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.