InstaStudy

Exploring Genesis: Foundations of Faith

A study of the book of Genesis, focusing on key themes and their relevance to our understanding of God and His plan for humanity.

1. The Singular Creator

1.1 God's Self-Revelation

Verses: Genesis 1:1; John 1:1-3; Colossians 1:16
  • In the beginning, God created everything. He is the source of all existence.
  • The Word was with God, and the Word was God. All things were made through Him.
  • By Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible.

1.2 The Divine Name and Nature

Verses: Exodus 3:14; Isaiah 9:6; John 14:9
  • God declares His name as 'I AM WHO I AM,' revealing His eternal and self-existent nature.
  • He is described as Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
  • Seeing Jesus is seeing the Father; He is the visible representation of the invisible God.

2. Creation and Humanity

2.1 The Image of God

Verses: Genesis 1:26-27; Genesis 5:1-2; James 3:9
  • Humanity is created in God's image, reflecting His likeness and character.
  • Both male and female are created in His image, sharing in this divine representation.
  • We are called to honor this image in others, avoiding cursing those made in God's likeness.

2.2 Dominion and Responsibility

Verses: Genesis 1:28; Genesis 2:15; Psalm 8:6-8
  • God grants humanity dominion over creation, entrusting us with its care.
  • We are to cultivate and keep the earth, exercising responsible stewardship.
  • All things are put under our feet, highlighting our position of authority and accountability.

3. The Fall and Redemption

3.1 The Serpent's Deception

Verses: Genesis 3:1-5; 2 Corinthians 11:3; Revelation 12:9
  • The serpent deceives Eve, questioning God's word and intentions.
  • The serpent's cunning leads to doubt and disobedience.
  • The serpent is identified as the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world.

3.2 Consequences and Promise

Verses: Genesis 3:16-19; Genesis 3:15; Romans 5:12
  • Sin brings consequences of pain, toil, and death.
  • God promises redemption through the seed of the woman, foreshadowing Jesus.
  • Through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin.

3.3 The Provision of Atonement

Verses: Genesis 3:21; Hebrews 9:22; 1 Peter 1:18-19
  • God provides coverings of skin, symbolizing atonement through sacrifice.
  • Without the shedding of blood there is no remission of sins.
  • We are redeemed with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish.

4. Covenant and Promise

4.1 The Call of Abraham

Verses: Genesis 12:1-3; Acts 3:25; Galatians 3:8
  • God calls Abraham to leave his country and kindred, promising to make him a great nation.
  • Through Abraham's seed, all the families of the earth will be blessed.
  • The gospel was preached beforehand to Abraham, that God would justify the Gentiles by faith.

4.2 The Covenant Confirmed

Verses: Genesis 15:5-6; Genesis 17:1-8; Romans 4:3
  • God promises Abraham countless descendants, as numerous as the stars.
  • God establishes His covenant with Abraham, promising to be his God and the God of his descendants.
  • Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.