What does it mean that creation was made subject to vanity?
Creation being made subject to vanity means it was subjected to the curse, not by its own choice, because of Adam's sin. God subjected it in hope, immediately promising a future restoration and redemption when the curse will be finally lifted.
Les explains that being made subject to vanity refers to the curse that fell upon creation when Adam sinned. Creation had nothing to do with Adam's sin, yet it was subjected to the curse, not willingly. But God subjected it in hope, immediately promising a time of restoration. All creation is waiting for that day when the curse will be lifted. The coming seven-year tribulation is described as travail meant to bring delivery of the planet from the curse, and from the day it was subjected, God promised a day of redemption for it.
For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope,
More Questions
Why was creation subjected to the curse unwillingly?
Creation was made subject to the curse unwillingly, because it had nothing to do with Adam's sin.