March Focus Book: Genesis
The next book in the 5 for 5 challenge is the book of Genesis. As a reminder the 5 for 5 challenge is a challenge to read your Bible at least 5 minutes a day, 5 days a week, if you want to read more, awesome! Each month we will focus on a different book of the Bible, and remember that we are not trying to check off a list that we have read a certain number of chapters and verses. We are simply spending time reading God’s word. What follows is a brief introduction to the book of Genesis researched using The Bible Knowledge Commentary by John Walvoord and Roy Zuck as well as The Ryrie Study Bible-New International Version published by Moody Press in Chicago, Illinois and The Journaling Bible-English Standard Version published by Crossway Bibles in Wheaton, Illinois.
The word genesis means “origins” or “beginnings” and as its name implies, Genesis is about beginnings. Genesis tells us that God created everything that exists. It shows that God is both the Creator and the Ruler of all creation. But it also tells of humanity’s tragic fall into sin and death, and of God’s unfolding plan of redemption through his covenant with Abraham and his descendants. Genesis includes some of the most memorable stories in the Bible, beginning with Adam and Eve (chs. 1-4), continuing through Noah, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and ending with the life of Joseph (chs. 37-50), who died before 1600 B.C. But more than memorable stories of the beginning of our universe and our world, Genesis also contains important theological themes such as the doctrine of the living, personal God; the doctrine of man made in the image of God, then of sinful man; the anticipation of a Redeemer(3:15); and the covenant promises made to the nation Israel (12:1-3; 15:18-21).
Traditionally Moses has been recognized as the author of Genesis, writing sometime after the Exodus from Egypt. Moses would have had both oral and written records of early history, which he used under the guidance of the Holy Spirit to write about events that predated his own life.
The book of Genesis is an exciting book as it sets the stage for the rest of the Bible, telling us God’s plan for his creation. Genesis reveals the nature of God as Creator and Redeemer; the value of a human life – created in God’s image and for his purpose; the terrible consequences of disobedience and sin – separating man from God; and the wonderful promise of salvation and forgiveness through the coming Messiah. I hope you enjoy focusing on the book of Genesis for the month of March as part of the 5 for 5 challenge. Be sure to check back for updated posts here on the blog from all of the Campus Life staff. Feel free to leave your own comments, questions, and observations regarding the reading. We look forward to discovering new beginnings with you as we read through the book of beginnings.
~Andy
