Counsel #2 — How Fossils Are Classified

Picture: Counsel #2 — How Fossils Are ClassifiedCSe 42.1

Picture: HOW FOSSILS ARE CLASSIFIEDCSe 42.2

We classify fossils based on their position in the geological column, as shown in the simplified diagram on the left. Rock formations are stacked in layers, as seen in the photograph above: Paleozoic rocks at the bottom (deposited first), Mesozoic rocks above them, and Cenozoic rocks on top, divided into several periods. Fossils are named according to the rock layers they are found in, creating what is known as the fossil record. The oldest fossils, found in the lowest part of the Paleozoic, are called Cambrian fossils. It is believed that the Paleozoic and Mesozoic rocks formed during a global flood, while the formation timing of Cenozoic rocks—whether during or after the flood—remains uncertain.^{[41]https://dialogue.adventist.org/965/genesis-and-the-geologic-column}CSe 42.3

“Finally, the mighty flood was so deep that even the highest mountain peaks were about seven meters below the surface of the water.” Genesis 7:19 CEVCSe 42.4

“Water appeared to come from the clouds in mighty cataracts. Rivers broke away from their boundaries, and overflowed the valleys. Jets of water burst from the earth with indescribable force, throwing massive rocks hundreds of feet into the air, and these, in falling, buried themselves deep in the ground.” Ellen White in Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 99CSe 42.5

Reflect: Reviewing 2 Peter 3:5, 6, how does the biblical description of the global flood influence your understanding of God’s power and judgment?CSe 42.6

Left to right: Eocene horse, Miocene whale, lower Paleozoic trilobiteCSe 42.7