Genesis is the book of beginnings. In these pages we are introduced to the dawning of the universe. God the Creator speaks into existence the celestial bodies, the order and beauty of vegetable and animal life, and as the pinnacle of his handiwork, human life. We see the beginnings of sin, judgment, redemption, and worship. We also witness the birthing of God's chosen people, the nation of Israel.
The first 11 chapters of Genesis reveal four major events: 1) Creation, 2) the Fall, 3) the Flood, and 4) the rebellion at Babel. From these events we discover God's remarkable design for history and for our lives. We also see the roots and fruits of the human race's rebellion against God's design. The remainder of the book (chs. 12-50) focuses on the lives of four men: Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph. We begin to discern that God is pursuing the redemption of his people through sacrifice and faith.
