GENESIS


The book of Genesis has much to teach us about who made the world and why, what we’ve done with the place, and God’s plan to redeem it all.

The problem is that many of us think we already know the lessons we’re supposed to be learning.

But what if Genesis has more to teach us than we could learn in a lifetime? What if God gave us Genesis to give us wisdom about life and how to live well?

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Who Wrote the Book of Genesis?

Many Jewish and Christian traditions hold that Moses is the author of Genesis. However, authorship is not explicitly stated within the book.

Context

The events described in Genesis generally take place in the ancient Near East and Egypt, the place where Jacob’s family settles.

Literary Styles

Genesis is written as narrative with occasional poetic and discourse sections.

Key Themes

  • God's good character and provision of life and safety amidst chaos
  • Humanity's choice to partner with God or reject his instruction
  • The complex and fractured relationship between humans, creation, and God
  • The consistency of God’s promise to rescue and restore

Structure

Genesis is divided into two main parts. Chapters 1-11 detail the story of God and his relationship to the whole world, while chapters 12-50 focus on the story of God’s relationship with Abraham and his family.