An Overview of Genesis | Dr. Stephen Conley

Raintree Community Church

Text: Genesis 1:1

Introduction: Why Study Genesis?

• It sets the foundation for the rest of the Bible.
• It gives us the purpose of God for mankind.
• It describes the origin and effects of sin.
• It anticipates God’s answer to our problem of sin, a seed coming through the line of Abraham.
• It describes the origin of the nation of Israel and the Promised Land.
• It reveals the character of God to us.

The Historical Background of Genesis

• Genesis is a book of beginnings, and the first of the five books of the Pentateuch.
• Genesis was penned by Moses while the children of Israel were in the wilderness.

The Thematic Structure of Genesis

• Genesis 1-11 sets the foundation in broad terms of how the world was made and the fall of man. (wide angle lens)
• Genesis 12-50 focuses on the family of Abraham and how God’s promise will be fulfilled to send redemption to His people. (zoom lens)

The Creator God of Genesis (Genesis 1:1)

• Our God is the mighty and everlasting Creator and Sustainer of all things, and we are accountable to Him as His creation.
• Our response to God should be one of worship and submission, where He is exalted.