation allows for the vast timescales required for geological processes, such as the deposition of turbidites over millions of years and subsequent tectonic folding. This view sees the Genesis account as a theological framework describing God's creative acts over extended periods, accommodating scientific observations of an ancient Earth.

Old-Earth Creationism (OEC) often "telescopes" Genesis genealogies by suggesting they are not exhaustive, gapless chronological records but rather theological or ancestral lineages that emphasize key figures. OEC proponents argue that the Hebrew words for "father" and "son" can also mean "forefather" and "descendant," allowing for significant chronological gaps. This interpretation aligns with the scientific consensus of an ancient Earth (billions of years old) and allows for a longer timeframe for geological and biological processes, while still maintaining belief in a literal Adam and Eve and a divine creation. Thus, the genealogies are seen as a theological bridge, tracing lineage rather than providing a precise, unbroken timeline for dating creation.

Old Earth Creationism interprets Job 9:5-6 as a description of God's immense power and sovereignty over natural forces, rather than a literal 24 hour depiction of specific, recent geological events. OEC acknowledges that mountains and geological features are formed through long, natural processes, but attributes the ultimate cause to God's design and ongoing control. "Removing mountains" and "shaking the earth" are seen as descriptions  of God's ability to orchestrate and influence the Earth's systems, including tectonic shifts and geological upheavals, over vast periods. This verse highlights God's role as the sustainer and director of the physical world, aligning with OEC's view of God working through established natural laws and deep time.

How Old-Earth Creationism Relates to God's Glory:

Old-Earth Creationism posits that God's glory is magnified by the immense complexity, vastness, and longevity of His creation. The intricate geological processes, operating over billions of years to shape the Earth, reveal a God of incredible patience, foresight, and power. The deep history embedded within the rocks, like the folded turbidites, showcases God's sustained involvement in His creation, demonstrating His majesty through the natural laws and processes He established.